Another Medieval Writing question

[tollhousemom]

I have another question about Medieval Writing Lessons used in RTR.

Does IEW also help in teaching students to write "original" work? I can see how the KWO's and using source material helps them to learn the structure, but at some point do they transition to coming up with their own topic, finding their own sources, etc.?

The year after we do RTR my ds will be involved in an activity where he will need to write pretty lengthy (multi-page), well-organized, well-researched work so I want to use next year to focus a lot on writing skills and tools that will prepare him.

Any thoughts?

tollhousemom

[Carrie]

There are some lessons where kiddos come up with their own secondary, and optionally a third, resource when writing the multi-paragraph essay... if that is what you're meaning? Writing using sources of a student's own choosing is also covered within various Rod and Staff English lessons.

Within the HOD guides, we schedule many other writing assignments, as you can see better in this past thread: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=8731&p=64126

Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons is focused on more formula type writing. This is why we use Write with the Best in CTC to cover the descriptive forms of writing, and why we use The Exciting World of Creative Writing in Rev2Rev to hit the other types of writing.

Blessings,
Carrie

[tollhousemom]

Thanks, Carrie.

I can see benefits of using this program and my ds thinks the topics would be awesome.

I think what I am asking is...after going through the Medieval Writing Lessons, but recognizing all kids' abilities are different, in general will a child have the tools and skills necessary to then brainstorm a topic, research it, and write a 5-paragraph essay (or longer paper)? Does it help them to develop the ability to analyze their topic and their research to draw conclusions and express them? That might not be the purpose of this program and that's ok--I just might need to think about adding something extra to our day or to a 5th day for the personal goals I have for him next year.

I love how the rest of HOD (we're using CTC now) includes analysis and writing skills that contribute greatly to the overall ability to think and communicate effectively!

tollhousemom

[Carrie]

Ah! I see now what you are asking. Yes, Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons does help a child do that. It actually takes them through those steps as the program progresses, and you will see those skills targeted the most in the final lessons.

Blessings,
Carrie

[tollhousemom]

Thanks, Carrie. I actually got to look at this first-hand and I believe it will do exactly what I need...it will use the detailed, "formula-style" process to give my son the tools he will need to then launch out and apply these skills on his own and at a more advanced level. I already placed my order and believe it will arrive today!