My eight year old has used ABeka for all subjects and has done very well with this curriculum. Abeka is considered one grade level above (that is why I did not go with Bigger). He knows how to write in cursive. He knows his basic grammar, and he reads chapter books independently. He covered important people in American History. Science was your basic second grade material. His spelling was 20 words a week. He maintained an A in all subjects throughout the school year. I am just trying to give you a picture of where he is at academically. He does groan, though, when he has to read but he gets it done.
He has never used narration/dictation. Do you feel Preparing would be the appropriate level for him. I did already order Preparing. I had a very hard time figuring out which one to use (bigger or preparing). My concern was the narration/dictation. He has done a lot of copy work with Abeka. I just am not that familiar with dictation. I guess I am looking for reassurance


Blessings,
Renee