Language Arts Vocabulary

English from the Roots Up

Book cover: English from the Roots Up
Author(s): 
Joegil Lundquist
Number of pages: 
100 pages
Copyright: 
1989
ISBN: 
9780964321038
Publisher: 
Literacy Unlimited
Binding: 
Comb-bound
Subject(s): 
Review: 
This is a really neat and fairly simple program designed to introduce children to 100 Greek and Latin words that are common roots of English words. Along with background information, Greek and Latin pronunciation guides, and other teaching tips are 100 pages containing one Greek or Latin Root word, a list of English derivatives (with definitions and other root words), teaching notes and extra derivative words.

For example, the fourth word taught is the Greek word metron, meaning "measure". Derivative words (i.e. English words that take their meaning from metron) listed are - meter, geometry, optometry, symmetry, barometer, thermometer, diameter, centimeter, and anemometer. Each of these derivatives lists other root words (such as geo - meaning "earth" - which is another Greek root from which the word "geometry" is derived) and literal definitions of each word follows. The teaching notes give details about some of the different meanings of the word "meter" and how other Greek roots contained in the dervatives (geo, syn, and thermos) will be covered on their own pages as well. The "extra words" segment covers the derivative "metronome", its other greek root (nomos) and the definition

Additional notes: 

Pages: 100 + appendix

Reviewed by: 
First reviewed: 
4-26-01

English from the Roots Up: Word Cards

Author(s): 
Joegil Lundquist
Number of pages: 
100 pages
Copyright: 
1993
Publisher: 
Literacy Unlimited
Subject(s): 
Review: 
This set of 100 cards covers the Greek and Latin root words found in the companion book. 37 words are Greek Roots (cards are outlined in green - don't worry - they are written in our standard alphabet!) and the res are Latin (cards are outlined in red). The back of each card gives the definition and derivatives in an identical manner to the book (includes definitions, et al.), but does not contain the teaching notes and extra words found in the book. Although the cards are printed on paper slightly heavier than that found in the book, they are still quite flimsy and would hold up much better if laminated.

Note: Some parents find that they only need the cards because they cover the most essential mateiral. Others buy only the book and make their own cards. Personally, I am happy to have both.

Additional notes: 

100 vocabulary cards in a small box

Reviewed by: 
First reviewed: 
4-26-01

Who Loves Me? / Quis me amat?

Book cover: Who Loves Me? / Quis me amat?
Author(s): 
Marie Carducci Bolchazy
Illustrator(s): 
Michelle Kathryn Fraczek
Number of pages: 
60 pages
Copyright: 
2003
ISBN: 
9780865165410
Publisher: 
Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Resource Type: 
Review: 
This book introduces names of family members - mother, father, sister, brother, grandfather, grandmother, fraternal and paternal aunt and uncle, cousins and God - through the eyes of a baby. I liked how small details on some of the pictures - like the words on a T-shirt - are written in Latin (and the translations are included in the back along with the rest of the text). The text is charming, but these pictures are a bit on the "goofy" side (very cartoon like and some weird proportions). For me, the pictures detracted somewhat from the text (although I admit to being a person who is rather fussy about illustrations - particularly in children's books). Also, there is a slight editing problem on pages 13-14 where the illustrations of the paternal and fraternal aunts are mixed up.

Additional notes: 

Donated for review by Bolchazy-Carducci

Reviewed by: 
First reviewed: 
8-2-04

Wordly Wise

Book cover: Wordly Wise Book 4
Author(s): 
Kenneth Hodkinson
Joseph Ornato
Number of pages: 
148 pages
Copyright: 
1997
ISBN: 
9780838804346
Publisher: 
Educators Publishing Service
Binding: 
Softcover
Subject(s): 
Grade / Age level: 
Review: 

Wordly Wise is a terrific spelling program - inexpensive and readily available from most homeschool companies. It was originally written in 1967, but has lived through many revisions. Each lesson is divided into four sections, with the fifth day being a test. Fits perfect into any homeschooler's weekly schedule!

One disadvantage is the book cover. Because the cover is soft, it is best to cover it with plastic to extend the life of the book. I have not yet felt the need of a teacher's key. My daughter is at the grade eight level, and I know that I may soon change my mind about the teacher's key.

The big difference in Wordly Wise is the calibre of the word lists. I have found that the lists are advanced, but not unattainable. Another bonus is the information given at the end of each lesson - spelling hints, pronunciation help, and word origins. I find that there is an emphasis on word origins, as well as on derivatives. All in all, it's a spelling program that I'd highly recommend. It is also recommended by Laura Berquist in Designing Your Own Classical Curriculum.
 

Additional notes: 

Be aware that there are newer "Wordly Wise" series that have issues with political correctness and some age-inappropriate content. They are also more geared to test-taking. We tried the Wordly Wise 3000 series and were disappointed despite the nicer layout etc. It was back to the old series of books for us! ~ Suchi

Reviewed by: 
First reviewed: 
1999