Composition resources used in HOD

[blessedmommyof4]

I just wanted to ask why HOD uses different writing programs each year. I was wondering what the benefits are of using different sources each year (Write With the Best, IEW, The Exciting World of Creative Writing, etc.) rather than just using one writing program for successive years. Also, when using the Medieval Writing Lessons will I need to go through IEWs training?

[LynnH]

I know Carrie addressed this at one point, but I can't find the thread. Hopefully Julie or Carrie will see this and be able to answer more fully. I remember that part of the reasoning was that different programs cover different types of writing. I also think it is due to the fact that it is beneficial for dc to learn a variety of ways to approach writing rather than just one method. Having a dd that is graduating this year and has taken an online college composition course I can see the true benefit in that.

As far as doing the Medieval Writing Carrie picked it specifically because you don't need to go through the training to do it. I found it pretty easy to teach and I haven't had the training. The teacher's guide is helpful if you get stuck and are not sure exactly what they are looking for.

[annaz]

I also know that some kids get stuck in a rut of only knowing how to do it one way. And when they need to go about it a different way, they're lost.

[Maadrose]

We only use IEW and I don't find it hard to use in place of whatever other writing program is scheduled. I just follow IEW lessons. Personally I think IEW covers many forms of writing and is very thorough.

[Carrie]

This past thread will be of some help in showing that the formal writing programs scheduled within HOD are just one piece of the writing across the curriculum that students are doing in the HOD guide. This also means that the goals for what we are looking for in a writing program change from year-to-year as part of the whole picture of writing skills taught within each HOD guide. Link: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=8731

Writing has a definite progression of skills and certain types of writing that are easier to accomplish than others. So, we keep this in mind as we move through the guides. Various writing programs also have different strengths and appeal to different types of learners, which is something that should not be overlooked. Can you imagine if all of our great writers had been exposed to only one particular writing "program" that they all were required to use year after year? Would it produce as much variety as we see in great writing, or could it instead feel stifling to some writers?

It's important to remember that writing is a highly creative and personal process. While it does have certain skills that need to be taught, it also requires much more individual expression and output. Thus, it requires a different approach than subjects like math or English, where a certain set of skills are taught and an exacting output is required. In math and English it makes perfect sense to stay the course with a single program, yet in writing it is true that "variety is the spice of life" (and the spice of writing)!

Having the freedom to choose among the different writing programs available, let's us take advantage of the strengths within each program. It also provides students with a variety of writing experiences and writing approaches, yet maintains solid skill progression when integrated with the writing across the curriculum scheduled in the HOD guide. Our approach also allows us to be better balanced in seeing the writing program as just one piece of the HOD puzzle each year.

This thread currently running on the board should answer your other questions. The thread did get a bit confusing, however my response toward the end of the thread should give you the answer you are seeking. Link: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=13346

Blessings,
Carrie

[blessedmommyof4]

Thank you so much for answering my questions! This has been very helpful!