Search for: theme based

Product Spotlight: Theme-Based Writing Lessons

  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 theme-based... read more

Feb 08, 2019

Teaching through a Theme-Based Book

“I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I write and I understand.” This axiom is often quoted in the world of education. Writing within content areas helps students build understanding.... read more

May 15, 2025

Theme-Based or Video-Based? Either Is a Win-Win!

Whether you use one of IEW’s theme-based 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 to teach the... read more

Aug 10, 2023

Getting Started with Theme-Based Writing Lessons

On Day 3 of Twelve Days of Christmas Giving, IEW is giving you a three-week sample of three theme-based writing lessons. Be sure you are registered for the event to receive the email... read more

Dec 28, 2023

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

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

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

Special Education Series Part One: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Disabilities

  by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols If you are a classroom teacher, chances are you have a number of students in your classroom with a language-based learning disability. Whether your students have been formally... read more

Feb 17, 2024

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

Special Education Series: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Difficulties, Part 3: The Checklist

by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols   In the previous post in this series, we compared traditional methods for teaching grammar with those used in IEW’s Structure and Style™ process that are more successful and... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Special Education Series: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Difficulties, Part 2: Teaching Grammar

by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols   In part one of this series, we described the importance of a multi-sensory approach to language development and how IEW’s Structure and Style™ key word outline method incorporates... read more

Feb 17, 2024

A Buffet of Options

"Which should I choose?" is a common question from parents and teachers exploring IEW's two main options for teaching the Structure and Style® methodology. While some create their own lessons, most prefer ready-made... read more

Nov 19, 2024

A Worthwhile Investment

One of the most frequent questions IEW’s customer service receives is “How much parent involvement does this program require?” This is understandable. Homeschool parents juggle multiple students at multiple levels, run a household,... read more

Aug 03, 2023

Author Interview: Lori Verstegen—Helping Students Succeed

There are many options available to teach IEW writing to your students. One of the most enjoyable and successful ways to begin is to use Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS2) and the Structure... read more

Dec 01, 2016

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

IEW’s Promise: Satisfaction Guaranteed

  At IEW we are very committed to our mission. In fact, we are so confident you will love our products, we stand behind everything we sell with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We even... read more

Oct 03, 2019

Applying IEW across Your School

Like many people, I first became acquainted with IEW while I was homeschooling my children, and I taught IEW in homeschool co-ops for many years. However, when my kids were grown, I started... read more

Jan 23, 2025

Motivation and the Four Forms of Relevancy: Podcast Episode 358

Are there factors that make learning easier? As Andrew notes, “If something is relevant to you, if it is significant, meaningful, useful, interesting, and helpful to you, then it is easy to study... read more

Feb 01, 2023

Addressing Misunderstandings about the Stylistic Techniques, Part 1: Podcast Episode 278

The Institute for Excellence in Writing is known by many to be the “Structure and Style®” writing company. But what does “Structure and Style” really mean? If we break the two terms apart,... read more

Jul 14, 2021

Why IEW Works for Students with Learning Differences: Podcast Episode 356

Why is IEW a good fit for students with special needs? This week Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker read through testimonials from teaching parents to help answer the question. Tune in to this... read more

Jan 18, 2023

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

Empowered across the Curriculum

  Many years ago when I was a much younger, somewhat bewildered homeschool mom standing in front of the IEW® booth at a homeschool convention, I had one goal in mind—finding support to help... read more

Jan 08, 2019

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

Customer Service Answers: How do I teach Structure and Style to multiple ages?

“How do I use one writing course for my kids who are all different ages?” We often receive this question in customer service. Whether your reasons are because of time limits, money constraints, or... read more

Jun 24, 2022

IEW Tools for the Journey: Webinars

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be confident and competent communicators and thinkers, we are presenting a series of... read more

Jul 17, 2024

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

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

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

A Classic Resource

Which IEW product has been around nearly as long as the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS) seminar? The Writing Source Packet is one of the original resources that IEW produced for parents... read more

Sep 21, 2023

IEW Tools for the Journey: Newsletters

It is August. Many schools and homeschools have already begun the new school year. Within a few weeks schools of all types will be in session. Here at IEW, our mission is to... read more

Jul 17, 2024

IEW Accreditation: The Secret Key to Success

Throughout the years, Institute for Excellence in Writing has continued to make its programs easier to implement. When IEW was founded over twenty-five years ago, teachers could only learn the Structure and Style... read more

Feb 03, 2023

Continuing the Tradition: Twelve Days of Giving

Traditions bring joy and fond memories. They may be the same ornaments placed carefully on the tree each year or the beloved Christmas stories you read. Do you have recipes that you prepare... read more

Dec 04, 2023

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

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 210

  It’s that time again! Every tenth podcast is set aside so that listeners can “ask Andrew anything.” In podcast Episode 210 listeners asked the following questions: Do I really need the teacher-training course, Teaching... read more

Mar 19, 2020

Customer Service Answers: A Little Help along the Way

At IEW we want the courses we provide to be ones that will excite and engage both you and your student. In order to help support you as you teach your children, we... read more

Oct 18, 2021

Author Interview: Laura Bettis—Inspired by the Tales of Narnia

Aslan, Reepicheep, Mr. Tumnus, High King Peter, King Edmund, Queens Lucy and Susan, and the White Witch. If you don’t yet know these characters, you’ll be in for a huge treat as you... read more

Dec 05, 2016

Building a Strong Foundation with Units 1 and 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. Each year they begin with Units... read more

Aug 24, 2023

Why the Same Nine IEW Units Year after Year?

When students complete their first year of an IEW Structure and Style course whether it is one of our theme-based courses or Structure and Style for Students video-based courses, parents often ask, “What... read more

Aug 17, 2023

Planning an IEW Lesson for Multiple Grades

We live in a time where there are many options for educating our students. Since the pandemic more and more families have chosen to educate their children in nontraditional settings. Many of these... read more

Nov 30, 2023

Checking the Boxes for High School Credit

Many of our customers reach out to customer service as their student approaches high school. They want to be sure that our materials will count for a language arts credit. Perhaps, a new... read more

Jun 27, 2024

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

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

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

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

Why We Do What We Do

  We are not merely a curriculum company. At IEW we fervently desire to go beyond simply designing a course of study in a subject such as English. At our heart we want to... read more

Sep 07, 2018

Starting Strong in September, Structure and Style Units 1 & 2: Part 2: Podcast Episode 108b

  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... read more

Oct 06, 2017

Taking Notes with Unit 1

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. Every paper a student... read more

May 24, 2024

Where are they now? Jemma Swift: Author of Forever Riders

  Authoring a book is an intimidating prospect. And if it’s illustrated, that introduces even more challenges. For Jemma Swift—homeschooled student, first-time-author, and sister to co-illustrator Eliza Swift—”intimidating” was not in her vocabulary. Oh,... read more

Nov 20, 2017

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

Furnishing the Mind with Great Sources – ReadWorks®

IEW is widely recognized for exceptional writing courses for the homeschool, classroom, co-op, and tutorial, providing students with excellent content to cover a wide range of subject matter and topics. Whether you use... read more

Feb 13, 2024

Is it worth the time?

Why watch IEW's parent/teacher training course? Have you ever wondered why IEW’s core product is a parent/teacher training course? Busy homeschoolers often ask, “Couldn’t I just watch the student DVD courses with my children... read more

Aug 26, 2016

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

Understanding Topic-Clincher Sentences with Unit 4

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 building a strong foundation... read more

Dec 14, 2023

Adjust the Checklist to Sharpen Students’ Saws

The school year is nearing the end, and summer is close at hand. Teachers and families alike eagerly anticipate a chance to slow down a bit to relax and renew. A recent IEW®... read more

May 01, 2024

Sharing Fairy Tales: Time Well Spent and Much Enjoyed

  If you ask a child what his favorite part of the school day is, he’s likely to blurt out, “Recess!” But if he stops and considers for a moment longer, he will likely... read more

Sep 09, 2019

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

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 330

IEW’s customer service and schools division teams offer support to parents and teachers as they answer questions through emails, chats, and phone calls. Occasionally, however, Andrew addresses customers’ questions himself. This is one... read more

Jul 13, 2022

Salting the Oats

  Teachers understand that students enjoy a good contest. The possibility of winning a coveted prize or a tasty treat can inspire even the most reluctant student to strive for success. But how can... read more

Oct 08, 2019

Becoming a Read-Aloud Family: Podcast Episode 128

# #   Recently Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker had an opportunity to sit down with Sarah Mackenzie, busy homeschool mom, accomplished author, and creator of the podcast Read-Aloud Revival. During their time together, Andrew and... read more

Feb 22, 2018

Nurture Communication—Build Vocabulary!

  Every year, new words are added to the dictionary. In 2018, for instance, words like “bougie,” “bingeable,” and “predictive” were added by Merriam-Webster. But did you know that behind the scenes there is... read more

Mar 15, 2019

Hot Off the Press! Following Narnia® Volume 1: The Lion’s Song (Third Edition)

  Did you grow up loving Narnia? I know I did—I must have read each book in the series ten or twenty times throughout my childhood! I vividly remember reading The Lion, the Witch... read more

Mar 04, 2016

Getting Started with Premium Membership

The gift on Day 11 of IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving is a gift that keeps on giving! Be sure you are registered for the event to receive the email with links... read more

Jan 05, 2024

IEW Tools for the Journey: Schools Department

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be confident and competent communicators and thinkers, we are presenting a series of... read more

Nov 18, 2024

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Considering Clubs

  While the official start of summer is still a few weeks away, Memorial Day unofficially ushers in the highly anticipated season. Over the next few weeks, we are going to share some ideas... read more

May 28, 2021

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

Powerful Courses for College Preparation

In many ways, the high school years are a staging ground for adulthood. For some students high school represents the culmination of their formal education. For others the high school years are preparatory,... read more

Jan 13, 2023

The Story Behind One of the Greatest Story Series of All Time

  There are certain works of literature that cross cultural divides and stand the test of time. Nearly everyone has heard of the Lord of the Rings trilogy, the Little House on the Prairie... read more

Apr 27, 2020

EZ+1 Reiterated

  Accomplished instructor and IEW author Jill Pike has provided invaluable advice to many IEW teachers and parents. Much of it reiterates the EZ+1 philosophy. In this particular exchange she helps a co-op instructor... read more

Jul 26, 2019

How a Hybrid School Found Success with IEW

Louis Lemmon: Hybrid School Administrator Founded in 2005, Lake Pointe Academy is a K–12 University-Model® school of approximately 195 students. Louis Lemmon served for two years as a teacher, and then began serving as head... read more

Nov 04, 2016

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

Taking a Peek into Windows to the World

IEW’s pathway features a great progression of coursework to help your students develop their writing skills, but those are not the only courses IEW has. Additionally IEW offers materials that support all components... read more

Jul 05, 2021

Perfecting Pieces for Publication—An Interview with Maria Gerber

  Behind every great writer is a great editor. This holds true for nearly all great authors, and for us at IEW. IEW has a small but sharp team of editors who work on... read more

Mar 12, 2018

Structure and Style for Students: What’s in the Box?

  By now you’ve likely heard the buzz about Structure and Style for Students, IEW’s new video-based student course. Every day, our customer service team receives calls from teachers considering which level of the... read more

Mar 27, 2020

Premium Membership: Where Do I Start?

For many of our new Premium Members, glancing over the additional files now included in their account is like entering a downtown library, new card in hand, and viewing row after row of... read more

Feb 27, 2025

Building a Fortress of Encouragement

  "Sometimes we feel like if we can't do it perfectly, we won't have success. The truth is, if it's worth doing, it's worth doing imperfectly. So go ahead and just do your best."... read more

May 10, 2019

An Interview with Judy Sarden: Practical Help for Homeschoolers

  Author, blogger, small business consultant, and homeschool speaker Judy Sarden has a heart for homeschooling families. Out of this love she has written a book called Sarden’s Practical Guide: How to Start Homeschooling.... read more

Jul 11, 2018

Premium Membership: Continually Adding Teacher Resources

Investing in IEW’s Premium Membership is an investment in yourself as well as your students. Several fabulous perks have been added to the already robust compendium of support for teachers of Structure and... read more

Sep 02, 2022

Special Learning Needs and IEW

If you missed the gifts given for Day 8, you can still access these resources: Podcast R14: Learning Differences Struggles and Suggestions, Part 1 – Dyslexia Podcast R15: Learning Differences Struggles and Suggestions, Part 2 – Dysgraphia Podcast... read more

Jan 02, 2023

Empowering Gifted Learners and Writers

Many students have a gift for something—a skill or talent they do well or perhaps excel in. This is not the same as being a gifted learner. The National Association for Gifted Children... read more

Oct 04, 2024

What Is Thinking?

For several years in our house, I would often respond, “Don’t make me do your thinking for you!” when one of my children would ask for help in making a decision. IEW’s theme... read more

Jan 17, 2025

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

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

Reflections on Growing Up with IEW

  Working in IEW’s customer service department, I receive many calls from customers, especially new customers who are concerned that IEW seems too simple. They worry the expectations are not high enough. Often the... read more

Jan 30, 2018

Aesop: Who Was He?

  Who was Aesop? His fables are world famous, but the man, if he even existed at all, is shrouded in mystery. What little is known about him is likely conflated to legend in... read more

May 15, 2020

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

Securing Your Oxygen Mask

  In the somewhat musty memories tucked into the corners of my mind, I can vaguely recall my thoughts about homeschooling before I took the plunge. Perhaps I had a bit of hubris, but... read more

Jul 27, 2018

Tutoring with IEW—A Win-Win!

  IEW is taught across homes and schools all around the world. Often it is a teacher or parent who guides students through the IEW approach to writing, but tutors who meet with students... read more

Sep 21, 2018

Tutoring Online with IEW—Yes, You Can!

  With the power of the Internet, physical distances are no longer a barrier. Information is instantly at our fingertips. While this has both positive and negative implications, undoubtedly one of the positives out... read more

Jun 22, 2019

Teaching Structure and Style Virtually with Fidelity

  As educators continue to adjust to life COVID-19, the difficult reality is that 5-day-a-week traditional schools that were teaching in person may once again be moving to virtual instruction. I taught for over... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: The Four Forms of Relevancy: Inspired Relevancy Part 2

  This week we continue the theme of relevancy by revisiting the second part of the 3-part podcast series on relevancy. The topic of this week’s classic is inspired relevancy. Listen again—or for your... read more

Jul 31, 2019

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

On Individualized Learning

  Today’s blog post is written by one of our customer service team members, and yet, remarkably, she’s just completing her junior year in high school! Kathleen shares her unique perspective as not only... read more

May 15, 2019

IEW Tools for the Journey: Arts of Language Podcast

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be confident and competent communicators and thinkers, we are presenting a series of... read more

Sep 09, 2024

The Benefits of Mastery Education: Podcast Episode 264

  Mastery learning is all the rage right now. You may wonder whether the Structure and Style approach follows a mastery-based approach. If so, wonder no longer. Podcast Episode 264 will settle the question. Andrew... read more

Mar 31, 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

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Building Book Clubs

  “It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be when you can’t help it.” This quote, often miscredited to Oscar Wilde but actually stated by the... read more

Jun 04, 2021

October is National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month

Happy fall! Some of us have already been enjoying cooler temperatures and colorful fall foliage. For others the show is just beginning. But October doesn’t just herald the fall; it is also the... read more

Oct 01, 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

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

Reaching the Reluctant Writer, Part 1: Podcast Episode 288

When the Institute for Excellence in Writing was in its infancy, Andrew Pudewa crafted a conference talk he named “Reaching the Reluctant Writer.” A few years later in 2002, he wrote an article... read more

Sep 23, 2021

Sharing Students’ Finest Work—Magnum Opus Magazine

  “If I had a dime/dollar for every time I’ve done __________...” How often do we moms and teachers think (or say) something like this? Repeated or mundane tasks sometimes feel as if they... read more

Jun 18, 2019

Happy 20th Birthday, Classical Conversations! IEW and CC: Celebrating Fifteen Years of Collaboration and Camaraderie

  Today is October 18, 2017, and while Andrew Pudewa is heading to Charlotte, NC for Classical Conversations’ 20th anniversary event, I am heading to Dallas, TX to join the live video simulcast from... read more

Oct 18, 2017

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 350

Since 2015 Andrew and Julie have been adding to the “Ask Andrew Anything” series. The series is an opportunity for Andrew to respond directly to questions asked by our podcast listeners. This week... read more

Dec 07, 2022

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

Getting Started with The Phonetic Zoo

Spelling can be a challenging subject for many students. Perhaps students struggle because many spelling programs rely heavily on visual input. The Day 5 gifts for IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving help... read more

Dec 30, 2023

Share the Joy!

  There’s a reason that December is our favorite time of the year at IEW, and it’s because of the annual Twelve Days of Christmas Giving event. As we look forward to another year... read more

Dec 01, 2020

Support for a Memorable Year Ahead

  The year 2020 has certainly been extraordinary. In early spring we were plunged into a worldwide pandemic that we are still trying to navigate. In response to the interruption of schools and the... read more

Aug 27, 2020

Where Are They Now? Kimberly Johnson—Writer and Graphic Designer

  Some students immerse themselves in music; still others pursue athletics. And there are those who enjoy art. Today we would like to feature a student who has a passion for writing fiction and... read more

Jan 18, 2019

Where are they now? Brenna Fisher: Criminologist-in-Training

  Ever wonder if you made the right decision to homeschool? If your hopeful expectations for your children will be realized? I recently had the opportunity to interview Brenner Fisher, who is now studying... read more

Jun 13, 2016

‘Tis the Season for Fun and Games!

Now that we are in the holiday season and are rapidly approaching the mid-point in our school year, it’s a great time to throw a party—an IEW party, that is! Over in our... read more

Dec 12, 2016

Simplifying Literary Analysis

Imagine a living room filled with teens excitedly talking over each other and debating the merits of this character or that plot. This scene has occurred monthly at my house for the past... read more

Feb 15, 2024

Poetry Festivals and Language Fairs

April’s theme of “Furnishing the Mind with Poetry” reminds me of my teaching days at Parker Whitney Elementary School in Rocklin, California, and our annual Oral Language Fairs. The events began in our... read more

Mar 25, 2024

Unit 4: Summarizing a Reference

  If you are moving through the IEW units at the pace of about one a month, you are either now in Unit 4, Summarizing a Reference, or are about to be there soon.... read more

Nov 07, 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

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

Building a Sound City

  What do city streets, a senior retreat, digraph deliveries, and a silent letter library have in common? They can all be found in a Sound City! Building a Sound City bulletin board delightfully... read more

Feb 16, 2024

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

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

Poems for Christmas †

  I love this time of year. It saturates my senses. There’s so much to see, smell, taste, touch, and hear. Right now, for example, I have some classical Christmas music playing softly in... read more

Dec 19, 2019

Share the Joy!

Christmas. For many the word conjures up thoughts of brightly decorated Christmas trees, savory scents of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger wafting from the kitchen, and merry sounds of traditional Christmas carols sung on... read more

Dec 12, 2022

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

Week 4 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 4

Last Week This past Monday, Andrew Pudewa and Nathan King sat down together once again, this time to discuss Unit 3: Retelling Narrative Stories. This unit marks a significant shift from the first two... read more

Jun 28, 2021

Switch to Pens!

  Several years ago Andrew Pudewa published an article entitled “Convert ... to Pens!” In doing so, he flipped on its end the conventional thinking of writing the first draft in pencil and the... read more

Aug 27, 2019

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

The IEW Premium Membership: Education, Resources, and Support for Busy Teachers

by Jean Nichols and Jennifer Mauser   Since its debut in July 2017, IEW’s Premium Membership has proven to be a tremendous resource for teachers. The Premium Membership wasn’t available when I was first trained in... read more

Feb 17, 2024

Where are they now? Lauren Oliver: Master’s Candidate in Communication

We love to hear from former students of Structure and Style. These young adults are forging unique pathways in the world, many of them heavily focused in writing and communication. Lauren Oliver is... read more

Apr 18, 2022

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

How to Obliterate Writer’s Block

The blank page. It can be a formidable force. An intimidating expanse of seemingly interminable white, the empty page has been known to bring even the most prolific writer to his knees. But... read more

Aug 05, 2022

A Haiku for the Holidays

  Sometimes it’s energizing to take a break from the regular routine to explore something new. One idea I have incorporated in the past with my students is to get them to explore writing... read more

Nov 16, 2020

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Nature Walks

When was the last time you went outside for a walk and really slowed down to notice the nature around you? How about your children? When have they? If your answer is, “I... read more

Jun 18, 2021

Edit with a Smile

Teaching writing would be my favorite job if it weren’t for grading. When a student hands in a composition and a teacher sees all the mistakes, how does one avoid the inevitable frustration?... read more

Aug 19, 2022

Sage Advice for a Successful School Year

If you have recently strolled into your local big box store, you likely have seen shelves upon shelves of back to school supplies. The waxy scent of crayons, the colorful array of notebooks... read more

Aug 06, 2021

“The Buck Stops Here”

  In Harry Truman’s day, people who shirked responsibility and shifted blame were accused of “passing the buck.” According to the Truman Library website, in an address at the National War College in December... read more

Aug 16, 2017

The Story of a Story

  My connection with the Lee family began with a phone call. One of IEW’s customer service agents spoke with a woman about her daughters who were interested in becoming accredited IEW instructors—at the... read more

Nov 02, 2018

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

Moving on to Unit 3: Podcast Episode 158

  Now that the first weeks of school are complete, many students are beginning to move into Unit 3, Retelling Narrative Stories. After Units 1 and 2 where students created key word outlines from... read more

Oct 03, 2018

Sharing Gratitude: Podcast Episode 243

  We love to hear from you. Whether it be through email, social media, a phone call, or even snail mail, it truly delights us to hear how our materials are impacting the lives... read more

Nov 04, 2020

Teaching Literature through Discussion: Podcast Episode 262

  A common rite of passage for students is to read a novel for an English class and then be expected to write an analytical paper on it. But is formal literary analysis the... read more

Mar 18, 2021

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

2024 Additions to Public Domain

With the flip of the calendar to a new year, the United States is also enjoying the addition of several new titles to the public domain. Public domain materials are no longer covered... read more

Jan 25, 2024

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

Experience Unit 5: The First Thanksgiving

  Unit 5 marks the midway point of IEW’s nine writing units. Rather than asking students to create key word outlines from written text, Unit 5 instead has students ask themselves questions based on... read more

Nov 22, 2017

Pursuing College in a Whole New Way – A Conversation with Dr. Nicholas Ellis: Podcast Episode 331

Recently Dr. Nicholas Ellis paid a visit to IEW’s campus in Bixby, Oklahoma. Dr. Ellis is the founder and CEO of Christian Halls International (CHI), and Andrew and Julie were honored to welcome... read more

Jul 22, 2022

A Conversation with Susan Barton: Podcast Episode 159

  Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker recently welcomed Susan Barton into the studio. Susan is the developer of the Barton Reading and Spelling System. An Orton-Gillingham-based program of instruction, it teaches individuals who are... read more

Oct 10, 2018

IEW and Dysgraphia with Jennifer Mauser: Podcast 378

Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss dysgraphia with Jennifer Mauser, one of IEW’s Educational Consultants and a Master Barton tutor. Learn what dysgraphia is and discover ways that you can... read more

Jun 21, 2023

Prepositional Pursuits

  My little class and I have been cruising right along this year. Working through Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons, they’ve learned how to insert all of the dress-ups. The kids are doing great! I... read more

Nov 18, 2019

Additional Source Material to Teach Structure and Style

  We recently received a request from a parent who just completed Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level A and is waiting patiently for Year 2 Level A to launch in January.... read more

Nov 13, 2020

It’s a Wrap!

With the final day of IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving event only recently completed, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the days and to thank all of you who... read more

Jan 14, 2022

Homeschool 101 – A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Dunne: Podcast Episode 335✝

With the hope of offering support and resources to new and current homeschooling families, Andrew and Julie dedicate every ten episodes to the Homeschool 101 series. For this special edition of the series,... read more

Aug 17, 2022

Celebrating National Dictionary Day

Do you have a dictionary on your shelf? If so, the odds are solid that it has the name Webster’s emblazoned on its cover. October 16 is National Dictionary Day, a day set... read more

Oct 17, 2022

Product Spotlight: Theme-Based Writing Lessons

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

Teaching through a Theme-Based Book

“I hear and I forget; I see and I remember; I write and I understand.” This axiom is often quoted in... read more

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Theme-Based or Video-Based? Either Is a Win-Win!

Whether you use one of IEW’s theme-based courses or a Structure and Style for Students video-based course, it is a win-win... read more

Getting Started with Theme-Based Writing Lessons

On Day 3 of Twelve Days of Christmas Giving, IEW is giving you a three-week sample of three theme-based writing lessons.... 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

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

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

Special Education Series Part One: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Disabilities

  by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols If you are a classroom teacher, chances are you have a number of students in your... 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

Special Education Series: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Difficulties, Part 3: The Checklist

by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols   In the previous post in this series, we compared traditional methods for teaching grammar with those... read more

Special Education Series: Structure and Style™ and Language-Based Learning Difficulties, Part 2: Teaching Grammar

by Linda Mikottis and Jean Nichols   In part one of this series, we described the importance of a multi-sensory approach to language... read more

A Buffet of Options

"Which should I choose?" is a common question from parents and teachers exploring IEW's two main options for teaching the Structure... read more

A Worthwhile Investment

One of the most frequent questions IEW’s customer service receives is “How much parent involvement does this program require?” This is... read more

Author Interview: Lori Verstegen—Helping Students Succeed

There are many options available to teach IEW writing to your students. One of the most enjoyable and successful ways to... 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

IEW’s Promise: Satisfaction Guaranteed

  At IEW we are very committed to our mission. In fact, we are so confident you will love our products, we... read more

Applying IEW across Your School

Like many people, I first became acquainted with IEW while I was homeschooling my children, and I taught IEW in homeschool... read more

Motivation and the Four Forms of Relevancy: Podcast Episode 358

Are there factors that make learning easier? As Andrew notes, “If something is relevant to you, if it is significant, meaningful,... read more

Addressing Misunderstandings about the Stylistic Techniques, Part 1: Podcast Episode 278

The Institute for Excellence in Writing is known by many to be the “Structure and Style®” writing company. But what does... read more

Why IEW Works for Students with Learning Differences: Podcast Episode 356

Why is IEW a good fit for students with special needs? This week Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker read through testimonials... 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

Empowered across the Curriculum

  Many years ago when I was a much younger, somewhat bewildered homeschool mom standing in front of the IEW® booth at... 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

Customer Service Answers: How do I teach Structure and Style to multiple ages?

“How do I use one writing course for my kids who are all different ages?” We often receive this question in customer... read more

IEW Tools for the Journey: Webinars

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be... 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

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

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

A Classic Resource

Which IEW product has been around nearly as long as the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS) seminar? The Writing Source... read more

IEW Tools for the Journey: Newsletters

It is August. Many schools and homeschools have already begun the new school year. Within a few weeks schools of all... read more

IEW Accreditation: The Secret Key to Success

Throughout the years, Institute for Excellence in Writing has continued to make its programs easier to implement. When IEW was founded... read more

Continuing the Tradition: Twelve Days of Giving

Traditions bring joy and fond memories. They may be the same ornaments placed carefully on the tree each year or the... 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

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 210

  It’s that time again! Every tenth podcast is set aside so that listeners can “ask Andrew anything.” In podcast Episode 210... read more

Customer Service Answers: A Little Help along the Way

At IEW we want the courses we provide to be ones that will excite and engage both you and your student.... read more

Author Interview: Laura Bettis—Inspired by the Tales of Narnia

Aslan, Reepicheep, Mr. Tumnus, High King Peter, King Edmund, Queens Lucy and Susan, and the White Witch. If you don’t yet... read more

Building a Strong Foundation with Units 1 and 2

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

Why the Same Nine IEW Units Year after Year?

When students complete their first year of an IEW Structure and Style course whether it is one of our theme-based courses... read more

Planning an IEW Lesson for Multiple Grades

We live in a time where there are many options for educating our students. Since the pandemic more and more families... read more

Checking the Boxes for High School Credit

Many of our customers reach out to customer service as their student approaches high school. They want to be sure that... 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

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

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

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

Why We Do What We Do

  We are not merely a curriculum company. At IEW we fervently desire to go beyond simply designing a course of study... read more

Starting Strong in September, Structure and Style Units 1 & 2: Part 2: Podcast Episode 108b

  As you begin this new school year, be encouraged to make a great start in public speaking and writing. Andrew reviews... read more

Taking Notes with Unit 1

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

Where are they now? Jemma Swift: Author of Forever Riders

  Authoring a book is an intimidating prospect. And if it’s illustrated, that introduces even more challenges. For Jemma Swift—homeschooled student, first-time-author,... 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

Furnishing the Mind with Great Sources – ReadWorks®

IEW is widely recognized for exceptional writing courses for the homeschool, classroom, co-op, and tutorial, providing students with excellent content to... read more

Is it worth the time?

Why watch IEW's parent/teacher training course? Have you ever wondered why IEW’s core product is a parent/teacher training course? Busy homeschoolers often... 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

Understanding Topic-Clincher Sentences with Unit 4

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

Adjust the Checklist to Sharpen Students’ Saws

The school year is nearing the end, and summer is close at hand. Teachers and families alike eagerly anticipate a chance... read more

Sharing Fairy Tales: Time Well Spent and Much Enjoyed

  If you ask a child what his favorite part of the school day is, he’s likely to blurt out, “Recess!” But... 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

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 330

IEW’s customer service and schools division teams offer support to parents and teachers as they answer questions through emails, chats, and... read more

Salting the Oats

  Teachers understand that students enjoy a good contest. The possibility of winning a coveted prize or a tasty treat can inspire... read more

Becoming a Read-Aloud Family: Podcast Episode 128

# #   Recently Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker had an opportunity to sit down with Sarah Mackenzie, busy homeschool mom, accomplished author, and... read more

Nurture Communication—Build Vocabulary!

  Every year, new words are added to the dictionary. In 2018, for instance, words like “bougie,” “bingeable,” and “predictive” were added... read more

Hot Off the Press! Following Narnia® Volume 1: The Lion’s Song (Third Edition)

  Did you grow up loving Narnia? I know I did—I must have read each book in the series ten or twenty... read more

Getting Started with Premium Membership

The gift on Day 11 of IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving is a gift that keeps on giving! Be sure... read more

IEW Tools for the Journey: Schools Department

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be... read more

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Considering Clubs

  While the official start of summer is still a few weeks away, Memorial Day unofficially ushers in the highly anticipated season.... 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

Powerful Courses for College Preparation

In many ways, the high school years are a staging ground for adulthood. For some students high school represents the culmination... read more

The Story Behind One of the Greatest Story Series of All Time

  There are certain works of literature that cross cultural divides and stand the test of time. Nearly everyone has heard of... read more

EZ+1 Reiterated

  Accomplished instructor and IEW author Jill Pike has provided invaluable advice to many IEW teachers and parents. Much of it reiterates... read more

How a Hybrid School Found Success with IEW

Louis Lemmon: Hybrid School Administrator Founded in 2005, Lake Pointe Academy is a K–12 University-Model® school of approximately 195 students. Louis Lemmon served... 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

Taking a Peek into Windows to the World

IEW’s pathway features a great progression of coursework to help your students develop their writing skills, but those are not the... read more

Perfecting Pieces for Publication—An Interview with Maria Gerber

  Behind every great writer is a great editor. This holds true for nearly all great authors, and for us at IEW.... read more

Structure and Style for Students: What’s in the Box?

  By now you’ve likely heard the buzz about Structure and Style for Students, IEW’s new video-based student course. Every day, our... read more

Premium Membership: Where Do I Start?

For many of our new Premium Members, glancing over the additional files now included in their account is like entering a... read more

Building a Fortress of Encouragement

  "Sometimes we feel like if we can't do it perfectly, we won't have success. The truth is, if it's worth doing,... read more

An Interview with Judy Sarden: Practical Help for Homeschoolers

  Author, blogger, small business consultant, and homeschool speaker Judy Sarden has a heart for homeschooling families. Out of this love she... read more

Premium Membership: Continually Adding Teacher Resources

Investing in IEW’s Premium Membership is an investment in yourself as well as your students. Several fabulous perks have been added... read more

Special Learning Needs and IEW

If you missed the gifts given for Day 8, you can still access these resources: Podcast R14: Learning Differences Struggles and Suggestions, Part... read more

Empowering Gifted Learners and Writers

Many students have a gift for something—a skill or talent they do well or perhaps excel in. This is not the... read more

What Is Thinking?

For several years in our house, I would often respond, “Don’t make me do your thinking for you!” when one of... 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

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

Reflections on Growing Up with IEW

  Working in IEW’s customer service department, I receive many calls from customers, especially new customers who are concerned that IEW seems... read more

Aesop: Who Was He?

  Who was Aesop? His fables are world famous, but the man, if he even existed at all, is shrouded in mystery.... 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

Securing Your Oxygen Mask

  In the somewhat musty memories tucked into the corners of my mind, I can vaguely recall my thoughts about homeschooling before... read more

Tutoring with IEW—A Win-Win!

  IEW is taught across homes and schools all around the world. Often it is a teacher or parent who guides students... read more

Tutoring Online with IEW—Yes, You Can!

  With the power of the Internet, physical distances are no longer a barrier. Information is instantly at our fingertips. While this... read more

Teaching Structure and Style Virtually with Fidelity

  As educators continue to adjust to life COVID-19, the difficult reality is that 5-day-a-week traditional schools that were teaching in person... read more

Reviewing Our Greatest Hits: The Four Forms of Relevancy: Inspired Relevancy Part 2

  This week we continue the theme of relevancy by revisiting the second part of the 3-part podcast series on relevancy. The... 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

On Individualized Learning

  Today’s blog post is written by one of our customer service team members, and yet, remarkably, she’s just completing her junior... read more

IEW Tools for the Journey: Arts of Language Podcast

As part of IEW’s continued commitment to providing parents and teachers with help for the journey of training students to be... read more

The Benefits of Mastery Education: Podcast Episode 264

  Mastery learning is all the rage right now. You may wonder whether the Structure and Style approach follows a mastery-based approach.... 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

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Building Book Clubs

  “It is what you read when you don’t have to that determines what you will be when you can’t help it.”... read more

October is National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month

Happy fall! Some of us have already been enjoying cooler temperatures and colorful fall foliage. For others the show is just... 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

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

Reaching the Reluctant Writer, Part 1: Podcast Episode 288

When the Institute for Excellence in Writing was in its infancy, Andrew Pudewa crafted a conference talk he named “Reaching the... read more

Sharing Students’ Finest Work—Magnum Opus Magazine

  “If I had a dime/dollar for every time I’ve done __________...” How often do we moms and teachers think (or say)... read more

Happy 20th Birthday, Classical Conversations! IEW and CC: Celebrating Fifteen Years of Collaboration and Camaraderie

  Today is October 18, 2017, and while Andrew Pudewa is heading to Charlotte, NC for Classical Conversations’ 20th anniversary event, I... read more

Ask Andrew Anything: Podcast Episode 350

Since 2015 Andrew and Julie have been adding to the “Ask Andrew Anything” series. The series is an opportunity for Andrew... 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

Getting Started with The Phonetic Zoo

Spelling can be a challenging subject for many students. Perhaps students struggle because many spelling programs rely heavily on visual input.... read more

Share the Joy!

  There’s a reason that December is our favorite time of the year at IEW, and it’s because of the annual Twelve... read more

Support for a Memorable Year Ahead

  The year 2020 has certainly been extraordinary. In early spring we were plunged into a worldwide pandemic that we are still... read more

Where Are They Now? Kimberly Johnson—Writer and Graphic Designer

  Some students immerse themselves in music; still others pursue athletics. And there are those who enjoy art. Today we would like... read more

Where are they now? Brenna Fisher: Criminologist-in-Training

  Ever wonder if you made the right decision to homeschool? If your hopeful expectations for your children will be realized? I... read more

‘Tis the Season for Fun and Games!

Now that we are in the holiday season and are rapidly approaching the mid-point in our school year, it’s a great... read more

Simplifying Literary Analysis

Imagine a living room filled with teens excitedly talking over each other and debating the merits of this character or that... read more

Poetry Festivals and Language Fairs

April’s theme of “Furnishing the Mind with Poetry” reminds me of my teaching days at Parker Whitney Elementary School in Rocklin,... read more

Unit 4: Summarizing a Reference

  If you are moving through the IEW units at the pace of about one a month, you are either now in... 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

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

Building a Sound City

  What do city streets, a senior retreat, digraph deliveries, and a silent letter library have in common? They can all be... 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

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

Poems for Christmas †

  I love this time of year. It saturates my senses. There’s so much to see, smell, taste, touch, and hear. Right... read more

Share the Joy!

Christmas. For many the word conjures up thoughts of brightly decorated Christmas trees, savory scents of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger wafting... 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

Week 4 of The Great TWSS Adventure: Unit 4

Last Week This past Monday, Andrew Pudewa and Nathan King sat down together once again, this time to discuss Unit 3: Retelling... read more

Switch to Pens!

  Several years ago Andrew Pudewa published an article entitled “Convert ... to Pens!” In doing so, he flipped on its end... 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

The IEW Premium Membership: Education, Resources, and Support for Busy Teachers

by Jean Nichols and Jennifer Mauser   Since its debut in July 2017, IEW’s Premium Membership has proven to be a tremendous resource for... read more

Where are they now? Lauren Oliver: Master’s Candidate in Communication

We love to hear from former students of Structure and Style. These young adults are forging unique pathways in the world,... 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

How to Obliterate Writer’s Block

The blank page. It can be a formidable force. An intimidating expanse of seemingly interminable white, the empty page has been... read more

A Haiku for the Holidays

  Sometimes it’s energizing to take a break from the regular routine to explore something new. One idea I have incorporated in... read more

Summer Fun in (and out) of the Sun: Nature Walks

When was the last time you went outside for a walk and really slowed down to notice the nature around you?... read more

Edit with a Smile

Teaching writing would be my favorite job if it weren’t for grading. When a student hands in a composition and a... read more

Sage Advice for a Successful School Year

If you have recently strolled into your local big box store, you likely have seen shelves upon shelves of back to... read more

“The Buck Stops Here”

  In Harry Truman’s day, people who shirked responsibility and shifted blame were accused of “passing the buck.” According to the Truman... read more

The Story of a Story

  My connection with the Lee family began with a phone call. One of IEW’s customer service agents spoke with a woman... 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

Moving on to Unit 3: Podcast Episode 158

  Now that the first weeks of school are complete, many students are beginning to move into Unit 3, Retelling Narrative Stories.... read more

Sharing Gratitude: Podcast Episode 243

  We love to hear from you. Whether it be through email, social media, a phone call, or even snail mail, it... read more

Teaching Literature through Discussion: Podcast Episode 262

  A common rite of passage for students is to read a novel for an English class and then be expected to... 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

2024 Additions to Public Domain

With the flip of the calendar to a new year, the United States is also enjoying the addition of several new... 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

Experience Unit 5: The First Thanksgiving

  Unit 5 marks the midway point of IEW’s nine writing units. Rather than asking students to create key word outlines from... read more

Pursuing College in a Whole New Way – A Conversation with Dr. Nicholas Ellis: Podcast Episode 331

Recently Dr. Nicholas Ellis paid a visit to IEW’s campus in Bixby, Oklahoma. Dr. Ellis is the founder and CEO of... read more

A Conversation with Susan Barton: Podcast Episode 159

  Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker recently welcomed Susan Barton into the studio. Susan is the developer of the Barton Reading and... read more

IEW and Dysgraphia with Jennifer Mauser: Podcast 378

Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss dysgraphia with Jennifer Mauser, one of IEW’s Educational Consultants and a Master... read more

Prepositional Pursuits

  My little class and I have been cruising right along this year. Working through Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons, they’ve learned how... read more

Additional Source Material to Teach Structure and Style

  We recently received a request from a parent who just completed Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level A and... read more

It’s a Wrap!

With the final day of IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving event only recently completed, we wanted to take a moment... read more

Homeschool 101 – A Conversation with Dr. Lisa Dunne: Podcast Episode 335✝

With the hope of offering support and resources to new and current homeschooling families, Andrew and Julie dedicate every ten episodes... read more

Celebrating National Dictionary Day

Do you have a dictionary on your shelf? If so, the odds are solid that it has the name Webster’s emblazoned... read more

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

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

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker dive into inquiry-based learning, which leads to critical thinking skills and problem solving skills. They walk listeners through the nine units of Structure and Style® and how they encourage creativity, thinking skills, and problem solving.

 

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 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

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

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

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

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

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 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

Last week, Andrew and Julie discussed the four forms of relevancy when it comes to motivation. Sharing with you their knowledge based on experience, Andrew and Julie discuss how motivation relates to classroom management. From establishing connections with your students to minimizing distractions for them, Andrew provides strategies to help you in managing the classroom.  

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

Is using "said" never allowed? Not at all! In this podcast Andrew and Julie address this and other misunderstandings about implementing IEW's stylistic techniques. Tune in to the first episode of this two-part series as Andrew provides insight about our methodology and explains the powerful purposes of the checklist and banned word lists. 

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

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

What do Michael Phelps, Terry Bradshaw, and Michael Jordan have in common? In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Although students with ADHD face some challenges, there are also advantages! As a mother to two sons diagnosed with ADHD, Julie shares helpful research, advice, and personal experiences.

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

When writers gather information from outside sources, it is important to give credit where credit is due and to cite the sources. Although this is important, learning to cite sources in various formats can be overwhelming, especially for younger students. This week, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker welcome IEW's Senior Product Manager, Denise Kelley, to speak about documentation. In this episode Denise discusses how IEW's products utilize the EZ+1 method to teach documentation by gradually teaching students how to cite sources in a step-by-step process.

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 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

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

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

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

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

 

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.

Hillsdale College K-12 Education Office has partnered with IEW to provide the recommended writing curriculum for their member and curriculum schools. IEW will produce a brand new curriculum aligned with Hillsdale’s K-12 Program Guides for third to eighth grades. Join Andrew Pudewa, Julie Walker, and their special guest Dr. Kathleen O’Toole, Assistant Provost for K-12 Education, as they discuss the partnership and the new writing 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

It is time for another Ask Andrew Anything episode! Join us this week as Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa questions submitted by our listeners. Along with helpful tips and insightful suggestions on helping students with spelling and poetry writing, Andrew addresses artificial intelligence (AI) writing technology and what parents and teachers need to be aware of.

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

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.

The time has come again when Julie tries to stump Andrew with questions submitted from our listeners. From inquiries on literature to a question regarding Andrew's tie count in Structure and Style for Students (SSS), Andrew provides answers with insight, suggestions, and a little bit of 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

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

In this week’s episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker are joined by Heidi Thomas and Joseph Tabenkin. Heidi is part of IEW's Product Development team. This past year she and her team have worked alongside Joseph, a product and software developer, to create IEW Gradebook, an online tool designed to help teachers grade more efficiently and effectively. Listen in for exciting details!

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 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

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

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.

Last week, Andrew and Julie discussed creating the right listening and speaking environment for English language learners. Continuing the discussion, the duo turn their attention to reading and writing. Discover how reading the studied language helps the learner with organization, learn how key word outlines help to better understand the text, and understand how the checklist enables the learner to recognize parts of speech and style 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

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

Join us in this podcast as Andrew and Julie sit down and have a conversation about the upcoming school year. Whether you're a full-time schoolteacher or a homeschooling parent, be invigorated in your quest for this new school year as Andrew provides advice on preparing your classroom and encourages you to keep moving forward.

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

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

Many of IEW’s podcast episodes in 2023 follow this year’s theme of exploring how IEW can help students with learning differences. Every tenth episode features questions submitted by our podcast listeners. Join us as Julie Walker presents Andrew Pudewa with questions from parents regarding their struggling students. Offering practical tips, he helps equip parents to assist their students in improving their writing and spelling 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

The leading area of growth in IEW is the Schools Division. New Educational Consultants have been added to keep up with the growing number of schools that are excited to implement Structure and Style in their classrooms. Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker in this week’s podcast as they converse with Sharyn Staggers, IEW Schools Division Director. Sharyn shares how she became involved with IEW and explains how schools can connect with an Educational Consultant.

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

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

Is IEW for homeschoolers? Or is it for full-time classroom teachers? Does it work well in a hybrid-school model? The short answer is yes! This week, Andrew and Julie unpack how IEW's Structure and Style methodology came to be and discuss how the method of teaching writing is successful in any educational setting.

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

Why is IEW a good fit for students with special needs? This week, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker read through testimonials from teaching parents to help answer the question. Tune in to this inspiring episode and learn how IEW's Structure and Style methodology breaks the complex task of writing into small, manageable steps that teach students the process and give them the confidence to succeed. 

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

Many homeschool families find community by joining a homeschool co-op. Co-ops are an opportunity for teaching parents and students to seek encouragement and educational support. In this week's episode, Andrew and Julie discuss the different types of co-ops, share some of their benefits, and offer resources for those currently enrolled in or interested in joining a co-op. 

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

Over the years, IEW has grown tremendously as its writing method is taught in various educational settings. The company offers an abundance of resources, from encouraging blog posts to effective curriculum. How did IEW get to where it is now? This week, Andrew and Julie go back to where it all began and unpack the story of how Andrew discovered the Structure and Style method of teaching writing. Give this episode a listen to learn about the success of the writing method and to understand our mission of equipping teachers and teaching parents. 

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 seventeenth episode of twenty-four in the podcast series Reviewing Our Greatest Hits. This show was initially launched on November 8, 2016, as Episode 68. 

Branching off from last week's special education series, Andrew and Julie open up this conversation by discussing Gifted and Talented Education (GATE). Tune in to learn what it is, the challenges involved, and how IEW can be optimized so that students will have opportunities to use their abilities to the fullest. 

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

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 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

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

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 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.

A wide array of learning differences exists. While we often focus on those differences, such as dyslexia or ADHD, which cause our students to work below their grade levels, students who fall into the GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) category may also struggle in the classroom. In this week’s podcast Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker look at definitions, myths, challenges, and strategies for teachers with gifted students.

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 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

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

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

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

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

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

 

For many, August is a month of anticipation as the start of the school year approaches. In this week's episode, Andrew and Julie address teachers who will be using IEW's method in the classroom. From tips on decorating the classroom to suggestions on equipping yourself, you’ll learn some practical and effective preparations for a successful year of teaching with Structure and Style!

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

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.

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

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

For this Homeschool 101 episode, Andrew and Julie welcome Brandy Ferrell to the mic. Brandy is a homeschool mom of four, an IEW affiliate, and the founder of Half-a-Hundred Acre WoodIn the episode Brandy shares her story of homeschooling, talks about her experience with IEW materials, and speaks on the curriculum and resources she offers to other homeschoolers. 

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.

† Contains distinctly Christian content

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

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

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

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 Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker answer questions submitted by listeners. Listen as they discuss how to find the literature suggestions in IEW’s courses, how to decide what courses to use first with younger students, why the levels of some of the theme-based books have changed, what books Andrew is reading now, and 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

 

In this episode, Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa to give tips on teaching the first four units if someone is not using one of the theme-based writing lessons or the Structure and Style® for Students video courses. She asks him, “What do you need to know if you want to teach your students on your own, using topics that your children find interesting or that you are studying in your other classes?”

Go To Part 2

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.

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.

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

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 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

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

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker share IEW’s theme for 2025: How to Think. Listen as they discuss the feeling of accomplishment in learning to think through research and writing as well as the negative impact of AI on thinking and writing.

 

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 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

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

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

Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they dive deeper into the theme for this year: How to Think. Before we can talk about how to think, we need to know what thinking is. Andrew talks about the importance of language in building brain pathways along with how the structure of language aids in thinking. Finally, he discusses critical thinking skills and how language is the foundation for those 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

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

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker continue diving into this year's theme: How to Think. In this episode, they talk about famous questions and quotations that have to do with thinking and learning, as well as some that spark thinking. Listen to glean some questions and quotations that will spark thoughtful conversations in your home 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

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker are excited to welcome Jonathan Brush with Unbound, an organization that offers unique options for high school and college students. Unbound is a project-based higher education program that equips young adults to take ownership of their education and prepares them for life.

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

† Contains distinctly Christian content

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).

It seems that many people are natural-born spellers while others are not. Either way, Andrew and Julie discuss the importance of mastery through repetition when it comes to the subject. Referring to The Phonetic Zoo, Andrew and Julie talk about the history of the program and share the benefits of an auditory-based spelling 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).

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.

Since October is dyslexia awareness month, Susan Barton of the Barton Reading and Spelling System joins the Arts of Language Podcast to offer insight on dyslexia. With years of experience, Susan explains dyslexia's intricacies and discusses the temporary accommodations teachers can provide to allow dyslexic students to still thrive and prove their knowledge.

 

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 benefits of eating meals as a family, from healthier eating habits to more confident communicators. Julie also shares a resource on cooking once a month. Listen and be encouraged to put down your phone and start a conversation over a meal.

 

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 a new year, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss IEW’s theme for 2024: Furnishing the Mind. Listen as Andrew describes how the idea of furnishing the mind with beautiful and good things relates specifically to cultivating the skills of language arts.

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

Since 2015 Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker have been adding to the “Ask Andrew Anything” series. The series is an opportunity for Andrew to respond directly to questions asked by our podcast listeners. This week Andrew offers insight and advice as he answers questions on topics like motivating older students and helping students with learning challenges. Almost all of Andrew’s answers have a common theme: the importance of furnishing the mind through memorized language.

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 honor of Father's Day, Andrew reflects on what he did as a homeschool dad that helped cultivate a good family and home culture. Based on his new convention talk, "The Three, Maybe Four, Best Things I Did as a Homeschool Dad," Andrew shares the first two on his list: reading aloud to the family and family meetings. Tune in to hear Andrew's insight and stories on how these changed the family dynamic for the better!

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

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.

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities who would like support using Medieval History-Based Writing Lessons in a class setting.

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities who would like support using Medieval 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.

A webinar for Classical Conversations communities 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.

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...
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 ...
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...
Thoughts on Common Core
by Janet Spitler and Genevieve Priest The Common Core State Standards Initiative® has caused quite a stir in the educational world. Most states m...
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...
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...
Concerns About Common Core
Over the past few weeks, many homeschooling families and bloggers have been expressing concerns about homeschool curricula changing to align with the ...
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 ...
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...
The Madness of Multiple Choice
by Andrew Pudewa At some point, one of the hardest decisions that a home-schooling family must make is whether to do home education or to do sch...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
Testimony to Oklahoma House Education Committee Regarding Common Core
Occasionally we are asked by concerned teachers and parents what position IEW and Andrew Pudewa take on Common Core. We invite you to read for yoursel...
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 ...
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’...
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...
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...
A Swing towards Sanity
by Andrew Pudewa Every once in a while, something happens which restores hope that the world is not completely insane. When this occurs in the field ...
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...
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...

Yes! You do! The Theme-Based Writing Lessons 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.

It's called "The Spelling Concerto" and was written by Dean Anderson.
The version on The Phonetic Zoo (PZ) was performed entirely with a keyboard and a Macintosh computer.
Listen to the full version here: The Spelling Concerto (Running time: 3 minutes)

The version on Teaching Writing: Structure and Style (TWSS2) was performed by Joel Walker (guitar) and Paige Stockley (cello).

The version on Structure and Style for Students (SSS) is a Spelling Concerto Variation recomposed and performed by Joel Walker (guitar), Durgan Maxey (piano), and Elisa Conklin (cello).

The version on Introduction to Public Speaking (IPS) is Paper Dreams (by Sounds Like Sander)

The version played before IEW Online Classes is Copland Hoe Down from Rodeo

• 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.

Teaching the Classics is a video seminar that will teach you, as the parent or teacher, the basics of literary analysis (character, setting, plot, conflict, theme), which you can then apply to any piece of literature you study with your students. It is suitable for teaching students of any age. The teacher workbook includes suggested reading and provides a list of Socratic questions that you can choose from in your study of literature.

Windows to the World is appropriate for high school and advanced middle school students (due to the stories used for analysis). In addition to the basics (character, plot, etc.), students will also become familiar with such literary elements as imagery, symbolism, parallelism, allusions, and much more, while learning how to annotate a piece of literature. The lesson plans are clearly laid out, with specific information for the student as well as the teacher. You can intersperse longer novels if you wish, or use the course as is, since it is self-contained.

Both products are suitable for use by teachers who are not familiar with literary analysis. If you would like to talk with Excellence in Writing teachers who have used these programs, join our forum.

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