English II: Composition Skills Chapter 3 Activities

These materials offer complete coverage of both writing and grammar.

"Designed to be self-teaching." These are magic words for many homeschoolers particularly at the high school level. And while this curriculum has many positive characteristics, its self-teaching aspect is sure to rank high. But don't overlook the other positives: broad coverage of grammar, usage, and mechanics, vocabulary, literary elements, and composition as well as encouraging and character-building anecdotes and principles. Although utilizing a black and white format, the graphics are well designed and interesting.

The Chapter Texts (pages vary from 50 to 70 pgs) follow a pattern: vocabulary, vignette illustrating a life principle, and teaching segments. All straight-forward and easy to complete. The Activities Books are consumable with reading comprehension questions from the vignette, a vocabulary exercise, and several exercises reinforcing the Text's teaching segments. Most course Chapters contain 15 lessons divided into three Sections. Quizzes follow each Section with Tests for each Chapter. Students are expected to check their own work in the Activities. As an incentive, if they score 85% or better on the Section Quizzes (graded by parent/proctor), they may not be required to take the Chapter Test.

The Teacher's Resource Kit provides answers to activity questions as well as copies of the Section Quizzes and Chapter Tests along with their answers. The TRK also includes helpful, professional forms such as a Transcript Planner, Academic Contract, and Academic Goal Chart - all with directions for use. Included with the TRK is a digital access code to a pdf version.

Full Course Kits include the Texts and Activities books for all five chapters as well as the Teacher Resource Kit (printed plus digital access). ~ Janice

Please note: There are some miscellaneous items from older editions that are still available and can be used with the newer edition [TRK on CD-ROM (content is identical to the printed version) or Texts on CD-ROM].

English II: Composition Skills builds on skills learned in English I: Language Skills (ENG I, ninth grade*) by continuing to hone writing skills. This second of a four-level series applies the most effective techniques involving imagery association and left-right brain engagement.

Builds on English I skills by strengthening writing skills with word usage, grammar, vocabulary skills, essay construction, and forms of writing.

Students read, write, and evaluate different genres carefully assigned to expose students to noble ideals and writing techniques that equip students to craft strong sentences and paragraphs, while becoming effective wordsmiths skilled in producing poems, letters, essays, narratives, editorials, articles, speeches, allegories, and research papers.

Students gain experience writing pieces that inform, entertain, persuade and challenge.

Students learn to address literary concepts such as cause and effect, logic, premises, comparison, and contrasts.

The Full Course Kit includes a printed Teacher Resource Kit (plus digital download) in addition to the five Chapter Texts and five Activities Books. The Chapter Activity Books are available either for individual purchase or as a package.

Paradigm high school English is available in a seamless program that begins with English I and continues through English IV. Every grade level (I through IV) focuses on interpretation and development of writing styles, character, and wisdom.

A major feature of all Paradigm English courses is the vignette approach, carefully designed to engage students to aspire towards noble character and life purpose. During the learning process, students enhance vocabulary, build moral character, and gain insight on how to make wise life choices.