Search for: Elegant essay writing lessons student

Jill’s Gems: Timed Essay Writing

  It’s the height of summer. Summertime conjures thoughts of lazy days spent escaping the heat in the community swimming pool, binge reading a favorite book series in the icy cold air conditioning of... read more

Jul 24, 2017

Wonders of Science Writing Lessons

How are astronauts protected from space dust traveling at the speed of a bullet? How do ants know when another ant has died? Which woman scientist was called the Sun Queen and why?... read more

Apr 07, 2023

A Compelling Competition: The IEW Essay Writing Contest

  One of my favorite jobs is working at a local academic homeschool co-op. This year I am the high school English teacher. I’m quite proud of my little IEW class. We’ve had a... read more

Mar 12, 2021

The Writing App Every Student Needs

  What is the best thesaurus for student writers? You might expect me to recommend a traditional thesaurus or an online tool. But, the best one I have found is actually an app: IEW... read more

Mar 19, 2026

Unboxing Your Teaching Writing/Student Writing Value Package: A Chart for Your Course

  Our customer service team talks to parents and instructors every day who receive their long-awaited IEW materials, open their bright and shiny package, and are instantly struck with a challenging conundrum of “Where... read more

Apr 08, 2019

Formal Essay Models: Podcast Episode 185

  Now that we are approaching the end of the school year, many students are in the midst of Unit 8, Formal Essay Models. In Podcast Episode 185, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker take... read more

Apr 24, 2019

Announcing IEW’s Theme-Based Book of the Year: Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons

We are excited to share with you that we have declared Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons to be IEW’s theme-based book of the year. What does this mean for you? Every month Andrew Pudewa... read more

Sep 03, 2021

From the Forums: On IEW and the Essay

  Our online forums are a welcoming space where you can ask questions, share support, and feel encouraged. A community of people who share a common goal—teaching writing—the forums are supported by not only... read more

Aug 06, 2019

Learning about the Third Edition of Bible-Based Writing Lessons: Podcast Episode 196✝

  Once upon a time, there was only one IEW product—Teaching Writing: Structure and Style. It empowered, and continues to empower, teachers and parents to take the methodology back into their classrooms and homes... read more

Jun 27, 2019

Lessons Learned Teaching with IEW

  I have been in the “IEW world” since fifth grade when I was first introduced to its method. Since then, I have known it intimately as a student, as a customer service representative,... read more

May 25, 2019

IEW’s Checklist: Supporting Student Success

    IEW’s Checklist: Supporting Student Success* One question we hear often regards the checklist. Many teachers wonder if they really have to hold their students to the checklist of dress-ups and sentence openers, mostly... read more

Feb 16, 2024

Incorporating Poetry into Your Lessons

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” This first line of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s Sonnet 43 is familiar to most people. As we continue with our theme of “Furnishing the... read more

Mar 14, 2024

Three Signs of Student Engagement

When IEW’s educational consultants talk with teachers who use our method, we always look forward to asking the question, “What surprises you the most?” Regularly the answer has something to do with how... read more

Feb 17, 2024

SSS Student Perspective: Gabbi’s Thoughts

  One of the students in Andrew Pudewa’s Level B Structure and Style for Students class is Gabbi. She was a member of the class for two years. Recently we reached out to Gabbi,... read more

Jan 17, 2020

Life Lessons Learned through Spelling

by Ryan Weins   Recently I had the privilege of completing a level of IEW’s spelling program, The Phonetic Zoo. Throughout my study, I found it enjoyable to finally experience how our approach to teaching... read more

Feb 19, 2018

IEW’s Highest Level of Student Support

Registration for Fall 2025 opens April 1, 2025. IEW® Online, which started in 2011 with just two instructors and a handful of classes, is not just another online writing class. Our foray into the... read more

Jun 13, 2024

Lessons Learned from A Christmas Carol

  This year, as the leaves depart from their branches and cover our lawns with their warm colors, I look back on one of the most integral parts of my childhood. Christmastime at the... read more

Dec 17, 2018

Experience Unit 3 with People and Places in Our Community and World History-Based Writing Lessons

  September is nearly over, but before you switch from retelling stories in Unit 3 to funneling facts in Unit 4, check out these story samples pulled from two of our latest theme-based books.... read more

Sep 27, 2017

Assessing Student Growth with Fix It! Grammar

Teachers in school classrooms need opportunities for assessing student growth whether by traditional tests or by some other assessment. Educational assessments are methods of measuring students' learning and progress. They are essential tools... read more

Nov 16, 2023

Amy Wormald: IEW Student, Teacher, and Advisor

  Amy Wormald is an in-the-trenches veteran of IEW, both learning from and teaching the Structure and Style Writing Method. She learned writing as a student through IEW and then used it as a... read more

Mar 14, 2017

Boot Camp for Your College-Bound Student

“Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” — Abraham Lincoln Do your college-bound students have a few hours this summer to sharpen their... read more

Jun 03, 2016

Customizing Lessons to Meet Your Students’ Needs – Filtering

   “The optimal learning environment is one which allows each child to progress at his own rate allowing sufficient repetition for mastery.” Andrew Pudewa, IEW Founder, Author, and Director In the Teaching Writing: Structure and... read more

Jan 18, 2020

Where are they now? Kristianne Hassman—Student and Author

  We love to hear from our customers. One of them recently contacted us to share her daughter’s success using IEW materials. Her daughter, Kristianne, had been working through Student Intensive Continuation Course Level... read more

Jun 14, 2019

Top Ten Tips for Homeschooling the College Bound Student

  For podcast Episode 223 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker invited Denise Boiko into the studio. The author of Homeschooled & Headed for College, Denise educated her own children beginning in kindergarten and continuing... read more

Jun 10, 2020

A Sonnet in Honor of the Student Resource Packet

  Our Student Resource Packet is a pretty nifty item. Broken down by the nine IEW units and including sections dedicated to writing about literature, dress-ups and word lists, sentence openers and transitions, decorations,... read more

Sep 01, 2017

SSS Parent and Student Perspectives: Sahar, Sierra, and Sonora

  Meet Sahar and her daughters, Sierra and Sonora. Sahar’s girls participated in Mr. Pudewa’s Structure and Style for Students Year 2 Level A class. We reached out to the family to learn more... read more

Dec 20, 2019

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Noah’s View

One of Andrew Pudewa’s Structure and Style for Students (SSS) high school students was Noah. At fifteen years of age, Noah arrived at his first SSS with little writing experience, feeling less than... read more

Jan 22, 2020

Where are they now? Rebekah Goodrich: From Student to Professor

One of my greatest delights as a teacher is witnessing my students excel and move into the world with a powerful voice and readiness to meet the real world head-on. Meet Rebekah Goodrich,... read more

May 19, 2025

Where Are They Now? Jessica Andress—Entrepreneur, Editor, and College Student

  Our latest “Where Are They Now Student,” Jessica Andress, is a bit of a Renaissance gal. At her young age she has done a number of interesting things, including serving as a church... read more

Sep 02, 2019

Seeking Student Authors and Artists: An Exciting Magnum Opus Magazine Opportunity

Magnum Opus Magazine, IEW’s premier showcase of work from students around the world, is publishing a print edition in 2023 and is actively soliciting submissions from students. Before you jump into the school... read more

Aug 15, 2022

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style® for Students: Level A, Joshua’s View

  Meet Joshua (Josh for short). One of Andrew Pudewa’s students in IEW’s newly released video-based Structure and Style for Students: Level A classes, he is ten years old. When he first started taking the... read more

Dec 02, 2019

Structure and Style for the Gifted and Talented Student: Podcast Episode 257

  Just as we all are, students are equipped with a vast range of interests and aptitudes. Some students absolutely love to write, and you can hardly tear them away from their novel-in-progress to... read more

Feb 11, 2021

“Equipping Your Student with Secret Weapons for the Fall”: Podcast Episode 194

  School’s out! Time to put away the books and forget about school for a few precious, sun-drenched, fun-filled months, right? Wrong! And in Podcast Episode 194, Andrew and Julie talk about why. As... read more

Jun 12, 2019

Writing Blind

  Imagine a lightless world, full of sound, touch, and smell, but absent of color, visible texture, and sight. In their reading and writing studies, most students rely heavily on their sense of sight,... read more

Apr 30, 2018

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Juhls’ and Hunter’s Views

  One of the students who participated in Andrew Pudewa’s Level B Structure and Style for Students is Hunter. His mother is Juhls. We recently reached out to the pair to get their thoughts... read more

Feb 14, 2020

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Renee’s and Benjamin’s Views

  Recently we had the opportunity to catch up with one of the Level A Structure and Style Students along with his mother. Benjamin participated in both years of the Level A course, and... read more

May 11, 2020

A Helping Hand for Home-Based Instruction: Free Language Arts Lessons from IEW

  With all that is happening in the world and across the United States, IEW wanted to do what we could to help in some small way. That’s why today’s post is a bit... read more

Mar 17, 2020

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Jenny’s, Eli’s, and Caleb’s Views

  As a mom of two students who participated in the filming of IEW’s new Structure and Style Students, Jenny observed first-hand the difference that Structure and Style made in her boys’ writing. Caleb... read more

Jun 22, 2020

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style® for Students: Level C, Andrew V.’s View

  I had the recent pleasure of meeting Andrew V., a high school student appearing in IEW®️’s newly released video-based Structure and Style for Students: Level C classes. I met him when I traveled... read more

Dec 13, 2019

Pausing Conversational Writing

I blanched and then squeezed my eyes shut, hoping the action would hint to my mouth to also stay closed. He had done it again! My son’s sentence, “Man, that was a close... read more

Aug 18, 2025

IEW Writing Contest 2023

Writing contests are a fabulous way for students to further develop their writing skills, reach a broader audience, and potentially win a prize. They also provide a novel way to insert a little... read more

Mar 03, 2023

Keeping the Writing Rolling

  Summer has arrived! The slower pace of the season brings with it opportunities to read for perhaps hours on end, go swimming at the beach or pool, and enjoy your favorite grilled foods.... read more

Jun 25, 2020

Success in Teaching Writing: A Special Education Writing Conference from IEW

  We are excited to announce Success in Teaching Writing, an upcoming online conference that will focus on special needs. Happening on Saturday, January 16, 2021, this full-day writing conference will offer sessions for... read more

Dec 31, 2020

Grades 3–12 Teachers in Year 2 and Beyond: Customizing Lessons, Part 1 – Choosing Alternate Source Texts

by Jean Nichols and Janet Spitler   We have shared a plethora of information to help teachers and students who are new to the IEW approach to writing. This blog series answers the question, “What does... read more

Feb 16, 2024

Writing Essays with Unit 8

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout the year students progress through nine structural units. At this point in the... read more

Apr 18, 2024

Announcing IEW’s 2022 Writing Contest!

We are excited to announce the writing prompts for IEW’s 2022 Writing Contest and invite your students to submit their compositions for a chance to win a cash prize. Why should your students... read more

Mar 03, 2022

Announcing IEW’s 2021 Writing Contest!

  As winter begins to wane, and the days slowly stretch out longer and longer, we at IEW grow excited because we know the annual IEW Writing Contest is nearly here. We look forward... read more

Mar 05, 2021

Interrogative Thinking – Writing from Pictures

  When I first heard the phrase interrogative thinking, I was immediately drawn to follow this idea. What an interesting combination of words. Of course we want our children to think clearly, quickly, carefully,... read more

May 22, 2017

The Triangle of Writing Success

Regardless of the educational environment students are in, whether it be a hybrid school, a charter school, or a five-day-a-week school, students learn best when they have unified support. This support primarily comes... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Enjoying Literature with Theme-Based Writing

Reading and listening to high-quality literature is a vital component of a student’s education. When students engage with literature, some wonderful things happen: vocabulary expands, syntax develops, and comprehension matures. Not only that,... read more

Aug 26, 2025

Product Spotlight: Writing Across the Curriculum

  IEW offers many excellent programs for language arts. Among them are products dedicated to written expression, speaking, literature, spelling, and handwriting. In this blog post we take a closer look at our Writing... read more

Feb 08, 2019

When My Daughter Finally Started Writing

  Learning is a struggle for some, and sometimes learning to write seems like an impossible task. We received this testimony from a mom whose daughter—now in college—had extreme learning difficulties. With IEW’s help,... read more

Aug 28, 2015

The Benefits of Entering Writing Contests

  I started IEW when my twins were in fifth grade. I bought my Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS) in the spring. Truth be told, I was a little intimidated to begin, so... read more

Aug 19, 2019

Learning Styles—Overcoming the Writing Barrier

Whether you are teaching two students or twenty, you have likely noticed that each of your students learns a bit differently. One child might happily read a book and remember what he’s read,... read more

Oct 13, 2016

Announcing IEW’s Online 2021 Writing Conference!

  On June 26, IEW is hosting the 2021 Online Writing Conference. We invite you to attend! Developed with teachers, administrators, tutors, parents, and students in mind, this free event will span the day,... read more

Jun 02, 2021

Writing a Paper with Unit 2

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout the year students progress through nine structural units. After one, two, or maybe... read more

May 24, 2024

Reinforcing Grammar Concepts in Students’ Writing

As a homeschooling mom, co-op teacher, and now a classroom teacher, I have found that Fix It!™ Grammar is the most practical and painless way to teach and learn grammar. In Andrew Pudewa’s... read more

Sep 14, 2023

Announcing the 2026 IEW Writing Contest

  Writing contests are a fabulous way for students to further develop their writing skills, reach a broader audience, and potentially win a prize. They also provide a novel way to insert a little... read more

Feb 04, 2026

Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing

Have you committed one of these four errors in your teaching? Overcorrecting, holding back help, unclear assignments, and over-expectation can frustrate your students and hamper your best efforts. How can you overcome these... read more

Mar 21, 2016

The Solar Eclipse: A Writing Activity

  All across the United States, people today peered up into the skies to participate in a unique heavenly event, a solar eclipse. Were you among the many? Here’s a way to extend the... read more

Aug 22, 2017

Congratulations to IEW’s 2016 Writing Contest Winners!

This spring, we were delighted to host our second annual writing contest, receiving submissions from students all around the world. Our online writing instructors served as the judges, carefully reading each submission and... read more

Jun 15, 2016

Announcing the 2020 IEW Writing Contest Winners!

  It’s become a tradition that each spring, we announce the prompts for the annual IEW Writing Contest. This year’s prompts were as follows: Level A: Write a 2-paragraph composition about why kindness is important,... read more

May 27, 2020

Getting Started with Writing Across the Curriculum

On Day 3 of Twelve Days of Christmas Giving, IEW is giving you a three-week sample from Writing Across the Curriculum. Be sure you are registered for the event to receive the email... read more

Dec 08, 2025

Tales and Treasures: Writing about Your State

The Structure and Style® methodology provides a framework for incorporating writing into other subject areas. It is also flexible and easily adapted to specific situations. A state history project is one of these.... read more

Aug 28, 2025

Writing across the Curriculum: Podcast Episode 294

“Writing across the curriculum” continues to be a common educational trend in the United States. In podcast Episode 294 Andrew and Julie discuss what writing across the curriculum actually means and how IEW’s... read more

Nov 03, 2021

Writing Critiques: Podcast Episodes 139a and 139b

  The month of May doesn’t just bring flowers; if you have been keeping up with the suggested IEW unit pacing, it also brings Unit 9, the formal critique. But what is a formal... read more

May 09, 2018

Writing Speeches - The Importance of Note-Taking

Recently, I attended the 2024 NCFCA National Championship. Sitting at the IEW table, I was privy to all of the buzz as students swarmed around me, entering and exiting the student center of... read more

Jul 03, 2024

Product Spotlight: Teaching Writing: Structure and Style

  Each month in 2019, we would like to highlight one of our products and answer a few questions about it. It is our hope to create a space where you can learn more... read more

Jan 29, 2019

Inventive Writing: Podcast Episodes 131a and 131b

  The blank page. It’s a formidable foe for young and old. Just looking at a blank page can be enough to increase the heart rate and make the palms sweat. Fortunately, IEW tackles... read more

Mar 21, 2018

On Popcorn, Pudewa and Video Writing Instruction

  You may have already heard some of the buzz from IEW® about an upcoming important announcement. It’s exciting news that we are looking forward to sharing with you all. While the clock has... read more

Oct 31, 2019

Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style®

What: Three-session workshop for classroom teachers and administrators grades K-12Where: OnlineWhen: August 4, 5, and 6, 2026Time: 10:00 AM ‒ 2:30 PM CT Presenter and Facilitator: Jeff Nease, Implementation Coach The three-session workshop will be... read more

Nov 09, 2023

Unit 5: Writing from a Christmas Picture

# #   The month of December is a hectic one. You may barely be through the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers, and then suddenly you find yourself in the midst of Christmas decorating, baking, and socializing. Rather... read more

Dec 11, 2017

Writing across the Curriculum and Why It Matters

In her 1977 article “Writing as a Mode of Learning,” Janet Emig states, “Writing serves learning uniquely because writing as process-and-product possesses a cluster of attributes that correspond uniquely to certain powerful learning... read more

Jun 03, 2025

A Brief Tour through the IEW Writing Units

  When you teach writing with IEW®, you are constructing a solid writing foundation for your students. IEW’s writing structure is based upon nine units or structural models. But what are those models? A... read more

Sep 20, 2017

Sue Ewing: Helping Students Overcome Their Writing Obstacles

  At IEW, we mean it when we say our Structure and Style™ method works for students who have a wide range of abilities. This includes special learners. Sue Ewing is a Certified IEW... read more

Jul 05, 2017

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Hybrid Schools

In 2013 as an IEW Educational Consultant, I conducted the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® (TWSS) seminar at Legacy Christian Academy, a hybrid school in Bakersfield, California. As the school prepared for the... read more

Dec 03, 2024

Unit 5: Writing from Pictures: Podcast Episode 167

  In Podcast 167 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss Unit 5, Writing from Pictures. This unit is distinct from the other writing units in that the student uses pictures in order to describe... read more

Dec 05, 2018

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: Why Teach Cursive Writing?

  Centering around the teaching of cursive, our latest “Best of” podcast episode deserves another listen. Why should cursive be taught? Isn’t it obsolete now that everyone can type on their phones, laptops, and... read more

Aug 28, 2019

Announcement: It’s time for the 2020 IEW Writing Contest!

  The last several months have been filled with exciting events such as IEW’s twenty-fifth birthday bash and the brand new Structure and Style for Students courses. And the year is just getting started!... read more

Feb 28, 2020

Three Ways Our Students Grow in Their Writing Skills

It’s best to think of language acquisition as a journey, and every student is somewhere on the path. Our goal for our students is not perfection; our goal is progress. We want to... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method 5-Day Schools

During my thirty-four-year career as an elementary school teacher, I taught at seven schools in four school districts in three states. The districts ranged from rural to suburban to inner city, each with... read more

Dec 03, 2024

The Value of a Consistent Writing Process for Schools

A History of Inconsistency Over the course of my thirty-four-year career as an elementary school teacher, I taught at seven schools in three school districts in three different states. The districts ranged from rural... read more

Feb 17, 2024

How the Structure and Style Writing Approach Supports Reading

  While the act of reading appears, at least on the surface, to be simple, it is anything but. Reading is actually an extremely complicated activity that involves lots of simultaneous processes within the... read more

Mar 20, 2021

Unit 3: Powerful Narrative Tools Inform and Improve Academic Writing

by Jean Nichols and Janet Spitler   When I began using IEW’s Structure and Style method in my classroom in 2001, I was anxious about teaching Unit 3: Summarizing a Narrative. Classroom Supplements hadn’t been... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing: Podcast Episode 359

Have you committed one of these four errors in your teaching? Overcorrecting, holding back help, unclear assignments, and over-expectation can frustrate your students and hamper your best efforts. Andrew Pudewa refers to these... read more

Feb 08, 2023

Do I Really Need Teaching Writing: Structure and Style?

  If your students are using IEW’s new Structure and Style for Students (SSS) program this year, you may be wondering whether you actually need Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS) in order to... read more

Sep 18, 2020

Writing Rewarded: A Conversation with Nataly and Breesa Pierce

  Meet Nataly and Breesa Pierce, IEW students ages 8 and 11. Each of them competed in her first writing contest this past summer. Nataly won first place, and Breesa took third in separate... read more

Jan 15, 2018

Flying Solo with Teaching Writing: Structure and Style: Part 1

  Once upon a time, IEW offered a single product—Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). Since then the TWSS has undergone a few updates with the most recent one occurring in 2015 (TWSS2). Additionally... read more

Aug 23, 2017

How to Teach Writing with Confidence: Podcast Episode 339

Here at the Institute for Excellence in Writing, our mission is to equip teachers and teaching parents with methods and materials which will aid them in training their students to become confident and... read more

Sep 14, 2022

Homeschool Writing Curriculum: The Search Is Over with IEW

As any homeschooling parent knows, finding the right-fit curriculum for a subject can be overwhelming and expensive. We make a purchase, thinking This is the one! only to be disappointed. Alternatively, a curriculum... read more

Nov 21, 2025

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Formal Co-ops

We are blessed to live in a time where there are many educational options available for our students. The beauty of IEW methodology is that it is easily adaptable to most educational settings.... read more

Jan 06, 2025

Flying Solo with Teaching Writing: Structure and Style: Part 2

  In our last blog post, we described the initial steps you need to take in order to plan for a successful year utilizing our flagship course, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style, as the... read more

Aug 25, 2017

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Private Tutoring at Home

People are unique. Just as some people feel most at home in an urban environment, others chafe at the sounds and sights of the city and long for the quiet comfort of a... read more

Jan 03, 2025

Where are They Now? Alayna Mitchell: A Passion for Writing

  Occasionally we get calls from parents of older children who are just starting out with IEW. They are worried that their students are starting too late for it to really work well. Alayna... read more

Jun 01, 2017

My IEW Journey: Becoming a Successful IEW Classroom Writing Teacher

  As a child, I wanted to become a second-grade teacher. In college, though, my parents pushed me to study business instead. Poor grades followed, and a degree change became imperative. I switched paths... read more

Feb 16, 2024

On Teaching and Evaluating Writing, Part 1: Podcast Episode 233

  This year it seems as if there are more and more children who will be learning from home. With all of these new at-home learners, there are more and more at-home teachers. Parents... read more

Aug 19, 2020

Little Birdie in the Snow: A Unit 5 Writing Opportunity

While some educators are beginning to move into Unit 6 with their students, there are still several who choose to spread out Unit 5 over both December and January. For those who are... read more

Jan 11, 2022

Summer Writing Fun with Structure and Style: Podcast Episode 271

If the summer break hasn’t started for you yet, most likely it is just around the corner. While teachers and teaching parents love having a nice break to rest and recharge for the... read more

May 27, 2021

Overcoming Obstacles in Teaching Reading and Writing: Podcast Episode 255

  Recently IEW hosted an online conference called “Success in Teaching Writing: A Special Education Writing Conference from IEW.” If you missed it, you can watch the recording of it by visiting this link.... read more

Jan 27, 2021

On Teaching and Evaluating Writing, Part 2: Podcast Episode 234

  Last week Andrew and Julie began a conversation about how to teach writing. In this week’s podcast, Episode 234, they continue their discussion, this time centering more on how to appropriately evaluate writing.... read more

Aug 26, 2020

The 2021 IEW Online Writing Conference: Recorded and Ready to Watch!

The 2021 IEW Online Writing Conference: Recorded and Ready to Watch! It’s a wrap! This past Saturday marked IEW’s second annual Online Writing Conference. Did you participate? It was a fabulous day featuring workshops... read more

Jun 30, 2021

Writing, a Model That Imitates Life: Teacher Testimonial from Johannah Mackin

  We recently received this powerful testimonial from Johanna Mackin, a middle school teacher in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Hoping that it will inspire other teachers, we are pleased to be able to share it with... read more

Feb 16, 2024

Changing Someone’s Mind – the Power of Persuasive Writing: Podcast Episode 307

What is an essay? How is it distinguished from a report? Why is it important to teach our students how to write persuasively? And how do we help our students transition from writing... read more

Feb 02, 2022

Teaching Writing Can Be Easier Than You Think! Podcast Episode 277

In June IEW presented its second annual Online Writing Conference. Attended by people from all around the world, the conference offered education and support for teachers, administrators, parents, and students. In this week’s... read more

Jul 09, 2021

A Parent’s Perspective: The Value of Teaching Writing: Structure and Style

Recently in IEW’s official Facebook Group, mom Marcela B. wrote a post in which she explained how valuable she found the teacher training she received in Teaching Writing: Structure and Style to be.... read more

Nov 12, 2021

Unit 7 and the 2019 IEW Writing Contest: Podcast Episode 182

  The month of March is traditionally when students encounter Unit 7: Inventive Writing. In Podcast 182, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss this writing unit and introduce the writing prompts for this year’s... read more

Mar 22, 2019

Teacher Training Method Options: Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style Workshop

Learning to teach writing effectively is one of the most powerful investments teachers can make in improving their instruction. In parts one and two of this training methods series, we featured video training through... read more

Feb 27, 2025

Begin Reading and Writing with a Pal: IEW’s Primary Arts of Language

  Do you have a new or struggling reader in your home? If so, find direction and encouragement in our June 26 webinar with Jill Pike, author of Primary Arts of Language (PAL). Jill’s... read more

Jun 19, 2017

Writing Across the Curriculum or Video-Based? Either Is a Win-Win!

Whether you use one of IEW’s Writing Across the Curriculum courses or a Structure and Style® for Students video-based course, it is a win-win for your students. While both use a spiral method... read more

Aug 10, 2023

From Imitation to Innovation: Teaching writing can be easier than you think!

  This past Saturday, people from all around the world gathered together virtually to participate in IEW’s online writing conference, From Imitation to Innovation. It was a day filled with inspiring instruction and useful... read more

Jul 03, 2020

Product Spotlight: A Word Write Now: A Thematic Thesaurus for Stylized Writing

    Getting students to write using vivid language is easier said than done. Asking them to “show, not tell” when they write or to write in a way that creates a movie in... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Point-less: On the Value of a Mastery Approach to Writing Instruction

Some instructors teaching with Structure and Style for Students have noticed something that appears to be missing from the checklists: the point values. While we do offer checklists with points as an optional... read more

Sep 08, 2021

More about Overcoming Obstacles in Teaching Reading and Writing: Podcast Episode 256

  During last week’s Arts of Language Podcast episode, Andrew and Julie discussed effective ways to overcome obstacles in teaching reading and writing. One of the techniques they mentioned was implementing copywork. But rather... read more

Feb 03, 2021

Off to a Strong Start: Preparing for Writing Instruction with Structure and Style

Arranging desks, unpacking new textbooks, and dusting off classroom libraries in a freshly cleaned classroom gives even the most seasoned veteran a happy feeling of anticipation for the year ahead. Making a new... read more

Feb 16, 2024

Teaching Writing: Structure and Style—IEW‘s Most Important Message, Part 2: Podcast Episode 58

In this podcast, Andrew and Julie uncover the powerful educational content in IEW's core product, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). Additionally, they discuss each one of the stylistic techniques as well as the supplemental contents... read more

Aug 30, 2016

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: How Busy Moms Teach Writing: A Conversation with Author and Speaker, Heidi St. John

  The most recent “Best of” podcast features popular homeschool speaker and author Heidi St. John. During the podcast Julie Walker and Heidi St. John discuss how busy homeschool moms “do it all.” Quick... read more

Nov 25, 2019

Training Method Options, Part 4A – Live On-Site Professional Development: Launching Young Writers with Primary Writing with Structure and Style Two-Day Seminar

Primary Writing with Structure and Style was designed specifically with primary teachers in mind. Providing a bridge between Anna Ingham's Blended Sound-Sight Program of Learning and the Structure and Style method, this seminar... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Where Are They Now? Ethan Sink: Journalist with a Passion for Communication

  Occasionally at IEW we receive questions from parents wondering if our curriculum will work for students who are interested in pursuing careers in journalism. We would unequivocally say yes! As proof, we would... read more

Jul 07, 2017

Where Are They Now? Micah Karr: Future Journalist

  The oldest of three daughters, Micah Karr grew up near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, and was home educated from kindergarten through grade 12. Now in college, Micah is enjoying the... read more

Jul 06, 2018

Where Are They Now? Oliver Mauser: College, Construction, and Effective Communication

From time to time we enjoy highlighting former structure and style students to showcase their achievements both academically and professionally. Students who learn this writing method are able to confidently use the skills... read more

Sep 06, 2022

Week 8 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 8

If you are participating in this year’s Great TWSS Adventure, this week you will be encountering formal essay models. The essay is the goal for formal writing. Units 4 and 6 have provided... read more

Aug 02, 2021

The Journey’s End: Written Communication

  Which IEW courses will help prepare your students for writing at the collegiate level? Most colleges expect students to be able to write proficiently. Across academia, professors often assign essays to gauge their... read more

Jun 15, 2020

Week 9 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 9

This week marks the penultimate week for this year’s Great TWSS Adventure. If you have kept up with the schedule, you will be encountering the final unit, Unit 9. In this section of... read more

Aug 09, 2021

Week 7 of the Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 7

Teachers and teaching parents from across the globe who are participating in the Great Adventure will tackle Unit 7 this week. Many teachers are very excited to reach this unit because it is... read more

Jul 27, 2021

Where are they now? Katherine Wilkins: Future Physical Therapist

Are you just beginning to use IEW with your high school students? Let Katherine Wilkins’ story encourage you! She began IEW in 9th grade and found it to be an excellent curriculum to... read more

Nov 02, 2016

You Might Even Win Something!

  In middle school, Malachi decided to do something he had never done before. He summoned up his courage, wrote an essay, and submitted it to a writing contest. What he learned in the... read more

Jul 07, 2020

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 230

  This week on the Arts of Language Podcast marks the release of Episode 230. Every tenth episode features an “Ask Andrew Anything,” where listeners send in all different kinds of queries. Listen to... read more

Jul 29, 2020

Translating Prompts into IEW Language

‘Tis the season! While many of us anticipate the upcoming holidays and start to plan the myriad of celebrations, not everyone is occupied with visions of sugarplums. High school and college students face... read more

Nov 13, 2025

Teacher Spotlight: Laura McMahon, Ivywood Classical Academy

Laura McMahon is a middle-school teacher at Ivywood Classical Academy, a tuition-free public school located in Plymouth, Michigan. Ivywood Classical Academy is a Hillsdale College Member School. How many students do you have? In seventh... read more

Jan 24, 2025

Critiquing Literature with Unit 9

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout the year students progress through nine structural units. At this point in the... read more

May 01, 2024

How to Progress: Structure and Style for Students

Structure and Style® for Students (SSS) video-based courses build on each other. Although many begin at Level A, older students who have used other curricula may begin at Year 1 of Level B... read more

May 16, 2024

The Year in Review: Dual Enrollment with CHI

What an inaugural year it has been for the Christian Halls International’s (CHI) dual enrollment program using IEW materials! English Composition I was taught in the fall semester, followed by English Composition II... read more

Apr 28, 2023

Hot Off the Press! Following Narnia Volume 2: Aslan’s Country

  Narnia lovers, rejoice! If you’ve used and loved Following Narnia® Volume 1: The Lion’s Song, you’ll be delighted to know that IEW has recently released the sequel: Following Narnia® Volume 2: Aslan’s Country.... read more

Sep 02, 2016

Going Advanced: Podcast Episode 187

  Are you working with high school students? If so, Podcast Episode 187 is a must-listen episode! During the podcast, Andrew and Julie discuss advanced essay models, describing what some of these models look... read more

May 02, 2019

Observations of an IEW Online Class

IEW Online classes are a perfect option for students who want to work through the Structure and Style for Students program but whose parents would prefer someone else to review the students’ work. The... read more

Apr 14, 2023

Thesis Statement or Topic Sentence?

  Occasionally at IEW our customer service team will receive questions about the differences between topic sentences and thesis statements. Hopefully this blog post will dispel any confusion between the two and empower you... read more

Aug 12, 2019

“A Remarkable Leap Forward”: Tutor Testimonial from Sherry Grubbs

          It has been a tremendous blessing to have discovered IEW early on in my homeschooling journey. With over twenty-one years in the trenches so far, I am still homeschooling... read more

Oct 28, 2019

All in the Sussmann Family

In 2023 IEW released Introduction to Public Speaking. In honor of this, IEW hosted its first annual speech contest and received submissions from all over the country. After much deliberation, the winners were... read more

Feb 19, 2024

Preparing for College and Career

In the 1970s Dr. James B. Webster began each of his university history classes with lessons from his program Blended Structure and Style in Composition because his students could not write well enough... read more

Jan 18, 2024

Accreditation Progress: What’s on Your Bingo Card?

  It started with a question. Every year our daughter Grace poses the question “What is on your bingo card this year?” Instead of New Year’s resolutions, she encourages goals, fun experiences, and opportunities... read more

Mar 26, 2026

Metacognition Matters: Teaching Thinking Skills through Modeling

When students become aware of their own thinking processes and start to ask and answer questions about their learning, they are using metacognitive thinking skills. In a nutshell, metacognitive thinking happens when learners... read more

Feb 16, 2024

Jill’s Gems: Graphic Organizers or Key Word Outlines?

  Not long ago in the forum, we had a member ask about using a graphic organizer in place of a key word outline. Jill Pike, IEW Accomplished Instructor and author, responded with her... read more

Jul 17, 2017

Teaching Documentation with Confidence

  For those of you who have an older version of the Student Resource Packet (SRP) and have updated to the most recent edition, you may have noticed that we no longer include bibliography... read more

May 17, 2021

Considering Aristotle and the Art of Rhetoric: Podcast Episode 124

  For Episode 123 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker waded a little deeper into the topic of advanced thinking skills. Now in Episode 124 they continue the conversation and go even deeper, exploring Aristotle... read more

Jan 24, 2018

Using Structure and Style across the Curriculum

“I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I write and I understand.” According to this Chinese proverb, writing about something leads to understanding it. While writing instruction is commonly considered... read more

Jan 11, 2024

Announcing Introduction to Public Speaking!

Listen. Speak. Read. Write. Think! At IEW, these are words to live by. While the Institute for Excellence in Writing is thought of primarily for its writing curricula, the primary focus is on... read more

Mar 17, 2023

Where Are They Now? Nathanael Olander: Future Computer Scientist

#   Nathanael Olander grew up an “IEW kid.” His mom, Danielle Olander, is an IEW homeschool exhibitor. Together the two of them authored Rockets, Radar, & Robotics*, a technology-themed writing curriculum. The idea for... read more

Oct 30, 2017

Responding to Literature: Podcast Episode 191

  If you have worked through our teacher course, you know that IEW teaches nine units. With the latest update we have included an addition called “Writing About Literature.” Andrew Pudewa jokingly calls it... read more

May 20, 2019

Where are they now? Megan House: Journalist and Dance Teacher

  On my drive to work every day, I pass a large-scale construction project. Yesterday as I passed some of the equipment, I was struck by the similarity between building and writing. It doesn’t... read more

Jul 20, 2016

Stylistic Techniques: The Who/Which Clause

  After students learn how to insert a -ly adverb, the next stylistic technique they learn to construct is a who/which clause, a type of adjective clause. In grammar, a clause has two parts:... read more

Feb 13, 2021

Jill’s Gems: Timed Essay Writing

  It’s the height of summer. Summertime conjures thoughts of lazy days spent escaping the heat in the community swimming pool, binge... read more

Wonders of Science Writing Lessons

How are astronauts protected from space dust traveling at the speed of a bullet? How do ants know when another ant... read more

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A Compelling Competition: The IEW Essay Writing Contest

  One of my favorite jobs is working at a local academic homeschool co-op. This year I am the high school English... read more

The Writing App Every Student Needs

  What is the best thesaurus for student writers? You might expect me to recommend a traditional thesaurus or an online tool.... read more

Unboxing Your Teaching Writing/Student Writing Value Package: A Chart for Your Course

  Our customer service team talks to parents and instructors every day who receive their long-awaited IEW materials, open their bright and... read more

Formal Essay Models: Podcast Episode 185

  Now that we are approaching the end of the school year, many students are in the midst of Unit 8, Formal... read more

Announcing IEW’s Theme-Based Book of the Year: Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons

We are excited to share with you that we have declared Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons to be IEW’s theme-based book of... read more

From the Forums: On IEW and the Essay

  Our online forums are a welcoming space where you can ask questions, share support, and feel encouraged. A community of people... read more

Learning about the Third Edition of Bible-Based Writing Lessons: Podcast Episode 196✝

  Once upon a time, there was only one IEW product—Teaching Writing: Structure and Style. It empowered, and continues to empower, teachers... read more

Lessons Learned Teaching with IEW

  I have been in the “IEW world” since fifth grade when I was first introduced to its method. Since then, I... read more

IEW’s Checklist: Supporting Student Success

    IEW’s Checklist: Supporting Student Success* One question we hear often regards the checklist. Many teachers wonder if they really have to... read more

Incorporating Poetry into Your Lessons

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” This first line of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s Sonnet 43 is familiar... read more

Three Signs of Student Engagement

When IEW’s educational consultants talk with teachers who use our method, we always look forward to asking the question, “What surprises... read more

SSS Student Perspective: Gabbi’s Thoughts

  One of the students in Andrew Pudewa’s Level B Structure and Style for Students class is Gabbi. She was a member... read more

Life Lessons Learned through Spelling

by Ryan Weins   Recently I had the privilege of completing a level of IEW’s spelling program, The Phonetic Zoo. Throughout my study,... read more

IEW’s Highest Level of Student Support

Registration for Fall 2025 opens April 1, 2025. IEW® Online, which started in 2011 with just two instructors and a handful of... read more

Lessons Learned from A Christmas Carol

  This year, as the leaves depart from their branches and cover our lawns with their warm colors, I look back on... read more

Experience Unit 3 with People and Places in Our Community and World History-Based Writing Lessons

  September is nearly over, but before you switch from retelling stories in Unit 3 to funneling facts in Unit 4, check... read more

Assessing Student Growth with Fix It! Grammar

Teachers in school classrooms need opportunities for assessing student growth whether by traditional tests or by some other assessment. Educational assessments... read more

Amy Wormald: IEW Student, Teacher, and Advisor

  Amy Wormald is an in-the-trenches veteran of IEW, both learning from and teaching the Structure and Style Writing Method. She learned... read more

Boot Camp for Your College-Bound Student

“Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” — Abraham Lincoln Do... read more

Customizing Lessons to Meet Your Students’ Needs – Filtering

   “The optimal learning environment is one which allows each child to progress at his own rate allowing sufficient repetition for mastery.”... read more

Where are they now? Kristianne Hassman—Student and Author

  We love to hear from our customers. One of them recently contacted us to share her daughter’s success using IEW materials.... read more

Top Ten Tips for Homeschooling the College Bound Student

  For podcast Episode 223 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker invited Denise Boiko into the studio. The author of Homeschooled & Headed... read more

A Sonnet in Honor of the Student Resource Packet

  Our Student Resource Packet is a pretty nifty item. Broken down by the nine IEW units and including sections dedicated to... read more

SSS Parent and Student Perspectives: Sahar, Sierra, and Sonora

  Meet Sahar and her daughters, Sierra and Sonora. Sahar’s girls participated in Mr. Pudewa’s Structure and Style for Students Year 2... read more

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Noah’s View

One of Andrew Pudewa’s Structure and Style for Students (SSS) high school students was Noah. At fifteen years of age, Noah... read more

Where are they now? Rebekah Goodrich: From Student to Professor

One of my greatest delights as a teacher is witnessing my students excel and move into the world with a powerful... read more

Where Are They Now? Jessica Andress—Entrepreneur, Editor, and College Student

  Our latest “Where Are They Now Student,” Jessica Andress, is a bit of a Renaissance gal. At her young age she... read more

Seeking Student Authors and Artists: An Exciting Magnum Opus Magazine Opportunity

Magnum Opus Magazine, IEW’s premier showcase of work from students around the world, is publishing a print edition in 2023 and... read more

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style® for Students: Level A, Joshua’s View

  Meet Joshua (Josh for short). One of Andrew Pudewa’s students in IEW’s newly released video-based Structure and Style for Students: Level A... read more

Structure and Style for the Gifted and Talented Student: Podcast Episode 257

  Just as we all are, students are equipped with a vast range of interests and aptitudes. Some students absolutely love to... read more

“Equipping Your Student with Secret Weapons for the Fall”: Podcast Episode 194

  School’s out! Time to put away the books and forget about school for a few precious, sun-drenched, fun-filled months, right? Wrong!... read more

Writing Blind

  Imagine a lightless world, full of sound, touch, and smell, but absent of color, visible texture, and sight. In their reading... read more

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Juhls’ and Hunter’s Views

  One of the students who participated in Andrew Pudewa’s Level B Structure and Style for Students is Hunter. His mother is... read more

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Renee’s and Benjamin’s Views

  Recently we had the opportunity to catch up with one of the Level A Structure and Style Students along with his... read more

A Helping Hand for Home-Based Instruction: Free Language Arts Lessons from IEW

  With all that is happening in the world and across the United States, IEW wanted to do what we could to... read more

Parent and Student Perspectives: Structure and Style for Students: Jenny’s, Eli’s, and Caleb’s Views

  As a mom of two students who participated in the filming of IEW’s new Structure and Style Students, Jenny observed first-hand... read more

Student Perspectives: Structure and Style® for Students: Level C, Andrew V.’s View

  I had the recent pleasure of meeting Andrew V., a high school student appearing in IEW®️’s newly released video-based Structure and... read more

Pausing Conversational Writing

I blanched and then squeezed my eyes shut, hoping the action would hint to my mouth to also stay closed. He... read more

IEW Writing Contest 2023

Writing contests are a fabulous way for students to further develop their writing skills, reach a broader audience, and potentially win... read more

Keeping the Writing Rolling

  Summer has arrived! The slower pace of the season brings with it opportunities to read for perhaps hours on end, go... read more

Success in Teaching Writing: A Special Education Writing Conference from IEW

  We are excited to announce Success in Teaching Writing, an upcoming online conference that will focus on special needs. Happening on... read more

Grades 3–12 Teachers in Year 2 and Beyond: Customizing Lessons, Part 1 – Choosing Alternate Source Texts

by Jean Nichols and Janet Spitler   We have shared a plethora of information to help teachers and students who are new to the... read more

Writing Essays with Unit 8

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout... read more

Announcing IEW’s 2022 Writing Contest!

We are excited to announce the writing prompts for IEW’s 2022 Writing Contest and invite your students to submit their compositions... read more

Announcing IEW’s 2021 Writing Contest!

  As winter begins to wane, and the days slowly stretch out longer and longer, we at IEW grow excited because we... read more

Interrogative Thinking – Writing from Pictures

  When I first heard the phrase interrogative thinking, I was immediately drawn to follow this idea. What an interesting combination of... read more

The Triangle of Writing Success

Regardless of the educational environment students are in, whether it be a hybrid school, a charter school, or a five-day-a-week school,... read more

Enjoying Literature with Theme-Based Writing

Reading and listening to high-quality literature is a vital component of a student’s education. When students engage with literature, some wonderful... read more

Product Spotlight: Writing Across the Curriculum

  IEW offers many excellent programs for language arts. Among them are products dedicated to written expression, speaking, literature, spelling, and handwriting.... read more

When My Daughter Finally Started Writing

  Learning is a struggle for some, and sometimes learning to write seems like an impossible task. We received this testimony from... read more

The Benefits of Entering Writing Contests

  I started IEW when my twins were in fifth grade. I bought my Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS) in the... read more

Learning Styles—Overcoming the Writing Barrier

Whether you are teaching two students or twenty, you have likely noticed that each of your students learns a bit differently.... read more

Announcing IEW’s Online 2021 Writing Conference!

  On June 26, IEW is hosting the 2021 Online Writing Conference. We invite you to attend! Developed with teachers, administrators, tutors,... read more

Writing a Paper with Unit 2

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout... read more

Reinforcing Grammar Concepts in Students’ Writing

As a homeschooling mom, co-op teacher, and now a classroom teacher, I have found that Fix It!™ Grammar is the most... read more

Announcing the 2026 IEW Writing Contest

  Writing contests are a fabulous way for students to further develop their writing skills, reach a broader audience, and potentially win... read more

Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing

Have you committed one of these four errors in your teaching? Overcorrecting, holding back help, unclear assignments, and over-expectation can frustrate... read more

The Solar Eclipse: A Writing Activity

  All across the United States, people today peered up into the skies to participate in a unique heavenly event, a solar... read more

Congratulations to IEW’s 2016 Writing Contest Winners!

This spring, we were delighted to host our second annual writing contest, receiving submissions from students all around the world. Our... read more

Announcing the 2020 IEW Writing Contest Winners!

  It’s become a tradition that each spring, we announce the prompts for the annual IEW Writing Contest. This year’s prompts were... read more

Getting Started with Writing Across the Curriculum

On Day 3 of Twelve Days of Christmas Giving, IEW is giving you a three-week sample from Writing Across the Curriculum.... read more

Tales and Treasures: Writing about Your State

The Structure and Style® methodology provides a framework for incorporating writing into other subject areas. It is also flexible and easily... read more

Writing across the Curriculum: Podcast Episode 294

“Writing across the curriculum” continues to be a common educational trend in the United States. In podcast Episode 294 Andrew and... read more

Writing Critiques: Podcast Episodes 139a and 139b

  The month of May doesn’t just bring flowers; if you have been keeping up with the suggested IEW unit pacing, it... read more

Writing Speeches - The Importance of Note-Taking

Recently, I attended the 2024 NCFCA National Championship. Sitting at the IEW table, I was privy to all of the buzz... read more

Product Spotlight: Teaching Writing: Structure and Style

  Each month in 2019, we would like to highlight one of our products and answer a few questions about it. It... read more

Inventive Writing: Podcast Episodes 131a and 131b

  The blank page. It’s a formidable foe for young and old. Just looking at a blank page can be enough to... read more

On Popcorn, Pudewa and Video Writing Instruction

  You may have already heard some of the buzz from IEW® about an upcoming important announcement. It’s exciting news that we... read more

Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style®

What: Three-session workshop for classroom teachers and administrators grades K-12Where: OnlineWhen: August 4, 5, and 6, 2026Time: 10:00 AM ‒ 2:30... read more

Unit 5: Writing from a Christmas Picture

# #   The month of December is a hectic one. You may barely be through the Thanksgiving turkey leftovers, and then suddenly you... read more

Writing across the Curriculum and Why It Matters

In her 1977 article “Writing as a Mode of Learning,” Janet Emig states, “Writing serves learning uniquely because writing as process-and-product... read more

A Brief Tour through the IEW Writing Units

  When you teach writing with IEW®, you are constructing a solid writing foundation for your students. IEW’s writing structure is based... read more

Sue Ewing: Helping Students Overcome Their Writing Obstacles

  At IEW, we mean it when we say our Structure and Style™ method works for students who have a wide range... read more

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Hybrid Schools

In 2013 as an IEW Educational Consultant, I conducted the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® (TWSS) seminar at Legacy Christian Academy,... read more

Unit 5: Writing from Pictures: Podcast Episode 167

  In Podcast 167 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss Unit 5, Writing from Pictures. This unit is distinct from the other... read more

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: Why Teach Cursive Writing?

  Centering around the teaching of cursive, our latest “Best of” podcast episode deserves another listen. Why should cursive be taught? Isn’t... read more

Announcement: It’s time for the 2020 IEW Writing Contest!

  The last several months have been filled with exciting events such as IEW’s twenty-fifth birthday bash and the brand new Structure... read more

Three Ways Our Students Grow in Their Writing Skills

It’s best to think of language acquisition as a journey, and every student is somewhere on the path. Our goal for... read more

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method 5-Day Schools

During my thirty-four-year career as an elementary school teacher, I taught at seven schools in four school districts in three states.... read more

The Value of a Consistent Writing Process for Schools

A History of Inconsistency Over the course of my thirty-four-year career as an elementary school teacher, I taught at seven schools in... read more

How the Structure and Style Writing Approach Supports Reading

  While the act of reading appears, at least on the surface, to be simple, it is anything but. Reading is actually... read more

Unit 3: Powerful Narrative Tools Inform and Improve Academic Writing

by Jean Nichols and Janet Spitler   When I began using IEW’s Structure and Style method in my classroom in 2001, I was... read more

Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing: Podcast Episode 359

Have you committed one of these four errors in your teaching? Overcorrecting, holding back help, unclear assignments, and over-expectation can frustrate... read more

Do I Really Need Teaching Writing: Structure and Style?

  If your students are using IEW’s new Structure and Style for Students (SSS) program this year, you may be wondering whether... read more

Writing Rewarded: A Conversation with Nataly and Breesa Pierce

  Meet Nataly and Breesa Pierce, IEW students ages 8 and 11. Each of them competed in her first writing contest this... read more

Flying Solo with Teaching Writing: Structure and Style: Part 1

  Once upon a time, IEW offered a single product—Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). Since then the TWSS has undergone a... read more

How to Teach Writing with Confidence: Podcast Episode 339

Here at the Institute for Excellence in Writing, our mission is to equip teachers and teaching parents with methods and materials... read more

Homeschool Writing Curriculum: The Search Is Over with IEW

As any homeschooling parent knows, finding the right-fit curriculum for a subject can be overwhelming and expensive. We make a purchase,... read more

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Formal Co-ops

We are blessed to live in a time where there are many educational options available for our students. The beauty of... read more

Flying Solo with Teaching Writing: Structure and Style: Part 2

  In our last blog post, we described the initial steps you need to take in order to plan for a successful... read more

Many Educational Choices: One Writing Method Private Tutoring at Home

People are unique. Just as some people feel most at home in an urban environment, others chafe at the sounds and... read more

Where are They Now? Alayna Mitchell: A Passion for Writing

  Occasionally we get calls from parents of older children who are just starting out with IEW. They are worried that their... read more

My IEW Journey: Becoming a Successful IEW Classroom Writing Teacher

  As a child, I wanted to become a second-grade teacher. In college, though, my parents pushed me to study business instead.... read more

On Teaching and Evaluating Writing, Part 1: Podcast Episode 233

  This year it seems as if there are more and more children who will be learning from home. With all of... read more

Little Birdie in the Snow: A Unit 5 Writing Opportunity

While some educators are beginning to move into Unit 6 with their students, there are still several who choose to spread... read more

Summer Writing Fun with Structure and Style: Podcast Episode 271

If the summer break hasn’t started for you yet, most likely it is just around the corner. While teachers and teaching... read more

Overcoming Obstacles in Teaching Reading and Writing: Podcast Episode 255

  Recently IEW hosted an online conference called “Success in Teaching Writing: A Special Education Writing Conference from IEW.” If you missed... read more

On Teaching and Evaluating Writing, Part 2: Podcast Episode 234

  Last week Andrew and Julie began a conversation about how to teach writing. In this week’s podcast, Episode 234, they continue... read more

The 2021 IEW Online Writing Conference: Recorded and Ready to Watch!

The 2021 IEW Online Writing Conference: Recorded and Ready to Watch! It’s a wrap! This past Saturday marked IEW’s second annual Online... read more

Writing, a Model That Imitates Life: Teacher Testimonial from Johannah Mackin

  We recently received this powerful testimonial from Johanna Mackin, a middle school teacher in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Hoping that it will inspire... read more

Changing Someone’s Mind – the Power of Persuasive Writing: Podcast Episode 307

What is an essay? How is it distinguished from a report? Why is it important to teach our students how to... read more

Teaching Writing Can Be Easier Than You Think! Podcast Episode 277

In June IEW presented its second annual Online Writing Conference. Attended by people from all around the world, the conference offered... read more

A Parent’s Perspective: The Value of Teaching Writing: Structure and Style

Recently in IEW’s official Facebook Group, mom Marcela B. wrote a post in which she explained how valuable she found the... read more

Unit 7 and the 2019 IEW Writing Contest: Podcast Episode 182

  The month of March is traditionally when students encounter Unit 7: Inventive Writing. In Podcast 182, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker... read more

Teacher Training Method Options: Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style Workshop

Learning to teach writing effectively is one of the most powerful investments teachers can make in improving their instruction. In parts... read more

Begin Reading and Writing with a Pal: IEW’s Primary Arts of Language

  Do you have a new or struggling reader in your home? If so, find direction and encouragement in our June 26... read more

Writing Across the Curriculum or Video-Based? Either Is a Win-Win!

Whether you use one of IEW’s Writing Across the Curriculum courses or a Structure and Style® for Students video-based course, it... read more

From Imitation to Innovation: Teaching writing can be easier than you think!

  This past Saturday, people from all around the world gathered together virtually to participate in IEW’s online writing conference, From Imitation... read more

Product Spotlight: A Word Write Now: A Thematic Thesaurus for Stylized Writing

    Getting students to write using vivid language is easier said than done. Asking them to “show, not tell” when they... read more

Point-less: On the Value of a Mastery Approach to Writing Instruction

Some instructors teaching with Structure and Style for Students have noticed something that appears to be missing from the checklists: the... read more

More about Overcoming Obstacles in Teaching Reading and Writing: Podcast Episode 256

  During last week’s Arts of Language Podcast episode, Andrew and Julie discussed effective ways to overcome obstacles in teaching reading and... read more

Off to a Strong Start: Preparing for Writing Instruction with Structure and Style

Arranging desks, unpacking new textbooks, and dusting off classroom libraries in a freshly cleaned classroom gives even the most seasoned veteran... read more

Teaching Writing: Structure and Style—IEW‘s Most Important Message, Part 2: Podcast Episode 58

In this podcast, Andrew and Julie uncover the powerful educational content in IEW's core product, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). Additionally, they... read more

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: How Busy Moms Teach Writing: A Conversation with Author and Speaker, Heidi St. John

  The most recent “Best of” podcast features popular homeschool speaker and author Heidi St. John. During the podcast Julie Walker and... read more

Training Method Options, Part 4A – Live On-Site Professional Development: Launching Young Writers with Primary Writing with Structure and Style Two-Day Seminar

Primary Writing with Structure and Style was designed specifically with primary teachers in mind. Providing a bridge between Anna Ingham's Blended... read more

Where Are They Now? Ethan Sink: Journalist with a Passion for Communication

  Occasionally at IEW we receive questions from parents wondering if our curriculum will work for students who are interested in pursuing... read more

Where Are They Now? Micah Karr: Future Journalist

  The oldest of three daughters, Micah Karr grew up near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, and was home educated... read more

Where Are They Now? Oliver Mauser: College, Construction, and Effective Communication

From time to time we enjoy highlighting former structure and style students to showcase their achievements both academically and professionally. Students... read more

Week 8 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 8

If you are participating in this year’s Great TWSS Adventure, this week you will be encountering formal essay models. The essay... read more

The Journey’s End: Written Communication

  Which IEW courses will help prepare your students for writing at the collegiate level? Most colleges expect students to be able... read more

Week 9 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 9

This week marks the penultimate week for this year’s Great TWSS Adventure. If you have kept up with the schedule, you... read more

Week 7 of the Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 7

Teachers and teaching parents from across the globe who are participating in the Great Adventure will tackle Unit 7 this week.... read more

Where are they now? Katherine Wilkins: Future Physical Therapist

Are you just beginning to use IEW with your high school students? Let Katherine Wilkins’ story encourage you! She began IEW... read more

You Might Even Win Something!

  In middle school, Malachi decided to do something he had never done before. He summoned up his courage, wrote an essay,... read more

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 230

  This week on the Arts of Language Podcast marks the release of Episode 230. Every tenth episode features an “Ask Andrew... read more

Translating Prompts into IEW Language

‘Tis the season! While many of us anticipate the upcoming holidays and start to plan the myriad of celebrations, not everyone... read more

Teacher Spotlight: Laura McMahon, Ivywood Classical Academy

Laura McMahon is a middle-school teacher at Ivywood Classical Academy, a tuition-free public school located in Plymouth, Michigan. Ivywood Classical Academy... read more

Critiquing Literature with Unit 9

IEW teaches students to write with structure and with style. Style includes vocabulary. Structure is the elements found in compositions. Throughout... read more

How to Progress: Structure and Style for Students

Structure and Style® for Students (SSS) video-based courses build on each other. Although many begin at Level A, older students who... read more

The Year in Review: Dual Enrollment with CHI

What an inaugural year it has been for the Christian Halls International’s (CHI) dual enrollment program using IEW materials! English Composition... read more

Hot Off the Press! Following Narnia Volume 2: Aslan’s Country

  Narnia lovers, rejoice! If you’ve used and loved Following Narnia® Volume 1: The Lion’s Song, you’ll be delighted to know that... read more

Going Advanced: Podcast Episode 187

  Are you working with high school students? If so, Podcast Episode 187 is a must-listen episode! During the podcast, Andrew and... read more

Observations of an IEW Online Class

IEW Online classes are a perfect option for students who want to work through the Structure and Style for Students program but... read more

Thesis Statement or Topic Sentence?

  Occasionally at IEW our customer service team will receive questions about the differences between topic sentences and thesis statements. Hopefully this... read more

“A Remarkable Leap Forward”: Tutor Testimonial from Sherry Grubbs

          It has been a tremendous blessing to have discovered IEW early on in my homeschooling journey. With... read more

All in the Sussmann Family

In 2023 IEW released Introduction to Public Speaking. In honor of this, IEW hosted its first annual speech contest and received... read more

Preparing for College and Career

In the 1970s Dr. James B. Webster began each of his university history classes with lessons from his program Blended Structure... read more

Accreditation Progress: What’s on Your Bingo Card?

  It started with a question. Every year our daughter Grace poses the question “What is on your bingo card this year?”... read more

Metacognition Matters: Teaching Thinking Skills through Modeling

When students become aware of their own thinking processes and start to ask and answer questions about their learning, they are... read more

Jill’s Gems: Graphic Organizers or Key Word Outlines?

  Not long ago in the forum, we had a member ask about using a graphic organizer in place of a key... read more

Teaching Documentation with Confidence

  For those of you who have an older version of the Student Resource Packet (SRP) and have updated to the most... read more

Considering Aristotle and the Art of Rhetoric: Podcast Episode 124

  For Episode 123 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker waded a little deeper into the topic of advanced thinking skills. Now in... read more

Using Structure and Style across the Curriculum

“I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I write and I understand.” According to this Chinese proverb, writing... read more

Announcing Introduction to Public Speaking!

Listen. Speak. Read. Write. Think! At IEW, these are words to live by. While the Institute for Excellence in Writing is... read more

Where Are They Now? Nathanael Olander: Future Computer Scientist

#   Nathanael Olander grew up an “IEW kid.” His mom, Danielle Olander, is an IEW homeschool exhibitor. Together the two of them... read more

Responding to Literature: Podcast Episode 191

  If you have worked through our teacher course, you know that IEW teaches nine units. With the latest update we have... read more

Where are they now? Megan House: Journalist and Dance Teacher

  On my drive to work every day, I pass a large-scale construction project. Yesterday as I passed some of the equipment,... read more

Stylistic Techniques: The Who/Which Clause

  After students learn how to insert a -ly adverb, the next stylistic technique they learn to construct is a who/which clause,... read more

After learning the basic five-paragraph essay model, your student can begin to play with it and explore other types of essays. In this podcast Andrew and Julie introduce the advanced essay models. Tune in to hear Andrew walk through the various essay models and learn about the application they have in the real world.

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this podcast Andrew and Julie announce the third edition of Bible-Based Writing Lessons. Tune in as the duo walks through the theme-based book, discussing what's different in the new edition and explaining how the Bible stories are so beautifully woven into the units. 

Referenced Materials:

† Contains distinctly Christian content

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Feel confident moving from inventive writing into the capstone of our Structure and Style™ program: Formal Essay Models. In this podcast Andrew takes you through the process of Unit 8 and demonstrates the value in learning the five-paragraph model.

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Have you ever wondered where it all began? Tune into this twenty-fifth birthday celebration recording where Andrew takes you through the history of IEW and expresses his gratitude toward the people that helped him along his journey.

GO TO PART 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

How can teachers and parents challenge their gifted and talented students? Will IEW's writing method stifle their creativity? With stories and insight, Andrew and Julie answer these questions. Learn how IEW's Structure and Style® program provides the tools for all students to be successful, and be ecouraged as Andrew shares how teachers and parents can help their students maximize their gifts.   

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Join us in this enjoyable episode as Andrew and Julie welcome homeschool mom, blogger, and our top affiliate, Erica Arndt. In today's episode Erica describes her life as a homeschooling mom, tells the story of how her blog grew, and provides insight on how to juggle the many responsibilities of teaching your students at home. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This is the twenty-third episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on December 5, 2018, as Episode 168.

In this podcast Andrew and Julie discuss a long-awaited topic: movies. Tune in to hear the duo explore some insights from a few of Andrew's favorite movies.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Answering technical IEW questions ranging from topic/clincher sentences to crash writing courses before college, Andrew provides helpful insight and information about where to start and where to go during this Ask Andrew Anything episode.

Referenced Materials:

Questions Asked:

  • 1:50 - Bethany asks, "If a paragraph starts with a #6 Very Short Sentence, does the clincher reflect the Very Short Sentence? Or does the clincher reflect the next sentence?"
  • 3:50 - Kathy asks, "My question is related to a sentence my boy wrote which we couldn't decide if it fits one of the openers. The sentence was along the lines of: 'Found around the North Pole, Beluga whales...'"

  • 8:30 - Cindy asks, "We feel our 6th grade, almost 12-year-old son has had weak writing instruction to this point. He's a voracious reader with great vocabulary and great grades to date, but he has Aspergers and ADHD. We are familiar with your work and are very interested in your online classes as a good way to meet his needs and receive great instruction. I was wondering if you had a good way of determining if we should select Level A or Level B for an online class?"

  • 12:32 - Heidi asks, "I don't think my daughter can handle both Fix It! and the Student Writing Intensive Level A. What should I do first? She is nine and will be in the 4th grade."

  • 14:42 - John asks, "I'm trying to determine the right course for my son, who will be in 9th grade this year. I see that Following Narnia Volume 1 is intended for grades 6–8. However, I believe someone mentioned on the IEW forum that Volume 1 can be adapted to make it appropriate for the High School level. Could you please provide some feedback?"

  • 18:17 - Rebecca asks, "I'm trying to find a writing program for my daughter to use before she goes to college this fall. She has had some writing, but needs to have basic improvement and practice. What do you suggest?"

  • 23:10 - Jacqueline asks, "My daughter is home-schooled and is entering the 9th grade. She writes very well and has not struggled in any area of the programs she has completed. She completed the Student Writing Intensive Level B and will be finishing the Continuation Course Level B in a couple of weeks. She would really like to complete a course geared more toward writing her own books this year. We are wondering if The Elegant Essay or Speech Boot Camp could be swapped out for A Guide to Writing Your Novel?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this two-part webinar recording, Andrew and old-time friend and mentor Dr. Webster walk you through Unit 8: Formal Essay Models. Join us as Andrew explains the elements of an essay and discusses what differentiates Unit 8 from the previous units. Additionally, Dr. Webster answers questions and provides suggestions for tackling essay assignments.

Go To PART 1

Referenced Materials:

Questions Asked:

5:04 - Melissa asks, "I have a fourteen-year-old, an eleven-year-old, and a nine-year-old all doing the same Student Writing Intensive group B together this year. The nine-year-old loves to write and is keeping up great with the others. Would it be unheard of for all of them to do the Student Continuation Level B together?"

 

7:24 - Erica says, "My two daughters are struggling with writing the conclusion and introduction paragraphs. We would appreciate more specifics on how to create a great attention-grabbing intro and a thoughtful conclusion."

 

11:53 - Christi asks, "My oldest, twelve, is a naturally comfortable writer and is beginning to be very resistant to writing outlines in general. Any suggestions on how to continue to help her see why they are important?"

 

18:59 - Melissa asks, "Do students write them in this order on their first draft then the correct order on the formal draft? Will it be easy for those typing? I wasn't sure on handwritten."

 

20:19 - Terra asks, "My fifteen-year-old student has been assigned a ten page science paper. I would like to know if you still include the most important and why. Would you state your opinion as an expert without using "I"? How do you write it in a way that keeps it a factual report and not an essay?"

 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Experience excellence in writing as Laura House, IEW's marketing manager, explains IEW's methodology and walks you through both the structure and style of the nine units. With her insightful knowledge and cheery attitude, Laura provides encouragement and demonstrates how you can apply IEW's method to anything you're learning at home or in the classroom.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this podcast Andrew and Julie discuss a long-awaited topic: movies. Tune in to hear the duo explore some insights from a few of Andrew's favorite movies.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As a teacher himself, Andrew has given many talks on pedagogical lessons at conferences across the nation. This week, Andrew shares a few of his favorite movies that relate to some of those lessons. Join us for part one of this two-part series, and learn about the different insights Andrew has gleaned from movies over the years.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Picking up where he left off last week, Andrew continues to share pedagogical lessons that he has learned from movies over the years. As Andrew points out, not all movies are suitable for students, but the stories found in them have shaped him into a better teacher.

GO TO: PARt 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Join Andrew Pudewa as he walks you through Unit 8, the daunting essay. Andrew will take you through the step-by-step process of crafting an essay so that you can understand the basic structure, discussing the various essay types and their differences. To ensure maximum understanding, he will also guide you through a practicum assignment.

Go to Part 1

Referenced Materials:

Questions Asked

  • 1:32-Marcy asks "What is the difference between unit 7 and unit 8? Is the difference in the weight of the topic?"

  • 3:18-Cathleen asks "Do we model the type of questions to ask?"

  • 6:52-Deborah asks "Are we not asking questions to define the topics in unit 6?"

  • 10:54-Deborah asks "Will the High School Essay Intensive help me understand how to guide my kids in writing the intro and conclusion?"

  • 12:59-Sherry asks "How do you approach the expository essay? If a true essay must have an opinion, what do we do with an essay that explains something or one that describes something? Should I avoid these types of essays?"

  • 16:55-Deborah asks "It is so hard for me to judge what is good enough for a 12-year-old. I want to edit to death."

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

March forward with Andrew and Julie as you enter into Unit 7: Inventive Writing. This week Andrew and Julie discuss the process of Unit 7 and explore its value in unlocking the student's imagination and pairing it with the thinking skills they have developed. Stay tuned until the end to learn about our writing contest this year as well as the prizes that are awarded to the winners! 

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

This is the last episode in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on December 12, 2018, as Episode 169.

As they finish up their conversation on movies, Andrew and Julie head into a different direction: the book versus the movie. Join us to hear Andrew and Julie compare certain movies with the book that inspired the movie and listen to both of their takes on if you should read the book before watching the movie.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As they finish up their conversation on movies, Andrew and Julie head into a different direction: the book versus the movie. Join us to hear Andrew and Julie compare certain movies with the book that inspired the movie and listen to both of their takes on if you should read the book before watching the movie.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

After walking the pathway of all nine units, your student can begin to delve deeper into writing about literature. Join us as Andrew and Julie discuss IEW's Response to Literature and Literary Analysis models. Learn the difference between the two models and gain insight on how to help your student make a personal connection with literature in their writing.

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the prompts for the annual IEW Writing Contest. Listen to this episode to learn why does IEW have a writing contest, what the value of entering a writing contest is for students, and how a writing contest fits into the types of motivation. Andrew breaks down the prompts and talks about how a writer might approach this essay.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Join Andrew Pudewa as he walks you through Unit 8, the daunting essay. Andrew will take you through the step-by-step process of crafting an essay so that you can understand the basic structure, discussing the various essay types and their differences. To ensure maximum understanding, he will also guide you through a practicum assignment.

Go To Part 2

Referenced Materials: 

Questions Asked

  • 18:40-Anne asks "My 11-year-old boy is writing his essay on 'medieval sports.' What would be a (good) question?"
  • 21:21-Deborah asks "I'm not clear about the difference between the essay in unit 6 and 8. In both, we state our opinion in the conclusion. Can you explain?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This is the sixth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on April 24, 2019, as Episode 188.

Although many schools are shifting away from cursive writing, Andrew and Julie hone in on its great value. While citing studies and speaking from experience, Andrew evaluates the pros of teaching cursive as it can have practical uses as well as neurological benefits.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this podcast Andrew answers questions from our listeners as well as questions our Customer Service Team frequently receives. Join us for another round of inquiries where Andrew offers helpful insight on a variety of topics from how to implement Suzuki method when teaching piano, to how to choose appropriate pieces for copywork.

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

1:18 - Jennifer asks, "In Unit 3, I have always found it confusing to list all the characters in the story under Characters and Setting in the key word outline. When we go to write the first paragraph, sometimes including a character that only shows up later in the story is challenging. Is it okay to only mention that character in the Conflict and Problem or Climax and Resolution sections, or is it good to try to mention all the characters in the first paragraph?”

3:25 - Misty asks, “Thanks for the great info! I was listening to the dyslexia podcast. When you talk about a dyslexic child listening to audiobooks, should they be trying to follow along with the print, or just simply listening to the story?”

6:06 - Christine asks, “Should we have commas after an -ly adverb opener?”

8:27 - Amy asks, “My question for you is regarding teaching my kids how to play the piano. I have listened to your podcasts talking about the Suzuki method and it intrigues me. My oldest is taking piano lessons; however, his teacher is retiring soon. She teaches using the traditional method, which is how I was taught piano. The nearest Suzuki teacher is an hour drive away. I’m wondering what your opinion is on a parent attempting to teach the Suzuki method at home. Of course I would read Suzuki’s books to gain better insight, but I wouldn’t have any formal training in the method. Can you help?”

11:52 - Wendy asks, “I am teaching a group of 16 students through the Continuation Course Level B. They are writing papers about famous people from history. The sources that Mr. Pudewa has required them to write are from a book, an encyclopedia/periodical, and whatever other material they might choose such as Internet or video. One of the questions I received was "Can I choose a Kindle book?" This started me questioning what I should allow. Since the filming of the series, much technology has come into play.”

16:37 - Customers frequently ask our Customer Service team, “Prior to Unit 6, how does a student put a word-for-word quotation on the key word outline?”

17:57 - Customers frequently ask our Customer Service team, “When a student with no previous IEW experience begins with High School Essay Intensive and then wants more help with writing, what program would be best to move on to next?”

20:10 - Customers frequently ask our Customer Service team, “What is the purpose of copywork and how do our families and teachers choose the appropriate pieces for students to copy?”

 

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, parents may be pondering strategies to enrich their students’ writing. Summer is a great time to take a break from regularly scheduled academics and embrace new activities to retain or expand writing skills. In this week’s podcast Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker suggest some creative ways to do just that.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to Podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Although many schools are shifting away from cursive writing, Andrew and Julie hone in on its great value. While citing studies and speaking from experience, Andrew evaluates the pros of teaching cursive as it can have practical uses as well as neurological benefits.

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Should writing be confined to a single subject? Andrew and Julie address the question by discussing writing across the curriculum. Whether it be learning about history or studying science, learn how the incorporation of writing across multiple subjects allows for students to be more engaged with the content they're learning and gives them the opportunity for the application of their skills in a variety of ways.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Is your student overwhelmed by having too many sources to write from? Join Andrew as he discusses Unit 6 and provides tips and suggestions for collecting, organizing, and summarizing facts from multiple references.

Go To Part 1

Referenced Materials:

  • Questions Asked
    • 23:07- Jenny asks, "I gave my 9th grader source text about Beowulf for a commentary analysis and he used that for his research. He is excited about it and is eager to add in an intro and conclusion and some transitions between paragraphs. Is there a reason why I should hold him back from that at this point if I haven't taught him these skills yet? Or, should I tell him to wait until unit 7 and 8 before adding those elements to make a complete essay?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

With summer just around the corner, many parents and teachers are wondering how to help their students to continue building their writing and thinking skills. Tune in to this week's podcast as Andrew and Julie provide suggestions on how to incorporate and encourage learning in a fun manner throughout the summer. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

With seventy-four countries participating, IEW held a virtual writing conference last month. This week, we are posting one of the recordings from that conference. In this recording Andrew and Julie discuss the different ways to teach writing using Structure and Style. Stay tuned until the end, where Andrew provides insightful answers to questions that were submitted live from the audience! 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Applying for colleges can be overwhelming, especially for homeschoolers. Tune in this week as Andrew and Julie welcome the author of Homeschooled & Headed for College, Denise Boiko. In this episode Denise shares her best pieces of advice for applying to colleges, emphasizes the important role of good writing in college, and inspires students to keep their love of learning. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Andrew and Julie discuss the most concrete of the language arts: writing. Learn how writing can be cultivated before your student even begins to put words to paper, and gain some insight on the tremendous value of copy work as it builds fluency and stamina. 

GO TO: PART 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In honor of National Novel Writing Month, Andrew and Julie interview the young author of Forever Riders, Jemma Swift, and her mother and sister. Since using IEW's materials at a young age, Jemma has cultivated a love and special interest in writing. Learn about Jemma's journey in producing the book and gain some insight on her simple yet vital advice to young writers: never give up!

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Summer is a great time for relaxing, spending time outdoors, and taking a break from the long school year. It can also be a time when students forgot the skills they've learned. This week, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker suggest ways to keep your students writing throughout the summer season. From writing postcards to crafting commentary on recipes, the duo encourages some fun application of writing skills.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

What's the purpose of the checklist? This question is often asked by students as well parents. Join Andrew Pudewa as he shares salient points about IEW's stylistic techniques and discusses the powerful benefits that come about when you require the checklist for your students' writing.

Go to Part 1

Referenced Materials:

  • Questions Asked
    • 23:07- Jenny asks "I gave my 9th grader source text about beowulf for a commentary analysis and he used that for his research. He is excited about it and is eager to add in an intro and conclusion and some transitions between paragraphs. Is there a reason why I should hold him back from that at this point if I haven't taught him these skills yet? Or should I tell him to wait until unit 7 and 8 before adding those elements to make a complete essay?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Have you committed one of these four errors in your teaching? Overcorrecting, holding back help, unclear assignments, and over-expectation can frustrate your students and hamper your best efforts. Andrew Pudewa refers to these as the “Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing.” Join the Arts of Language podcast as Andrew and Julie Walker discuss these errors along with practical ways to overcome them.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

As you head into the busyness of December, listen to Andrew and Julie walk through Unit 5: Writing from Pictures. Gain confidence moving forward as Andrew and Julie explain the vital role Unit 5 plays in unlocking students' imagination and in developing their thinking skills.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

With the school year rolling around, Andrew and Julie turn their attention to teaching and evaluating writing. Join us in this two-part series where the duo hones in on teaching writing. Andrew goes through a series of decisions that need to be made when teaching writing and emphasizes the importance of providing length to your student's assignments as it dictates structure.

Go to Part 2

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this engaging episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the idea of writing across the curriculum with Dr. Kathleen O’Toole, Associate Vice President for K-12 Education at Hillsdale College. They discuss the exciting partnership IEW has formed with the Hillsdale K-12 program that provides guidance and partnership for classical schools as well as teacher training events. They also share the benefits for students and teachers when writing can be integrated with the overall curriculum. 

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Donahue Academy’s Dr. Marc Snyder, principal, and Deacon Edward Watson, assistant principal for curriculum and instruction. They share how and why Donahue Academy has chosen to use IEW, why classical education is growing, and how the IEW Schools Department can assist schools with implementing the Structure and Style® methodology.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

"Sink or swim!" While we all may use the phrase in a comical sense, it simply isn't true. Today, Andrew and Julie turn to the second of the four deadly errors: withholding help. Join the conversation as Andrew and Julie discuss how committing this error actually impedes the development of your student, and learn why students must prove their independence in a skill before a teacher leaves them on their own.

GO TO: PART 1

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the importance of learning the basic essay model even when many say it is outdated or formulaic. Learn how to take the basic essay model and expand it to a super-essay. Andrew even discusses the name of the longest essay model that uses one of his favorite words.

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

 

In this podcast Andrew and Julie welcome Leigh Bortins, founder of Classical Conversations, to discuss the Global Home Education Conference which took place in Russia this summer. Tune in to enjoy Andrew and Leigh's stories of their experience in Russian culture and learn about the role Leigh plays in promoting home education both nationwide and internationally.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

While Andrew is away, Julie chats with homeschool mom and author Heidi St. John. After homeschooling for many years, Heidi pulled together her experience and wrote The Busy Homeschool Mom's Guide to Romance. Join us as Heidi shares her goal of strengthening families and offers her advice to busy moms who feel overwhelmed with the tasks at hand.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

In this podcast, Andrew and Julie uncover the powerful educational content in IEW's core product, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). Additionally, they discuss each one of the stylistic techniques as well as the supplemental contents of the Premium Subscription.

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

A week ago, IEW held a virtual conference on success in teaching writing to students in special education. For this two-part series, Andrew and Julie will recount that conference and discuss teaching students with obstacles in reading and writing. Whether your student is dyslexic or experiencing auditory problems, gain insight from Andrew as he shares the importance of surrounding your students with encouragement, and learn the value of creating a language rich environment.

Go to Part 2

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this podcast, Andrew and Julie uncover the powerful educational content in IEW's core product, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS). They also discuss how Andrew first discovered this methodology of writing and explain the purpose of each of the nine units.

GO TO PART 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

Join Andrew Pudewa as he shares some salient points on this important topic and answers your questions on writing, thinking, and speaking.

Many children (and some adults) have difficulty learning to spell, but the difficulty may not be with the student so much as with the method of presentation. Find out in this workshop how spelling information is most efficiently stored in the brain, and why. Parents and teachers, be well-equipped to meet the needs of all your children, not just the naturally good spellers. Bonus content: Learn best practices for using IEW’s Phonetic Zoo, our award-winning independent study spelling program!

Go to Part 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

For this final episode honoring National Novel Writing Month, Andrew and Julie interview teen authors Cecelia and Solomon Schmidt. Having taken IEW's online classes, Cecelia and Solomon acquired the ability to structure paragraphs and write creatively. Gain some insight on both of their journeys in writing their novels, and learn how being read to aloud was key to their success. 

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

 

 

 

 

What skills do students need to succeed in collegiate writing? Listen to Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss this brand new video course that will prepare your high school and college students for college writing. Hear why Andrew would have called this “How to spy on your professor and figure out his or her writing style and imitate it so you can get a better grade on every paper you turn in”!

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Join Andrew Pudewa as he shares some salient points on this important topic and answers your questions on writing, thinking, and speaking.

Many children (and some adults) have difficulty learning to spell, but the difficulty may not be with the student so much as with the method of presentation. Find out in this workshop how spelling information is most efficiently stored in the brain, and why. Parents and teachers, be well-equipped to meet the needs of all your children, not just the naturally good spellers. Bonus content: Learn best practices for using IEW’s Phonetic Zoo, our award-winning independent study spelling program!

Go to Part 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As you near the end of the school year, get the information and motivation you need to finish strong with Unit 9: Formal Critiques. In this two-part webinar, Andrew explains the purpose of Unit 9 and how to teach it to your students, walks you through a Unit 9 sample composition, describes the difference between a fiction and a non-fiction critique, and much more. 

GO TO PART 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Conclude this podcast series with Andrew and Julie as they discuss evaluating writing. With the current mainstream grading system not being an effective motivator for students, the duo explores alternatives to providing good and insightful feedback on your student's writing and encourages teachers and teaching parents to nurture an environment of excellence. 

GO TO PART 1

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

While many writing programs begin with a blank page, IEW understands the importance of developing students' thinking skills before asking them to write creatively. In this episode Andrew talks through the ins and outs of Unit 7, Inventive Writing, while explaining the methodology behind it.

Go To Part 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

While many writing programs begin with a blank page, IEW understands the importance of developing students' thinking skills before asking them to write creatively. In this episode Andrew talks through the ins and outs of Unit 7, Inventive Writing, while explaining the methodology behind it.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

How can teachers and teaching parents teach writing confidently? This week, Andrew and Julie address the question. Andrew first explains the complex task of writing. Once teachers understand the process, they can then break it down into manageable steps that make the skill both teachable and learnable. Be encouraged by the episode and learn how IEW's methodology equips you to separate the complexity of writing so that you and your students can find success!

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker introduce IEW’s theme for 2026: Laying the Foundation. They answer the questions: What are the basics? How does IEW help students get back to the basics of learning? They talk about the simple, timeless, and elegant ways that IEW helps students cultivate attentiveness, memory, and ideas. Listen to the end to hear Julie make a special announcement.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Often students as well as parents struggle with moving forward on the checklist. In this two-part episode, Andrew provides salient points on the stylistic techniques and offers advice, from being strict with the checklist to not drowning your students with more than they can handle.

Go To Part 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker announce the prompts for the 2025 IEW Writing Contest. Andrew talks about why students should participate in writing contests, and Julie shares a story from her past about the importance of following instructions. Be sure to listen for the special prizes for the tenth annual IEW Writing Contest!

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

As you near the end of the school year, get the information and motivation you need to finish strong with Unit 9: Formal Critiques. In this two-part webinar, Andrew explains the purpose of Unit 9 and how to teach it to your students, walks you through a Unit 9 sample composition, describes the difference between a fiction and a non-fiction critique, and much more. 

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

  • 6:03 - Jennifer asks "How do you know a high schooler is ready for literary analysis? What should I be looking for in his essays to know he's proficient? How many times do they need to go through the different units before they're ready to go onto something like Windows to the World"
  • 11:31 - Heather asks "Do IEW's material ever teach a three level outline?"
  • 12:57 - Sherry asks "Any tips for students to write in the present tense when writing about the story?"
  • 14:55 - Anne-Marie asks "In Genghis Khan and his Hawk, my son felt that the death of the hawk was needless. He felt that loyalty is usually rewarded but not in this story. Is his opinion valid because it seems the death of the hawk makes  the story so emotional?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As you welcome the May flowers, be encouraged to have a strong finish of your school year with Unit 9: Formal Critique. Go beyond the "boring book report" with Andrew as he explains the structural model of Unit 9 and shares the power of the critique thesaurus.

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker have a conversation with Dr. Colin Chesley, associate vice president of the College of Health and Public Services at Daytona State College in Daytona Beach, Florida. They discuss the challenges facing students today in higher education and the challenges presented by AI. Dr. Chesley discusses how IEW has helped his own children and how University-Ready Writing can prepare students for college writing assignments.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this two-part webinar recording, Andrew and old-time friend and mentor Dr. Webster walk you through Unit 8: Formal Essay Models. Join us as Andrew explains the elements of an essay and discusses what differentiates Unit 8 from the previous units. Additionally, Dr. Webster answers questions and provides suggestions for tackling essay assignments.

Go To PART 2

Referenced Materials: 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In a world with many opinions, it's important to teach students how to take up an issue and write persuasively. In this episode Andrew and Julie walk through the pathway of developing an essayist and discuss how teachers can cultivate critical thinking. Additionally Andrew and Julie talk about the importance of acknowledging and respecting the opposing point of view when engaging in a discussion or writing persuasively.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

When teaching Structure and Style for Students, Andrew had each student hire an editor and deliver a letter that he had written to him or her. After all, every good writer has an editor. Andrew and Julie read the letter and discuss the role that editors play in helping students bring their finest pieces to publication. Andrew cautions against overcorrecting and instead recommends that editors focus on ensuring that the composition or essay is "legal."

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Join Andrew and Julie as they welcome teen author Taylor Bennett for another podcast honoring National Novel Writing Month. As a lover of writing, Taylor enjoyed sitting down and writing her first novel: Porch Swing Girl. In this episode Taylor shares her experience with writing her book and offers tips from being responsible with your deadlines to staying focused on learning the craft of writing. 

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Picking up where they left off last week, Andrew and Julie discuss Dr. Webster's paragraph models and author imitation as ways of challenging students stylistically. Learn how the different paragraphs can fit into a Unit 7: Inventive Writing essay, and gain insight on the benefits of author imitation in learning stylistic techniques. 

GO TO: PART 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Join us as Andrew and Julie continue the conversation on success in teaching writing to students in special education. This week, Andrew and Julie walk through the nine units of our Structure and Style® program, describe how it's applicable to all students regardless of their obstacles, and share encouragement to parents and teachers to take everything one step at a time.

GO TO PART 1

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

An encomium is a speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly. In this week’s episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker brainstorm ways to show appreciation to teachers and mothers. They also reminisce about teachers who influenced them. Has your student ever written an encomium to show appreciation for you or a teacher? Listen to this episode to hear Andrew’s and Julie’s topic ideas for an encomium in praise of a teacher or mother.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Is your student overwhelmed by having too many sources to write from? Join Andrew as he discusses Unit 6 and provides tips and suggestions for collecting, organizing, and summarizing facts from multiple references.

Go To Part 2

Referenced Materials:

Questions Asked

  • 7:30 - Debbie asks, "Why is unit 6 not attempted with 3rd graders?" 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Being able to write and speak effectively are important language skills that many teachers and parents hope to instill in their students. This week, Andrew and Julie discuss copywork, narration, and dictation as practices to cultivate the arts of language in students. From increasing fluency in writing to exercising the memory, learn about the different benefits that each of these practices can have.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Are you teaching through Unit 5, Writing from Pictures, and interested to know the ins and outs of the unit? Join Andrew Pudewa in part two of this webinar recording as he discusses the how-to of Unit 5, explaining both the process and purpose of the unit.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

 

Beginning the series on "The Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing," Andrew and Julie address the first error: overcorrecting. Listen as Andrew and Julie discuss the negative effect of overcorrecting your student's writing, and stay tuned as Andrew elaborates on how a student's editor should take a "minimalist" approach. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Are you teaching through Unit 5, Writing from Pictures, and interested to know the ins and outs of the unit? Join Andrew Pudewa in part one of this webinar recording as he discusses the how-to of Unit 5, explaining both the process and purpose of the unit.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

 

Has Andrew ever written a formal complaint letter to a restaurant? Tune into this Ask Andrew Anything to find out! From a question about key word outlines to an inquiry about the most valuable thing a writing student should know, Andrew provides answers with clarity, advice, and, of course, some humor.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Having participated in countless conventions, Andrew and Julie reminisce about past events in IEW's history. Andrew also offers teachers and teaching parents ways to skillfully generate their own lesson plans. Join us this week to hear about the growth of IEW's products, and listen for the questions that Andrew asks himself before imagining lesson plans for his students.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Join us in this episode of "Ask Andrew Anything" as Andrew responds to questions submitted by our podcast listeners. Offering helpful tips and humorous insight, Andrew explains ways to motivate students and where to get started with IEW.

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

2:11 - Shannon asks, "I have a girl, but she would rather be digging in the dirt, doing science experiments, or playing in her tree house than doing sit-down work, especially writing. How can you make IEW work for a kinesthetic/tactile learner that prefers to play and experiment?"

9:24 - Karen asks, "I have high school students, and I use a literature-based English curriculum. The books are fantastic, but my students are reluctant to do the reading outside of class time. They also do not want to do other homework outside of class time. Do you have suggestions for motivating students to work independently?" 

14:11 - Julie asks, "My son has a short attention span when it comes to lesson time. How can I help with that but still let him build forts?"

16:45 - Angela asks, "I've been a homeschooling mom for over ten years. Normally I'm not nervous about how my kids are doing in the grand scheme of things. Dealing with high school, however, has been a totally different story. How do you know for sure that this is really enough? I think about how my son will succeed in life, what is he doing after high school and college. How can I really know that what we're doing is enough and all will be well?"

23:26 - Julie asks, "How do you deal with a moody and incompliant teen?"

27:22 - Brianne asks, "Where do I start? What do I need in order to teach my middle school student to be prepared for high school writing?"

 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In most learning experiences, there is typically a period of awkwardness when the new skill is attempted. Wrap up the series with Andrew and Julie as they discuss the fourth deadly error of teaching writing: over-expectation. Learn the importance of being aware of the natural learning process, and be inspired by Andrew's expectation of his students.

GO TO: PART 1 | Part 2 | Part 3

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This week Andrew and Julie are honored to welcome Marie Greenhalgh, the homeschooling mom of an autistic student. After pulling her child out of school, Marie discovered IEW and its methodical step-by-step process. In this episode Marie describes how IEW has helped her student learn, shares her own tips for success, and discusses the importance of not withholding help.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

For teachers and parents, it can be easy to be concerned about your student meeting the expectations set. In this episode Andrew and Julie address the concern and discuss the different stages of learning for students. Gain insight on how helping them during each stage, whether it be a cute or an awkward phase, is important in developing competent communicators, and learn the importance of believing in and encouraging your students.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

If an episode number ends in zero, then that means it's time for another Ask Andrew Anything! Join us this week as Julie asks Andrew questions submitted by our listeners. Pulling from his experience, Andrew provides insightful and informative answers to questions ranging from how to know if you're expecting too much from your student, to how to help when the source text seems overwhelming.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Picking up where they left off, Andrew and Julie hone in on the third of the four deadly errors of teaching writing: unclear assignments. Many of us have experience with the frustration of an unclear assignment and the confusion it can bring. Join Andrew as he discusses what makes for an unclear assignment and provides practical ways to ensure the assignments you give your students are clear and helpful.  

GO TO: PART 1 | Part 2

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss preparing to teach Unit 7: Inventive Writing. While most writing programs start with writing from a prompt, the Structure and Style method does not teach this until later in the course. Learn why this is and discover tips for helping even the youngest writers overcome the blank page.

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com

Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

 

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

 

From inspiring to technical, IEW's blogs are here to support and guide teachers and parents and aid students in their educational journey. In this podcast Andrew and Julie welcome the IEW blog "curator," Jennifer Mauser. Enjoy a fun conversation with Jennifer as she explains her role with IEW's blog, and learn about the different content that she publishes on the website. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Are you teaching through Unit 4 and interested to know the ins and outs of the unit? Join Andrew in this two-part webinar recording, as he discusses Unit 4, the lynchpin unit, explaining both the process and purpose of the unit as well as the topic/clincher rule and how it is to be used.

GO TO PART 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This is the third episode of twenty-four in the podcast series, Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on November 21, 2018, as Episode 166.

To finish up this conversation on relevancy, Andrew and Julie discuss the last of the four forms of relevancy: contrived relevancy and enforced relevancy. Learn how creating a game can motivate your student to learn, and discover how enforced relevancy is the least effective motivator as it can lead to a dislike for learning.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

To finish up this conversation on relevancy, Andrew and Julie discuss the last of the Four Forms of Relevancy: Contrived Relevancy and Enforced Relevancy. Learn how creating a game can motivate your student to learn, and discover how Enforced Relevancy is the least effective motivator as it can lead to a dislike for learning.

GO TO: Part 1 | Part 2

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As a student or even a teacher, it can be overwhelming to navigate the amount of sources available for a research paper. In this podcast Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss Unit 6: Summarizing Multiple References. Join us as Andrew provides tips and suggestions for collecting, organizing, and summarizing facts from multiple references.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

This week, Dr. David Wilkes joins The Arts of Language podcast. As a professor at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, David is passionate about aiding students in discovering truth and knowledge through literature and writing. Learn about David's role at the university and gain insight as David discusses the implications of a Christian worldview.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

† Contains distinctly Christian content

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Are you teaching through Unit 4 and interested to know the ins and outs of the unit? Join Andrew in this two-part webinar recording, as he discusses Unit 4, the lynchpin unit, explaining both the process and purpose of the unit as well as the topic/clincher rule and how it is to be used.

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

So many young people are intimidated when asked questions about their next steps in life following graduation. In this episode Andrew shares stories about his experience in high school and as an adult and encourages students to take ownership of their education.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa questions submitted by listeners, including how to follow the topic-clincher rule, what to do when a student uses a dress-up incorrectly, how to help visual learners with communication skills, and how to encourage perseverance and excellence. The episode ends with Andrew reading an assignment from one of his current students who claims to hate writing. Be sure to listen all the way to the end!

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

As Father's Day approaches and graduates move on to the next chapter of their life, Andrew and Julie open the conversation discussing the tools or "ingredients" grads can pack away in their suitcase. Join us for this insightful episode where Andrew reflects on the environment he tried to create for his children to aid them as they began building a life of their own. 

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

 

In this “While Andrew is Away” episode, Julie Walker is joined by IEW’s Schools Department Manager Jeff Nease. He explains the importance of connecting with an Educational Consultant and staying connected even after the order has been placed. Additionally, he explains how schools use IEW writing courses for student instruction, teacher modeling, and professional development. Jeff wraps up the episode with his personal motivation: “When teachers feel equipped, students flourish.”

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this two-part podcast, Andrew reviews the methodology behind and procedure for successfully teaching Unit 3: Retelling Narrative Stories. After a brief overview of the unit, Andrew will walk step-by-step through an assignment, demonstrating Unit 3 methods and concepts for both the teacher/parent and student.

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

  • 24:04 - Liz asks, "What are your recommendations for supporting a parent whose first language is not English?"
  • 25:09 - Amy asks, "as the students use computers more and more, I'm finding that the rough draft is being typed on the computer, edited on the computer, and then printed as a final draft. Should I require my students to print the rough draft, mark it up, correct it, and then re-print it?"
  • 27:12 - Tracy asks, "I have a fourth grader doing IEW along with two middle school students, still now working on the who/which and adding -ly next week. The two older are doing -ly, who/which, strong verb, and because clause. How do I catch him up and not make him feel we are going too fast?"
  • 28:59 - Savina asks, "Regarding the source can you use a child's own story as a starting point?"
  • 30:41 - Michelle asks, "When asking questions and you have more than 3 words to answer, can you add the additional info into a new number?"
  • 31:26 - Christina asks, "I'm having a hard time getting my child to re-tell the story. He is eight."
  • 32:39 - Janet asks, "Do you need to write a line in the outline for each sentence?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Structure and Style is a registered trademark of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, L.L.C.

Keeping up with tradition, Andrew responds to inquiries submitted by our podcast listeners in another "Ask Andrew Anything." This week, Andrew addresses questions about the checklist, grading, teaching in a classroom, and much more! Whether you're a parent, a co-op tutor, or a full-time school teacher, you'll glean much from Andrew's insightful answers. Also, Andrew reads a sweet letter he received in the mail from an IEW student! 

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

This is the nineteenth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on January 3, 2018, as Episode 122. 

Share the fun and gain some insights as Julie chats with homeschool mom and author Heidi St. John. After homeschooling for many years, Heidi pulled together her experience and wrote The Busy Homeschool Mom's Guide to Romance. Join us as Heidi shares her goal of strengthening families and offers her advice to busy moms who feel overwhelmed with the tasks at hand.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

Cannon or canon? While Andrew would probably love to talk about cannonballs, he and Julie turn their attention to the five canons of rhetoric. Enjoy part one of this series as the duo takes on these classic elements of persuasive writing and speaking: invention, arrangement, elocution, memory, and delivery.

Go to Part 2

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Is your student overwhelmed by having too many sources to write from? Join Andrew as he discusses Unit 6 and provides tips and suggestions for collecting, organizing, and summarizing facts from multiple references.

Go To Part 2

Referenced Materials:

Questions Asked

  • 7:30 - Debbie asks "Why is unit 6 not attempted with 3rd graders?" 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Are there factors that make learning easier? As Andrew notes, “If something is relevant to you, if it is significant, meaningful, useful, interesting, helpful to you, then it is easy to study and learn.” This week Andrew and Julie discuss the four forms of relevancy: intrinsic, inspired, contrived, and enforced. Andrew and Julie dive into these ideas and share how they can be used to help both students and teachers!

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

While you're still in the midst of Unit 5, sail through style with Andrew and Julie as they discuss the different stylistic techniques. Learn about IEW's philosophy of gradually increasing the intensity of the checklist and notice how the checklist allows your students to take ownership of their writing as they discover the world of words.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As you near the end of the school year, get the information and motivation you need to finish strong with Unit 9: Formal Critique. In this two-part webinar recording, Andrew takes you through Unit 9, discusses its purpose, and explains the power of the critique thesaurus.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Whether you have a young student just beginning to learn letters or an older student struggling with reading, Jill Pike's Primary Arts of Language (PAL) program is here to guide you through helping your student learn to read and write. Join Andrew and Julie as they interview Jill Pike about the background and methods of IEW’s PAL program.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

Since Andrew is unable to make it to the mic, Julie sits down with Laura House, IEW's Marketing Manager, and asks Laura questions about her experience with the company. Laura shares how she came to know IEW and encourages parents and teachers to take that first step and give IEW a try.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this two-part podcast, Andrew reviews the methodology behind and procedure for successfully teaching Unit 3: Retelling Narrative Stories. After a brief overview of the unit, Andrew will walk step-by-step through an assignment, demonstrating Unit 3 methods and concepts for both the teacher/parent and student.

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED: 

  • 1:35 - Diane asks, "How long should each lesson take and how often should the lesson be taught?"
  • 2:26 - Lynn asks, "How long till a ten-year-old boy can write on his own without parent help?"
  • 4:19 - Judy asks, "First-year students are struggling with first drafts, dress -ups, and complete sentences all at the same time."
  • 20:14 - Danielle asks, "How many sentences do you have in the key-word outline? 
  • 22:06 - Angela asks, "I have a very hesitant writer. Can we do a lot of this orally or should he write it out?"
  • 24:11 - Jennifer asks, "For high school students, is a chapter of the hobbit too long of a source text?"
  • 25:54 - Judy asks, "Students are also overwhelmed with the story sequence, sentence order, sequence, and making sense with their sentences."
  • 27:06 - Lynette asks, "My daughter likes to have dialogue in her stories. As each character speaks she starts a new paragraph. What are your recommendations?"
  • 28:16 -Deborah asks, "My kids are feeling overwhelmed with the dress ups but are doing well with the sentence openers. Can I back off on the other dress ups and focus on the sentence openers until they are easy?"
  • 30:30 -Amery asks, "IEW seems to be teacher driven, which is fine, yet the school world seem to emphasize on independence for middle schoolers. So helping the students with IEW lessons was different but I'm glad I understand that I am to assist. I just assumed the child was to be more independent because of their age and grade level."

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Structure and Style is a trademark of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, L.L.C.

Once again, Andrew answers questions from teachers and parents across the country. Whether it be a Latin question or a technical inquiry about sentence openers, Andrew provides helpful insight and clarity. Tune in till the end for an electrifying lightning round, where various students ask questions like "Who is your favorite composer?" and "How many ties do you actually own?"

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

1:44 - Sandra asks, "My son was an A student in high school and is doing well enough in college, except for Latin. He took Latin for three years in high school and did fine, but he's taking his second year of Latin in college and it's proving to be excruciating for him. Do you have any advice for this level of Latin?"

4:55 - Christine asks, "Are there a limited number of words that work as invisible openers? For example, "Being exhausted, the man sank down into a sofa." In this example, it works to drop the word "being." Do all words work this way? It doesn't sound right to me to say, "Tired, the man sank down into a sofa." Or, "Sleepy the man..."

8:42 - Holly says, "It would be great to get a little more help or advice on the taking notes from lectures and then writing paragraphs. I'm finding that my son and I are needing more guidance in this area."

11:18 - Leah asks, "I'm interested in one of your courses for my 10th grade daughter. I would like something that she could work on independently. Do you have recommendations? Are there assessments built into the program?"

13:06 - Melissa asks, "I recently listened to episode 66 of the podcast. My son has ADD and learning disabilities such as significant delays in spelling and mild delays in reading and math. He also has delays in working memory and processing speed. He's currently in the 5th grade in a public school. I am unfortunately unable to homeschool him, but we are working with him after school and in the summers as much as possible. I wanted to see what would be recommended for him? He's currently in 5th grade so I'm unsure whether level A or level B would be best for him."

16:13 - Mary asks, "My fourteen-year-old has some issues: lack of proper punctuation in sentences, run-ons, and tense agreements, to name a few. I have addressed these in editing, but I feel like he's missing something pretty important. Should I continue to coach him through editing? He is grasping all the dress-ups quite well. We are in Unit 4."

23:52 - Paula asks,"Hi there. I'm in a bit of a pickle. I am tutoring an IEW writing class at a tutoring center and the grades range from 3-8. The director insists that we use Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons. It's actually been going really well, but now we have started unit 6 and the younger students are confused. Do you have any suggestions?"

 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

After the fun we had with our 400th episode live question and answer, we invited some of our affiliates to join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker for this live Q & A episode. This week Mandi Malz asked for Andrew’s advice for preparing a student for college. Alicia Brown asked which of Andrew’s articles in However Imperfectly is the most vital lesson in the book and what aspects make it particularly significant. Listen for these and other questions sent in by listeners.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

 

Go to Part 2.

In this recording from the 2026 IEW Winter Retreat, a panel of Schools Department team members join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker to discuss tips and tricks for avoiding the four deadly errors in the classroom. They give classroom-tested strategies for using IEW tools to make writing accessible and enjoyable for every student.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Frustration and tears are things that many students experience when writing. Consequently, it can be difficult for teachers and parents to encourage these students to complete the task. For the next two weeks, Andrew and Julie will discuss how to reach the reluctant writer. To begin the series, Andrew talks about the importance of understanding why your student is reluctant so that you can best address the issue. Then, Andrew and Julie unpack the writing process and explain the power of the key word outline as it helps students separate the complexity of the process.  

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As you begin this new school year, be encouraged to make a great start in public speaking and writing. Andrew reviews Units 1 and 2 of the IEW syllabus, Note Making and Outlines and Writing from Notes, giving you tips and tricks for easy implementation. Learn how to lay a solid foundation for your students' coming year.

Go to Part 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Structure and Style is a trademark of the Institute for Excellence in Writing, L.L.C.

Wonders of Science Writing Lessons joined the theme-based writing series in March 2023. In this podcast Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker bring clarity to the IEW theme-based product line and give recommendations on where to start and where to continue. They also explore the reason why these are the most frequently asked questions from our customers. Listen in as they praise the benefits and wonders of the IEW theme-based writing lessons.

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

With the school year closing and the sun coming out, teachers and students alike enjoy the nice summer break. However, with the cumulative subjects such as music, language, and math, a break is just the thing that allows students to forget all the memorization they had worked so diligently on throughout the year. Join us as Andrew and Julie encourage you to set a little time aside during the summer to continue building that repertoire of mastery in your students. 

Referenced Materials:

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Sit back and receive inspiration from Andrew and veteran homeschool mom and Primary Arts of Language author Jill Pike as they discuss their experience and provide suggestions for parents of struggling learners. Whether your child is dyslexic or has comprehension difficulties, Jill encourages parents to work with their student in all that they do, emphasizing her life-long motto: you can never help your child too much!

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Andrew once again answers just about anything our podcast listeners ask. Tune in to hear Andrew's response to questions on topics like memorization, grammar, and mind mapping.

Referenced Materials:

QUESTIONS ASKED:

1:52 - Ann asks, “I heard Andrew say many times to always spell any word a child asks you to spell.  Does he feel the same about math facts? I so commonly hear, ‘Mom, what is six times seven?’ My kids, ages eleven and fourteen, have a difficult time memorizing math facts. They are continuing to improve, but it is quite a process. They have a times table chart to refer to during math and drill math facts. I want them to continue learning new concepts, so often I give them the answer to not muddy the water. I am curious to hear your take on this situation.

7:11 - Jennifer asks, “Teaching class today regarding who/which clauses, I had a parent ask about ‘whose’ and where that fits in the IEW curriculum. For instance: ‘The bicycle whose chain is broken is mine.’”

8:40 - Emily asks, “I have been listening to the podcast and getting prepared all summer.  I am telling everyone IEW is my ‘curriculum crush’ of the year! Andrew mentions using this with his dyslexic son. As I recall, he got 20 minutes to copy 100 words and got 1 point per word, but there were also various ways to lose points. Can you explain that?”

16:13 - Anonymous asks,  “I have a sixth grader and was wanting to get Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization, but wasn’t sure whether we should start with Level 1. Will it be as effective as a first grader starting? Is it worth it?”

19:58 - Anonymous asks, “I have a seven-year-old who writes his numbers backwards. He used to write his letters backwards, but that has since been corrected with making them out of clay per the Gift of Dyslexia method. He has made the numbers in clay models too, but the method didn't take with those. Any suggestions for how to help writing with numbers?”

24:27 - Amber asks, “I love the podcast. I am a homeschool mom and have a six-year-old gifted child. She is on the last few lessons of the first Fix It!. We have modified it by having her write the sentence the next day for copywork versus writing the whole paragraph in one day. She completed the PAL writing program at the age of five and writes amazingly well on her own. Should I move her into the second Fix It! right away or switch to traditional copywork?”

27:13 - Janet asks, “What does Andrew say about mind-mapping?”

 

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

"I just can't think of what to write!" Why is it that students have a difficult time making a thought concrete? Tune in as Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker address this issue, highlight the power of asking questions, and explain the importance of good thinking as it relates to listening, speaking, reading, and writing. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker answer the question: What should I buy? They simplify the steps for implementing IEW’s Structure and Style materials in your homeschool or classroom.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

This is the ninth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on May 18, 2017, as Episode 94.

In this podcast Andrew and Julie address some of the elements of individualized learning. Discover how customizing your students' materials can enhance their learning abilities and motivate them to complete their tasks.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the history of the IEW’s methodology and how the checklist makes it possible for students to enjoy writing. Julie also shares about the IEW Checklist Generator, IEW® Gradebook, and instructor accreditation.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this podcast Andrew and Julie interview longtime friend and homeschool mom Pam Barnhill. Pam explains how she came to create her own podcast and shares her goal of fostering an environment of truth, goodness, and beauty.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

In this fascinating episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Dr. Steven Hales about the challenges of teaching and learning in the age of AI. Dr. Hales is a professor of philosophy at the Commonwealth University of PA at Bloomsburg and has spent a lot of time thinking and writing about the challenges that students and professors are facing. 

 

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Desiring to learn and understand IEW's methodology better, school teachers and parents ask Andrew questions about Structure and Style. Join Andrew as he answers questions such as  "What can I do to prepare myself for the upcoming school year?" and "What are your favorite sources for historical fiction?"

Referenced Materials:

Questions:

  • 1:28 - Amy asks "What advice would you give to a homeschool mom who is overwhelmed with the prospect of giving her high school student a quality education?
  • 8:34 - Rory asks "I wondered if anyone had ever offered a class to public or private school students outside of school. I know several who would benefit that do not homeschool."
  • 11:08 - Charity asks "My daughter will be participating in the IEW portion of essentials with Classical Conversations. As a first-time mom teaching IEW, what can I do now to start preparing myself for next year?"
  • 13:28 - Loraine asks "What are your favorite sources for historical fiction?"
  • 17:48 - Margaret asks "I'm tutoring a 9-year-old dyslexic student that is completely overwhelmed and discouraged. He says he is always a loser and will never do anything right. How do you stop the overwhelmed downwards spiral? It is sad to see a student without hope."
  • 24:45 - Jennifer asks "How often should I do the program?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode of "Ask Andrew Anything," IEW's ingenious leader answers questions from our latest Facebook Party, such as "Do you recommend the use of a thesaurus?" and "Is there any creative writing course with IEW?". What would your question be if you could ask Andrew anything?

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

  • IEW Facebook Page
  • Theme-Based Writing Lessons
  • Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons by Lori Verstegen 
  • Teaching Writing: Structure and Style
  • A Word Write Now by Loranna Schwacofer
  • U.S History-Based Writing Lessons by Lori Verstegen 
  • Pen and Paper
  • The Four Deadly Errors
  • The Five Canons of Rhetoric
  • Free Aesop Fables Online
  • Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization by Andrew Pudewa
  • Fix it! Grammar by Pamela White
  • 24:01-"If you gathered methane gas from cows for two years, would all the gas be able to launch a rocket to space?"  
  • Please Rate and Review our Podcast on iTunes
  • Questions asked: 
    • 2:27 - Carrie Sue asks "I have four children. My eldest is 12 and writing has been a struggle so I have never taught it. Now he has improved and is about the same grade-level and is reading and writing as my 10 year old. Where would I begin to teach writing and could my 8 year old, who is an advance reader, join them too?"
    • 7:04 - Ashley asks "Do you recommend the use of a thesaurus and at what age?"
    • 9:57 - Leslie asks "I love all your products. My son is needing a vocabulary program. What do you suggest?"
    • 13:22 - Clare asks "I have a 12 year old son who insists that he type his writing assignments. I am big fan of handwriting, as it seems to be a lost art. What do you think?"
    • 16:36 - Courtney asks "How long is it okay to scribe for them? I've been following Jill's advice on scribing for them for as long as needed but sometimes it seems as though they will never learn to do it themselves. I am doing U.S History-Based Writing Lessons with my 13 year old dyslexic daughter, along with my 12 year old. Both of them need quite a bit of handholding."

    • 18:19 - Lisa asks "On average how long would you expect it to take a 5th grader to do a key word outline and write there own rough draft from their key word outline? This is out first year with TWSS and it's taking a very long time. Do you ever have students try and write their rough draft from scratch because they can't remember what the key word outline means? What's the best thing to do in this case?"

    • 22:04 - Brandy asks "Is there any creative writing course with IEW? "

    • 29:06- Kristen asked "Our freshman son has some vision issues which delayed his reading and impacted his spelling and writing. We have some of your products. Am I right in thinking slow and steady wins the race or is there something specific I should be doing to help his written communication become easier? "

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

 

In this "Ask Andrew Anything," Andrew answers questions asked by school teachers and parents. Gain some insight on the advanced dress-ups and learn the importance of mastery, especially in the area of spelling.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This is the fourteenth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on October 11, 2016, as Episode 64. 

Since October is National Learning Disabilities Month, the Arts of Language Podcast brings to you our Special Education series. Join us as Andrew and Julie begin the series by talking about dyslexia. Drawing from his experience and training, Andrew provides insights on helping your dyslexic students. Andrew also discusses his mission of educating teachers so that they can best aid their students.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

As teachers and parents it can be challenging to acknowledge that not all children can be taught the same way. In Part 2 of "However Imperfectly," Andrew addresses the importance of adaptability by teaching at the point of need. 

GO TO Part 1 | Part 3

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

It's time to open the bag: the mailbag, that is. Wanting to share the love, Andrew and Julie open up letters from teachers and students. Tune in to this gratifying episode during which the duo reads letters in which teachers express how equipped they feel to teach writing after using IEW, and they learn how successful their students have been.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

This week's podcast moves beyond sentence openers and dress-ups. Andrew and Julie discuss the advanced style techniques. Providing examples, Andrew goes through quite a few of them. To name some, he discusses dual -ly adverbs, alliteration, parallelism, metaphor, and more! Learn how the goal with these techniques is not to make better writing right now but to help form better writers.

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com.

Happy 30th birthday, IEW! In this special Ask Andrew Anything episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker are joined in the studio by IEW staff members from Oklahoma and around the United States. Listen as Andrew answers questions from listeners presented by the live audience, including how to apply Structure and Style to other languages, how to teach multiple ages, how to translate IEW skills to other assignments, and many others. 

Referenced Materials


If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In Part 1 of this new three part series, Andrew shares two of the seven important lessons he has learned in almost thirty years of teaching to help teachers and students alike excel in their skills. With characteristic wisdom and insight, Andrew offers valuable tips for teaching any subject from music to writing with confidence. 

GO TO Part 2 | Part 3

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Why is writing so easy for some kids, but not for others? Why do some students not enjoy writing? Join Andrew in our Unit 7 Webinar as he discusses the “Blank-Brain, Blank-Page Syndrome” and addresses a few of the roadblocks to winsome writing.

GO TO PART 2

Referenced Materials: 

Questions Asked

  • 14:15-Jill asks "Is the Topic-Clincher rule connected with the dress-ups?"
  • 15:26-Anne Marie asks "Is the who-which clause the hardest or does it just depend on the student?"

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Motivated by a desire to set teachers up for success, Denise Kelley, IEW Manager of Product Development, works tirelessly to ensure all IEW products and services are aligned with the company’s cornerstone product, Teaching Writing: Structure and Style. Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss with Denise how her over two decades of experience at IEW have shaped her philosophy of product development.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker address how to assist students who join midyear. They discuss whether it is necessary to teach all the previous units before new students join the rest of the class and how to handle customizing the checklist. Listen to this helpful conversation that focuses on the best practices that will truly benefit a student.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this two-part series, Andrew and Julie discuss Reaching the Reluctant Writer (RRW), offer suggestions, and provide a step-by-step process to help your student excel in developing their writing skills.

Go to Part 2

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Does the checklist stiffen creativity in students? With this being a common concern, Andrew and Julie address it and continue their conversation regarding misunderstandings about IEW's stylistic techniques. Whether your student is in grade school, middle school, or high school, learn how the checklist provides students with the opportunity to explore and understand language.  

GO TO PART 1

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Are you teaching through Unit 5, Writing from Pictures, and interested to know the ins and outs of the unit? Join Andrew Pudewa in part two of this webinar recording as he discusses the how-to of Unit 5, explaining both the process and purpose of the unit.

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Why is writing so easy for some kids, but not for others? Why do some students not enjoy writing? Join Andrew in our Unit 7 Webinar as he discusses the “Blank-Brain, Blank-Page Syndrome” and addresses a few of the roadblocks to winsome writing.

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials: 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

It’s time for another Live Ask Andrew Anything episode! Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they answer questions from listeners. They were joined by Nicki Truesdell, who asked “How much grammar and writing do you think is necessary throughout the years of K-12?” Andrew and Julie also answer questions about Structure and Style® for Students, The Phonetic Zoo, instructor accreditation, and many others. This episode covers all things IEW!

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

With the end of the school year comes new opportunities to spend time outside. Listen to this week’s episode as Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss furnishing the mind with time spent outdoors. We all know that spending time outside is good for children. How might spending time outside also improve students’ writing skills? 

Referenced Materials

   

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker continue to discuss and provide tips for teaching through the final five units from Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® if you are not using one of the theme-based lessons or the Structure and Style for Students video courses. 

GO TO PART 1

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this week’s podcast Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa how imitation applies to teaching writing along with other questions about his talk From Copywork to Composition. Imitation is the cornerstone of excellent writing. Just as no music teacher hands a new student a blank sheet of manuscript paper and expects an original composition, writing instructors should not expect students to write without a model to imitate when they are first learning.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

This is the thirteenth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on September 15, 2015, as Episode 8. 

Over the past century there has been a great decline in thinking skills. Be a part of this week's conversation as Andrew and Julie examine what critical thinking actually is, and discover how good thinking is teachable, learnable, and practicable.

Referenced Materials: 

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Happy Thanksgiving! In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the power of gratitude. Andrew reads a letter from a student expressing his gratitude for the writing courses. In sharing things they are grateful for, Andrew and Julie encourage listeners to see how simply expressing thanks can change your perspective.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this podcast Andrew and Julie interview the managing editor of the Magnum Opus Magazine, Megan Horst. Learn about the great student work Megan puts into the magazine and receive some background on the history of Magnum Opus Magazine.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker open the mailbag (or the email inbox) and read letters IEW has received from students, parents, and teachers. Listen to this episode to find out how one student saved a library after writing an IEW assignment! Some students sent Andrew samples of their work, and he shares some excerpts on this podcast. We love hearing from our customers!

Referenced Materials

 

 

Julie’s Flat Stanley in Astoria, Oregon

 

Eli and Caleb, former Introduction to Public Speaking students

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

 

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss how children thrive when parents read aloud to them. Reading aloud builds family bonds and shared memories as well as increases vocabulary and comprehension. Listen to this episode to learn more.

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

To kick off National Gratitude Month, this podcast episode highlights Ron Clark’s book The Essential 55: An Award-Winning Educator’s Rules for Discovering the Successful Student in Every Child. Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss how teaching students the concepts outlined in the book can help students express gratitude in a myriad of situations.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew and Julie welcome our Lead Educational Consultant, Sharyn Staggers, to the mic this week. Learn how Sharyn came to know IEW, appreciate her role in aiding teachers and schools, and be inspired by her message about the power of the teacher training.

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Having gathered insights and experiences over three decades of teaching, Andrew presents seven lessons he’s learned. These seven lessons are listed in his article, “However Imperfectly,” and in the first chapter of his book of the same title. In part one of this two-part series, Andrew unpacks the first four lessons he’s learned. Andrew notes that while he did not adhere to these principles perfectly over the years, teaching has been well worth it—however imperfectly he may have done it.

REFERENCED MATERIALS

Remember to send your questions to podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com.

In this two-part series, Andrew and Julie discuss Reaching the Reluctant Writer (RRW), offer suggestions, and provide a step-by-step process to help your student excel in developing their writing skills.

Go to part 1

Referenced Materials:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker interview Hannah Maruyama to learn about her experience with higher education and job training, understand why she calls college “buying a degree,” and discover how parents can assist their students with planning well for their future. If you have a high school or college student, this episode is for you!

 

Referenced Materials

 

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Are you hoping to enrich the time spent with your students at home? Tune in to this week's episode! Andrew and Julie continue the series on homeschooling help. This episode, the duo lays out some practical tips for parents when educating at home. Be encrouaged as Andrew and Julie share the importance of setting realistic expectations and focusing on the main priorites. 

REFERENCED MATERIALS:

Remember to send your questions to Podcast@IEW.com, and perhaps yours will be answered the next time we Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have any questions about IEW or our products, do not hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team at 800.856.5815 or Info@IEW.com

Listen to Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss the Unit 6: Summarizing Multiple References teaching process. Remembering that this is a process, not a product, teachers need to model the research and writing steps with their students. The skills taught in Unit 6 may seem simple, but they form the foundation for research reports and essays.

Referenced Materials

If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com
Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).

If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities who would like support using Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

A webinar for those who would like support using Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

A webinar for those who would like support using Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

A webinar for those who would like support using Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

 

Is your young student ready to begin learning to read and write? Or do you have an older student who struggles with basic skills? The Institute for Excellence in Writing is pleased to bring you​ Primary Arts of Language (PAL), a beginning reading and writing program created by Jill Pike and based on Anna Ingham’s award-winning, 70-year legacy, The Blended Sound-Sight Program of Learning.

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities who would like support using Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities who would like support using Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

When a big job is broken down into bite-sized pieces, students and teachers alike can enjoy the journey together! Join Andrew Pudewa as he answers your questions about teaching Unit 8: Easy Essays and Beyond, IEW's process of crafting an essay. Gain an understanding of the basic structure, then prepare to unpack and explore the various essay types, their differences, and how a good structural strategy can inform written works of five, fifty, or five hundred paragraphs! Andrew will lead you through the process step-by-step, then answer questions from the audience.

Have you ever noticed that students seem to learn so much more when they are having fun? Join Lori Verstegen and Laura House as they share a variety of engaging games that capture student interest while reinforcing Structure and Style. This webinar will also present numerous ideas for end-of-the-year events, submitted by teachers from around the country. Have fun and finish strong!

 

Join us for an enjoyable and important webinar as Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker shed some light on how teachers and parents can facilitate learning in the new, exclusively at-home learning environment now prevalent nationwide. Andrew and Julie will be talking about how to continue learning at home, the benefits of reading aloud, how to incorporate poetry memorization, how to implement the free lessons offered by IEW, and more.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

 A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

 A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

 A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

 A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Discoveries in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Adventures in Writing in a class setting.

 

A webinar for anyone who wants support using USH in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using MHW in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using AHW in a co-op setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

 A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Frontiers in Writing in a class setting.

Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they present the value of the new Teaching Writing: Structure and Style®, Third Edition seminar.

A webinar for anyone who wants support using Investigations in Writing in a class setting.

However Imperfectly: Lessons learned from thirty years of teaching
by Andrew Pudewa It’s hard to say exactly when I began thinking myself a teacher, but I do remember when I set out on my own as an independent ...
Writing without Tears
by Andrew Pudewa Teaching writing can perhaps be one of the greatest challenges in home schooling. Because of the bleakness of grammar workbooks ...
The Writing Skills Gap
This country is locked in a learning quagmire caused by an educational misalignment, which has resulted in many students entering higher education wit...
Bad Writing vs. Bad Circumstances
by Andrew Pudewa Recently, a co-op teacher commented, “Help! My students are completing the checklist but producing bad writing! They may use a...
Good Writing vs. Great Teaching
by Andrew Pudewa Good writing. What is it? Everyone has an opinion, but opinions differ widely. While one language arts curriculum judges that simply...
Writing Maketh an Exact Man
Recently, we at IEW began the process of acquiring a very high output (and rather expensive!) printer. During our initial conversations pertaining to ...
Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing
by Andrew Pudewa We’ve all suffered it at one time or another—frustration about writing assignments. Either on the receiving end or ...
You Don’t Have to Like Writing
The Real Goal of Learning English Composition by Andrew Pudewa I have heard this—or something very similar—hundreds, if not thousands of...
IEW’s Mission: Teaching Teachers How to Teach Writing
by Julie Walker My IEW® story is simple: I was organizing classes for a group of homeschooling parents and teens in Southern California, and I ha...
Learning to Write Well While Writing to Learn
Four centuries ago Francis Bacon observed, “Reading maketh a full man; conference a ready man; and writing an exact man.” This perhaps enc...
Teaching Writing: Structure and Style - Unit 3 Overview and Tips
Watch this video by Andrew Pudewa on Unit 3   For an explanation by Andrew Pudewa on how to use Unit 3 and some tips for teaching, read on... ...
Many Paths, One Writing Method: An interview with IEW mom Lisa Averitt
Lisa Averitt lives in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, where she is a pastor’s wife and mother of five. She has a BA in English and several years of teac...
Remembering Mrs. Myers
ON JUNE 29, 2012, Lesha Myers passed from this life after a long battle with cancer. The beloved author of three of IEW's books, The Elegant Essay, Wi...
De-Confusing Essays
by Andrew Pudewa “Essay” is perhaps the one word most feared by students, wielded by teachers, and misunderstood by many. But what is it ...
Lesson Planning
by Andrew Pudewa The goal of Excellence in Writing is to make writing part of what your students are learning, not a course unto itself. With nine st...
Recitals, Recitation, and Theatre
Performances in Preparation for Life DO YOUR CHILDREN TAKE MUSIC LESSONS? Ours did. Although their musical talents are vastly different, all three ha...
What? or That!
Reflections on Reports by Andrew Pudewa In sixth grade or thereabouts, you had to write A REPORT. Searching for a subject that seemed moderately int...
Is IEW "Classical"?
by Andrew Pudewa With the rapid rise of interest in classical education in homeschools, hybrid schools, and even full-time schools, we at IEW are oft...
Empowering Teachers and Students: The Benefits of IEW Gradebook
Teacher Spotlight: Laura McMahon, Ivywood Classical Academy When Laura McMahon, a middle school science teacher at Ivywood Classical Academy, was ask...
IEW: The Key to Success
Forty years ago the better colleges did not have the writing labs that are a ubiquitous feature of college campuses today. Contrary to the pedagogy of...
Why is Structure and Style® so effective?
by James B. Webster, Ph.D. I completed a four-year B.A. with honors in history and English, in which three to four yearlong courses required three su...
The Art of Teaching a Skill
or, The Skill of Teaching an Art by Andrew Pudewa MORTIMER ADLER, IN HIS PAIDEIA PROPOSAL calling for a return to a classical curriculum, points out...
Process versus Product
by Andrew Pudewa In the 1992 film A River Runs Through It, there is a particularly charming scene which gives us some important insight about the tea...
Low-Tech Teaching with High-End Results
by Andrew Pudewa If you attend a large education conference these days, a quick circuit around the exhibit hall makes one fact immediately evident: E...
The Power of Demonstration
All the books about how to write well contain some form of this idea: “Don’t tell. Show!” And we know this to be true. How much bett...
What We Really Need
by Andrew Pudewa (This article first appeared in the August 2012 issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine®.) Depending on when one starts coun...
“Edutainment” Versus Engagement
Not long ago I sat in on a workshop presented by a member of the Faculty of Education at a major university. His topic was on the newest trend—&...
IEW's Premium Membership: Incredible Results, Digital Convenience
In 2014 the newest video version of Teaching Writing: Structure and Style was poised for release, changing forever the accessibility and ease that our...
Structured Success
With each edition of the schools magalog Arts of Language, we enjoy spotlighting a teacher or administrator who has implemented with fidelity the Stru...
How to Think
by Andrew Pudewa But I don’t know what to write! How many times have we heard those words from a frustrated student? Of course what he is reall...
Common Sense on Standards: Freeing Teachers to Be Teachers
by Andrew Pudewa The idea of standards in education is not new. Since the first Nation’s Report Card in 1969, schools, districts, states, and p...
A Story of Three Successes
It was around twenty years ago when I first did some training and consulting for three public school districts, one in California, one in Washington, ...
Finding What Works
The Chesleys are a busy homeschool family. Austin Chesley is the mom of and the primary educator for all five Chesley kids, ranging in age from 10 to ...
Marking and Grading
A few thoughts about a sticky, tricky subject by Andrew Pudewa As soon as people get serious about the business of teaching writing, certain beasts ...
But It’s Nice When It Happens
In our 2021 Magalog, we published an article entitled “You Don’t Have to Like Writing: The Real Goal of Learning English Composition&rdquo...
Motivation
by Andrew Pudewa To accomplish difficult tasks, motivation is absolutely necessary. No one doubts the need for motivating students, and methods of in...
A Common Language
Lower Yukon School District in Alaska implements IEW’s Structure and Style method districtwide to improve students’ language arts knowledg...
Interview with Nancy Helm, Education Specialist
This summer at the IEM Innovate Conference in Sacramento, I met Nancy Helm, an Education Specialist for twelve years at the South Sutter Charter Schoo...
Music Is Not “Nice”
by Andrew Pudewa Most people today think of music as a nice thing—something to break the monotony of a boring job or keep you pumped up while e...
Fill Yourself
by Andrew Pudewa (This article first appeared in the November 2012 issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine®.) One role a homeschooling parent...
Work Smarter, Not Harder
We at IEW® have the honor of introducing our 2017 Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Andrea Pewthers. She teaches English and literature to middle school s...
You Don't Have to Like It ...
by Andrew Pudewa (This article first appeared in the February 2012 issue of The Old Schoolhouse Magazine®.) I don’t really like to wr...
But it’s so ... so ... awkward!
by Andrew Pudewa Awkward. Even the spelling of the word is disturbing. If we look back, we likely have memories of high school or college teachers ha...
Endless Blessings from Furnishing the Mind
I don’t remember when I first heard the expression “furnishing the mind,” but I do remember how it immediately seemed to me a perfec...
That Puppy Won't Fly
The Core Problem with Educational Standards Today by Andrew Pudewa Over the past decade, I have had the privilege to interact with a wide range of t...
Mixed-Age Classrooms
by Andrew Pudewa As a teacher, professional development presenter, and educational consultant, I have had, over the past twenty years, a chance to vi...
In Retrospect: Heroes of Providence
by Andrew Pudewa From the time I could talk, I was begging for a violin. Or so said my mother. I don’t remember, but the harangue must have bee...
Thoughts and Words: the Chicken or the Egg?
by Andrew Pudewa One of the few criticisms of IEW’s checklist-based approach to teaching style runs something like this: “Students’...
Building a Foundation
Ivywood Classical Academy2026 Featured School Ivywood Classical Academy in Plymouth, Michigan, strives to form thoughtful, articulate, and virtuous y...
Plagiarism
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• The individual lessons have the added components of daily lesson plans and clearer weekly lesson goals.

• Source texts are either new or have been modified to include more regions of the world.

• The pacing of stylistic techniques has been adjusted so that students have success and enjoy the writing experience more.

• Advanced elements of Structure and Style have been placed in the Advanced Additions optional e-book, which is a free download with the purchase of the Student Book. This means that that the basic Student Book along with the Advanced Additions e-book is a perfect fit for all Level B students.

• Vocabulary words have been reevaluated to coincide with the dress-ups being taught in the lessons, making it easier for the students to use them in their lesson assignments.

• The lessons align with the updated version of Teaching Writing: Structure and Style, both in the order and manner in which elements of Structure and Style are taught.

• The new edition is not compatible with the former.

Yes.

All the individual letters are introduced in the PAL: Writing program using letter stories as the student learns to print. Even if your student is too young to do much printing (age 3–4), you should still get the Writing package and do the printing lessons. He should just do his writing on a whiteboard (a lap sized one should work well). He won't start the copy work until his fine motor skills develop further, so the parent will then just shelve the Writing part until he is older. He can continue to practice his letters on the whiteboard. When he is old enough to manage a pen or pencil (usually around age 5), then he can pick up where he left off.

IMPORTANT: A child should not try to print on lines using a regular pencil until he has developed enough fine motor control. If you try to do it too early, the child ends up using goofy pen grips because his hand is not strong enough to use a mature pen grip. Thus, it is very important to be patient and WAIT until your child is old enough before working on handwriting.

Yes, if your student is already reading fluently you can use PAL: Writing without PAL: Reading. However, in order to use the PAL: Reading package, you will need PAL: Writing as well.

The primary goal of the Institute for Excellence in Writing is teacher training. We offer lessons and video courses for the student to make the job of the teacher as easy as possible, but it is important for teachers to gain the training necessary to help their children write well.

Writing is an art and requires a give and take between student and teacher. The teacher’s course equips you to provide that for your student. If you only have the student videos, your student will learn a good deal, but will only get the answers to whatever questions were asked when the course was originally recorded. If your student has any difficulty, you may find it challenging to provide him the unique help he needs. The teacher’s course provides all the hows and whys behind the program so that you too can become an accomplished writing teacher over time.

One experienced homeschool mother explains, "I homeschool eight children, so I can appreciate how precious time is, but trying to teach writing without taking the time to watch my teacher’s videos was like pushing the car down the highway because I didn’t have time to stop for gas. :)

You don’t have to watch the entire teacher’s course in one sitting. Just watch a video a month or so and you will do just fine.

As Andrew Pudewa has said, our materials are like ice cream—the more the better! But be sure the first serving is for the teacher.

You will generally begin the Primary Arts of Language program when your student is around age 5 or 6, but it may be used with reading-ready 3 and 4 year olds, as well as older students who need some remedial help.

If you have an advanced 3 or 4 year old who is eager to learn to read, you can begin with PAL: Reading, along with Part 1 of PAL: Writing. You won’t want your student to start printing on lines using a regular pencil until he has developed enough fine motor control, usually around age 5. (If you try to start this too early, the child often ends up developing a goofy pencil grip because his hand is not strong enough to use a mature pencil grip.) So a younger student can practice writing his letters on a whiteboard. Since he won't continue with Part 2 of PAL: Writing until his fine motor skills develop further, you can set it aside and keep working through PAL: Reading until he is older and ready to move in to copy work.

The program isn't too cutesy, so it is an excellent resource if you have an older student who needs some gentle remedial help. And if you are already using it with a younger child, older siblings can easily join in as your "helpers," playing the reading games with their younger sibling and sitting in on the lessons as needed.

No matter what your child's age when you begin, the Teacher’s Manuals will give recommendations for how to adjust the program to meet your unique child’s needs.

Each student will need access to the Narnia books as they will be directed to read one or more chapters with each lesson in the Following Narnia student book. 

Response from author Janice Campbell:

The new edition has a new chapter on how to write an essay, plus a pacing chart (a birds-eye view of what to do in each module), and a clearer, more detailed table of contents. The E1 level has a few new resources, and as in every edition, I've worked to make everything clearer. All the links in each level have been checked and updated (most are the same). 

If you already have the second edition, it is still useful, and you don't need to update unless you want to. Just remember that many of the context resources are being moved to our website at http://excellence-in-literature.com, so if you encounter a link that does not work, check there first. If it's not there, try searching via Google or other search engine. A few items completely disappeared due to the retirement of the professors who authored them, and in that case other resources were substituted.

Yes! You do! The Writing Across the Curriculum courses are meant to be supplemental—an aid to the teacher. They presume that the instructor has been through the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style course. A book can't teach writing to a child without teacher support. After you learn our system these books will be able to serve as a support to you in teaching your child to write.

You can find the copyright policy for each of our products as a link on the specific product page. For example, to view the copyright for Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level A, go to the product page and click on the "Details" tab.

Yes! Two parents respond to this question below. The first teaches a student with Aspergers (on the autistic scale) and the second has a son who is dyslexic.

Jill states:
"IEW is fantastic for those with expressive disorders. A dear friend of mine has a son with Aspergers. This year, I offered to teach him writing. His mom returned immediately with, 'Oh, he can't write.' I asked for a chance.
"We just started the Student Writing Intensive B. He flew through the first disc, outlined and wrote beautifully. I think he will find the help he needs with this program. I am so happy for him!"

Jen writes:
"My ten year old is dyslexic. Written expression has been a chore for him from day 1. Since we started with IEW two years ago, the lights have come on, and slowly but surely he's become a writer. The logical progression, the straightforward steps and checklists, and the knowledge that he can't 'do it wrong' (there are simply ways that he can 'do it better') have been incredible confidence builders for him.
"IEW has helped him get through the blocks that have always made written communication so difficult for him. Two years ago, he threw a literal screaming fit if I asked him to write his name on his paper...now, he journals a page a day and thinks nothing of writing a paper a week.
"IEW is so customizable (yet makes so much sense to the kids) that it works very, very well for kids that just don't 'get it' otherwise."

The PAL: Reading will require about 30 minutes of your time each day you do it, and another 30-60 minutes of your student’s time to do his things with some, but not always significant, supervision.

The PAL: Writing will take about 30 minutes of your day. It also includes a brief discussion of a story every day. You can use any story you are reading to your child, so it works with anything you are already doing. As with most programs, your first week or two will likely require more time, but as you get it running, it does not take much time to maintain. Using the PAL: Reading, your child will likely be reading after just a few months. At that point, less time will need to be spent on the Reading, so you can spend a little more time on the PAL: Writing Composition section when you get to it. However, it won’t really cost you any more time in the long run.

Traditional grammar programs systematically teach concepts about grammar, punctuation, and usage with sentences artificially contrived to fit the rules. The theory behind such approaches is that after learning the rules, students will be able to apply them to their own writing. Often these programs teach more concepts than are need-to-know in terms of punctuation, correct grammar, or performance on the ACT or SAT, but they cover the rules well.

Diagramming is a method for helping students grasp the underlying structure of sentences, which is critical for punctuating sentences correctly but which seems to work with only about half the population. Most diagramming programs also teach more than is truly helpful to students learning grammar.

Fix It! Grammar emerged from a teacher's frustration with traditional approaches. Like many teachers, Pamela White (who earned her Master's Degree and A.B.D. in English from Vanderbilt University) recognized that students using traditional grammar programs may learn the rules well but seem to have a disconnect in applying them. The more that grammar is rooted in the writing experience, the better it sticks.

The ultimate goal of teaching grammar should be to train students to be able to edit their own writing effectively. When a side benefit is improved performance on the SAT or ACT, so much the better. Fix It! Grammar (third edition) is a complete grammar program for these goals that truly matter, but it teaches students in the context of writing and through editing rather than through exercises focusing on specific rules. 

The early books in Fix It! Grammar begin with marking parts of speech and then identifying phrases (mainly prepositional phrases), main clauses, and dependent clauses. This is better than diagramming because it focuses on the structural parts of sentences that matter most and most affect punctuation rather than getting students bogged down in labeling the parts of sentences that rarely become punctuation hurdles.

Gradually, the Fix It! Grammar stories incorporate usage, grammar, and punctuation concepts, taught by asking students to correct the mistakes in passages and then discuss with their teacher the reasons for corrections.

Early stories have advanced concepts which can be used with stronger students and which pave the way for concepts in later stories.

The six books, each lasting a full year, contain some instruction at the start of each week's lesson as well as added instruction and tips to teachers to use as needed.

All six stories use natural sentences--rather than ones artificially contrived to fit an exercise--that closely mimic the kinds of errors in student writing, so students get repeated practice looking for errors in sentences (the same methods achievement tests use), along with the challenge of needing to explain the why's behind fixes. Since the sentences have the normal complexity of real writing, they also deal with the same issues any writer faces in editing his or her own work.

I remember when I was at a homeschool conference looking at some other writing materials and a very nice Mom poked her head over my shoulder and pointed me to IEW. I glanced at it then, but like you, thought it looked overwhelming.

A year later, I decided to give it a try and I absolutely wish I had done it so much sooner. IEW is not difficult to use or teach, in fact, it's easier and clearer than most of what's out there. The "thought" of it is what can be overwhelming, but the program itself is not complicated. Once you get it, begin using it and learn how to teach writing using IEW - you'll wish you started sooner. Plus, you have this great group for support if you ever have questions!!

Blessings,
Tina


I looked at the website yearly for about 4 years before I finally bought it. Each time I looked at the website I thought, "I can't do this. It looks too hard. It's $269 and I won't be able to do it” Fast forward to the next year and I said the same thing.
Finally this year I decided that all the people I admire that recommend it must have a REASON for liking it so much so I bit the bullet.

Between what is in the plans and the help on the (previous) forum, you won't have to put much effort into lesson planning especially if you have a curriculum you already use. Your son will learn the techniques and then apply them to his regular assignments.

I'm currently working through the student videos with my two oldest. I'm going at our own pace (slower than 1 disc/day MUCH faster than the 15 week lesson plan). And I'm NOT a good lesson planner. I'm happy when I'm convinced they 'get' a topic like the KWO or the dress-ups.
This is NOT hard to teach. It really isn't. If you flip through the tezcher's manual without watching the videos it can look confusing and overwhelming. Once you listen to Andrew explain everything it all makes sense.

Last night, dd (13) thanked me for getting IEW. It is making writing 'fun and much easier' for her. My ds (11) feels the same way. He never put pen to paper before. Now he is doing it, enjoying it and showing a creative side that he never has.

(Name withheld)

Grade levels are approximate, as each child's ability level will vary, regardless of grade level. In general, however, the following levels apply (for all products except the Phonetic Zoo):

Primary: K–2nd

Level A: 3rd–5th 

Level B: 6th–8th 

Level C: 9th–12th+

Note: If a student is significantly behind in reading ability, you may wish to choose a level that corresponds with reading level rather than grade level.

For the Phonetic Zoo, the spelling placement test should be given to determine each student's starting level.

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