Writing skills grow best with a step-by-step approach. As your child’s teacher, break writing tasks into manageable parts. This helps them master each skill without getting overwhelmed. The goal is for students to think independently and clearly express their unique ideas.

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By Level 12, students will master formal writing, including creative writing, essays, and research papers. They’ll be prepared for college-level work and lifelong learning. Below is a breakdown of each level, with what to expect:

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Level 1: Students start with copy work. This means they copy a passage, letter by letter, under your example. Write the passage on the line above, leaving space on the next line for your child to copy. This way they can learn spelling, grammar, and punctuation directly from what they’re reading. They’ll pick a passage they like and copy 1-3 sentences per assignment. They’ll also provide oral narrations, retelling the reading in their own words, using visual aids if desired. Listen without interrupting, and save questions for after.

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Level 2: Copy work continues, now 2-4 sentences per assignment. Oral narrations continue as well, with one or two follow-up questions for extra detail.

 

Level 3: Students move on to transcription. Here they will write passages on their own paper after reading them in the book. This helps them memorize spelling and sentence structure. They’ll complete at least one paragraph per assignment. Oral narrations also continue, with prompts to think about the who, what, when, where, why, and how of each reading.​

 

Level 4: Transcription work increases to two paragraphs per assignment. Students continue oral narrations and start written narrations. They’ll use a chart to answer the who, what, when, where, why, and how questions. Complete sentences aren’t required, but correct spelling is encouraged.​

 

Level 5: Students begin dictation. They choose a 2-3 sentence passage, read it, and then write it as it’s read aloud to them. Afterward, they compare their work to the original and make corrections. Written narrations progress to full sentences with correct capitalization and punctuation.

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Level 6: Dictation continues with 3-4 sentence passages. Written narrations continue. Students check their work for spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Students will also start writing 5-paragraph essays after finishing each book, organized as follows:

• Introduction – Hook, topic, and thesis statement.

• Body Paragraphs – Three paragraphs, each supporting the thesis with examples and details.

• Conclusion – Summarize points, restate thesis, and leave the reader with a final thought.

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Level 7: Dictation focuses on full paragraphs. Students write both essays and creative assignments as final projects for each book. Written narrations remain a key part of the process, with extra focus on clear sentence structure and punctuation.

 

Level 8: Dictation continues. Students write essays that extend beyond five paragraphs. Creative assignments and written narrations deepen their understanding.

 

Level 9: Students complete two-paragraph dictations, along with essays and creative writing. Written narrations become more detailed, allowing for reflection on each reading.

 

Level 10: In addition to essays and creative writing, students will write their first research papers. They’ll research a topic, outline their main points, and structure papers with an introduction, body, and conclusion. Encourage them to find reliable sources and cite them. Afterward, they’ll edit for clarity.

 

Level 11: Dictation moves to three paragraphs per assignment. Students will complete essays, creative writing, and research papers based on their reading.

 

Level 12: Dictation continues. Students will produce three paragraphs per assignment. They’ll write essays, creative pieces, and APA-style research papers. This final level includes a works cited page, preparing them for college standards.

 

Each level builds on the last. This method ensures students grow their writing skills thoughtfully, preparing them for whatever comes next.