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I am just FULL of questions now that I have the catalog in my hands! I really had no idea how complete HOD seems to be (that is, if I'm reading it correctly).

I was under the impression that I would buy the basic packages and then fit in my own LA, Math, and Reading programs. But then I realized that LA and Reading (We haven't decided yet what we're going to do with Math--either stay with CLE or switch to Singapore, I guess) is included.

This question is for my dd (I'm keeping specific questions for my SN son separate to keep them organized).

According to the CLE site, here's what *their* LA will cover in 2nd grade:
Phonics: review of Level 100 hand all remaining phonics rules
Grammar: nouns, verbs, describing words, and pronouns
Punctuation: capitals, question marks, commas, quotation marks
Communication Skills: oral and written reports, manners, introductions
Creative Writing: exploring, drafting, revising, editing
Spelling: word meanings, phonics
Penmanship: all manuscript and cursive letters

And here's what's covered in their Reading:
Some review of phonics/mechanics skills. The course emphasizes comprehension/analytical skills--teaching the child to think. The student interprets simple analogies, categorizes ideas and objects, generalizes, and continues to evaluate, analyze, and apply what he reads.

The student builds on his sight vocabulary using Instant Word lists. He exercises study and oral reading skills and reads several simple stories from the KJV Bible.

How does the above compare to what is covered with HOD? Are they comparable? If we're following the HOD schedule, do we still need to purchase the CLE Language Arts and Reading?

HOD is complete in its language arts and math coverage for the target ages listed on the guide. If you are not finished with phonics, you'll need to add that in, as we do not schedule a particular phonics program.... we only make suggestions.

We also take a CM-style approach to spelling and grammar. So, the spelling is based on learning to picture words in your mind and the grammar is a gentle introduction to the parts of speech, mechanics, and usage.

The scope and sequence you listed for CLE would be closer to what we schedule in Bigger Hearts (as far as grammar, mechanics, usage, and writing). It would also be most similar to our Drawn into the Heart of Reading program literature-study wise.

Beyond is meant to be a foundational year in getting the 3 R's in place. Then, we move into more aggressive language arts skills in Bigger.

It is very important to get the correct placement for your child based on the placement chart at the beginning of the catalog. At HOD, we work very hard to make sure your child has the best fit, which will look different for each child. Consequently, necessary skill coverage will be different for each child as well, based on their needs and previous instruction.

Blessings,
Carrie

Thanks, Carrie!

When I looked at the chart at the beginning, she did score somewhere in between Beyond and Bigger. I think my biggest concern with Bigger is that there were several things that would seem a little too over her head. She had way more circles in the Beyond than the Bigger. But I could feel differently towards the end of the school year. She has 6 more weeks in the first semester and will be done with the Learning to Read program.

It was mostly the history and read alouds in the Bigger I think, which made me feel as though it might be a little too mature for her. But we'll see.

AboveRubiesMama,

I agree that if your daughter places more in Beyond, then that would be a better fit for her overall. Bigger does jump up in the overall level of listening and writing required, so you'd want her to be ready for that.

However, I agree that in 6 months things could look totally different. So, a new assessment in 6 months is a great idea!

Blessings,
Carrie