Jensen's Format Writing

The curriculum includes substantial teacher support materials and professional development resources.

Includes 'detailed instructions for evaluation that will teach parents with little writing background,' sample schedules, and an 'optional, supplemental DVD' with twelve lectures from the author

The curriculum provides explicit, teacher-directed instruction with detailed guidance and structured formats.

Jensen provides 'detailed, step-by-step instructions,' 'detailed instructions for evaluation,' and uses a 'formula approach to writing'

This is a comprehensive, structured writing program with explicit instruction across multiple genres and formats.

Covers paragraph writing, five-paragraph essays, practical writing, business writing, and research papers with 'detailed, step-by-step instructions and examples'

The curriculum appears to focus primarily on writing formats rather than systematically building domain knowledge across subjects.

Content centers on writing skills (paragraphs, essays, business writing) with limited mention of building background knowledge in history, science, or literature

The curriculum includes book report assignments and appears to encourage reading complete works.

Review mentions lessons on book reports and students writing about whether books 'square with Scripture,' suggesting engagement with whole texts

Insufficient evidence about the complexity level of texts used in the program.

While book reports are mentioned, the review does not specify the complexity or grade-appropriateness of texts students engage with

Limited evidence of systematic retrieval practice or spaced review of previously learned concepts.

Review mentions check-off forms and evaluation methods but does not describe regular review or retrieval practice of writing skills

Not applicable for this grade level and writing-focused curriculum.

Targets grades 7-12, well beyond the phonics instruction stage

Limited evidence of explicit vocabulary instruction within the writing program.

Review focuses extensively on writing formats and structures but does not mention vocabulary development or word study components