IEW's Structure and Style for Students: Review & Inside Look!

Рет қаралды 14,535

Күн бұрын

Take an inside look into IEW's newest program - Structure and Style for Students: Level A! I'll tell you what I think of the program, what ages it's appropriate for, and give tips on how to make it work for you!
(1:50) Layout of Program and Teacher’s Manual
(6:31) Inside Look into the Student Binder
(15:23) Tips on How to Modify the Schedule to Suit Your Student
(22:31) Final Thoughts and Review
To try a free sample lesson from IEW click the link below.
iew.com/affiliate/324198/webf...
Structure and Style for Students Level A Premier Package:
iew.com/affiliate/324198/node...
Structure and Style for Students Level A Basic Package:
iew.com/affiliate/324198/node...
Bible Heroes for grades 3 & 4:
iew.com/affiliate/324198/shop... Where to start with IEW? (Updated in 2020)
• Where to Start with IE...
Where to start with IEW?? (updated in 2020)
• Where to Start with IE...
IEW’s 9 Structural Units:
• What Are IEW's 9 Units?
Disclaimer: Links included in this description are affiliate links. If you click on the links provided it lets IEW know that you found this video helpful, so they will continue to send me their products to review. This allows me to continue to make more videos! If you purchase a product from the link provided, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you. Thanks for supporting my channel!

Пікірлер: 162

@bab5609 4 жыл бұрын

I’ve previously watched your other reviews for IEW. They we’re all very helpful. There are not many good reviews on KZfaq for this program. You do a very thorough job of explaining everything. I’m going to be using it this year with my 5th grader. Thank you for helping me make my decision! 😀

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for commenting and letting me know! I appreciate it and am glad you found it helpful!

@jschamonix 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you. This overview was very helpful. Your suggestions are encouraging and was a good reminder to be flexible with our curriculum choices.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

You are so welcome!

@minervabolado Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this video. I just ordered a premier Structure and style. I can't wait to start. 😍

@krystalsimmons7172 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this thorough review. It has been so helpful.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

You are welcome!! :)

@akpokey3 Жыл бұрын

This video was very beneficial for finding out how to best use this curriculum and gauge what stage of writer it would be best suited for. Thank you.

@karlacanon2507 Жыл бұрын

Thank you for letting me know!

@sabrinaburnham4395 2 жыл бұрын

This is so helpful! THANK YOU!!!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

I'm so glad!! :)

@angramp3430 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video. I just bought it for my 2 reluctant writers. It was a hefty sum of money but now I feel so much better.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I hope you all enjoy it! It has worked really well for our family. Just remember to go at a pace that works for your kids!

@corinasmile 2 жыл бұрын

This is a really great and helpful review! Thank you, Karla!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

You are most welcome!! :)

@jimeriesalazar2892 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your review...we will surely use this program for this coming summer.....

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I'm glad it helped you decide! :)

@LampWaters 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much

@beckyj325 2 жыл бұрын

This was really helpful. Thank you.

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

Wonderful!!

@emilym4890 2 жыл бұрын

I so appreciate this video and encouragement! I have a 3rd grader who is a reluctant writer. I think we will try this in a few more years and keep a guage and not feel like we are "behind" because of the grade/age levels!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

Third grade is still so young, and to be honest, most 3rd graders are reluctant writers because writing is hard work!!! I encourage you to do some copy work, have them write a sentence or two about something they are interested in, and the rest will come in time! :)

@emilym4890 Жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 I remembered this video and used your link to purchase for next year for my 5th grader (and go through the course very slowly)! I bought the teacher course as well. Thanks again!

@karlacanon2507 Жыл бұрын

@@emilym4890 Thanks so much!!

@brigettedeel7522 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for reviewing curriculum that you have ACTUALLY USED!!!! Very helpful!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome!! I enjoy sharing what we have used that works for us!

@peterihnat108 11 ай бұрын

Hello! May I ask about inventive writing unit? How does IEW approach brainstorming ideas for writing? Do they do any mind maps or is there any specific instruction other than keywords as keywords seem a bit limiting or could elaborate how this is approached please? Many thanks

@vivachow6034 3 жыл бұрын

Hello, thanks for your video. Can you please do a video showing us how the binder organization should go. Thank you!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! So when you purchase any SSS package, you actually just put all the loose papers at the very back. The pages are all in order, and the video lessons will instruct the student what to pull out for each lesson, and then where to put them when they are done. The Teacher Manual has the same instructions so you can make sure things go where they are supposed to without watching the lesson.

@proverb31girl 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

My pleasure!

@happynewmom 3 жыл бұрын

This was just what I needed! I gave a fourth and sixth grader and was wondering if it might be too easy for my sixth grader. Now I have more confidence in the program. Thanks!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! I think it's is great for 6th grade and you can easily modify it to make it work for your 4th grader as well!

@happynewmom 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 I appreciate your input. Do you feel that this could be adapted to a 3 day a week program? Also, approximately how long does this program take per day to complete? Thanks so much!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@happynewmom oops! Sorry for the slow reply! You could absolutely adapt this to however many days a week you want to do it! We rarely complete a full lesson in a week, and always just pick up from where we left off. It hasn't been a problem for us at all as I do what works for my kids and am not worried about completing certain things on certain days because we do a wide variety of things. When they watch the video lesson that takes about 1/2 an hour typically, but then the assignment I have them do is only about 15 minutes worth, and that would be a long day. I adapt it so my 10 year old doesn't do more than 1/2 an hour most days, although an older child could likely do more.

@happynewmom 3 жыл бұрын

This has been very informative. We’ve bought abs started the program. My kids love it and so do I!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@happynewmom So wonderful to hear!!!

@juliejordan2864 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the review. I have a 9 yr old who will be in third grade. Writing was our most challenging subject last year. So I scoured the internet and found this program. When it arrived and I opened it just looking at it I thought there is no way this is for third grade. I am so happy you address this and give modifications. Since it is VERY expensive and can't be returned.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

My biggest complaint about the program is that they have it listed as 3rd grade. I taught in schools and there is no WAY any 3rd grader could do that much work! If all you did was learn to make a key word outline, and have your child write about 2 sentences a day from that, you would be set for this coming year! We make the KWO together on Monday, and then my child will use that to do a couple sentences each day or so, and we have a nice piece of finished work by the end of the week! The fun part is that you can use the KWO for ANYTHING you are learning about. I often will even just write the KWO for them at that age, and then they can use it to help them spell hard words too. :)

@amyr7784 Жыл бұрын

Great video! Question: After doing year 1 and year 2 of level A, would we move into the 2 years of level B, eventually moving through both years of C? In other words, would it be ok to use only the SSS program and no themed levels?

@karlacanon2507 Жыл бұрын

Yes, that would be how IEW would explain to do it, and it's just fine if you only do the SSS courses!

@logosrhemalego 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your review. It is very helpful. I am just wondering if you have used or have reference to MCT in comparison with IEW. I am not sure how it is done but I hear some parents are supplementing this to MCT as well. I appreciate your input.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I am not at all familiar with MCT so I can't help you there! IEW is a FULL program all on it's own, so I personally wouldn't try to mix it with another program as that would just be too much in my opinion.

@tessymoon4891 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this video! It was very helpful! What would a recommended schedule be to do IEW over the course of 2 years, as you suggested? Would you recommend going through all 9 units each year and just do some assignments each year? Or do units1-5 year one and units 6-9 year two? Thank you for your valuable insight!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I am a planner to the extreme, so I hate answering like this, but I honestly think you need to go through the program and see how it goes! In the beginning you will move through the lessons MUCH faster than you will with the later longer ones. The lessons do build on each other, so I wouldn't skip ahead too much. For each unit there are multiple assignments to practice that particular skill set. If you find your child isn't enjoying a particular unit (unit 3 is sometimes less of a favorite) then you can just choose to do 1 or 2 assignments instead of all of them. You likely will find that you will want to watch the video lessons even if you don't complete the assignments as in each one they add new dress ups, skills etc, although it is possible to skip certain sections of them. All that to say, I would go in order, but skip assignments as you see fit. In unit 8 for example, my daughter worked REALLY hard on her essay, so we didn't do all of them. Once you have worked your way through all of the units once, then you can skip around as much as you like in following years.

@shannoncolonna7793 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I was just about to stop IEW after 12 weeks because my daughter was just getting overwhelmed. The assignments were getting to long. She begged to stop. She is 9 in grade 4. I will now just slow down and take the pressure off.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Shannon, yes, the assignments are VERY long! Even my son in 5th grade got overwhelmed. Your daughter could honestly do this over grade 5 and 6 as well, and be perfectly on grade level. Good for you for slowing down and taking the pressure off! I would encourage you to even stop doing new lessons until next school year, and instead apply some of the things you have learned for the rest of this year. For example, take any topic you are learning about or your daughter has an interest in, and help her make a key word outline. It could be about horses, your trip to the park, anything that interests her. Then on a Monday, have her dictate the key word outline to you, and come up with enough to make a paragraph. Then each day for the rest of the week, have her write two to three good sentences, using the key word outline. By the end of the week you will have a complete paragraph, and I bet both of you will be a lot happier!! I do this with my kids at this age and it works so well. It's less writing, and having the outline helps them stay organized and not get stuck with what to write. I hope that helps!!

@davidbouquet661 3 жыл бұрын

Do you use the Student Resource Packet with your kids, and if so how do you incorporate it?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I haven't actually used it with my kids! I've peeked at it, but that's about it as so far we have been fine without it and I'm all about keeping things simple!

@anydayblessings2354 4 жыл бұрын

I am doing ATFF and I also have Bible Heroes here. We used about half of ATFF last year and was thinking of doing the other half this next year, maybe bringing in some Bible Heroes, too. I have skipped over some parts that I felt that my son was ready for like the 3S and a couple other dress ups. If we skip those again this year, will it set my son back for starting this new SSS program? Does Mr. pudewa assume students know the dress ups or are they taught from the beginning as if the student hasn't heard of them before?

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

It will not set your son back at all if you skip things you don't feel he's quite ready for! In fact, I would encourage you to do that! The SSS programs are designed to introduce new students to IEW, as well as reinforce previous learning. All that to say, if you skip something, it will be taught again in all the SSS levels, and if you teach him something, he will still benefit from the teaching in the SSS as it will build a greater understanding in that area.

@abiepaule1194 3 жыл бұрын

Hi. May I ask how this SSS different with the Theme-based Writing?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

The SSS is a video course where as the theme based books are not. The SSS instruction comes from the videos, where in the theme books there are no videos, and the parent does the instruction. That being said, some students can be fairly independent with the theme books if they have completed the SSS or have prior IEW experience. :)

@JuliaCantley 2 жыл бұрын

I know this video is old, so I hope you'll see and still respond, otherwise, I'll message someone at IEW. What if you are teaching 3 chicken the same level A? Do they all need their own student manual/book?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

You could make it work with sharing and using notebook paper, but ideally yes, I would have a student notebook for each child.

@Ffacademy2082 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Karla! Thanks for the thorough review. I saw you mentioned the Community Helpers or the All Things Fun and Fascinating books as options for the students under fifth grade. I’m confused as the IEW site says those books are intended to be used after having completed SSS (or the parent training program). What are your thoughts on that? Did you do either of those programs before SSS? Thank you very much in advance.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I think that Community helpers and All Things Fun and Fascinating can stand on their own without SSS or the parent training program! They explain things very clearly, and while you as the parent won't know the deep "whys" and "hows" behind everything, I personally think those can be enough! I did Bible Heroes (same level as community helpers) and thought, this is perfect for families starting out with IEW!

@noahsmilkshake 3 жыл бұрын

This is a great video and I totally agree with your pacing ideas. Have you ever used Essentials in Writing? Essentails in writing is affordable so I wonder how they compare.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I have used Essentials in Writing, and I liked it. The videos are much shorter and more often, which can be nice. Overall I like how IEW builds on each concept and unit, but Essentials was just fine. It's a more traditional/classroom approach to writing and grammar. Students tend to be quite independent with Essentials in Writing, so that's a plus. My daughter did find it very dry after a few months, so ultimately we turned to IEW, but it's a solid program.

@springrain777 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this video, real helpful. I have only just today come across this SSS, so as we do, jump to search for reviews of the product while trying to weigh up whether to buy or not. But, what would you say, I'm just not sure if it would be too young presentation wise for an eighth grader who has always wanted to skip composition?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

I would really look at the samples online with your child, and see which of the source texts are most appealing to them! You could always start with Level B and do it over two years!

@springrain777 2 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you very much for your replies. We will have a look, and yes, a good idea to do level B and take time over it.

@lew2024 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Karla, this is a very helpful and insightful video, thank you! Can I ask, does this particular course teach children what a paragraph is, the structure of one and how to write one, before expecting them to get to work writing paragraphs? Thanks!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

Yes, it sure does! It first teaches them to make an outline, and then teaches how to create a topic sentence, a clincher (closing) sentence, and how all the sentences in the body of the paragraph should flow and support the topic sentence.

@lew2024 2 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Brilliant, thank you! I'm in the second year of homeschooling my 4th grader here in Ireland. We're currently using First Language Lessons and Writing With Ease from the Well Trained Mind curriculum - for grades 1 and 2, as my daughter had no foundation of grammar or writing from public school. So we are flying through these and I think IEW S&S would be a great fit for next year, thanks to your video's!!! 😉 Very informative! Thank you

@mendezfamily4818 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for this review. I just received the program and it was very overwhelming trying to read the instructions for the parent on how to start/do the curriculum. I am going to watch the student video tomorrow and see if that makes more sense. So, you got me thinking when you said typing the paragraphs. My 2 boys love to type rather than write, do you think it would be okay for them to type the parragraphs? This year they are doing Fix It Grammar program and will be writing their vocabulary within that curriculum in a seperate notebook, Spelling You See program, and still practicing their cursive which all involves handwriting so I am thinking that typing the paragraphs for IEW might be a good option. The thinking process is not what they complain about it's the writing by hand that they dislike with a passion. What are your thoughts?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I think you should absolutely let them type their paragraphs! If that makes your boys happier, then go for it! If I'm honest, I type far more than I handwrite anything these days anyway, so that's a huge skill. I would just encourage them to use proper typing, not hunt and peck, so that they are able to develop their speed as well. Most boys I know prefer to type, so that is pretty common.

@mendezfamily4818 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you so much for the response.

@jessicadecker693 3 жыл бұрын

Looking very seriously into possibly using this curriculum for my 10, 13, and 15 year old (have had such a difficult time find L.A. curriculum that works well). How long are the actual video lessons. (Sorry in advance if you answer this later in the video lol, I'm still at the beginning). Thank you tons for doing this review!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

The lessons average between 25 to 50 minutes once a week. Adding popcorn helps! ;)

@kristenbarkey5540 4 жыл бұрын

How would I go about using the Bible heroes? I bought it a couple of years ago never used it then I just bought the new s&s for this year ..my dtr is going into 4th. So now what haha!?

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

Kristen, I COMPLETELY understand where you are at! Bible Heroes sat on my shelf for 6 months before I started it because every time I cracked it open, it overwhelmed me! I don't even know why because it's so simple to use! If it was my daughter in grade 4, I would do Bible Heroes this year. She will be so ready for SSS next year! I would ignore the Bible devotion part, games, vocabulary, and jump right into the lesson. Just make yourself do it! I forced myself to do one lesson and not get overwhelmed and it worked! Open it up, read the lesson part specific to writing, flip to page 13 in the teacher guide to help you make the key word outline, and JUST DO THAT! I think if you leave all the extra stuff (games, character development, etc) that will help! Then, as you get a feel for the program, maybe later you want to add in a game and the vocabulary, maybe not! If you jump in, and start simply, you might find it easy to use. That's what happened to me anyway! I made it harder in my head when I was reading about games, discussions, etc. So I skipped it, and then was like, oh, this is actually really simple! haha! Also, have you watched my video on Bible Heroes? The link is in the description below my video. That might help too! You can totally do it and I know you will make a great decision for your daughter!

@kristenbarkey5540 4 жыл бұрын

Karla Canon ...thank you so much for this wonderful encouraging note! I’m not sure what to teach though because they said I need the whole set ...but I am going to try that !

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

As long as you have the BH student book, you can go online and download the teacher's manual (instructions should be on the first page or two of the student book) and that is all you need! I hope it goes well for you!

@jessellmartinez2807 3 жыл бұрын

Hello Karla thank you for your review! I have been looking for a program for my reluctant writer. I am excited to get started. I ordered the Structure and Style for Students: Yr. 1 level A Basic Plus. I know they have updated some of their stuff. You mentioned the Student Writing Intensive if one could not do the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style, on your video Where To Start With IEW. I tried looking for something titled student writing intensive or are they the instructional videos that come with the writing course. I was hoping you could help since you are familiar with both old and new version? I am a little confused with all the information on their site. Thank you for your time. Be blessed!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! It is confusing so I totally understand! The SSS replaced the student writing intensive. I am working on posting a new Where to Start video to eliminate the confusion! So, all that to say, if you ordered the Student Writing Intensive, you are totally set! You can absolutely use and get so much out of the program without the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style, especially if you plan on watching the video lessons along with your child. Likely you will learn the most as that's what happened to me! :) I would just encourage you to move through the program slowly so you don't burn you or your child out. It's such a great program but there's a lot to it, so if you're finding it's too much, do some of my tips in the "how to modify" section. All the best to you!

@joannabananaberry 3 жыл бұрын

Hi! I am still a little confused about the 1A and 2A, what is the difference between these two?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

The program is set up to do over two years. So 1A is year one, where all the concepts are introduced. 2A follows year one, and builds and expands on concepts already taught. The only way you would even consider 2A first is if your child had a lot of previous IEW experience.

@joannabananaberry 3 жыл бұрын

Karla Canon Thanks Karla! If I did 1A, could I then move into the themed curriculum or would we need that 2nd year to make sure we understand everything first?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@joannabananaberry You could definitely move into the themed books after 1A! I love the theme books!

@victoriacrain7146 3 жыл бұрын

I am wondering which grammar/spelling program to use along with this writing program. Thoughts?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! We liked Fix It Grammar Book 1, and have also enjoyed Easy Grammar over the years. For spelling we have used Spelling You See, which based off of copywork, and for the first time this year, we are using the IEW spelling program which we like so far!

@melanieturner5665 2 жыл бұрын

I have watched both videos on IEW. This will be our first year homeschooling, I'll have 3rd grade and 5th grade, both boys. They are currently using Abeka for math, spelling, phonics, and BJU history & science in school. I'm overwhelmed by all the choices. I know my 5th grader has to journal once a week at school, he's written poems, and has also had various research papers (one biography) to write throughout the year. My question is should I do Structure & Style with my oldest & Bible Heros with my 3rd grader? If so how would I teach separately? Or could I do Bible Heros with both? I don't want to overwhelm them or myself but I also don't want to erase what academics they've already mastered with BJU and Abeka this year. Thank you!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Melanie! There are so many options out there! I love that you are wanting to do something that would work for both, as that is the beauty of homeschooling! If I were you, I would look into the IEW All Things Fun and Fascinating. It's just a book with no video lessons, but it's easy to use, and one of my favorites from IEW! I feel like that is the product that could most easily be adapted to use with both your children. For the 3rd grader you could have them do a combination of writing some, copying some, and dictating some to you so the actual writing process isn't too much for them.

@katiecameron3115 3 жыл бұрын

I have a question.i just watched your review of using IEW after a year. You talked about how much it helped your daughter who I believe you said was 3rd grade. I have been really looking forward to using this with my 4th grade daughter this year. This will be our first year homeschooling and she is a reluctant writer. I just started watching this video and up front you mention that you recommend it starting 5th grade. I also ran across somewhere else someone saying that. So what’s the difference in what you had done previously and now?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

So in my "after a year" video, I probably wasn't clear enough, but I was talking about two different kids. I started IEW with my oldest when she was in 5th grade, and that worked well for her. My 3rd grader at the time was my son, and we did start IEW in 3rd grade, and did the Bible Heroes book over both 3rd and 4th grade. That was a fantastic fit for him. The level A Structure and Style for students would likely be overwhelming for a 4th grader, especially if they are a reluctant writer. If you are open to the Bible Heroes book, that is where I would start with her. If that isn't a good fit, you could do All Things Fun and Fascinating, but Bible Heroes would be my top pick for her! It's going to feel fairly easy to start off with, but if she's reluctant, it will build her confidence and she will feel good about herself. You could probably work through most the lessons this year, and then she would have a great foundation to start the SSS A next year. My son is now going into 5th grade, and he's done IEW since grade 3, and the SSS A will still be at a challenging level for him, and I plan to do it over two years.

@rogirl00 3 жыл бұрын

Would you consider level A appropiate with a 4th and 6th grader? Or should I get level B for the older? Thanks

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

If they are both new to IEW then I think Level A is a great place for both of them to start! You can modify the assignments so your 4th grader doesn't need to do as much writing as the 6th grader. You can either have the 4th grader just do less, or have them write half the assignment and then dictate half the assignment to you. You could even take turns writing the sentences, or however best suits your personalities, but I do think you can make it work for both children!

@caleblilyriverswack5563 3 жыл бұрын

iew has years 1 and 2, but 24 weeks each? Is level a part 1 and part b designed to be used in 1 year split up or 2?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Each level of the SSS has two years. Year one is available now, and year 2 is just coming out for level A. Depending on the age of your child, each year is meant to be done over a full school year. After completing one, it is intended that you would go on to year 2. There is MORE than enough work in each level to last you over a year, and could easily be enough work to do over two years.

@celin26able 3 жыл бұрын

Hi thank you for sharing this. It is very helpful. I have the US history based written lesson for my son and i have the teacher manual and i am having hard time with it. I want to know if the structure stlyle for students works better. If my son can learn it by watching the videos?. Or is the parents who have to watch the videos and then teach the kids?.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I think you would find the videos much easier! They are made for the student, and teach them everything! If you want to understand the program, you could watch along with your son and then know more how to help him, but the videos will teach what he needs to know! :) The themed based books like you have are meant to be used after the video courses so that's probably why you are finding it tricky.

@celin26able 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 thank you very much for your answer. One more question. My son is in 5th grade. This is his first year using this book. Which one would you recommend level A first year or second year. My son does not love to write but he has improves a lot because he gets tutoring with sylvan. I really appreciate your help. God bless you

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@celin26able I would go with the first year! There is tons of information in it and sets a great foundation!

@celin26able 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 thank you so much

@amandabudi7087 4 жыл бұрын

Hi! This will be my first year homeschooling. My son is entering 7th grade. He is a reluctant writer and in my opinion, behind in skill. He was an A student in public school and a very proficient reader. However, it seems as though he is lacking a good foundation in writing, spelling, and grammar. I have so many questions. Would you recommend level A or B for him? Can this program be easily modified to 4 days a week? Would a program like book shark or sonlight be too much to use for history and literature alongside this writing program? I have been researching comprehensive curriculums to assist me in planning and to take the guesswork out of it. I feel he could benefit from a more intensive writing program than what is offered through the language arts portion of these comprehensive curriculums. My rough plan so far is IEW, fix it grammar, book shark or sonlight for history, literature, and geography, math and science. It’s all a bit overwhelming. Thank you for the thorough reviews.

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

It sounds to me like you are coming up with a great plan! If he doesn’t love writing I personally would go with level a. The skills are very similar but the amount of writing will be less, therefore you could move through it more quickly and easily do it in just four days a week. I really think it’s better to start easier so he can be successful and gain confidence! I have used Sonlight for years, and really enjoyed it, but I do not like their language arts programs. I think I EW is much much stronger. We found the higher levels of Sonlight to be very time intensive, so ended up doing story of the world, which is the spine of the higher grades, and then just adding our own literature, based off their suggestions and ones I also found. It was a bit more relaxed and we could spend longer or shorter times on the time periods that interested us without the pressure to keep up with the schedule. That being said, Sonlight is great, and if you get the entire package, maybe plan on doing it over two years!!

@amandabudi7087 4 жыл бұрын

Karla Canon Thank you so much! I really appreciate your reply! Great advice! Using the spine and selecting my own additional literature will certainly save a lot of time and money.

@susanwynsma8961 3 жыл бұрын

Wondering if you think I would be better off buying extra student binders/packets for multiple children or just make copies?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I'm not sure what the copyright on the student binders is, so you would have to check that out as far as copying goes. If that's a go then it wouldn't be hard to copy the student pages since they are loose, however if you have two students doing it at the same time, it might be nice to have their own binders to put things in as you are supposed to file things behind the certain tabs as you go through the lessons.

@susanwynsma8961 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you!

@davidkieser4502 3 жыл бұрын

Hi! I have been watching your videos. Thank you for taking time to explain everything! We are new to IEW. I am looking at curriculum for my 6th, 7th, and 9th graders. Would you recommend level A, B, or C for them? They are not strong writers.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I would have a chat with your kids and ask them (especially your oldest) would they rater have something that's perhaps a little easier that they can move through quickly, or something that challenges them? I personally would get A for everyone because I think kids feel more successful when they can progress through something easily and feel confident. Every child is different though! One of my children is a perfectionist, so prefers things easier that they can do perfectly. Another of my children HATES things that are too easy, and always wants to be challenged. This child doesn't care if things are done perfectly. Hopefully that helps! :)

@davidkieser4502 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you for taking time to write back. I really appreciate your thoughts! Thank you! ❤️🤗

@melissacardona1747 2 жыл бұрын

I just purchased the Style and Structure 1A Basic box. I am also interested in the parent training videos, but I can’t seem to locate that information on their website. Are the parent training videos a separate purchase or are they included with the purchase of the curriculum?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

You can purchase it as a package deal, but since you already purchased the SSS A, you can get it separately here: iew.com/affiliate/324198/shop/products/teaching-writing-structure-and-style®-second-edition-forever-streaming-or-dvd-video If you JUST placed your order, it is cheaper to but the package deal here: iew.com/affiliate/324198/shop/products/structure-and-style-students-year-1-level-premier-forever-streaming Maybe if they haven't shipped it yet, and you want the TWSS, you could call them and change it to the package. No idea if IEW will do that, but it never hurts to ask!! :)

@sahanathaniel-onabule1047 4 жыл бұрын

Please can you do a video comparing Brave writer to IEW

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

That's a great idea! I actually have a lot to say about that topic! I am leaving for a camping vacation for 2 weeks but I will add it to my list of videos to make when I'm back!

@ryanclark1884 2 жыл бұрын

Hi Karla. Thank you so much for all your IEW videos, they are greatly needed and of value to us homeschoolers considering the pgm. My question is, Do you think that a parent would successfully learn/teach with the Style & Structure (1A) "Plus kit" for $169, if they watch along side the child throughout the pgm versus buying the "premier kit" of $269 that comes with the teacher training modules. That is a big jump in cost, even though it is at a savings as I realize the "teacher training" portion is $180 alone. I do plan to use IEW going fwd in future years but since it will be our first, I am very hesitant at dumping so much money up front with the unknown. Thank you for your time & response!

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

Hi there! Sorry for the slow reply! KZfaq is sometimes odd with their comment notifications. I do think that the parent can learn alongside their child by watching the student videos! I think the teacher/parent training videos are excellent, but you can also enjoy the program without having to invest in those first. I would say that if IEW is a good fit for your family, it is worth getting the teaching writing with structure and style later. It helped me learn how to incorporate what we learned in the videos into any subject or writing project, which I love!

@ryanclark1884 2 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Makes sense, thank you for the explanation and no worries on delay. I went ahead and went with the Premier kit hoping it will pay off in the long run and that we will stick with it! ;)

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

@@ryanclark1884 I really enjoyed it and learned sooooo much about how to use the program! Don't get overwhelmed when you get everything in the mail!! Just make some tea and watch one of the parent DVDs. If you plan to do about one DVD a month over the school year, you will be golden! You don't need to sit down and watch them all back to back. All the best to you this year!

@kimberlymoore4665 3 жыл бұрын

Hi, I appreciate your reviews, they are very in-depth. I do have a few questions I am hoping you can answer. My son is now in 8th grade, however is definitely behind his grade level, I am thinking he is on a 6th grade level. I am apprehensive to purchase level A as it may be repetitive lessons from his previous years in the public school system, and after watching a sample lesson I feel like it was a little immature for his age. That said, after watching your other reviews of SSS, I am also worried he will loose interest in level B because he will be behind and it will be overwhelming, as you said it is pretty advanced. Is it possible to buy the B level and just work at a slower pace? Or, should we just stick with level A and work from there? My second question is, I am torn whether to purchase the CD's vs the Lifetime streaming. It would be nice to not have to keep track of materials. If I purchase the lifetime streaming program, are the lessons downloadable onto the computer? Meaning, if we decide to pickup and go on an adventure for a week and will not have internet, can we download the lessons before hand? Thank you in advance!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! That is tricky! I honestly would sit down with your son and explain it all to him, and see what he thinks. He could even peek at the sample lessons. Just ask him if he would rather have the level A, which is going to be easier, but the kids in the video are going to be a bit younger, or would he rather have B, but the work will be harder? That way, whatever you do, he will have been part of the decision. If you go with B, you can ABSOLUTELY spread it out over a couple years. Heck, you could do one lesson a month once they are doing 3 paragraphs a lesson, and really take your time with it. That would be perfectly fine too! I personally like the streaming option, but it depends on what device you plan on having him watch the videos on. If you are planning on it being at your main TV with a DVD player, maybe the dvds are nicer. We stream it on iPads, which the kids can take to their rooms and do the lesson at their desks, so that's why I like that. I don't think you can download them, but you would have to check with IEW about that. If you were going away for a week or two you could always screen record if you have an iPad, as there are apps for that, and then you would have it to take along. Hope that helps!!

@yorkie1234 3 жыл бұрын

Do you think a 7.5 years old girl in an advanced school curriculum may be able to benefit from this curriculum on the side of public school's remote learning? How long does each day's assignment take on average? Thank you!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hello! I have a 7.5 year old daughter and while she does well, the SSS Level A would be WAAAAAY too much for her. I would say lessons take an hour. Some of the videos lessons are 50 minutes just by themselves, and that's without the assignments that need to be completed. For a child that age who is advanced, I would recommend Bible Heroes, or All Things Fun and Fascinating. Hope that helps!

@audreykrueger8273 Жыл бұрын

Hi. I am just watching this and wanting to start my 13 year old daughter with ADHD on level B, I thought for her grade. She missed out on writing when she was in public school, which is unfortunate, so she has not done much writing. Based on listening to you, level A might be better. What are your thoughts? Thank you so much!

@karlacanon2507 Жыл бұрын

It's tricky! I would show her samples of both and get her opinion, but the assignments are quite long in Level B.

@audreykrueger8273 Жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 thank you. I ended up ordering year 1 level A. I don't want to get her frustrated as I was this to be enjoyable. I appreciate your thorough video. It just came yesterday. I'm looking forward to digging in! :)

@asuslp 3 жыл бұрын

I have a young rising 6th grader (she won't be 11 until late October). I'm trying to decide between Level A or Level B over two years. We've never done any IEW before. Which would you suggest? Also, is there a way to get a list of the corresponding literature pieces for each?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I would DEFINITELY suggest going with Level A! My son just turned 11, and found some of the assignments in just A long. My 13 year old worked through Level B. You would have to call IEW and ask if you can get the literature list from them. These are recommended but not at all required. They are generally good books though!

@connied7708 4 жыл бұрын

What is the difference between Level A B and C??? Do you do all levels A B C, then unit studies???

@karlacanon2507 4 жыл бұрын

What level you do depends on the age/ability of the child. You can do all of them, or you can just do one and then any of the theme books.

@tleyvagutierrez 2 жыл бұрын

I started SSS Year 1A this year. My kids are older in 6th and 7th grade. We didn't make it through the whole program. Do I keep going into next year till we finish. My kids had a harder time than I thought after coming out of public school. Can you give me some advice?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

I would say keep going! I love IEW, but we either spread the program out over two years, or skip some assignments if there are multiple ones for the same unit. For example, instead of writing 3 stories in unit 5 for the picture prompts, I will have my kids do one or two. I'd rather them spend longer and do a project they are really proud of, then rush through it and hate it!

@logosrhemalego 3 жыл бұрын

Additionally I am deciding between the level A and B. I daughter is between these levels. How can I have a better judgment which one to go with?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I would watch my reviews on both level A and B, and see what length of assignments would best suit your daughter. The concepts in B aren't that much harder, but the assignments are much longer and require a lot of writing. Personally I always prefer to error on the side of easier than harder. I would rather see a child fly through a lesson and feel good about themselves than struggle through it and feel like a failure. It's something you can talk to your daughter about too and see if she prefers a challenge or for it to be a little easier!

@logosrhemalego 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 That’s a good point. We ordered Level A.

@jessicajones611 2 жыл бұрын

I’m wondering how much creative writing is in here, the jazzing up of words, compared to just simple paragraph organisation and structure of essays and report writing? How much would you say is donated to teaching creative writing?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

IEW breaks it up into structure (organization) and style (strong word choices, varied sentence patterns). These stylistic techniques are woven throughout all the lessons, and build off each other. In the beginning the checklist starts off fairly short of what the student needs to include, and by the end of the program there is lots of things they are expected to add. I personally love how they introduce one thing at a time in that way because it becomes a habit to include each "dress up" in their writing. Also, all of unit 7 is creative writing without using a source text.

@jessicajones611 2 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 hi Karla, thank you so much for the reply, love your channel and the wisdom you share, I’ve found it so helpful. I don’t think IEW is for us, I can see it’s excellent however I think it’s too structured for us and taught, perhaps not enough the natural child coming through. I’ve spent lots of time mulling over this, because it’s so well thought of by many you tubers I like. It has been very helpful to try to figure out what might work, I hate to buy and waste curriculum. I’ve just ordered Writing & Rhetoric books 1-4 with teacher guides too, hope this is a good mesh, discovering what suits my son and me has been the trickiest bit :)

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

@@jessicajones611 Finding what fits your family is the MOST important thing! I tried tons of things before I figured out what works for us! Good for you for doing your research and going with a program that will be good for you! 😄

@jessicajones611 2 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 thank you so much Karla, I really enjoyed your review on Abeka grade 4 science so I have thst inline for the new year, our science isn’t working out too well…..I’m still so new at this, and honestly the hardest part is choosing the right material for my son and not buying too much 😄

@marthadelgado3638 3 жыл бұрын

Hello Karla, I live in Ontario and I am happy to see a person from Canada doing home school review, we are a missionary family in Central America, and my daughter has been doing homeschooling since grade 2, and this year she is supposedly in 6th grade, and she doesn't like to write a lot and she's a little behind in spelling, she did Fix It! Grammar, "The Nose Tree", but I want her to do something deeper and with more practice, so that she learns to do paragraphs and in general to learn a solid base. I'm thinking of doing SSS Level 1-A (dvd) and Zoo Spelling level-A. (dvd), do you think it's a good option? If you have any other suggestions, it would be very welcome.:)

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Martha! So fun to hear from you! I think your plan is perfect, and is exactly what I would recommend! I think SSS Level 1-A is a great place to start, and I would encourage you to do it over two years if she finds the work load heavy. One of my children just completed the Spelling level-A and I think it was very good too. I love that they can do the spelling independently. Small warning, I really liked Fix It "The Nose Tree", but the second book was MUCH harder. I would save the second book for another year when she's older and either give her a break from grammar for a year, or look into Easy Grammar, and spread that over 2 years as well. Sorry for the run on sentences! :)

@marthadelgado3638 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you very much for taking the time to answer me, and I will follow your advice and do the program in 2 years. And I have another question, what is the best way to buy those books with the DVDs, through amazon or on the IEW website itself ???

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@marthadelgado3638 I honestly don't know if they are available on Amazon, so I would just compare prices when you are ready to buy. If you purchase directly through IEW then you have the option of stream the videos instead of DVDs, which I think is really nice if you have tablets/ipads to use.

@marthadelgado3638 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you for the recommendation, and thank you very much for making these videos explaining everything you explain, since they have been very helpful to me and to other mothers as well, as I have a hard time deciding on one program or another since we do not know them. THANK YOU VERY MUCH . And maybe in a while I will keep you informed of how my daughter is doing with the program. Have a nice day :)

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@marthadelgado3638 I would LOVE if you would update me on how your daughter likes the program!! I am always happy and interested to see how it works for other families!

@thewretchhesaved4649 2 жыл бұрын

Hi, thankyou for this thorough video. Is iew an English/ language arts program.... or would it be used in conjunction with an English program?

@karlacanon2507 2 жыл бұрын

We also use the Fix It grammar, but it's everything you need for writing and composition!

@Txanaplays1 3 жыл бұрын

I have a very bright 3rd grader. I am starting this program with my 7th grader. I was hoping to starting with my 3rd grader as well. Would you suggest it for a third grader?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I would not recommend this for a third grader as it is a lot of writing for even 4th and 5th graders. If you want to use IEW for third grade (I have a 3rd grader as well!) I recommend Bible Heroes or People and Places in Our Community. You can find my review for Bible Heroes on my channel. That being said, you know your child better than anyone and what they can manage! :)

@littlequiver1582 3 жыл бұрын

Can my son begin this program as a fifth grader if he has never used IEW before?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Yes! This is a good place to start! It is an advanced program, so I would plan on doing it over two years. :)

@joepotter106 3 жыл бұрын

Did you use IEW when you were homeschooled? Great review! Thanks, Shell

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

No, I didn't but I think I would have enjoyed it as I would have really used all the steps they teach when writing so, so many papers in university. I did a grade 10 writing course when I was 15, and then started at a smaller university the fall I was 16. I guess you could say my first year of university was kind of my last year of high school as well! haha

@joepotter106 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Is IEW Christian? Thanks, Shell

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@joepotter106 There are a couple themed books you can purchase that are Bible based, but no, their other products do not have Christian content. Wholesome but nothing else.

@BonMooney 3 жыл бұрын

Is this available in Europe?

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

I'm sorry but I'm not sure! I would think you you purchase directly through IEW they would ship it anywhere. iew.com/KarlaCanon-welcome

@SheResellsSeashells 3 жыл бұрын

Since IEW doesn't have grammar included, what grammar would you suggest for a 10 year old boy that doesn't love the language arts? Thanks for the review, it's WONDERFUL.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

Sorry for the slow reply! I have a 10 year old boy, and we are doing the grade 3 Daily Grams by Easy Grammar. It is NOT a grade three level, but is perfect for grade 5, and since it's not super hard, he can do it mostly all on his own, and there is lots of nice repetition!

@SheResellsSeashells 3 жыл бұрын

@@karlacanon2507 Thank you! Your reviews are great and so helpful. I never thought we could do IEW, until you said that I could break it up into years and at our own pace.. My grandson is 10 and that Daily Grams sounds like a good program for him.

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@SheResellsSeashells wonderful! I’m glad I could be helpful!

@karlacanon2507 3 жыл бұрын

@@SheResellsSeashells Daily Grams is similar concepts to easy grammar but it is the review book and can be done on its own in the earlier grades. You can see good sample pages of it on ChristianBook.com