Word Power has the goal of helping your student grow to learn to read and write well—because if our children cannot read and write, how will they read the Bible for themselves or communicate it to others with confidence?
Phonics and Reading
Our “learning to read” program is based upon the Orton-Gillingham approach to phonics. We use the Bible to teach phonics to grades K-3, combining it with the latest research to provide your younger students with a firm foundation in reading. Our method is multi-sensory (sight, sound, and touch), and phonics concepts are taught in a logical, sequential way. We believe in teaching “phonograms” rather than sight words, so that no guessing is involved. Order and the beauty of language will be emphasized, with lots of opportunity for review and practice each day. Students begin with simple blends and progress to words, finally reading sentences. We transition to reading from Scripture as soon as possible.
We include a separate reading book for grades 1-8, to introduce children to quality literature that builds good character, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
We also include handwriting instruction in both cursive and manuscript for grades K-3, with separate cursive instruction included for all grades if you would like it.
Hebrew
While not a complete Hebrew-language curriculum, our goal is to teach children to read and write Hebrew so that they can read the Hebrew Bible for themselves. Hebrew roots and vocabulary (3-8) are emphasized, with their relationships to other languages shown. We include optional Hebrew instructional videos, to assist with learning Hebrew.
Spelling
Our phonics-based spelling program reviews the most commonly misspelled words in English. Phonics principles are reviewed, even in older grades, so that spelling principles can be applied to words never before encountered. Opportunities to use each week’s words in interesting ways help students remember what they learn.
Vocabulary
Around 75% of our words come from Latin and Greek roots. Knowing what the roots mean can unlock the meaning of much of our English vocabulary. It’s easier to learn 100 roots than thousands of vocabulary words from a random list of words. Your student probably already knows many of the root words, so this will be an easy subject in school. Your student will gain valuable practice in using a dictionary and in alphabetizing words. Your student will look up each word root in Scripture and gain valuable skill in using a Strong’s concordance, as well as in seeing how our language is reflected in the meaning of Scripture verses.
Grammar & Word Usage
Using Scripture, students are gradually introduced to English grammar, with a gentle approach to sentence patterns, parts of speech, and proper punctuation and capitalization. The practical use of grammar in everyday situations is emphasized. Grammar will coordinate with our Foundations of Grammar curriculum, for customers who have already purchased this or are using it with older students.
Writing & Study Skills
With the goal of teaching our children to effectively communicate the gospel to the world, we teach practical writing skills, beginning with sentences and continuing to essays, presentations, and papers. Journaling, outlining, and note-taking skills are also taught, as well as dictionary, library, and research skills.
