Is there a check list that lays out IEW for newbies? A sort of "IEW for Dummies"?

There is no “one way” to use IEW, so don't worry about trying to find the perfect plan. The important thing is to just get started!

If you are just starting out with K–1 or 2, get the Primary Arts of Language Reading and Writing.

If you are starting with an advanced second grader on up to high school level, we recommend starting with the TWSS/SWI combo. The TWSS (Teaching Writing: Structure and Style) is for the teacher to mentor you in teaching the art of writing. The SWI (Student Writing Intensive) has master teacher, Andrew Pudewa, teach your kids while you are coming up to speed with your teacher's course. It comes with detailed lesson plans and all the materials you need. It is "fall-out-of-bed" easy to use.

You can choose one of three levels of Student Writing Intensive: A for Elementary students, B for middle school students, and C for high school students. All three levels begin at the beginning so you can start at the level that matches your student's age and maturity.

If you have several children to teach, "shoot for the middle" and choose one level that will work for most of them. Usually level B works for multi-graded families. When you are done with the SWI, you and your student(s) will have a good handle on our program.

Once you get through your first year, you will have a much better handle at where to go next. Our new Magalog has a great pathway for you to use to keep marching along to better and better writing. We also have a great support group where you can chat with other IEW teachers.

Jill Pike
Excellence in Writing