Winston Grammar
Frequently Asked Questions

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3. COMPARING EASY GRAMMAR TO OTHER PROGRAMS?
Q.
This looks entirely too simple.

I am comparing Easy Grammar to other programs at this time. Easy Grammar 4 seems to cover a lot more subject area, such as writing dates, Mr. and Mrs., letters, etc, while Winston Grammar just covers word placement/usage, as far as I can tell.

Could someone explain why this is enough to cover? Also, if I'm reading correctly, this is a one year program that you cover in 5th grade, around 7th grade, and one more time in high school? What else do I need to add?

I am not a grammar pro, so I don't know exactly what topics are considered "grammar". Do grammar programs add "extras" into them, just as math programs add "non-arithmetic" topics, like calendar reading and time?

I have a nine-year-old who is "behind" in grammar based on standards for grade three. That is why I hesitate to use a simple program that doesn't cover necessary extras.

Appreciate any input!

A.
You are right that Easy Grammar has added some material that isn't actually grammar. The study of grammar is the study of the functions and relationships of words, not punctuation, how to write abbreviations, etc. Those concepts are important, but not actually grammar. Winston Grammar is the study of grammar in a way that is easy to use and retain. There isn't anything else added to make it confusing or harder than it needs to be. It isn't a complete English curriculum, though, so you would need to also have a reading/writing/spelling program. If the lesson plan that is outlined in the Teacher Manual is followed, this will be a one year curriculum. Retention is generally very good for the average student, so review in subsequent years takes very little time.
Since most children don't develop abstract thinking skills until about 10 or 11 years old and most grammar concepts are abstract, you will not do your child any disservice to wait to teach him/her grammar until after abstract thinking skills are developed. It is reasonable to allow a child to be comfortable with writing in general before so many rules and parameters are placed around that writing. Would you try to teach children about physics before letting them play with blocks so that their "buildings" didn't fall down? State standards are guidelines, not absolutes.

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