Get Smart: Grammar Through Sentence Diagramming

The program progresses systematically from simple to complex sentence structures appropriate for the target grades.

Reviews describe progression from 'simple subjects and verbs' to 'compound sentences' and advanced constructions like 'gerund phrases, participial phrases, infinitives'

The program employs clear direct instruction with explicit teaching followed by guided practice.

Reviews describe 'traditional' instruction that teaches concepts then provides practice exercises, with 'instructional videos' and systematic progression from simple to complex structures

The curriculum includes regular review through quizzes and comprehensive review lessons.

Reviews note 'every fourth lesson consists of comprehensive review with practice exercises plus a quiz' and mention systematic reinforcement of concepts

The curriculum does not include writing instruction, focusing solely on sentence analysis and diagramming.

Reviews emphasize that students 'diagram sentences' and learn 'sentence structure' but make no mention of composition, writing processes, or text production

The curriculum uses individual sentences for diagramming practice rather than whole books or extended texts.

Reviews indicate students work with 'sample sentences' and 'five sentence diagramming exercises' per lesson, focusing on isolated grammatical structures rather than complete works

The curriculum focuses narrowly on grammatical knowledge rather than building broad domain knowledge across subjects.

Reviews note the content is 'very neutral' and the program 'supplements other grammar instruction' without building knowledge in history, science, or literature

The curriculum includes instructor materials and video instruction but limited professional development on grammar pedagogy.

Reviews mention 'instructor edition' with answers and 'occasional brief teaching tips,' plus instructional videos, but describe the course as 'very easy to teach'

Phonics instruction is not included as this is a grammar-focused program for intermediate and advanced students.

The curriculum targets grades 4-12 and focuses on sentence diagramming and parts of speech, with no mention of phonics instruction

Vocabulary development is limited to grammatical terminology and parts of speech rather than systematic vocabulary building.

Reviews mention teaching 'all eight parts of speech' and grammatical concepts, but note the program focuses on sentence structure rather than vocabulary expansion