The Primer is designed for the beginning reader. Words are single-syllable and introduced in sound patterns; often 2-3 letter words at the beginning. Pictures are abundant; usually one per page. Stories are one to one and a half pages. Toward the end of the book, the words reflect a full range of phonics concepts, but still tend to be single-syllable. 64 pgs.
McGuffey's Eclectic Primer: Revised Edition (1879)
Description
McGuffey's Eclectic Primer begins with the alphabet and moves quickly into short-vowel words such as cat and rat. By the second lesson, your child will be working with sentences such as "The cat has a rat" and "The rat ran at Ann." These evocative mini-stories build phonics and word-recognition skills, and encourage the child to want to learn. Most pages offer a vintage illustration that charmingly provides a clue as to the content of the lesson, and the original diacritical markings are included throughout.
Cursive is introduced by the fifth lesson, though it's just eight words and two short sentences. The complete cursive alphabet is included in the back as "Slate Exercises," but you will most likely want to supplement this instruction with a complete course in cursive. By the last lesson in the book, students are reading short stories and poems, many containing a lesson in virtue.
The 1879 Edition of McGuffey’s Eclectic Readers is a beloved, historically accurate reprint of the revised McGuffey Readers that shaped American education for decades.
This classic series combines high-quality literature, strong
moral lessons, and systematic instruction in reading, elocution, and character
development from a distinctly Christian worldview.
Key Curriculum Features:
- Faithful reproduction of the popular 1879 revised edition
- Strong emphasis on moral character, virtue, and biblical principles
- Progressive difficulty from beginning reading through advanced literature and elocution
- Excellent training in clear pronunciation, articulation, and expressive reading
- Rich vocabulary development and classic literary selections
- Includes penmanship/copywork practice in legible script
- Stories, poetry, and artwork that reflect 19th-century American values
Program Components:
- 6 hardcover Readers covering Primer through Fifth Reader
- Each reader includes reading selections, vocabulary, comprehension questions, and articulation drills
- Penmanship practice passages printed in clear script
- Available individually or in complete sets
The 1879 Edition of McGuffey’s Eclectic Readers stands out for its timeless literary quality, strong moral foundation, and proven track record in building excellent readers with character. It is an excellent choice for families seeking a rigorous, classically-inspired reading program rooted in Christian values.
Browse all McGuffey’s Eclectic Readers 1879 Edition volumes and complete sets below!
| Product Format: | Hardcover |
|---|---|
| Grades: | PK-1 |
| Brand: | Everyday Education |
| ISBN: | 9781613220580 |
| Length in Inches: | 9.25 |
| Width in Inches: | 6.25 |
| Height in Inches: | 0.4375 |
| Weight in Pounds: | 0.55 |
