Grammar for the Well-Trained Mind is a comprehensive,
classical grammar program by Susan Wise Bauer designed to bring students to a
high level of mastery in English grammar, usage, and mechanics. It serves as
the natural next step after First Language Lessons.
Using a four-year rotation with four color levels (Red,
Purple, Blue, and Yellow), students cycle through the same grammar concepts
with fresh sentences each year, allowing for deep mastery through repetition
and increasing complexity.
Key Curriculum Features:
- Thorough
coverage of all major grammar topics including parts of speech, phrases,
clauses, diagramming, punctuation, and usage
- Classical
methodology with scripted teacher-student dialogue
- Progressive
lessons from basic to advanced college-level grammar
- Extensive
practice through exercises, reviews, and application
- High-quality
literary model sentences from timeless authors
- Flexible
pacing allowing for completion in one year per level or spread across
multiple years
Program Components:
- Core
Instructor Text & Grammar Guidebook: Foundational teaching
material used across all levels
- Student
Workbooks: Consumable books with exercises and practice (one book per
color level)
- Answer
Keys: Detailed explanations for each level
- Diagramming
Dictionary: Helpful recommended reference for sentence diagramming
Grammar for the Well-Trained Mind stands out for its
rigorous yet methodical approach that builds strong grammatical understanding
and writing foundations. It is an excellent choice for classical homeschoolers
committed to achieving grammar mastery over the middle and high school years.
Browse all Grammar for the Well-Trained Mind levels
and sets below!
