Beginning the study of grammar can be a challenge for the CM teacher. Many programs are monotonous rote exercises that make little connection between the formal study and the child’s own understanding of written language from his own reading. Most do not approach the study as she wished, understanding the sentence first before individual parts of speech. Miss Mason’s own lessons were never completed by her. Those that exist have no tips for the teacher or answer keys to verify correct answers. In addition, she expected the teacher to come up with her own extra practice and to present the lessons in an engaging way.

Liz Cottrill has updated the sentences in the exercises in Miss Mason’s own First Grammar Lessons to make them a little more palatable for the modern student. The lessons offered here are based on hers, include much of her own wording, and reflect the kinds of exercises she thought fit for the lesson. They have been edited and “informalized” to hopefully disperse some anxiety for the teacher and student, and Liz has also included extra practice for students who need it, given simple outlines for lessons, and provided the answer key for the regular lessons.

For most students, each Part of this resource is about one term’s lessons. Some may move faster while others need more time. It is meant to be used during the short lessons and continued from week to week moving at the student’s pace.

Samples (Lesson Objectives, Lesson, and Answer Key):

*Note: If you are interested in using these materials with a co-op or group, please email us at contact@adelectableeducation.com for group rates.