Total Language Plus is a literature-based, innovative curriculum centered on the development of thinking and communication skills. The authors believe an integrated system is more efficient than a fragmented approach, discovery style learning is the most effective, and learning should be enjoyable. The "discover, do, drill" method is employed with activities focused on thinking skills and the development of a biblical world view.
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As students read, they complete worksheets on comprehension, spelling, and vocabulary,
and choose from writing and discussion topics. Numerous enrichment ideas (including field trip suggestions and hands-on activities) are suggested. For
example, when reading My Side of the Mountain, children are encouraged to make a willow whistle following Sam's instructions; in The Trumpeter of Krakow,
touring the fire department and researching different architectural styles are suggested. Combining study areas discourages fragmented learning. Rather
than working in "grammar" mode or "spelling" mode, lessons are integrated. For example, while learning a new vocabulary word, the student also learns its
various parts of speech and spelling. Writing and discussion topics, based on events and characters in the story, promote active reading and reflective thinking. Understanding the "why" in a story helps us understand the "whys" of life, therefore thought-provoking questions are abundant, inspiring reluctant writers to have something to say and providing prolific writers with a plenitude of options. Vocabulary/spelling words are taken from the novel being read with a variety of activities (at least four for each unit) stressing mastery of the words. Context clues are used to introduce vocabulary words. New spelling words are presented, not only with rules and syllabication, but visualization strategies as well. Drilling new and review words is accomplished through games and puzzles. There are no boring, fill-in-the-blank worksheets, instead activities utilize discovery-style learning techniques. Short dictations reinforce Bible truths (that relate to the story) and provide opportunities to improve listening and memorization skills, practice good penmanship, and discover weaknesses in spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Because the dictations model proper sentence structure and well-written paragraphs, students are fully exposed to the application of their developing grammar skills. Review of words and concepts is consistent throughout the novel studies, allowing mastery of the lessons rather than short-term memorization. Because study areas are integrated and presented in "bite-sized" portions, self-esteem is improved and success patterns developed. |