Winston Grammar
Frequently Asked Questions

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7. IS GRAMMAR NECESSARY--HOW MUCH IS NEEDED?
Q.
I am contemplating purchasing the basic program. I really can't get an idea of how this program is different from other grammar programs, except for the cards. Would you please explain a little more about it?

I have read the other FAQ's and really don't have a clue as to the questions asked regarding grammar. I am college educated and write quite well. Do I really need to know all the rules? I haven't always done well, but learned by listening what sounds correct. Obviously, I had parents that spoke correctly. I also realize that a basic understanding of the different parts of speech is necessary, but as far as clauses, etc., I have not clue. I guess I just need convincing that getting involved in the more intense grammar rules is necessary.

A.
While many people get along just fine in life without knowing what an adverb is, generally speaking, a person can speak and write more correctly and more fluently if they have a good knowledge of grammar. It is also invaluable when your student begins to learn a foreign language. Winston Grammar uses an incremental (meaning one concept is built on the previously mastered concept and no part of speech is left behind when a new one is begun), multi-sensory approach. The clue cards, being color-coded , provide visual cues to stimulate the memory. New cards get added without discontinuing any others (with the exception of the blank black cards), so the large amount of repetition over the course of the book also solidifies the memory. One other benefit from this program is that there is very little writing to do. All the sentences are printed in the workbook and the student only needs to underline, circle, bracket or otherwise mark each part of speech. The cards allow a student to learn without the feelings of anxiety over forgetting or not being able to figure it out. This leads to better mastery which makes the program more fun. We all like to do those things that we are good at.

Understanding all the functions of noun clauses is in the Advanced Level Winston Grammar and teachers will need to decide for themselves if and when they would want to teach that information. Our recommendation is to do the Advanced Level no earlier than 8th grade. It is generally a two year program and should be completed before a student plans to take the SAT or ACT exam.

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