Equipping
students to write paragraphs and essays, The Baran Method: Writing for Success offers clear instruction,
writing examples, and color-coded cues to help students organize and write
compositions. There are a few things that set this program apart. First, is the
color-coded CEA Map which is applied to paragraphs then essays. CEA refers to
claim, evidence, and analysis–the three key elements in expository writing, to help
students see and understand a paragraph’s basic symmetry and structure. The
premise is simple. Using the CEA Map to show the purpose of every sentence in
the paragraph, the color coding provides students with a guided writing
experience. As students work toward mastering the CEA paragraph, they are also
learning how to create a traditional five paragraph essay. All of this is
explained in easy-to-understand detail in the Textbook. On a personal note, as
I read through the instructions for the CEA paragraph and essay maps, I had
several “a-ha” moments! Seeing paragraph
symmetry through these visual cues made sense and made essay writing seem more
manageable!
Another
unique feature of The Baran Method program is that there is one textbook used for all
grades. Whether children master vital writing skills in one year and apply the
method to future assignments or need to build writing skills in the next year,
the Textbook is a reference tool that will be used again and again. Containing,
six writing exercises, the Textbook includes an introduction,
instructions, the CEA paragraph and essay maps, posters, transitions, and the
exercises. An appendix provides examples for the writing exercises, and
instructions to access the free online resources. Students work at their own
pace. After the student completes the six writing exercises, they expand their
learning by using the Workbook. Workbooks provide grade appropriate examples
(stories, essays, and poems), vibrant illustrations, space to complete lessons,
additional essay prompts, and more. With twenty assignments, students will
complete one every other week. While the workbook could be considered optional,
it is highly recommended to gain the full benefits of the Baran Method. In the
words of the author, “Practice makes Permanent.” It is through consistent
practice that students will hone their writing skills and become proficient
writers (or writing ninjas in the words of the author).
The final
feature is the numerous resources that are available to help you effectively
teach writing well. Recommended Teacher Guides, free online teaching resources,
weekly Zoom support, or video courses (additional cost) are available. The Teacher
Edition includes the same content as the Textbook and Workbook, writing
examples, and more. To make teaching easier, the Teacher Edition provides
visual cues to the teacher for guiding students through the CEA Maps. Students
will need red, green, and blue pens and highlighters (or color pencils). The
Baran Writing Method is a thorough and unique expository writing course that
provides students with clear instruction and visual cues, and ample practice at
a pace that will not overwhelm. Textbook Bundle includes the Textbook
and Workbook. Complete Sets include the Textbook, Workbook, and Teacher
Guide.
