Total Language Plus (TLP) Study Guides are
comprehensive, Christian literature-based language arts programs that use
high-quality novels to teach reading comprehension, literary analysis,
spelling, grammar, vocabulary, writing, and listening skills.
Now featuring a fresh, modern redesign while keeping the
same trusted content, these workbooks are designed for
minimal teacher preparation. Students can work independently as they integrate
multiple language arts skills through engaging literature. Most guides take
8–10 weeks to complete, with students typically reading 3–5 novels per school
year.
Key Curriculum Features:
Literature-based
approach using Newbery Medal and Honor books chosen for strong moral value
or opportunities for biblical discernment
Integrated
language arts: spelling, grammar, vocabulary, writing, listening, and
comprehension
Daily
Oral Language dictation exercises drawn from biblical truths or the
literature
Vocabulary
study with glossary building, review sheets, and final tests
Weekly
spelling lessons and tests using words from the novel
Critical
thinking activities, projects, drawing, and “Personally Thinking”
application questions
Writing
assignments ranging from short responses to longer essays
High
school guides include advanced composition techniques and speech/drama
components
Program Components:
Discovery
Guides: Starting in grades 3-4, these are non-reproducible workbooks where most exercises are completed
directly in the book
K-2Discovery Guides: New guides that offer a gentler, more hands-on introduction for early elementary students with shorter books and visual activities
Teacher’s
Manual: One small manual with program philosophy, sample lesson plans,
writing helps, spelling rules, and answer keys
Focus
Guides: Lower-cost guides focused primarily on in-depth writing skills
Total Language Plus stands out for its all-in-one
approach, gentle Christian worldview integration, and thorough coverage of
language arts through excellent literature. It is an excellent choice for
homeschool families seeking a structured yet manageable literature and language
arts curriculum.
Browse all Total Language Plus study guides, novels, and
book bundles below!
These icons are designed to help you quickly understand and learn important information about our products.
Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
