Institute for Excellence in Writing News

Andrew Pudewa to Virginia in 2012

Wed, 16 May 2012 11:39:33 -0500

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.
Richmond, VA

A pleased classical school principal

Mon, 07 May 2012 16:38:14 -0500

IEW works very well with the Progymnasmata (pre-rhetoric exercises) in a classical school. Progym (as we call it)... provides students with specific exercises for writing that help them organize and develop their thoughts, but it does not address grammar, mechanics or style.
IEW complements Progym by filling in this gap, teaching them how to make their writing varied, interesting and beautiful, and how to do that in a very specific, correct, and ordered way. Together they develop a great foundation and good habits in writing.

Debbie Frazier
Head of Elementary School
Westminster Academy

Looking AHEAD to Your Next Homeschool Conference!

Fri, 04 May 2012 16:03:52 -0500

AHEAD (American Home Education And Discipleship) Conferences are sponsored by Christian state-wide homeschool organizations throughout the nation, and we at the Institute for Excellence in Writing will have product, exhibitors, and speakers and most of their events! See our event page for a complete listing of all homeschool conferences planned for 2012, and look for the AHEAD image in the event notes for those which are a part of this consortium.

Why attend an American Home Education And Discipleship Conference?

Free gifts! (Yes, there's one from IEW!)
One near you!
Many to choose from!

Check out their blog, Facebook page, and find a conference near you!

Homeschool How-To Conference

Thu, 03 May 2012 12:57:12 -0500

Click here to learn more about the Homeschool How-To Conference!

How her teaching and the students' learning has improved with IEW

Wed, 02 May 2012 12:14:13 -0500

Before IEW, the students had trouble getting all of their thoughts from their heads onto their papers without drawing huge story webs therefore spending hours just planning. IEW now makes my job easier-students come up with topics (or one is assigned based on the unit) and they can then ask themselves questions on it, throw their ideas out quickly, and then they are able to independently produce pieces based on their outlines-we have written SO much more this year because of this!

Amy, 2nd Grade Teacher, Geneva School

Kudos for Andrew Pudewa's Midwest Homeschool Convention Presentation

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:18:21 -0500

We just received this message from a dad who attended a homeschool convention where Andrew was speaking. May you too find time this season to build a fort with your children!

Teaching Boys and Other Children Who Would Rather Make Forts All Day

2012 Midwest Homeschool Convention

Finally, I thought you might appreciate a photograph I recently took of my son in his near-completed tree fort. We built it together this spring. Some of the greatest joys my wife and I experience through homeschooling are the additional time and the memories we have with our children before they leave our home. Your talk reminded me to take advantage of those opportunities.

May God bless you, your family, and the work that you do.

With kindest regards,
Michael in Ohio

PS - We use the IEW program and love it. We also just purchased the Phonetic Zoo at the conference and are thrilled about starting the children on the program.

Andrew Pudewa on KCFO AM 970

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:16:13 -0500

Tulsa, tune in to AM 970 on Saturday, April 28th at 12:30PM and catch Andrew on the radio as he is interviewed on The Homeschool Life!

Not in Tulsa? Listen online here.

e-Newsletter Archive

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:34:41 -0500

Subscribe to our quarterly email newsletter and other email notifications here.

e-Newsletter Archive:

IEW Provides Jaw-Dropping Results for This Teacher

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:55:08 -0500

I have almost two years of IEW teaching under my belt, and I have never felt so competent and satisfied at work. IEW has equipped me to answer students' questions in a way they immediately understand. When I grade a paper, I feel peace that the number I have scribbled on the top of their paper is exactly what that student has earned. I have watched my students begin the year writing paragraphs and end the year writing literary critiques and research papers that leave me with my jaw on the floor.

Caroline S.

Learning to Read with Primary Arts of Language (PAL)

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 09:57:24 -0500

Expert from Pam's blog JourneyingwithJoy.blogspot.com:

Primary Arts of Language

Online Classes

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 09:05:10 -0500

Click her for more details on online classes.

Are you interested in future class offerings? Sign up for our email notification list here.

Writing Success!

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 15:01:41 -0500

We love getting fan mail! Here's one from Diana, a homeschooling mom and co-op teacher from the San Diego, CA area:

Success with Excellence in Writing: One teacher's journey from frustration to delight

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:02:45 -0500

I knew what was wrong with my student's writing, but we weren't communicating effectively on how to fix it. Writing time was often filled with tears and frustration. I needed a real writing curriculum.

I began implementing the (IEW) program as I learned it and I saw dramatic improvements week by week. The models were exactly what my students needed. My students' attitudes changed and we actually began enjoying the writing process… Because of the writing success of my students, our entire school is now using this program.

Sandra
Tualatin, Oregon

Andrew Pudewa to Illinois in 2012

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 14:42:26 -0500

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.

HomeschoolConvention.com

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:17:26 -0500

Join us at the Home Educating Family Online Convention!

If you are not able to attend a homeschool convention this year, check out the new "virtual convention" and our booth!

Relax, sit back, and enjoy excellent speakers, product overviews, samples and downloads, and the wonderful encouragement that you find at a live convention.

Click here to join!

Andrew Pudewa to Indiana in 2012

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 19:12:52 -0500

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.

Andrew Pudewa to Tennessee in 2012

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:58:38 -0500

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.
Memphis, TN

Andrew Pudewa to Ohio in 2012

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 18:48:04 -0500

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.

Rainy Day at IEW Office!

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 12:59:53 -0500

Callers, please be patient with us today (Tuesday, March 20) as many of our staff could not make it to work due to the flooded roads! This may also cause a delay in shipping your order to you.

IEW Offices Closed March 5th

Sat, 03 Mar 2012 19:03:10 -0600

Our offices will be closed Monday, March 5th in honor of Marcia McCarry's passing (Andrew Pudewa's mother).
We thank you for the prayers and support during this time.

We will resume our normal business hours on Tuesday, March 6th.

Andrew Pudewa to Tennessee in 2012

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:29:27 -0600

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.
Maryville, TN

Poetry a Part of This Homeschooling Family's Day

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:49:50 -0600

Did you grow up with Mother Goose? I did. When I did read Laurie's Teacup blog, I was washed by a flood of happy childhood memories!

I wanted to introduce my children to the love of literature through the doorway of poetry, impart that same enjoyment of rhythm and rhyme. When they were little we carried the tradition of memorizing poetry from the same Childcraft books. My mom kept her set but my mother-in-law let me take home her set for the kids to enjoy.

When my kids were entering their teen years, I purchased IEW's Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization, both the book and CD. Especially in the summer, when we drove somewhere in the van, we took the CD and book with us.

Laurie has provided a language rich environment for her children. I hope I have provided my own sons with plenty of happy poetry memories as well!

14 Days of February Freebies from How To Homeschool My Child

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:08:58 -0600

We are pleased to partner with Kerry Beck and her new blog, How to Homeschool My Child who is offering a gift every day for 14 days starting February 1. It's called 83 Ways to Celebrate Valentines Day and includes the history of Valentines Day, Homeschool Activities, Crafts, Special Family Activities and much more. As a partner with How To Homeschool My Child, IEW is also bringing you a special gift starting Thursday, February 2, 2012.

Sign up on the home page so you won't miss any of the goodies. And invite your friends as well! While you're there, wander around her blog a bit. Kerry has many helpful hints that will cheer you as you continue your homeschooling journey.

Poetry Memorization: "If SHE can do it, who can't??"

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:53:09 -0600

Hello IEW,
I wanted to pass this along as a THANK YOU. Your "Linguistic Development Through Poetry Memorization" program has been a wonderful addition to our homeschool this year. On my blog, I posted yesterday about how pleased I am with the program and included a video of my almost 2 year old daughter reciting "Ooey Gooey!" If SHE can do it, who can't??

Thanks so much for making memorization fun...for ALL of us!
Christine
http://crunchycountrycatholic.blogspot.com/2012/01/memory-making.html

Andrew Pudewa to California in 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 15:14:55 -0600

Workshops for students as well as parents and teachers along with conventions that Andrew will be speaking at.

Andrew Pudewa to Texas in 2012

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:56:03 -0600

Workshops for Students as well as Parents and Teachers
Arlington, Austin, and Kingwood TX

The Two Andrews: On Writing and Teaching Writing - The Southwest Tour in Five Cities!

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:50:10 -0600

The Two Andrews Southwest Tour
A Special One-day Event with Andrew Kern and Andrew Pudewa—together!

For Teachers, Teaching Parents, College & High School Students
California, Arizona, Texas, and Colorado

2012 School Magalog has been mailed!

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:32:35 -0600

Didn't receive it?
Request the 2012 School Magalog today and receive two free downloads!

A Primary Arts of Language (PAL) Review

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 09:08:36 -0600

Cindy West is an eclectically Charlotte Mason mom of three kids in high school, middle school and K4. She wrote glowing reviews of our newest reading and writing products for your youngest students. Here is an excerpt:

Using the "blended sound-sight" method of phonics skills and sight words-based education with a playful, game-like approach, children are intended to have fun and progress rapidly at the same time.

You can read more on PAL-Reading here.
Or PAL-Writing here.

Clearance Sale!

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:30:21 -0600

If you are looking for a few IEW items and you don't mind if they have a few scratches or dents...
AND are hoping for a clearance sale that offers substantial savings...

THEN your wait is over!
Click here for more details.

The sale will run from Nov. 25-Dec. 2

Lemonade To Leadership Success!

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:12:23 -0500

We just received this AMAZING and INSPIRING email from Tracy who shared her successes using Lemonade To Leadership in her school. Read on! I'm sure you too will want to have your students start a metaphorical Lemonade Stand of their own!

Circle Christian School

Lemonade To Leadership

As an entrepreneur, I was blessed to have parents who understood and encouraged the world of entrepreneurship in our home and allowed me to have my own businesses at a young age. Today, it has been hard to find programs in the schools and communities that encourage "thinking out of the box." There are young people whom God has wired with a sense of "what if?" and "why not?" and see ways to make money in the littlest things. Unfortunately, by the time these young people get into high school, if they are not encouraged, they begin to believe the comment "that would never work" and give up dreaming.

I was ecstatic when the our CCS K-8 Program Director, Carla Calvert, showed me the Lemonade to Leadership (L2L) curriculum she found on the IEW website. Now each spring, I conduct an 18 week Boot Camp for 4th-7th graders to teach the program. They are instructed on the basic concepts of business, verbal and nonverbal communication, and product development. At graduation, we create a market place for the students to show off their businesses to family and friends. They build a table top exhibit which includes all the visual features that were discussed, provide marketing materials (business cards, packaging, and brochures), discuss their business plan, and sell their product(s). Each student also must give a 30-60 second pitch for their business, which gives them a chance to practice public speaking.

Once the students have completed the Boot Camp they then have the opportunity to continue with the group of L2L alumni, which meets once a month, to build their business or launch another endeavor, hear from local entrepreneurs, and participate in other market place events. Last Christmas we were able to do a Christmas Market at the school. As a group, we spent hours hand making ornaments and crafts for gifts that would be sold between $0.50-$2.00. This taught the students how to work hard and create products that had a 50% profit margin. In addition the students could purchase table space ($10.00) and sell their own business items. We made around $2,000.00, with the money going to the club's future endeavors and the mission work of Opportunity International.

I have been blown away by each of the student's success, not just financially but most important personally. Some students had a transformation from pessimist to optimist as well as synergizing with students who think like they do. After completing the L2L program, they are equipped to take their ideas, think outside the box, and run with it. In this economy where they say there is no money, these kids are finding it. The L2L program is changing lives and grooming our next generation of entrepreneurs.

-Tracy from FL

Andrew Pudewa to Oklahoma, Dec. 15–17, 2011

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 14:10:34 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Parents and Teachers
Enid, OK

Andrew Pudewa to California, Nov. 30–Dec. 3, 2011

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 14:30:11 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Parents and Teachers
Modesto, CA

Happy 100th Birthday, Mrs. Ingham!

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:24:53 -0500

We would like to invite you to celebrate with us by wishing Mrs. Anna Ingham a happy birthday!

December e-Newsletter Released

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 10:06:13 -0500

Did you get our winter 2011
e-Newsletter?
Check it out here!

Teacups in the Garden Blogger Shares Teaching the Classics Ideas

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:30:36 -0500

With a clever blog title such as Teacups in the Garden, it's no surprise that this blogger takes a creative approach to teaching, including her implementation ideas for Adam Andrew's Teaching the Classics seminar on teaching literature.

Here are a couple snippets from her blog:

After a few weeks, when this was internalized, we began discussing the literature book orally over lunch, which I like to call a Literature Club Cafe.

One day, I got so caught up in a favorite scene, that I made a scene, acting it out in the kitchen! The kids thought I had lost it, but I made a dramatic point! Isn't that the fun of teaching?

What a fabulous way to enjoy lunch! I do hope many more will imitate this approach and discover the joy of Teaching the Classics in a delightful and delicious way.

Excerpt from Benjamin Franklin's Autobiography

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:00:05 -0500

Andrew Pudewa, in his recent article, Thoughts on Creativity, which was published in IEW's September 2011 e-newsletter says:

If students practice making outlines from existing materials (source texts that can include facts, opinions, stories, descriptions), they will learn how to create outlines by taking key words from sentences, facts, elements of an original story, etc. They then can practice reconstructing those ideas from their outline, much the way Benjamin Franklin described in his autobiography.

You can find that excerpt on page four in our Teaching Writing: Structure & Style Seminar Workbook. For your convenience, we have included that page here.

Primary Arts of Language Reviewed

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:13:55 -0500

Jen Hartenburg, M.Ed, who has a background both as a professional and home educator, writes this glowing review of our newest products for your youngest students:

Primary Arts of Language (PAL)

…the PAL curriculum pack is a dynamic option for those seeking a creative and comprehensive language arts program for K-1. The greatest strengths of the program seem to be the central place given to poetry and literature, the early introduction of the habit of journaling, the colorful Phonetic Farm poster board for organizing and comparing the various multi-letter phonemes, and the use of games to keep it fun.

There's that "fun" word again! We do hope to help you create an environment where love of learning is possible, and we think PAL is a great place to start. It's nice that we're not the only ones who think so!

You can read more at her blog here.

An Excellent Post from The Pioneer Woman on the THSC Convention

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 09:08:43 -0500

Excerpt from The Pioneer Woman's blog post:
Back from the THSC Southwest Convention and Family Conference

The room was packed tight. The aisles and walls were lined with the overflow and no one seemed to mind–he is THAT good.

Inspired by Dr. Leonard Sax books, Why Gender Matters: What Parents and Teachers Need to Know about the Emerging Science of Sex Differences and Boys Adrift: The Five Factors Driving the Growing Epidemic of Unmotivated Boys and Underachieving Young Men, Pudewa gave a fresh perspective on how and why gender plays such a big part in teaching and learning.

This particular workshop was "boy" focused, but he did drive home a few points for the girls as well. While I've already grasped the importance of relevance and learning, Pudewa tossed me a few more bones to chew on AND a few more books to add to my Amazon Wish List (since my Amazon budget is currently non-existent).

Andrew Pudewa to Florida, Oct. 5–7, 2011

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 13:04:17 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Homeschooling Parents in Orlando, FL.

Andrew Pudewa to North Carolina, Sept. 27–Oct. 1, 2011

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 15:54:57 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Homeschooling Parents in Clinton and Charlotte, NC.

CollegePlus! Live Webinar with Andrew Pudewa

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:10:25 -0500

On Thursday, August 4, 2011, Andrew Pudewa will deliver a powerful presentation, titled:

Freedomship Education: Take Your Children off The Conveyor Belt & into Life through Internships & Entrepreneurship

First Class Homeschool Ministries Workshop Tour

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 10:13:05 -0500

Are you following the St. Johns and their trip across the United States to support friends and homeschooling families? Yesterday Jay, Heidi, and their seven children were in Oklahoma, which they timed perfectly for the HOTTEST days in Oklahoma history!

Next stop: Alexandria, LA. Check out their schedule to see when they are heading your way.

For those of you on Facebook, you can "like" them here.

Also, check out Heidi's new book, The Busy Homeschool Mom's Guide to Romance, which was recently featured on Dr. Dobson's Family Talk radio show! You can also find a great picture of their precious family on this link .

Andrew Pudewa to Washington State, Nov. 8–12, 2011

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:26:00 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Homeschooling Parents
Addy & Spokane, WA

Andrew Pudewa to Montana, August 11, 2011

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 12:15:03 -0500

Workshop for High School Students
Helena, MT

My Children Love Writing, Thanks to IEW!

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 10:08:03 -0500

Here is another exciting IEW story we find on Rebecca's Mom's Mustard Seed blog, complete with a happy ending:

Her product of choice: Teaching Writing/Student Writing Intensive Combo Pack, Level A

If you like her review, find it helpful, or want to see more of her students' samples, please be sure you "comment" on her blog. It's always so encouraging to bloggers to know who stopped by to see what they had to say!

New Six-Week Lesson Plans for Teaching the Classics

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:04:12 -0500

Jill Pike has done it again! Lesson plans that are fall-out-of-bed-easy designed to go with our premier literature product for teachers, Teaching the Classics, are available here.

This class is suitable for middle and high school students. Plan on completing one lesson per week for six weeks. You will need the Teaching the Classics DVD and Workbook available here.

To contact Jill, or for helpful advice and tips on using our products, please see join our online forum.

Celebrate Freedomship!

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 15:02:19 -0500

Celebrate July 4th with our Freedomship Promotion! Click here for a coupon code for "freedom-shipping" and other offers good through July 8.

Andrew Pudewa to Louisiana, Sept. 15–16, 2011

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 11:11:59 -0500

Workshops for Students as well as Homeschooling Parents in Shreveport, LA.

Hot off the presses!

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 11:56:46 -0500

Our summer 2011 email newsletter has been sent out, and is now available for online viewing here.

Generous Honors from The Old Schoolhouse Crew

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:52:02 -0500

This year we asked our friends at The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew, who are committed to giving honest reviews, to look at a few of our products and to share their experiences with the world on their blogs. (A bit nervy of us, don't you think?) You can find links to their curriculum reviews on our writing program and other products including Teaching Boys DVD and The Phonetic Zoo on their website. Ending the year with a celebration, The Old Schoolhouse Crew handed out awards to various companies that they reviewed. While we fit in many of their categories (writing, spelling, language arts, etc.), candidates are only able to win in one single category—with one exception. We are delighted to have won the Blue Ribbon Award in the following categories: Favorite Language Arts Product and the highly coveted All Around Crew Favorite! This is indeed an honor! A huge thank-you to all our buddies and bloggers who make up The Old Schoolhouse Crew!

The Mighty Pen

Tue, 24 May 2011 11:50:26 -0500

Lori Verstegen, author of All Things Fun and Fascinating, Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons, Medieval-Based Writing Lessons, US History-Based Writing Lessons, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, Teaching with Games and Decorations, Dress-Ups, and Delightful Divisions, shares this end-of-the-year poem. Enjoy!

The Mighty Pen

by IEW author and instructor Lori Verstegen and her son, Jonathan

Listen my students, and you shall hear
The things to remember as we close the school year.
Skilled writing and speaking are sure keys to success,
And with structure and style you can compose with finesse.

No matter your essay, how huge or how small,
The right model of structure should be prior to all.
Without structure a reader cannot track, cannot follow,
And the substance of your work will be no better than hollow.

Once the right model of structure's in place,
You can light up your work with style and with grace.

Dress-ups, you know, are essential to writing.
They make your words shimmer, yes, oh, so inviting.
They are very important, like the clothes you wear,
So don't let your papers run naked and bare!

Now using banned words is tempting to some,
But these words suggest that your mind was quite numb.

Good, bad, nice, mean, pretty, ugly, big, a lot,
Go, went, come, came, say, said, get, got.
Please, DO NOT!

Sentence openers, numbered one through six,
Add variety of types and lengths to your mix.
Too much of the same would simply be boring,
And you want your readers awake, not snoring.

A decoration's value is hard to replace,
But it's a card to play well, just like an Ace.
To play five in a row does more harm than good,
So use decorations sparingly, and know when you should.

Stories have special elements of style.
Here are my favorites, you've done for a while:

Imagery—vivid descriptions through the five senses,
Paints pictures for your readers as it lends them your lenses.

Showing emotions, rather than just telling,
Makes a scene so much more compelling.
"He is happy" is vague—it's hard to see.
Much better, "He jumped up and down, screaming with glee."

There is so much to practice, but the reward can be great,
For with the power of words, you can play with fate.
Yes, we live in a world that is full of discord,
But, remember, "The pen is mightier than the sword."

Testimony

Tue, 10 May 2011 12:28:20 -0500

I just LOVE this curriculum. You should read some of the things my sixth graders have written this year. They are fabulous, thanks to IEW. We are looking forward to expanding to using this in seventh grade and fifth grade. - Deb

Andrew Receives Accolades from MTHEA's Jonathan's Arrow Editor

Wed, 04 May 2011 14:27:19 -0500

If you have been a friend or follower of IEW for any length of time, you know we enjoy sharing testimonies from fellow fans. We just received this one from Barbara Cheney of Nashville, TN. She is a Board Member of MTHEA and Editor of the Jonathan's Arrow Newsletter, who shared her story while requesting permission to republish one of Andrew Pudewa's articles.

Student Intensive

Thanks for your kind words, Barbara, and for your permission to quote you! We do hope your readers find Andrew's article, 4 Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing: Common Mistakes and Some Options for Teachers helpful and enlightening.

Teaching Children Writing Can Be Most Intimidating

Mon, 02 May 2011 10:14:32 -0500

Why is teaching writing so difficult? Jana Miller, in her blog The Homeschool Jungle, suggests that good writing is vague. She says, "I certainly can read something and say, 'That's great writing!' But why is it good writing and how do you get your child to that point?" She goes on to list several reasons why IEW helps parents identify and teach this very thing:

Here are some basics about the program:

Teaches note taking skills in a really concrete way.
Explains how to write, it doesn't just give topics to write about.
Focuses on structure rather than content. Kids can get the content figured out later.
Provides a clear set of expectations for the student (and parent). This will eliminate the fuzzy zone of wondering if they have done "enough."
Utilizes a checklist for grading and easy evaluation by the parent. Grading is easy and concrete like math.

Of course, this is only part of her list. You can read her entire post her by clicking here. And for those you who are new to homeschooling, you may find her Guide to Simple Homeschooling a helpful resource and breath of fresh air.

Thanks for your kind words, Janna! Blessings to you as you continue your work in supporting homeschoolers!

IEW's 2011 Video Catalog Receives Warm Reviews

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:51:38 -0500

Every year since 2008, IEW has posted on YouTube snippets of Andrew Pudewa sharing about the products and services IEW provides. Often with more than just information about the product, he shares helpful advice and passion for education.

Wendy from Michigan agrees when she shares her experience:

I just wanted to take a moment to tell you that I absolutely love the detailed product description videos by Andrew Pudewa on your website. These are an extremely valuable tool for selecting curriculum and even refining my own educational philosophies. Thank you so much for providing such thorough and helpful direction.

As an added bonus this year, Andrew takes you on a tour of the IEW Corporate office in Oklahoma, much to the surprise of his staff!

You can view the video catalog on our website, where navigation is as easy as clicking a button, or on YouTube where you can post comments and vote on whether or not you "Like" the clip. (We hope you do!)

If you prefer, we can also ship you an actual DVD of the Video Catalog. Just drop us an email!

Freedomship Summer Intern Opportunity

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:54:08 -0500

Magnum Opus Idea for IEW Classes

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:37:59 -0500

Magnum Opus is Latin for great work. Dr. Webster, in his book, Blended Structure in Style in Composition encourages teachers to compile a Magnum Opus each year to showcase exceptional student work.

How clever is this? IEW Certified Instructor from the Houston area, Beth Sinclair, compiles her students' best work and submits it to blurb.com who turn the work into a book for students, parents, grandparents, and US to view online or purchase in a variety of forms. Click on the icon in the lower right hand corner and you can view the pages in full screen mode. Brilliant!

Closed Captioning Feasibility Survey

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:24:14 -0500

Take a survey on adding Closed Captioning to select IEW products.

Freedomship Summer Intern Opportunity with the Institute for Excellence in Writing

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 10:13:04 -0500

Tired of the same old summer job? Looking for a chance to apply your skills to meaningful projects? Want to spruce up your resume with significant work experience?

The Institute for Excellence in Writing is looking for TWO enthusiastic college-age students (18-25 years) who are willing to dedicate themselves and their summer to personal and professional growth while assisting in the advancement of new IEW products and projects.

Dates: June 5-July 30 (6 week minimum commitment, dates are somewhat flexible)
Location: Locust Grove, OK
Housing, meals, and stipend provided (see application for more details)

Applications due on May 13, 2011, but earlier submissions are gratefully accepted.

More details here!

Apples of Gold

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:58:50 -0500

Daily we have our friends and families say nice things about us. "Like apples of gold in settings of silver" these kind words are collected and treasured. Here is such an example:

Alia, Homeschool mom in Maryland.

You can find more of these gems in our testimonial treasure chest here.

Do you have a story you would like to share? You can email it here: info@excellenceinwriting.com. Who knows? Yours may wind up in a blog post or on our front page slide show as well!

Speech Boot Camp Reviewed

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 13:10:05 -0500

Whenever we release a new product, due to the nature of our business of providing materials and tools for the school year, we don't often hear if it is helpful until a year or so after its introduction to the world. Such is the case with Speech Boot Camp: Introduction to Public Speaking, released in March 2010. This is a fast-paced public speaking course presented on four DVDs. The downloadable e-books containing reproducible handouts for "trainees" and lesson plans with evaluation forms for the parent/facilitator. Lesson plans provide for either a four-day intensive or a eleven-week course.

Finally our waiting is over, and the positive comments are starting to come in! Stephanie D. Scarborough, reviewer for The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, shares her experience in using the course with her own teenagers.

Anybody who has given a speech can relate to the title of disc one: "Into the Fire." In fact, fire may seem preferable to giving a speech! Next, in discs two and three, we traverse the "10 Mile Run" and "Obstacle Courses." The training for and perseverance required to run a 10-mile race can easily be compared to the speech preparation and delivery process. Mr. Pudewa helps students avoid speech pitfalls, much like a runner must avoid obstacles to make a good time. Lastly, in disc four, we make it to the "Finish Line." The pride we feel upon completion of something challenging like delivering a speech is much like that of a runner crossing the finish line in a race.

Regarding Speech Boot Camp, my daughter said, "I was dreading every moment, but slowly I got more into it and less scared. The tips were useful and applicable; seeing other people speak showed me things I didn't like, thus I tried to avoid doing those in my speeches. I feel like my speaking has improved, and I feel better prepared." My son commented that this program was "not just useful for giving speeches, but for talking in general." We all agreed on our favorite part of the program--the speech examples, in which we critiqued speeches and discussed them based upon the requirements and conventions we had learned in the lessons.

As Stephanie shares, the course is rigorous. However, it is a satisfying to read that this course helped to transform her students' fears of speaking into a more enjoyable exercise.

You can read the entire review here.

Central Creative Group and the Pathway to Excellence in Thinking, Speaking, and Writing

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 18:04:42 -0500

Many of our families want to see the whole picture of where to start and what's next before they jump into IEW. Others just want to see how to get started. This Scope & Sequence, found on page 4-5 in our 2011 Magalog, does both! You can view the chart here.

Central Creative Group, the designers of our 2011 Magalog describe how they came up with the Pathway concept on their blog.

The challenge facing IEW in 2011, and that given to CCG, is one of educating their expanding client base on the optimal use of their product line - which is also expanding. IEW's customer base homeschools children of all ages, and even though products are coded for grade-level, help was needed to clarify product progression.

To read more of the design process, click here.

Thank you, Henry and Samantha, for such a beautiful Magalog! And thank you for capturing our Pathway in a way that more clearly lays out how our families can experience Excellence in Writing.

Another Success Story from the Write Brothers!

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 11:01:44 -0500

I've always hoped that someday someone famous discovers IEW and shares her story. This time, Dawn, author of the Olive Plants blog and the mother of Orville and Wilber, reports:

IEW's Student Intensive

Ancient History-Based Writing

She then posts her sons' work samples.

OK, it's not those Wright Brothers, but it's still pretty exciting!

She goes on to say: "If you are considering what to buy for writing next year, please allow me to make a suggestion! IEW has been a huge blessing for us." Who can argue with success?

To read more of her blog and see what else she is up to, click here.

Homeschool Convention Giveaway!

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 14:21:55 -0600

Are you planning to purchase your IEW materials at a homeschool convention near you? If so, we have a special gift for you! Pick up your copy of Andrew Pudewa's DVD Seminar Freedomship & Entrepreneurial Education† along with Nature Deficit Disorder: Causes, Consequences, & Cures† Audio CD when you spend $100 or more.

The fine print:
While supplies last. Limit one per household. This item is not available for sale.
†Product contains distinctly Christian content

The Old Schoolhouse Reviews Economics-Based Writing Lessons

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 14:11:19 -0600

Are you taking your high school students through economics this year? In light of today's economy, it may be a great time! Here are some comments from TOS reviewer, Kim Kargbo:

This course would make an excellent foundation from which to build a high school level economics course. I don't believe the concepts covered in this course, in and of themselves, would be sufficient for a high school credit in economics, but with some supplementation it would be a great base.

Click here to read more.

Global Encounters Essay Contest

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 11:27:29 -0600

Calling all writers!

Are you looking for a way to pay for a mission trip overseas? Global Encounters is excited to announce an essay contest geared toward missions. In partnership with CollegePlus and the Institute for Excellence in Writing, Global Encounters is offering over $2,500 in prizes toward mission trips!

With exciting destinations this year like Ecuador, Peru, Mexico, Romania, and South Africa, there's never been a better time to go on a mission trip with Global Encounters!

Grand Prize: $1,200
Second prize: $500
Third prize: $300
Five honorable mentions: a Global Encounters hoodie and a $75 certificate!

Here's how to enter:
* Write an original essay in 500-750 words that answers the question "What is missions and how can you be involved?"
* Send your essay to contest@globalencounter.net by March 31st, 2011.
* Be sure to include your name, age, address, and phone number.
* Winners will be announced April 12th!

More information here.

"What's New at IEW?" Webinar on March 1

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:15:46 -0600

Join Andrew Pudewa for a sneak-peek preview of our newest products for 2012.

Mon., 3/1 at 7:30pm CT

Cost: $5

Attendees receive a receive a coupon good for free shipping in March and an additional gift!

Register Here

What's the Word on the Web? The Buzz on Blogs and Other Social Media

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 09:30:00 -0600

From coast to coast, across the oceans, and around the world, friends and families enjoy the camaraderie in sharing their experiences and enjoyment while teaching writing with the structure and style approach. How is this possible? While many are able to come by and see a friendly IEW exhibitor at a local homeschool convention, it's not an option for everyone. Making the trek to the IEW corporate office, many drivers have become lost and are forced to call our friendly customer service team to help them navigate the back roads. Call ahead! The Institute for Excellence in Writing corporate office near Locust Grove, Oklahoma does not yet show up on GPS devices. Thankfully, we are able to stay connected to our families through a variety of virtual portals including blogs, our IEW families loop, Facebook, Twitter, and IEW Webinars.

The term "going viral" is both exhilarating and terrifying to a small company like ours. So what's the buzz? How go things for the Institute for Excellence in Writing on the World Wide Web? Fortunately, we have found dozens of favorable comments on the Web, and we have thousands of satisfied customers who are staying connected with one another and us through many flavors of social media.

Here are a few blog excerpts you may want to check out. By the way, you can access this article and click on the links by visiting: excellenceinwriting.com/blog.

Barb of the curriculumchoice.com says,

It has always been important to me to have my children develop their own voice in their writing, to have the paper sound like it is from their own thoughts and reasoning. IEW has helped my boys use the IEW tools in a way that makes writing in their own words easier.

Easier. I like that!

Brenda agrees and shares her thoughts on what makes IEW different:

The first thing I will tell you about IEW is it is like NO other writing curriculum out there. After watching 9 DVDs you'll be able to teach writing in your sleep. It's a step-by-step system that's fairly easy with a little practice. You will ask yourself why no one has taught you this stuff before."

I, too, asked myself that question! Fortunately, I'm glad I learned in time to reteach myself and my children.

Here's one I particularly enjoyed from a homeschooling mom with a blog whose name invokes a smile, Footprints in the Butter:

The kids are more than willing to listen to what [Andrew Pudewa] says and make their dad watch their favorite parts of the writing DVDs. I never get complaints about "having" to watch an IEW DVD, and I usually don't get complaints about doing the assignments either.

Sometimes it just takes someone else to verbalize what we want to say in order for our children to listen, doesn't it?

Sassy Chicken, who puts some great tips and recipes on her blog, also shares her first experience using IEW:

This year we finally bit the bullet and bought the Institute for Excellence in Writing. I have started watching the videos, but learned that you could begin the program after watching the first video. Mr. Pudewa is so funny. I found myself laughing often while watching him. He is even funnier during the kids' seminars, and all three kids were cracking up. Nothing wrong with learning being fun sometimes.

I love this! Sassy Chicken, we're glad you took time out from having fun to share your story.

Unsocialized Homeschoolers" />

One thing we hear often is, "IEW is rather pricey!" It's nice when we get a review like the one from Kris, the creator of the Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers blog, in which she explains why IEW is effective and affordable.

The fact that all three of my kids can benefit from what I'll learn using TWSS and that they can all effectively use one level of the SWI makes Institute for Excellence in writing much more cost effective than it initially appeared.

I couldn't have said it better myself!

Blogging is just one of the ways our families are sharing their experiences and starting conversations. As mentioned before, there are many ways to join our online community.

IEW Loops: These online Q&A forums have been around since August 1999. The busiest of them is the IEWfamilies Loop boasting over 8000 members who share and garner advice from one another daily. excellenceinwriting.com/loop

Our Website: Our front page is updated weekly with new content about upcoming events, interesting tidbits we find on the Web, and testimonies from families like you who are kind enough to tell us about your positive experiences. excellenceinwriting.com

Facebook: A relative newcomer to our menu of social media, IEW's Facebook page has at this printing collected 2,449 fans, who receive updates on Andrew Pudewa's whereabouts, often find out what the weather is like in unpredictable Oklahoma, and occasionally receive Facebook-Fan only specials. Fans can also view and post photos and comment on their experiences. www.facebook.com/excellenceinwriting

Twitter: Hot off the press news comes to our @IEW Twitter followers in 140 characters or less, spaces included. Not much room for DUs, SOs, or Decs! twitter.com/iew

Webinars: Offered several times a month for IEW parents, teachers, and those new to our writing method, webinars are a great way to interact with the speaker with questions or comments. These webinars are often offered free of charge and are recorded so you can listen again and again.

And while there are many platforms we have not yet dabbled in such as podcasts, video streaming, and live 24/7 online chat, we are committed to keeping our lines of communication flowing both ways. If you just want to drop us an email (info@excellenceinwriting.com) or pick up the phone (800.856.5815), we have a friendly customer service team ready to answer your email or take your call. But who knows? You may find all the words of help and encouragement you need waiting for you on the Web.

Biola Youth's

twitter.com/juliannw

Accolades from Down Under

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 15:34:05 -0600

It's always thrilling to read success stories and work samples from pleased mothers and their sons. Here's a delightful excerpt from Tracey, a homeschooling mother of two boys, aged 9 and 7 years who lives in Australia. In her Little Men in My Library blog she shares:

Ethan has never been a keen writer. We can safely call him "reluctant", yet nowadays I can send him to create a key word outline, a draft with "dress ups", and a published piece all in one afternoon...with barely a complaint...and two to three times a week!!! I didn't think I'd EVER see this day!

She then shares a work sample that tickled my heart. This is from his rough draft:

One day a fly was eating along an edge of a jar. He did not know that he was moving away from the edge and it got stuck in the honey. Struggling to get free he got his wings in the honey too. A moth saw him there and he yapped, "You are foolish; you were greedy so you got caught in that jar. Your appetite was too much, way too much for you." The fly had not a word to say in reply. What the moth had yapped was true. Evening came and who was it that came, the moth came with a candle and it burned the moth to ashes. The fly yapped, "What? You are foolish too. You had good wisdom for me but no wisdom that tells you not to play with fire". It is easier to see others foolishness then your own.

Love the "yapped"!

You can review more of her blog here.

She also includes a link to a previous review of IEW.

We wish you continued success, Tracey!

Dyslexic Student Wins Writing Award

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 14:34:39 -0600

We are always inspired and encouraged when we hear of IEW students receive awards. This one is especially touching:

[Daughters of the American Revolution] (DAR)

It is a tremendous accomplishment for a dyslexic student to win an essay writing contest at this level. IEW has made such a difference in Maegan's writing, particularly in her ability to stay on topic; to write in an organized and well-sequenced manner; to use quality verbs, adverbs, and adjectives; and to include a variety of sentence openers. Most importantly, Maegan had three outstanding points that were well worth reading and emulating.

Maegan now provides an example to other dyslexic students and to others who struggle with writing, that it is possible to reach great heights with the right instruction; a bright, inquisitive mind; the willingness to put forth a significant amount of effort; perseverance; and a determination to revise and revise again until you know you have done your very best.'

Gratefully,
Sue Ewing, Accredited IEW Instructor at the Certified Level

Congratulations, Mrs. Ewing, for your accomplishments, and to your student Maegan for her perseverance in overcoming her learning challenge!

Is writing supposed to be so much fun???!!!

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 13:27:41 -0600

"One of my youngest students, Abigail (7), teaches her 5-month baby sister, Lily Anne, from the IEW Portable Wall. Is writing supposed to be so much fun???!!!"

Beth Sinclair
IEW Certified Instructor, TX

(Permission given to post this story and image from the girls' mother, Stacy )

One Homeschool Mother's Journal

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 16:35:33 -0600

While I love reading blogs, this one in particular caught my eye because of the author's style and format. I'm almost convinced I can use her model and be more intentional about keeping my own blog interesting and current. Maybe.

The Homeschool Chick's

Wow! If that isn't a testament to how the right curriculum can truly change EVERYTHING, I don't know what is.

Snow Delay

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 11:23:01 -0600

Due to uncommon and severe snowstorms in Oklahoma, the IEW office will be closed for a day or two. Our phones are still open, but you may need to call back a few times to get in touch with us. As always, you can still place an order via the website. We hope to be operating fully again by Friday, Feb. 4th, and any packages ordered this week will be delivered shortly thereafter.

Thanks for your patience!

2012 Magalog Available Now!

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 15:26:04 -0600

Request the 2012 Magalog today and receive three free downloads!

Footprints in the Butter Blogs about IEW

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:59:37 -0600

While working on an article for the IEW 2011 Magalog (look for it in your mailboxes in March) with a theme of WOMM—Word of Mouth Marketing—and all the nice things people are saying out the Institute for Excellence in Writing and our products, I came across a blog post from Footprints in the Butter. Not only is her blog title intriguing and her picture adorable, her content is delightful. In fact, it's hard to find just an excerpt to include here. And I love how she answers questions of those who ask about our products.

first poem in level one,

mp3s,

The kids are more than willing to listen to what he says and make their dad watch their favorite parts of the writing DVDs. I never get complaints about "having" to watch an IEW DVD, and I usually don't get complaints about doing the assignments either.

Overall, what I love about IEW is that the materials tend to work for a variety of ages, and they focus so much on teaching ME. They reinforce a lot of the things I believe about education -- reading aloud is critically important, and learning to communicate is incredibly valuable, to name two.

I want one of everything.

Thanks for your great review, Debra! We're so glad we made your list of "favorite homeschool companies."

Julie Walker
Marketing Director for Excellence in Writing

12 Days of Christmas Giving

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 10:58:37 -0600

Free shipping from Dec. 26-Jan. 6
Click here for the online promotional code and other specials!

The Two Andrews: On Writing and Teaching Writing in Five Cities!

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:12:31 -0600

A Special One-day Event with Andrew Kern and Andrew Pudewa—together!

For Teachers, Teaching Parents, College & High School Students
Virginia and North Carolina

GMA Reveals "Secret" Behind Writing a Better SAT Essay

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:23:07 -0500

What is the secret behind writing a better SAT essay? According to a November 5 interview on Good Morning America, write MORE, and it doesn't matter if what you say is true!

Of course, Andrew Pudewa has been saying this since 2006 on his High School Essay Intensive DVD course.

The College Board, creator of the SAT Test, says, "Our own research involving the test scores of more than 150,000 students admitted to more than 100 colleges and universities shows that, of all the sections of the SAT, the writing section is the most predictive of college success, and we encourage all students to work on their writing skills throughout their high school careers.

"Many people do not realize that colleges and universities also have the ability to download and review each applicant's SAT essay. In other words, colleges are not just receiving a composite writing section score, they can actually download and read the student's essay if they choose to do so."

Click here to read the entire article.

To see the video interview that is causing such a stir, click here.

Now Available: 2010 Writing Educator's Symposium MP3s!

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 15:49:53 -0500

The 2010 Writing Educator's Symposium took place on the beautiful Wake Forest University campus in Winston-Salem, NC. The nearly 150 attendees from seven countries spent the week relaxing, rejuvenating, and reflecting on their goals as a writing educator as they listened to and interacted with writing experts from across the United States and Canada. Now you can enjoy some of the excellent teaching by purchasing these audio downloads. (Not all sessions were recorded) Purchase the package and save $23! Handouts included.

Click Here: 2010 Writing Educator's Symposium in Winston-Salem, NC

Dispelling the "IEW Is Pretty Pricey" Myth

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:40:31 -0500

Maybe you're looking for a writing program and you've heard about us, but you've dismissed IEW as being too expensive. I know. We hear that a lot. But we would contend that it's because we're being compared to consumable products that you have to buy year after year.

Here's what Kris of WeirdUnsocializedHomeschoolers shares, along with other great advice as she reviews the Teaching Writing/Student Writing Intensive Combo Pack Level B, what we believe to be the the best way to begin with Excellence in Writing.

Because IEW is non-consumable and teaches the instructor how to teach writing, from the first stages through high school, it is, in fact, much more cost-effective than it may seem at first glance.

"The fact that all three of my kids can benefit from what I'll learn using TWSS and that they can all effectively use one level of the SWI makes Institute for Excellence in writing much more cost effective than it initially appeared."

She shares much more about her experience, including how her high schooler is thriving and gaining independence and how she is working more closely with her younger students to insure their success.

Click here to read the rest of her review.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

Sassy Chicken Agrees: Learning to write can be fun!

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 10:44:51 -0500

Can teaching or learning to write actually be fun? We think so, and we're not alone in our assessment. "Sassy Chicken" and her children agree.

Sassy Chicken: Writing Samples

"This year we finally bit the bullet and bought the Institute For Excellence in Writing. I have started watching the videos, but learned that you could begin the program after watching the first video. Mr. Pudewa is so funny. I found myself laughing often while watching him. He is even funnier during the kids seminars and all three kids were cracking up. Nothing wrong with learning being fun sometimes."

Read the rest of the article and check out her children's writing samples at Sassy Chicken.

Poetry Memorization: A Review

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 16:45:33 -0500

Alex, on her Canadian Home Learning blog, says:

"Memorizing poetry is something I have always wanted to do with my children but it just wasn't happening on a regular basis these past few years. I read last year a review of the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)'s Linguistic Development Through Poetry Memorization so I decided to give it a try this year.

"The program is divided into five different levels, and we started at level one. We aim to practice all the poems memorized so far every day, but some weeks, it has been less than five days.

"The poems in level one are short and fun so far."

She includes a video or two of her children reciting poetry. Check it out!

Good luck, Alex! Keep us posted on how it's going!

"It was a dark and stormy night..."

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:30:12 -0500

As many of you know, IEW has published Lee Roddy's latest instructional book, A Guide to Writing Your Novel. What you may not know is that people are already talking about it!

Here's what Kris Bales had to say in her blog, Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers.

"Poor Snoopy never got any farther on his novel than that and, unfortunately for many would-be writers, neither do most of the rest of us. I have dreamed of writing a book since I was in high school, a dream shared by many teens...including my own daughter.

Yes, you read that right. My grumbler of all things written actually enjoys working on her novel. She's been at it since April or so and writes every chance she gets, either on her laptop or in a spiral-bound notebook that she carries around to take advantage of unexpected snippets of time. So, if you're thinking that I'd do just about anything to encourage Brianna in her writing, you thought right, which is why I jumped at the chance to review A Guide to Writing Your Novel, by Lee Roddy, author of Grizzly Adams."

To read the complete review, click here.

Home School Heartbeat Interviews Andrew Pudewa

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 16:20:24 -0500

Produced by Home School Legal Defense Association, Home School Heartbeat is an informative two-minute daily radio program which draws upon HSLDA's considerable involvement and front line experience in the home schooling movement.

Spell It Out for Me: An Interview with Andrew Pudewa, will be aired the week of September 20-27 on radio stations across America.
Click here to find a station near you.

If you prefer, you may listen to Andrew's interviews here.

To hear more about this topic, we invite you to register for the @home e-vents where you will hear Andrew live, Tuesday, October, 5 at 8:00PM Central Time.

School Conventions

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 22:51:30 -0500

Are you teaching in a school and looking for ways to give your reluctant writers the skills they need to compose stories, reports, and essays? The Institute for Excellence in Writing's effective method is easily adaptable to special and mainstream education environments, and we'll be in various cities to tell you about it!

Special Education and Christian School teachers near Alaska, Texas, Florida, California and more!

Representative Elise Hall, OK

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 09:03:39 -0500

Former Excellence in Writing student, Elise Hall, was recently elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives at the age of 21. Representing that state's 100th District, she will be the youngest female ever to serve in the House.

Congratulations, Elise, on your victory—and for running a clean and honest campaign!

Representative Elise Hall, OK

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:41:39 -0500

Congratulations, Elise, on your victory—and for running a clean and honest campaign!

Homeschool Super Hero: Andrew Pudewa

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:59:39 -0500

Kerry Beck of Christian Parenting Association has brought together 13 speakers to encourage you in your Christian and homeschooling journey, including our director, Andrew Pudewa.

You can listen to or download his interview by clicking here.

For more details about this event, please visit: http://homeschoolsuperheroes.com/access.html

Handwriting Practice Using Poetry

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:07:41 -0500

We have such creativity in our circle of IEW instructors! Here is an idea and lessons from IEW Accredited Instructor Patsy Brekke:

I just used the Linguistic Development Through Poetry Memorization program to make handwriting practice pages for my daughter this year. I am so happy with them, I just have to share. I even made them downloadable for anyone else who might like to use them.

I'm excited to finally have handwriting content that will hold her interest and have purpose. She's my "funny bunny" of the three and enjoys anything laced with humor. Thus, I used poems like "Ooey Gooey" and "Rebecca, Who Slammed Doors for Fun and Perished Miserably" by Hillaire Belloc. I printed 4 of each lesson, so she will practice the same poem (or portion of a poem) for 4 days in a row, and we will practice them out loud along the way as well. We're using Pre-Cursive slanted font at this time. (I did another set in Modern Cursive too.)

Here's the link if you would like to see/use them.

Patsy
aka Ms. B.
writingfoundations.com
@writingfound on Twitter

Classroom Posters - Buy One, Get One Free!

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 14:58:09 -0500

Limited time offer.

A Guide to Writing Your Novel by Lee Roddy is now available!

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 14:28:58 -0500

This unique book not only explains but also shows aspiring writers what they need to know to write their first novel.

We're on Facebook

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 17:32:48 -0500

Become a fan of our Facebook page to hear about new events, products and maybe even a few promotional discounts!

Live Video Stream: Community Open House, Speaker Potpourri and Book Signing

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:17:57 -0500

July 27, 2010
7:30 PM-9:30 PM
Speakers include Andrew Pudewa, James B. Webster, PhD., Andrew Kern, Adam Andrews, and Lee Roddy.
$5 registration required.

Winston-Salem, NC
Free Event: Community Open House, Speaker Potpourri and Book Signing

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:16:18 -0500

July 27, 2010
7:30 PM-10:00 PM
Speakers include Andrew Pudewa, James B. Webster, PhD., Andrew Kern, Adam Andrews, and Lee Roddy.
Free registration required.

Community Workshop for Teaching Writing: Structure and Style with Implementation

Mon, 24 May 2010 12:02:32 -0500

For Full-Time, 5-Day School Teachers and Administrators

IEW Offices Closed April 6th

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 12:36:20 -0500

Our offices will be closed Friday, April 6th for the celebration of Easter.
Have a blessed time with family and friends!

We will resume our normal business hours on Monday, April 9th.

Next Informational Session

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:58:30 -0600

May 23 (4:00PM CT):
Experience Excellence in Writing for Schoolteachers & Administrators

View the school division webinar archive, here.

Support for Parents

Watch: Structure and Style Overview Video for Schools

IEW Webinar Recordings

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:19:16 -0600

Our webinars are available as recordings!

Click here to view the webinar archive.

Magnum Opus Magazine Print Publication Postponed

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 16:41:06 -0600

To Our Loyal Writers and Magnum Opus Magazine Readers,

The printed version of Magnum Opus Magazine had been put on hiatus due to printing costs. However, we are pleased to continue to accept student submissions for the Magnum Opus Magazine website.

Also, check out the latest 2010 Magalog to see a Sampling of Student Submissions!

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.

IEW Webinars

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:05:46 -0600

Webinars are held on Monday evenings at 7:30-8:30 PM CT (unless otherwise noted)

May 21:
Experience Excellence in Writing
By Danielle Olander

May 23:
Experience Excellence in Writing
For schoolteachers and administrators

June 11:
But, but, but… WHAT about GRAMMAR??
By Andrew Pudewa and Pamela White

"I Seriously Love This Spelling Program!"

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 23:33:52 -0600

It's such a delight when friends say nice things about you, isn't it? I would love to share a few excerpts of what Amy @ Raising Arrows posted on her blog:

Last year, my almost 10 year old son was struggling at spelling. Voracious reader. Horrible speller... So, this child who speaks well, writes well, reads well, needed help. I ordered the [Phonetic Zoo] product, watched their Spelling & The Brain DVD that explained why this method works, and set my son loose with the curriculum. I immediately started seeing steady results and it has continued into this year!

So, let me give you a quick run down of my favorite aspects of this curriculum:

Independent learning - Very little is required of me. In fact, I no longer go over his words at all with him. He is entirely in charge of his learning.
Auditory - My son uses the CD player and headphones. The CDs follow a pattern similar to spelling bees. My son hears the word, sees it in his mind, then writes it. The words are even checked orally, which solidifies that concept of letters being put into the correct order to form the word.
Simple & Non-consumable - No workbooks. Let me just say that again...NO WORKBOOKS! As you see in the picture at the top of the post, there are some cards that introduce the child to the words and cards you can hand them as they finish each lesson, but these are non-consumable. The simplicity of it means I'm not storing and finding places on my school shelves for a monstrosity of a curriculum.
Repetition of all words - The child must master the entire spelling list twice in a row before moving on. So often a curriculum lets them off the hook if they ever once get a word right. Speaking from past experience, that does nothing to cement the word into the child's brain.
No need to rush - Spelling levels are not age graded. You start at A no matter who you are. Each level can easily last longer than a school year. When A is complete, you move to B. No one thinks you are behind. It is truly a go-at-your-own-pace curriculum.

I'll be honest. this was the first time I purchased something for school and immediately sighed with relief. It was perfect and I am so glad I went ahead and bought it! I love it and it Works For Me!

Click Here to read the full review.

New Products for 2010

Sat, 13 Feb 2010 18:12:58 -0600

Economics, Entrepreneurship, and Elocution
Fundamentals of a Freedomship Education By Andrew Pudewa

To what end do we educate? Is it for academic achievement and success in college, or perhaps something else? Most of us would probably agree that nurturing in our children the qualities of teachability, integrity, initiative, independence, discernment, wisdom, and virtue is far more important than getting good grades in chemistry and trigonometry, but sadly these aptitudes don't usually find a place on a traditional high school transcript. Perhaps, our deepest motives for educating our children in the way we do should extend beyond our concern for their individual futures, to the future of our country and our world.

In his new book, The Coming Aristocracy: Education and the Future of Freedom, Oliver DeMille (author of A Thomas Jefferson Education) paints a somewhat grim picture of what happens when the large majority of people cease being farmers, merchants, artisans, and owners of the means of production, and become merely employees of large bureaucracies and corporations: An elite class—an aristocracy or oligarchy—gains power over the citizenry, inevitably establishing a fascist state (where government serves and is controlled by capital interests) or a communist state (where government owns and manipulates capital interests). The solution proposed by DeMille is "Freedom Education" and the return to a georgic way of thinking and living: not exclusively agrarian, but promoting the "mini-factory" (which exists whenever a smaller, more effective entity can achieve better results than a larger one). Though not explicitly stated in his book, DeMille's vision is essentially the same as that of G. K. Chesterton and Hillaire Belloc, who understood that in a free society ownership of the means of production should be spread throughout the citizenry as broadly as possible—an economic philosophy often termed "Distributism."

However, nurturing a new generation of farmers, merchants, artisans, and owners requires an education fundamentally different than the employee-training which Americans receive; it requires individualized education with an emphasis on mission, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills. While we at IEW believe that all our materials can indirectly assist parents and teachers in this quest, three of our new products are clearly more overt attempts to promote this mindset in young people.

Economics-Based Writing Lessons is the newest addition to our collection of lesson plans designed to support teachers using the Structure & Style syllabus. Aimed at the high school student with a general interest in the study of economics, it contains assignment from Units I through IX, beginning with simple definitions and stories of business successes, and then progressing to analytical essays on micro- and macro-economic questions. Though not meant to be a replacement for a formal study of economics, it will likely pique the interest of some students while giving a valuable general knowledge to others.

In Lemonade to Leadership: Nurturing Entrepreneurs, I finally found what I have long been searching for: an appropriate and effective course in entrepreneurship for young people. I am entirely convinced that students who have been educated in a way that promotes initiative, real thinking, and ingenuity should also have some practical and explicit training in how to apply their talents to starting a business, and this program provides exactly that. Written in a concise and organized way, this two-volume set presents the essential vocabulary of commerce, the fundamental procedures of planning, the practical elements of dealing with customers, and the basic principles of record keeping—all in a way that the middle-school age entrepreneur can grasp and apply. The teacher's manual and student book can easily be used with one child at home or with a dozen kids in a class. We need a nation of entrepreneurial, mission-driven, prepared young adults; it's never too soon (or too late) to start nurturing this aptitude.

Speech Boot Camp is our new video version of a short but powerful public speaking intensive course I have facilitated many times in my home town, mainly for students twelve and up as preparation for joining a competitive speech and debate club. But even for students who do not continue with competition, confidence with public speaking is an essential skill, vital for those who would pursue a future in teaching, in leadership, in entrepreneurship, in freedomship. Assuming no previous experience, I introduce in this "public speaking boot camp" the most important basic concepts for organizing and presenting a speech, give ample opportunity for practice, and teach students how to effectively critique and encourage each other. The carefully edited DVDs include several sample speeches by students both experienced and novice, and the corresponding e-book contains all the handouts necessary to enjoy the class just as if you were in the room with us. Although it was presented live and recorded in four sessions over two weeks, we have provided teaching suggestions and additional activities that can make it a two-month course, ideal for either the family or the small group. Long ago, the vital skill of speaking well, or "elocution," was considered an essential part of every citizen's basic education, enabling the average man or woman to not only reason soundly but to present ideas in a winsome, intelligent, persuasive way. Sadly the art of speaking well has faded as a required subject in most schools, but it should not be a missing element in our students' formation.

"What are we really doing here?" That's a question we as parents and teachers must always be asking. I, for one, am certain of this: The
education of free men and women must include certain fundamentals, and among those are economics, entrepreneurship, and elocution. To
fail in this might be to fail the very future of freedom.

New Bulk Deal on A Word Write Now Books!

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 16:45:00 -0600

1-4 books $33 each
5-9 books $20 each
10 or more $17.50 each
(click here for more information on A Word Write Now)

Please contact the school division office at 866.417.2391 to order with these special prices.

Writing Educator's Symposium
July 26-29, 2010

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 09:44:52 -0600

We are pleased to extend this invitation to attend our Summer 2010 Writing Educator's Symposium.

2011 Magalog Available NOW!

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:34:55 -0600

Our 2011 Magalog has arrived, filled with great articles, helpful charts, and many new products! You can download the magalog as a pdf file here. Or, if you prefer to have one mailed to you, register here and request a magalog.

New to IEW? Start here!

We've Moved!

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:23:56 -0600

Our new address:

Excellence in Writing
8799 N. 387 Rd.
Locust Grove, OK
74352
_________________

Toll Free (unchanged): 800.856.5815

Local Number (new): 918.894.5802

Fax (unchanged): 603.925.5123

Practical Homeschooling Readers Vote IEW as #1 in Writing and Spelling!

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 13:09:19 -0600

Practical Homeschooling Readers Vote IEW as #1 in Writing and Spelling

Practical Homeschooling Reader Awards have just been released, and we're so pleased to be able to announce that their readers have once again overwhelming declared IEW to be their #1 choice for writing. Now, for 11 years running, IEW's Teaching Writing: Structure and Style has topped their list as the best writing program.

We're just as pleased and perhaps a bit stunned to announce that IEW's The Phonetic Zoo was selected as their readers' choice for the best spelling program.

Thank you, PHS readers. We are honored to receive this vote of confidence.

View all past awards from PHS

Click Here to go to the Practical Homeschooling magazine's website.

We've Moved!

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:16:01 -0600

Our new address:

Institute for Excellence in Writing
8799 N. 387 Rd.
Locust Grove, OK
74352

Toll Free (unchanged): 800.856.5815
Local Number (new): 918.894.5802
Fax (unchanged): 603.925.5123

Upcoming Conventions & Workshops

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:52:25 -0600

February 22, 2012 LDA 49th Annual International Teachers Conference

March 15, 2012 Illinois Teacher Reading Council Conference

March 9, 2012 Elmhurst, IL - Yikes! to Yes! Regional Workshop

April 27, 2012 Springfield, IL - Yikes! to Yes! Regional Workshop

Click here to see more events...

Community Workshops

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 19:14:26 -0500

Community Workshop for Teaching Writing: Structure and Style with Implementation

Introducing a way for you to receive the best opportunity for success and at an affordable price!

Includes three days of instruction by a qualified IEW mentor, teacher and student materials, and year-round mentoring.

New Products and Events!

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 11:59:19 -0500

See our new products and services designed for classroom teachers. Go to our events page to see when we will be at a convention near you.

Full Time Teachers and Administrators

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:48:49 -0500

Excellence in Writing October Opportunities for full time teachers and adminstrators in Indiana, Arizona, Minnesota, Missouri, Virginia, and California.

Where to Start??

Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:37:10 -0500

New to IEW? Heard great things about us and wonder where to start, which products to buy, advice on writing, poetry, spelling?
Here's a little help to navigate through what we offer to help this year be the year you effectively and enjoyably teach writing to your students!

2010 Video Catalog

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:01:29 -0500

Watch introductions to our new products by Andrew Pudewa.

Click here to watch!

Free Download: The Parental Rights Amendment

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 10:49:04 -0500

Today, parental rights are coming under assault from federal judges who deny or refuse to recognize these rights. Adding further danger to the child-parent relationship, international law seeking to undermine the parental role is advancing on the horizon. Together, these threats are converging to create a "perfect storm" that looms over the child-parent relationship. Only a constitutional amendment will ensure that the courts of our nation protect the fundamental right of parents to raise their children. And only a constitutional amendment will override international law that seeks to undermine the parental role.

In this talk, Andrew explains the national organization and movement, encourage all to get involved, and answer questions based on the literature and presentations of the leaders of www.parentalrights.org

Audio Download: The Parental Rights Amendment By Andrew Pudewa - Running time: 54 minutes

(To save this file to your computer, right-click on the link and select "Save Target As...")

Professional Development Opportunities This Summer

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:50:39 -0500

School teachers, learn a truly affordable and effective way to teach writing.

Bryan, TX - Aug. 3rd-5th
with Janet Spitler

Elmhurst, IL - Aug. 4th-6th
with Andrew Pudewa and Linda Mikottis

Debt Free Scholar Reviews IEW's High School Essay Intensive

Mon, 04 May 2009 17:47:40 -0500

Nate Desmond, homeschooling teen and entrepreneur, has just reviewed our High School Essay Intensive video course.

You can check out his review at DebtFreeScholar.com

Let him know what you think!

Teaching Writing: Structure and Style

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 15:44:13 -0500

Our premier product, this seminar shows the teacher how to incrementally teach writing to students.

Excellence in Writing gives you tools to help you teach not just WHAT to write, but HOW to write-in a way that is organized and stylish-GUARANTEED! For teachers of students in grades two through twelve.

2008 Excellence in Education Award

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:59:23 -0500

The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine announces its 2008 Excellence in Education Awards

Gray, TN, May 11th, 2009—Each year, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC
(TOS) hosts the prestigious Excellence in Education Awards, a popular
venue for TOS readers who are looking for the right products and finest
homeschool-friendly companies for their unique homeschool
environments—which is no easy task!

"We'd like to congratulate Institute for Excellence in Writing on their 1st place award."

We are, of course, honored and grateful for this acknowledgment. Click Here to read The Old Schoolhouse's review on our products.

To see who else won awards, visit The Old Schoolhouse website.

Homeschooling Parent 2009 Stamp of Approval

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:39:59 -0500

We're so pleased that yet another homeschooling publication has seen the transforming power of our writing methods!
Selections are made based on a wide variety of criteria including: availability, support, user-friendliness, cost, and even parental input.
Click Here to read more about the award and other product recipients.

Why Buy in 2010?

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 11:50:10 -0600

During these uncertain economic times, every dollar must be allocated with care; however, it is not a time to give short shrift to education for your children. Through out this website, you will find exceptional value—products and services that meet your needs while maximizing your time and money:

A program that integrates writing & content areas—history, science, literature, etc.

Non-consumable materials that can be used year after year, with many children

Concepts and products applicable to students with a wide range of age and aptitude; perfect for a family or mixed-grade classroom

A liberal duplication policy ideal for families and teachers on a budget

An unconditional, no-time-limit, 100% money-back guarantee on everything we sell

Excellence in Writing offers no-risk, high value tools to help you empower your students to be excellent writers and confident communicators.

Feb. 4 Leigh Bortins Interviews Andrew Pudewa on BlogTalkRadio

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 21:11:00 -0600

Tune in to BlogTalkRadio on February 4 at 12 noon EST to hear a live interview between Leigh Bortins, Founder and Director of Classical Conversations Inc., and Andrew Pudewa as they discuss writing, poetry, current events and more!

Meet Andrew Pudewa

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 14:58:06 -0600

Andrew Pudewa is the director of the Institute for Excellence in Writing and a homeschooling father of seven. Presenting throughout North America, he addresses issues relating to teaching, writing, thinking, spelling, and music with clarity, insight, practical experience, and humor.

Read more

Have a Story?

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 22:43:52 -0600

The Magnum Opus IV is now accepting submissions. Please visit the NEW website for categories and guidelines. This edition is set to print April 2009. We are also looking for parent articles. If you have something you think other parents and teachers would enjoy, send it over for consideration.

2009 Catalog Scheduled for Release in March

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 09:02:32 -0600

We are working hard to put together the finishing touches on our 2009 catalog that will show up in your mailbox this coming March. We have several new products, many for your high school students! Do we have your current contact information? Have you created an account on our website? If you have, sign in and check under your "edit" tab and make sure we have your correct address. If you haven't, register today! (Note: This link will only work for those who are not logged in!)

Teaching Writing: Structure & Style Online Survey now available!

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:47:01 -0600

Please click here to complete the survey if you have taken the LIVE or VIDEO seminar.
We thank you for your participation.

Success in Schools: Read one teacher's comments about how Excellence in Writing is working in her class.

Sun, 12 Oct 2008 23:14:52 -0500

As a 6th grade Latin and grammar teacher, I am always eager to integrate my subjects so that my students are practicing the skills of both subjects simultaneously. I have found Excellence in Writing to be a fantastic tool which enables me to do just this: during our preposition unit, we added the preposition dress-up and sentence starter. We were also doing a preposition unit in Latin and I taught my students about the plethora of derivatives which stem from Latin prepositions, which they were then able to use in their writing.

I have found Excellence in Writing to be a good diagnostic tool, as well. Gaps in knowledge jump out. For example, I have discovered that several of my students can not write, nor recognize, a complete sentence when a dependent clause is being used. The clausal verb confuses them. Knowing this, I can teach to their weaknesses.

However, I have also found that Excellence in Writing is an excellent tool for my natural writers, as well. The advanced dress-ups encourage them to really think about their writing, so that there is progress and improvement. Some young writers mistake length for mature writing. As I was explaining to one of my gifted writers, the point is to improve her writing, not expand it. Excellence in Writing is really helping her explore different techniques to effectively and concisely express herself.

I made dry-erasable posters with the banned words go, get, big, pretty, and like. Different options are displayed and every once in a while we erase the options and try new words. I have also made a poster of the dress-ups and sentence starters, so that my students do not have to go to a workbook to find their requirements. This also helps them explore techniques they've not yet attempted, since they know that there is more to learn. Taking the advice of my trainer, I have put up other posters with words on them. We have an adjective, adverb and verb of the week, too. How cheering for a teacher to hear her students fight over the two thesauruses!

A note of caution for other 6th grade teachers: my students really want a sentence like, "The goddess was angry," to count for a very short sentence. Of course, we recognize that this is a very ineffective use of four words. I am about to require them to use a strong verb in any vss. The Gospel writer recognized the power of the action verb: "Jesus was sad" has nothing of the power of "Jesus wept." My favorite version of the example sentence: Enraged, the goddess vowed vengeance. (vss, -ed, and strong verb!)

Annie
Westminster Academy
Memphis, TN

Are You a YouTube Viewer?

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:29:43 -0500

If so, then perhaps you have stumbled upon Excellence in Writing's submissions.
For example, click on the following link for a short snippet of the Teaching Writing: Structure & Style video series. More to come!

Teaching Writing: Structure & Style sample video

Meet our youngest Writing Educator's Symposium Speaker, Adora!

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 12:22:37 -0500

One of the seminars at our recent, July 2008 Writing Educator's Symposium was presented "virtually" by Adora, a 10 year old published author. Says one of our WES attendees: "I fondly remember... The video conference with the 10 year old published author who
made us smile because she was so wise beyond her years." To view a recording of that seminar, click on the link below.

Writing Educator's Symposium

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:24:08 -0500

We are pleased to extend this invitation to attend our Summer 2008 Writing Educator's Symposium.

Meet Andrew Pudewa

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 13:21:52 -0500

Practical Homeschooling 2008 Reader Awards

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:02:24 -0500

The readers of Practical Homeschooling magazine have voted our products winner in the their 2008 Reader Awards. For the 10th year in a row, our writing seminars have been declared #1!

Click Here to go to the Practical Homeschooling magazine's website.