Would You Recommend This Book?

[Anita]

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0761184570/...=IRZCFCM0KQUCR

I have been looking at it for awhile on Amazon but am undecided on:
1) whether it is "level-appropriate" for us
2) if it will collect dust and not get used -- I have more than a few books that looked nice but I never cracked open or simply had no time to use
3) if simply continuing with our curriculum and SLP recommendations will do the trick without having to purchase this book

Things in its favor:
1) the format seems fairly straightforward and organized (which I love -- big fan of simplicity)
2) it might be a fun way to boost comprehension and understanding

Thoughts?

[cherylswope]

Re: Would You Recommend This Book?

Hi, Anita.

Some pro's:
-by telling creative stories, the student might gain an appreciation for story components (conflict, characters)
-the color-coding is visually appealing

Some con's:
-this is intended for children whose oral expression abilities range from ages 8-12
-the complexity appears to necessitate some pre-requisites (which do not appear to be taught in the program)
-the focus is clearly more on "creativity," rather than comprehension
-it might detract from the steady course you're already undertaking


If you opted to purchase this and wanted to avoid having the book collect dust, it could be a fun oral-language game to play in the evenings. If Winston enjoys creative exercises, he might enjoy this. Just be sure to teach overtly the various components included within, so you avoid the progressive/post-modern approach of encouraging little more than "imaginative randomness."


If you wanted to try something a little easier, more straightforward, and less expensive, this might serve him well:
Sequence Cards. We loved these sequence cards in our home for teaching order, sequence, and narration. More in keeping with a classical approach, these visual cards help the student internalize the clear order of a story. You can then transfer this skill to all of the read-alouds in the SC Curriculum.


I hope that helps -

Cheryl

[Anita]

Re: Would You Recommend This Book?

Immensely! Thank you!

Love having a second set of (well-trained) eyes on this one. We will skip it. You had me convinced at "post modern" (ugh -- no, thank you). Linear, clearly-defined (aka Classical) goals are the very best approach for us. (I am very, very pleased and excited to get to say that. So, so happy with Classical Education, but I digress.)

I actually have sequence cards (about two or three different decks by different companies). We haven't used them because when Winston needed them, they were too hard. Now, he doesn't need them -- they would be too easy. Might pull them out anyway for a fun game.

Thank you, m'dear!