Chances are, if you’ve been homeschooling for any length of time, you’re probably familiar with the conecpt of copywork. If you’re new to homeschooling, you may have heard of it and not know what it means. Or, you could be looking at this post asking yourself what I’m even talking about!
Copywork is, in its simplest explanation, the act of copying well-written pieces of writing. Its purpose is to introduce young writers to sentence structure. When passages are chosen correctly, students are introduced to new vocabulary words, punctuation and capitalization, and spelling.
What is Copywork? Why Should I Use It?
What is it?
As I mentioned above, it is copying well-structured writing passages. Passages can come from the Bible, poetry, literature, and even current topics of study. Start with smaller passages and lengthen them as your young writers master skills.
Why Should I Use It?
There are many reasons to use copywork in your homeschool. It’s a great way to practice handwriting skills. It’s a wonderful way to introduce your little ones to great writing. They will see that every sentence begins with a capital letter and ends with correct punctuation. You can introduce your little writers to new vocabulary words with copywork passages. You can choose passages from current topics of study – science, history, etc. You can reinforce grammar and/or spelling rules.
What if I Don’t Know Where to Find It?
You’re in luck! I just discovered a brand new copywork program from Jacinda at Growing Home. Jacinda just released six brand new copywork books based on the Book of Proverbs! This is the first set in a series of twelve copywork books.
Each of the books in this series is designed to be used by students ages 5-8. In keeping with the style of Charlotte Mason lessons, each of the copywork pages should be able to be completed in about ten minutes. While practicing their handwriting, little ones will also be planting seeds of God’s word in their hearts.
I’m linking up with: What to Read Wednesday, Favorite Things Friday
What age would you recommend starting copy work?
You can start with short passages in kindergarten or first grade. As long as they can form their letters, they can do copywork.
Copy work has been great for my son that struggles with writing on his own. Thanks so much for sharing a great post.