Homeschooling Downunder
Downunder Dictation and Teacher’s Guide
Laying the foundations for excellent writing using classic Australian and New Zealand literature that will educate and inspire.
Dictation is a tried and true method for teaching language arts, but if you have never used it before it can be a little daunting. It just seems too simple.
That’s why we have combined Australian and New Zealand dictation passages with a teaching resource that will show you how to make the most of dictation.
You are also taught how you can apply these ideas to other dictation passages.
Teaching Writing As A Whole
Is A Strong And Efficient Method
Children benefit from using this method because:
- they learn to write by writing from good models
- they see written language in its natural setting
- lessons are taught in context with literature.
Dictation Forms A Framework For Good Writing
Dictation is a simple tool but it is still hard work for the child because they need to concentrate on the mechanics of writing.
Using dictation allows children to practice their writing frequently without the additional stress of trying to think what to write.
“Our society is so obsessed with creativity that people want children to be creative before they have any knowledge or skill to be creative with.”
A Strong Start in Language by Ruth Beechick©1986
Many people worry that dictation stifles creativity. It doesn’t.
It gives children good models to work from and equips them to write well. When they want to write creatively they have a strong foundation already laid.
Our Dictation Lessons Are Easy To Implement
Your English lessons will be less stressful because you are given a framework to follow and you are freed from having to find passages, or think up, writing topics to try to motivate your child to do original writing.
We give you ideas on how to use dictation to teach:
- spelling
- grammar
- punctuation
- literary devices
- genres
- comprehension
- vocabulary
- and more.
We also have other bonus features such as:
- a sample lesson planner
- some marking and assessment ideas
- a list of general punctuation rules
- a grammar and literary check list
- a list of basic spelling rules
- some Charlotte Mason grammar lessons
- a description of genres and text types.
We have already assembled a collection of 32 excerpts from whole or ‘living’ Australian and New Zealand literature, dating from 1769-2007.
All of the quotes used are also used in the Downunder Copywork Series.
They include:
- classic fiction
- poetry
- songs
- biographies
- nature study
- explorers’ journals.
A Flexible Resource That Can be Used With Any Curriculum
Downunder Dictation and Teacher’s Guide can be used:
- as a standalone resource
- as a complementary teaching resource to the Downunder Copywork Series.
- to complement an existing curriculum that needs some Australian and New Zealand content
- to add variety to language arts lessons.
Dictation lessons can be done:
- daily
- once a week. One lesson per week will take you through one school year.
- ‘ad hoc’ (when you feel like it).
Who Should Use Downunder Dictation and Teacher’s Guide?
This is not a graded text because dictation can be used regularily from 4th grade onwards.
With one passage multiple ages and multiple topics can be taught.
Passages are presented in a large font which makes it suitable for copywork for younger children.
Dictation exercises are aimed to suit grade 4-8 (Ages 9-14).
Download a sample of Downunder Dictation and Teacher's Guide.
Don’t Delay Start Using This Simple And Successful
Method In Your Homeschool.
You can feel confident because this method of teaching writing has a long proven track record
Instant download means you can start using this effective method immediately.