Spectrum Writing Gr. 4

Both creative and expository writing skills are developed in this series of writing skill worktexts. Each grade-level book has eight units focusing on: main ideas, sequence, comparisons, details, facts and opinions, case and effect, making a point, and point of view. Specific content and exercises vary from grade to grade, but follow a similar process of defining the concept, prewriting exercises, developing the skill through one or more writing activities (often building from word to sentence to paragraphs), revising, proofreading, and a short post-test. Students can generally work through these books independently. The material is well-organized and the exercises look both interesting and educational. As with the Spectrum Reading series, there is such a variety of skill lessons (word skills, sentence skills, composition, mechanics, reading skills, and so on) and writing assignments, it's difficult to generalize for a description. The variety would be motivating to most students. Text is two-toned, most are about 130 pages, and a complete answer key is included. This series was revised in 2006 and underwent some changes in the sequence of skills covered and now also includes more nonfiction activities. At the kindergarten level students will practice their letters using a traditional ball-and-stick style - one page of practice per letter; write one word answers to questions about themselves - name, pet, favorite toy; learn to write story words like colors, shapes, numbers, naming words practice putting story pictures into proper sequence; practice writing 4 short stories when given a starter sentence; write a friendly letter; practice writing telling and asking sentences; learn the parts of a story; and practice writing rhyming words. A writer's handbook and answer key are found at the back of this 128-page workbook.

These materials contain both instruction and writing assignments but are not as broad in scope (types of writing) as the comprehensive programs.