The Arts of Language Podcast

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Jennifer Mauser, an educational consultant with IEW Schools Department, about the importance of critical thinking and some ways to build critical thinking in your students. Jennifer brings her experience as a mom, Accomplished IEW Instructor, and Master Barton Tutor and shares how she has seen the critical thinking skills in her students expand as she has used IEW methods and materials. Referenced Materials Jennifer Mauser IEW Book Recommendations  Read-Aloud Revival Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization “How IEW Teaches Thinking” Transcript of Podcast Episode 499   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker address how to assist students who join midyear. They discuss whether it is necessary to teach all the previous units before new students join the rest of the class and how to handle customizing the checklist. Listen to this helpful conversation that focuses on the best practices that will truly benefit a student.   Referenced Materials Bible-Based Writing Lessons Episode 398: Think like Shakespeare, Part 1 Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Structure and Style Overview Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing audio talk by Andrew Pudewa IEW Checklist Generator™ “IEW's Checklist: Supporting Student Success” Premium Membership Principles of Motivation audio talk by Andrew Pudewa “Perfecting Style with Time and Practice” Transcript of Podcast Episode 498   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.comPerhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Donahue Academy’s Dr. Marc Snyder, principal, and Deacon Edward Watson, assistant principal for curriculum and instruction. They share how and why Donahue Academy has chosen to use IEW, why classical education is growing, and how the IEW Schools Department can assist schools with implementing the Structure and Style® methodology.   Referenced Materials Donahue Academy  Dr. Marc Snyder, Ed.D. Deacon Edward Watson, M.S.E Teacher Training Method Options: Live On-Site Professional Development Structure and Style for Students “Writing across the Curriculum and Why It Matters” Theme-Based Writing Lessons Why Donahue Academy Chose IEW video Transcript of Podcast Episode 497   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss a recent study that shows young parents are not reading aloud to their children. Andrew shares stories of reading aloud to his children and grandchildren. They share ways to make reading aloud more enjoyable for both parents and children and end with a call to action for parents.    Referenced Materials Nurturing Competent Communicators audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Read-Aloud Revival Episode 486: Unfairly Advantaging Your Students Peter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes by Jonathan Auxier “New Research Reveals That Parents Are Losing the Love of Reading Aloud”  Transcript of Podcast Episode 496   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this Homeschool 101 episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Darren Jones, senior counsel and director of group services at Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA). They discuss the history of homeschooling laws, the benefits of joining HSLDA, and other information helpful for new and veteran homeschool families. Listen to the end for a special offer for IEW Premium Membership subscribers.   Referenced Materials Darren Jones, Esq. Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) Premium Membership Transcript of Podcast Episode 495   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

“You can’t think a thought if you don’t have the words to think it.” In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk about how building vocabulary enhances thinking skills. Throughout IEW’s history, thinking about words and their meanings has been incorporated into nearly all of our courses. Listen as Andrew and Julie discuss how we teach vocabulary and why it is important to teach it in the context of other courses.   Referenced Materials Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization A Word Write Now Structure and Style® for Students Fix It!® Grammar Theme-Based Writing Lessons The Phonetic Zoo spelling program Transcript for Podcast Episode 494   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker add more books to your TBR (to be read) pile. Listen as they describe more favorite fiction and nonfiction selections, perfect for listening during cool autumn days, doing puzzles, or driving to and from activities as the school year starts again.  Go to Part 1. Referenced Materials The Testament by John Grisham The End of the World Is Just the Beginning by Peter Zeihan Dominion by Tom Holland Sooley by John Grisham Parnassus on Wheels by Christopher Morley The Mysterious Howling: The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place by Maryrose Wood Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis Billy Budd, Sailor by Herman Melville Swallows and Amazons by Arthur Ransome The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin Read-Aloud Revival® (Sarah Mackenzie) The Betrothed by Alessandro Manzoni Transcript of Podcast Episode 493   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this fascinating episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Dr. Steven Hales about the challenges of teaching and learning in the age of AI. Dr. Hales is a professor of philosophy at the Commonwealth University of PA at Bloomsburg and has spent a lot of time thinking and writing about the challenges that students and professors are facing.    Referenced Materials Hilarius Bookbinder Substack Scriptorium Philosophia The Myth of Luck by Steven D. Hales “Why AI Is Destroying Academic Integrity” by Steven D. Hales “Process versus Product” by Andrew Pudewa “The Average College Student Today”  Transcript of Podcast Episode 492 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

If you have ever considered becoming an accredited IEW instructor, this podcast is for you. Listen as Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Sydney Hoff, founder and director of Rose Writing Center. Sydney shares how IEW has impacted her teaching and contributed to the growth of her business. After becoming an accredited IEW instructor herself and realizing the value of that process, Sydney recommends it to everyone she works with.   Referenced Materials Rose Writing Center Sydney Hoff Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® IEW® Gradebook Episode 414: Furnishing the Mind with Reading – Read With Me Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization Poetry recitation videos from Rose Writing Center IEW Accreditation Program Transcript of Podcast Episode 491   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker answer questions submitted by listeners. They discuss how to encourage a child to continue practicing a musical instrument, how to help students who are struggling with the questioning skills for Unit 5 and Unit 7, what to do after completing the six books in the Fix It!® Grammar series, what to use for writing a novel, and more. Andrew ends with some letters that he has received from students. Referenced Materials Principles of Motivation audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Structure and Style® for Students: Year 2 Level A Fix It!® Grammar: Level 6 Little Mermaid One Year Adventure Novel “Where are they now? Taylor Bennett: Porch Swing Girl”  Episode 115: National Novel Writing Month – Special Interview with Taylor Bennett Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level C Structure and Style for Students: Year 3 Level B Link to Episode 490 video Transcript of Podcast Episode 490   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker interview Lizabeth Brasells, the managing editor of Magnum Opus Magazine—IEW’s premier showcase of work from students around the world. Listen as they share the history behind the Magnum Opus, the process of selecting pieces for publication, and the ways the magazine can be used by teachers and teaching parents to model the Structure and Style® method and motivate students.   Referenced Materials Magnum Opus Magazine Lizabeth Brasells IEW Writing Contest “Magnum Opus Magazine: A Resource and Opportunity for Teachers and Students”  Andrew Pudewa introduces Magnum Opus Magazine Transcript for Podcast Episode 489   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker continue their live session at the NCFCA National Championships. This part of the conversation focused on how using the IEW methodology helps students avoid plagiarism. Andrew also discussed whether there is a place for AI in academics. Listen to hear what students asked Andrew at the end of the session. Go to Part 1 Referenced Materials NCFCA Christian Speech and Debate Episode 354: Paper and Pen – What the Research Says University-Ready Writing University-Ready Writing free lessons Episode 492: Academic Integrity with Dr. Stephen Hale IEW Gradebook Transcript of Podcast Episode 488 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker recorded this two-part podcast at the NCFCA National Championship in St. Paul, Minnesota, in June 2025. They discuss what plagiarism is, why it is easier for students to plagiarize today, and why it is important to avoid plagiarism. Be sure to listen to Part 2 (posts on 9/3) as they discuss some solutions to this problem.  Go to Part 2 Referenced Materials NCFCA Christian Speech and Debate Episode 459: Speech and Debate with Christy Shipe Hacking High School: Rethinking the Teen Years audio talk by Andrew Pudewa “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” article by Andrew Pudewa Episode 492: Academic Integrity with Dr. Stephen Hale Transcript of Podcast Episode 487 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss how children thrive when parents read aloud to them. Reading aloud builds family bonds and shared memories as well as increases vocabulary and comprehension. Listen to this episode to learn more.   Referenced Materials Summer Help from IEW “Is having a loving family an unfair advantage?” Episode 354: Paper and Pen — What the Research Says Read-Aloud Revival Structure and Style® for Students free lessons Theme-Based Writing Lessons Grammar for a Full Life by Lawrence Weinstein Transcript of Podcast Episode 486   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker share their top tips for new homeschool families. They focus on overall lifestyle choices and priorities instead of specific curriculum recommendations. If you are considering homeschooling or know someone who is, this is the perfect episode. Grab a glass of iced tea or lemonade and glean some wisdom from Andrew and Julie.   Referenced Materials However Imperfectly audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Episode 326: Fatherhood and Family – A Dad Talk, Part 1 Hacking High School audio talk by Andrew Pudewa The Etiquette Factory IEW Annual Educators’ Conference Transcript of Podcast Episode 485   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker continue diving into this year's theme: How to Think. In this episode, they talk about famous questions and quotations that have to do with thinking and learning, as well as some that spark thinking. Listen to glean some questions and quotations that will spark thoughtful conversations in your home or classroom.   Referenced Materials The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Episode 398: Think like Shakespeare, Part 1 How to Think like Shakespeare: Lessons from a Renaissance Education by Scott Newstok What Are We Really Doing Here? by Andrew Pudewa Article Audio talk However Imperfectly by Andrew Pudewa Transcript of Podcast Episode 484   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk about how the use of AI for writing impacts the process of training students to be critical thinkers. While it may be tempting for students and parents alike to use AI for writing because it is faster and easier, Andrew encourages parents to realize the dangers, including inaccurate facts, imprecise thinking, and unfounded opinions.   Referenced Materials “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” article by Andrew Pudewa Arts of Language homeschool magalog Transcript of Podcast Episode 483 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker are joined by IEW’s Customer Support Manager, Catherine Hafer, to discuss the many roles that the customer service team members fill as they serve you and IEW.   Referenced Materials Catherine Hafer Our Team Principles of Motivation audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Transcript of Podcast Episode 482             If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this engaging episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the idea of writing across the curriculum with Dr. Kathleen O’Toole, Associate Vice President for K-12 Education at Hillsdale College. They discuss the exciting partnership IEW has formed with the Hillsdale K-12 program that provides guidance and partnership for classical schools as well as teacher training events. They also share the benefits for students and teachers when writing can be integrated with the overall curriculum.    Referenced Materials Dr. James B. Webster Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Theme-Based Writing Lessons Hillsdale College Hillsdale K-12 Education Adventures in Writing Hoogland Center for Teacher Excellence K-12 at Home Transcript of Podcast Episode 481   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker answer questions submitted by listeners. Listen as they discuss how to find the literature suggestions in IEW’s courses, how to decide what courses to use first with younger students, why the levels of some of the theme-based books have changed, what books Andrew is reading now, and more!    Referenced Materials Structure and Style® for Students: Year 1 Level C Structure and Style for Students: Year 2 Level B The Story of Doctor Dolittle by Hugh Lofting Investigations in Writing Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level A Fix It!® Grammar Wonders of Science Writing Lessons Ancient History-Based Writing Lessons The Betrothed by Alessandro Manzoni The Plague by Albert Camus 1984 by George Orwell Silence by Shūsaku Endō Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley The End of the World Is Just the Beginning by Peter Zeihan We Who Wrestle with God by Jordan B. Peterson IEW Online Classes Structure and Style for Students: Year 3 Level B Writing Contests Magnum Opus Magazine Structure and Style for Students: Year 2 Level C Paper and Pen – What the Research Says audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Link to Episode 480 video Transcript of Podcast Episode 480   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.comPerhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

IEW’s instructor accreditation program is back and better than ever! In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker sit down with Denise Kelley, Director of Product Development at IEW. They talk about the history and purpose of the accreditation program before explaining the new tiers of accreditation and the improved process for becoming accredited. If you want to know more about the new accreditation program, listen to this podcast and visit the IEW Accreditation Program web page.   Referenced Materials IEW Accreditation Program Apply for IEW Accreditation Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Seminar Structure and Style for Students IEW® Gradebook Transcript of Podcast Episode 479   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

May is often the month when IEW instructors are reaching Unit 9 in which students write formal critiques and Response to Literature compositions. Many of IEW’s courses include literature suggestions because we recognize the importance of connecting literature and writing. In this podcast, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the impact literature has on thinking and the connections between memory, imagination, and words. Finally, they share some of their favorite books that are in their Audible accounts. Go to Part 2. Referenced Materials Episode 283: A Bookish Discussion, Part 1  Episode 398: Think like Shakespeare, Part 1  Lord of the Flies by William Golding Mr. Popper’s Penguins by Richard and Florence Atwater The Chronicles of Narnia collection by C.S. Lewis Zorro: The Legend Begins by Johnston McCulley Homer Price by Robert McCloskey The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni Catherine of Siena by Sigrid Undset Kristen Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset Wanting by Luke Burgis The Molecule of More by Daniel Z. Lieberman and Michael E. Long Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker Out of the Silent Planet by C.S. Lewis Perelandra by C.S. Lewis That Hideous Strength by C.S. Lewis The Complete Novels of Jane Austen by Jane Austen Jayber Crow by Wendell Berry Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry Transcript of Podcast Episode 478   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.comPerhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Sarah Mackenzie about furnishing the mind with words and beauty by reading aloud. Listen as they discuss the importance of not just the words but also the artwork in children’s picture books. Sarah shares her passion for rightly ordered beauty in the words and art in the books they are publishing at Waxwing Books, and she gives a short summary of each of the picture books available.   Referenced Materials Nurturing Competent Communicators audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Read-Aloud Revival® Waxwing Books A Little More Beautiful by Sarah Mackenzie While Everyone Is Sleeping by Sarah Mackenzie Because Barbara by Sarah Mackenzie Dear Duck, Please Come! by Sarah Mackenzie Painting Wonder by Katie Wray Schon Read-Aloud Revival Podcast Read-Aloud Revival Booklists Transcript of Podcast Episode 477   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

May 5–9 is Teacher Appreciation Week. What gifts do teachers appreciate most? Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker share some ideas for showing appreciation to all the teachers in your life.   Referenced Materials “Gifts for Teachers: What They REALLY Want” Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Transcript of Podcast Episode 476   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker sit down with Stacia Lowe, a homeschool teacher who is passionate about providing hope and stressless homeschooling through budgeting. She shares inspiring stories and tips for making budgeting less painful. If you are concerned about the cost of homeschooling, this is an encouraging episode.   Referenced Materials Books by Stacia Rae Lowe & Adam Alva Lowe Knot Your Average Knitting classes and other homeschool resources Lowe Budget Digital Products Stacia’s Newsletter Stacia’s Blog A capella sample of The Sonshiners Knits 'n Novels - Instagram Stacia Rae Lowe, Author - Facebook Transcript of Podcast Episode 475   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker interview Jeff Nease, who provides support to schools using IEW materials in his role as IEW’s Implementation Coach. Jeff shares his passion for training teachers to use IEW in their classrooms. Andrew, Julie, and Jeff also discuss the 4-Step Implementation Plan and the various options for training that IEW provides.   Referenced Materials IEW Schools Department Jeff Nease Structure and Style® for Students Teaching Writing: Structure and Style “An Exciting Addition to Premium Membership: TTAP” Virtual Teaching Writing: Structure and Style workshop Premium Membership Transcript of Podcast Episode 474   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

April is National Poetry Month. In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the history of Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization, one of Andrew’s favorite projects. Listen as they talk about how this course works and share some stories we have received from students and adults who have found joy in memorizing poetry. As Andrew says at the end, “Memorizing poetry enriches not just the intellect but also the soul.”    Referenced Materials Nurturing Competent Communicators audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization By Heart: The Goodness of Memory audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization free lessons Memory Mentor™ Transcript for Podcast Episode 473 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker open the mailbag (or the email inbox) and read letters IEW has received from students, parents, and teachers. Listen to this episode to find out how IEW has assisted refugee students, how teachers are incorporating IEW into their classrooms, and how IEW assists students long after they have completed high school. Often students send Andrew samples of their work, and he shares some excerpts in this podcast.    Referenced Materials Bible Heroes Structure and Style® for Students: Year 1 Level A Fix It!® Grammar IEW Schools Department IEW Schools Educational Consultants Structure and Style for Students Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level C IEW® Gradebook Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization Poetic Power Poetry Contest Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization free lessons Transcript of Podcast Episode 472   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA).   If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

How does furnishing the mind by reading and appreciating poetry help students learn to think? Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they discuss the importance of poetry in providing vocabulary, linguistic patterns, and distillation of thoughts. Poetry lends itself to the contemplation of imagination and the beauty of the words. Students learn to think more deeply as they read, enjoy, and think about the words, ideas, and images in poems.   Referenced Materials Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization Memory Mentor™ Introduction to Public Speaking Structure and Style® for Students: Year 3 Level B “Furnishing the Mind: The Power of the Written Word” Transcript of Podcast Episode 471   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Andrew Pudewa answers questions submitted by listeners. Andrew, along with Julie Walker, discusses how to implement IEW if the parent has learning differences, whether a formal spelling curriculum is needed, how to differentiate the roles of editor and grader, and other questions. Andrew shares anecdotes from the class he is teaching with his grandchildren and their friends and provides encouragement for new-to-IEW moms!   Referenced Materials Structure and Style® for Students Structure and Style for Students free lessons Accredited Instructors IEW® Gradebook Primary Arts of Language (PAL) The Phonetic Zoo “Why Hire an Editor?” Four Deadly Errors of Teaching Writing audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Premium Membership Portable Walls™ for Structure and Style Students Teaching Writing: Structure and Style Fix It!® Grammar Fix It! Grammar free lessons Transcript of Podcast Episode 470 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker announce the prompts for the 2025 IEW Writing Contest. Andrew talks about why students should participate in writing contests, and Julie shares a story from her past about the importance of following instructions. Be sure to listen for the special prizes for the tenth annual IEW Writing Contest!   Referenced Materials Writing Contests 2025 IEW Writing Contest “The Benefits of Entering Writing Contests” Magnum Opus Magazine Transcript of Episode 469   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Continuing the conversation, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker ask Pamela White additional questions about the amount of grammar students should study and the benefits to learning grammar in developing thinking skills and reading comprehension. They finish with a discussion of AI tools and why most do not benefit students. Go to Part 1 Referenced Materials “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” Fix It!® Grammar Structure and Style® for Students: Year 1 Level C Fix It! Grammar free lessons Transcript of Podcast Episode 468   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In celebration of National Grammar Day (March 4), Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Pamela White about why grammar is important, how it relates to thinking and reading comprehension, and how she came to write the Fix It!® Grammar series. They also address sentence diagramming and why it does not necessarily translate into better grammar skills.  Go to Part 2. Referenced Materials  Fix It! Grammar Fix It! Grammar free lessons Pamela White But . . . but . . . but . . . What about Grammar? audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Transcript of Podcast Episode 467   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Listen as Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker reflect on the wonderful journey from IEW’s humble beginnings to where they are today. They look back at the first newsletter and share anecdotes about people and events that have advanced the company through the years.   Referenced Materials The Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Structure and Style for Students “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” Our Story Transcript of Podcast Episode 466   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker sit down with Kerry Beck, a veteran homeschool mom who has a passion to share with other parents the lessons she learned in her years of homeschooling. They discuss how to intentionally train your children to be leaders, using everyday school subjects and strategies to build critical thinking skills.    Referenced Materials Kerry Beck Raising Leaders, Not Followers by Kerry Beck John Taylor Gatto The Underground History of American Education A Thomas Jefferson Education “Just You and Me and Socrates” “Process versus Product” Timeline of Classics Life Skills Leadership Summit How to Homeschool My Child Hostess Homeschool Super Heroes Week FamilyEbiz.com Transcript of Podcast Episode 465   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this podcast, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss how IEW teaches thinking using some aspects of the classical model and the Canons of Rhetoric. They specifically address the first canon, invention, and how students learn division of subjects, one of the key skills in inventive writing. Listen to this episode to learn how to help your students come up with content and present it in a winsome and well-ordered way.   Referenced Materials University-Ready Writing “Is IEW ‘Classical’?” “Filling the Blank Page with Unit 7” University-Ready Writing free lessons Introduction to Public Speaking Episode 236: The Five Canons of Rhetoric, Part 1 Video Interview with Dr. Chesley reviewing University-Ready Writing  Transcript of Podcast Episode 464   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss classical education and preparing your students to become rhetoricians. Tim Knotts, who studies and writes about classical education, shares resources and suggestions to help you and your students become stronger thinkers and communicators.   Referenced Materials New England Consortium of Classical Educators (NECCE) The Well-Trained Mind by Susan Wise Bauer Episode 376: A Necessary Conversation about AI The Liberal Arts Tradition by Kevin Clark and Ravi Jain Norms & Nobility by David V. Hicks New England Consortium of Classical Educators Summer Conference 2025 Transcript of Podcast Episode 463   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker share the value of IEW’s Premium Membership. Since 2014, Premium Members have been able to view the Teaching Writing: Structure and Style seminar videos and access articles and talks by Andrew. Through the years the IEW Checklist Generator, Teaching Tips with Andrew Pudewa, and many other resources have been added. Don’t wait to join!   Referenced Materials Premium Membership Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® “An Exciting Addition to Premium Membership: TTAP” “Convert to Pens” Spanish Resources However Imperfectly: Lessons Learned from Thirty Years of Teaching  Linguistic Development through Poetry Memorization IEW Checklist Generator™ Transcript of Podcast Episode 462   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Join Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker as they dive deeper into the theme for this year: How to Think. Before we can talk about how to think, we need to know what thinking is. Andrew talks about the importance of language in building brain pathways along with how the structure of language aids in thinking. Finally, he discusses critical thinking skills and how language is the foundation for those skills.   Referenced Materials Cultivating Language Arts – Preschool through High School audio talk by Andrew Pudewa “How to Think” “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” Aging with Grace: What the Nun Study Teaches Us About Leading Longer, Healthier, and More Meaningful Lives Transcript of Podcast Episode 461   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this Live Ask Andrew Anything episode, Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa questions submitted by listeners, including how to follow the topic-clincher rule, what to do when a student uses a dress-up incorrectly, how to help visual learners with communication skills, and how to encourage perseverance and excellence. The episode ends with Andrew reading an assignment from one of his current students who claims to hate writing. Be sure to listen all the way to the end!   Referenced Materials “Understanding Topic-Clincher Sentences with Unit 4” Strengthening Structure Models for IEW Structural Units Review of SSS-1A “Why Hire an Editor?” IEW’s Winter Retreat 2025: A Virtual Writing Workshop for Teachers University-Ready Writing From Copywork to Composition: Teaching Writing through Imitation audio talk by Andrew Pudewa “Process versus Product” Adventures in Writing Theme-Based Writing Lessons free lessons Structure and Style for Students: Year 1 Level A Structure and Style for Students free lessons Nurturing Competent Communicators audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Link to Episode 460 video Transcript of Podcast Episode 460   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk with Christy Shipe about why teens should participate in speech and debate. Christy is the board chair of NCFCA Christian Speech and Debate and has been involved in many roles since NCFCA was founded. Learn the history of the organization and the many benefits of speech and debate for your students in all communication skills, not just speaking.   Referenced Materials NCFCA Christian Speech and Debate Christy Shipe Introduction to Public Speaking Free Speech Lessons NCFCA Tournaments Transcript of Podcast Episode 459   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker share IEW’s theme for 2025: How to Think. Listen as they discuss the feeling of accomplishment in learning to think through research and writing as well as the negative impact of AI on thinking and writing.   Referenced Materials Magalog “Writing Maketh an Exact Man” Twelve Days of Christmas Giving Episode 207: Thinking – The Quintessence of the Four Language Arts Transcript of Podcast Episode 458   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker talk about the purpose and history of IEW’s Twelve Days of Christmas Giving. Listen and learn how to win a gift certificate by sharing with your friends. They also give a hint about the gifts IEW is sharing. Join us! Referenced Materials Twelve Days of Christmas Giving Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare Transcript of Podcast Episode 457   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

What is media literacy? In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker interview Nate Noorlander, who teaches English, history, and philosophy online. They discuss media literacy and its importance in avoiding cynicism and uncertainty in confidently navigating information in the increasingly complex world we live in. Click the link below for a free session of Media Literacy, including a reflection assignment and an invitation to submit your work. Referenced Materials “Media Literacy Is an Essential Skill. Schools Should Teach It That Way” The Nomadic Professor Nate Noorlander The Nomadic Professor on YouTube The Nomadic Professor on Instagram Media Literacy course  Free session from Media Literacy course Ground News Transcript for Podcast Episode 456 If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Andrew Pudewa is interviewed by Gena Mayo, the founder of Music in Our Homeschool. Several years ago, Andrew asked Gena to take over the music course that his mother had written, Singing Made Easy. Listen as Andrew shares the history of that course as well as his own background in and love for music education.  Referenced Materials Music in Our Homeschool Gena Mayo  Singing Made Easy Suzuki Method Cultivating Language Arts – Preschool through High School Music in Our Homeschool Instagram Music in Our Homeschool on YouTube Transcript of Podcast Episode 455   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker continue to discuss and provide tips for teaching through the final five units from Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® if you are not using one of the theme-based lessons or the Structure and Style for Students video courses.  GO TO PART 1 Referenced Materials “Understanding Topic-Clincher Sentences with Unit 4” “Asking Questions with Unit 5” “Streamlining Research with Unit 6” “Filling the Blank Page with Unit 7” “Writing Essays with Unit 8” “Critiquing Literature with Unit 9” “Lesson Planning” article by Andrew Pudewa How to Think like Shakespeare: Lessons from a Renaissance Education by Scott Newstok Episode 398: Think like Shakespeare, Part 1 Transcript of Podcast Episode 454   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

In this episode, Julie Walker asks Andrew Pudewa to give tips on teaching the first four units if someone is not using one of the theme-based writing lessons or the Structure and Style® for Students video courses. She asks him, “What do you need to know if you want to teach your students on your own, using topics that your children find interesting or that you are studying in your other classes?” Go To Part 2 Referenced Materials Teaching Writing: Structure and Style Writing Source Packet Premium Membership Tips Handout Episode 269: The Mighty Pen – Teaching Students to Change the World through Language “Flying Solo with Teaching Writing: Structure and Style” “Taking Notes with Unit 1” “Writing the Paper with Unit 2” “Using the Story Sequence Chart with Unit 3” “Understanding Topic-Clincher Sentences with Unit 4” Transcript of Podcast Episode 453   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Happy Thanksgiving! In this episode Andrew Pudewa and Julie Walker discuss the power of gratitude. Andrew reads a letter from a student expressing his gratitude for the writing courses. In sharing things they are grateful for, Andrew and Julie encourage listeners to see how simply expressing thanks can change your perspective.   Referenced Materials Structure and Style® for Students “You Don’t Have to Like It”  article by Andrew Pudewa Principles of Motivation  audio talk by Andrew Pudewa Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo Transcript of Podcast Episode 452   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com

Thirty years ago, Andrew Pudewa began offering writing seminars to homeschool parents. In this episode, Julie Walker asks Andrew to reflect on those thirty years, share some of the highlights of those years, and discuss how students and adults are using the Structure and Style® method in the classroom as well as in the real world. He ends with why it is so important for people to learn how to write and speak and communicate in a world that so desperately needs leaders with those skills.   Referenced Materials What Are We Really Doing Here? by Andrew Pudewa Article Audio talk Teaching Writing: Structure and Style® Seminar Workbook Structure and Style for Students Structure and Style for Students: Year 3 Level B University-Ready Writing Transcript for Podcast Episode 451   If you have questions for Andrew, send them to podcast@IEW.com Perhaps your question will be answered at the next Ask Andrew Anything (AAA). If you have questions about IEW products or classes, contact customer service at 800.856.5815 or info@IEW.com