Language Lessons for a Living Education vs. The Good and the Beautiful (A Comparison Review)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 23 ก.ค. 2024
- The much anticipated comparison review between Language Lessons for a Living Education by Masterbooks and The Good and the Beautiful by Jenny Phillips is here!
This review is broken up into sections. The first half is a detailed look at the two programs (each using the level 2 book) side by side and what sets it apart. The second section is me answer FAQ like what are the faith differences and why we switched and do I think Language Lessons for a Living Education is enough, etc. The last part is a quick look of level 3 of both language arts curriculum side-by-side to give you a glimpse of the style/amount/approach.
My pre-emptive statement for anyone who is LDS who watches this: I say the word Mormon, again. I know you don't like that word but to be honest, I'm a bit confused. I used to have my friends who were Mormon refer to themselves as Mormon. So... sometime in the last 15 years a shift has happened, similar to how the name changed from the church of Latter-Day Saints to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The shift is concerning to me as a Christian, the tactic clear... blur the lines. Secondly, I say it, officially... I do not believe that Mormonism, or the LDS doctrine/Book of Mormon are simply a denomination of Christianity. If you read the additional resources for history on Jenny Phillips website, you will clearly see that the stories and beliefs are VERY different. I believe in an eternal God, not one that was created. I believe that the Holy Spirit, Jesus, and God are one, one God, all parts and yet all individual. The Trinity. The differences are significant and I encourage you to do your own research. My problem is LESS about what is in the curriculum, and more about this hidden message that is coming across: "We are all the same faith." No... no we're not, and that is a big part of why I carry a strong conviction about using this as a Christian, aside from the style and approach differences mentioned above. I tried to keep the main focus on style and approach because to be honest, I think those stand on their own, but this also had to be addressed and I know I will get comments, so this is my official disclaimer. I also have no intention of responding to hateful comments so if that begins to be evident below, you'll notice I stand down. I don't waste my time debating things that are going nowhere. I speak my piece and move on. If you are watching this video just to see my opinion on the faith differences, go to about minute 12.
Disclosure: I received both of these programs for free throughout my blogging journey and have also at one time or another, been paid by both of these companies. This is my honest opinion after my experience with both of them and I now use Masterbooks (probably pretty clear through the video).
I hope that this helps you in your journey to discover which homeschool language arts is going to be the best fit for your family. If you want to read more about this, there are some additional links below to other videos.
Shop Masterbooks: homeschoolon.com/go/llfle
Why we stopped using the Good and the Beautiful: • Why I Stopped Using Th...
Look inside Language Lessons for a Living Education review: • Look Inside Language L...
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We used TGTB level one last year for my son who was in grade one. I saw him excel so much with reading and grammer during this time. We used Math Lesson for a Living Education level 2 (based on the entry tests) and also really enjoyed this program. This year for grade 2 I decided to try Language Lessons for a Living Education, mostly because it is a simplified version of TGTB. 3 lessons in, I switched back to TGTB. I simply found it wasn't enough. Too much copy work, and not enough teaching concepts prior to the excersises. Also I found it strange that the spelling words were introduced at the very end of each lesson. It just didn't seem to flow for me. I do find that TGTB can be a little much at times in terms of the amount of work required, but I'm just giving myself more permission to not be a slave to the curriculum and skip or skim over areas I don't feel are necessary. I still love the content and am very on guard to watch for anything that contradicts biblical teaching, because as you said it is not the same as Christianity. So far I haven't found anything concerning. That being said, we are still using Math Lessons for a living Education and love it. He is in grade 2 but we are using the level 3. I find when using Master Books materials, you need to go up a level to match the grade level. At least for our family that is how it has worked. We are also using Master Books "My Story" for social studies which has been great! I definitely enjoy both curriculums and as you said, you definitely have to base your choice on your child's level and learning style. Thanks for the review. ☺️
Totally agree with you 👌😃 also the handwriting level 2 does not correspond with a level 2 Language curriculum, before purchasing the handwriting book the web page shows you very clearly what level matches the grade, so, for grade 2 you will use level 3 or 4, because level 2 is to behind.
@@HomeschoolingFreeHappyGenius yes I found the same thing! I believe we did handwriting level 3 with our level 1 LA. ☺️
Thank you for a better comparison
The issue is that most homeschoolers advance their children with TGTB and when they go to LLFALE it feels “behind” when in fact it as at grade level. At the beg of level 2 you start out with writing 1-2 sentences then end up with writing paragraphs. It is actually a good balance for what is expected at the grade level and level of intensity for grammar, etc. The phonics is just a review at level 2 since it is expected that you teach a full phonics program for K and 1. So while it feels there isn’t enough review for what they need it actually is appropriate for a true 2nd grader. Also TGTB lacks in writing for K-2...there are hardly any writing prompts and Ive seen several people supplement with another writing curriculum
just switched to TGTB for the same reason as you.
🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼 yes!! I completely agree!!! I needed less neutral more Jesus & less tears when doing school. Masterbooks has been a breath of fresh air in our school. I I’m so in love with it!! Can’t wait to start my little one in masterbooks!!
I use TGTB, however it’s her right to share her honest opinion, if she’s working for another company it may be because she believes in the company, especially since she seems to be pretty passionate about it! Mormonism goes way left field, so if I were to see anything questionable I would consider switching, but we’ve yet to have any trouble and so far I am loving TGTB! I do, however, appreciate your video and getting to peek inside a curriculum I’ve never got to look through before! I also enjoyed the side by side comparison and loved how you highlighted as you talked, pretty creative! Despite all of our differences I love seeing we’re not alone, there is lots of Awesome moms out their killin’ it!
I looked at the sample for Typing 1 and found at least 1 quote that felt non-Christian.
@@crunchybeen4263 that would be odd considering Mormons are Christians...
I love master books and TGATB, they both have pros and cons. However, I'm not sure why you didn't even mention the fact that you can download TGATB language levels 1-5 for FREE! AND, TGATB also states that while the readers are "recommended" you can DEFINATELY choose books on your child's reading level. It just seemed like a very biased review. I'm am currently using both curriculums for my kids, I choose what works well for each child, and I hope that the moms out there will make the best decision for their children.
I didn't get into that because I was reviewing the printed versions of both, you'll notice I also didn't talk about the PDF version of LLFLE, TGTB has to be printed in full color because of the picture studies so an average print cost is about $130 where I am. This makes it even more expensive so I chose to keep it instead focused on the physical packages that are offered. As with any curriculum, of course you can adapt it, this was a particular comparison review of the way they are designed, laid out, and what they tell you to do. Hope that helps.
@@HomeschoolOn We print a Level of TGATB LA on our home colour, laser printer (which many homeschoolers do own), for about $25, including paper and toner, and that's in Canadiand dollars. I purchase an entire set of toner cartridges for our printer for $49 from Amazon, and there is about 2/3 toner remaining after printing out TGATB books, including the readers. I then I bind them with a spiral coil...so although it may be $130 for you to get it printed in Northern Canada, this is WAY off the mark for most people.
$130 to get it printed is way off of the mark from what it would be, even to get it printed from a company. Our 2 eldest children use TGATB, while I am considering LLFALE for our younger children, so both programs have great value. I do agree that some of the lessons in the lower levels are time intensive, but I am also awaiting TGATB releases of their lower levels K-2, which are being totally remodelled. It will be formatted so that lessons can be completed in one lesson per day, so with that change alone, we may just stick with TGATB. There is a great focus on reading, even at levels 1-3, which we LOVE, because it keeps everything cummulative. The one downfall with TGATB is the spelling portion, but even that is supposed to be remedied with the new editions. I'm sure. I much prefer combining teaching reading and spelling the same words at the same time, as well, those same words also become the vocabulary words, creating great cohesion. A mesh of TGATB and LLFALE would be a wonderful marriage, but alas, it'll never happen. So, once the new editions come out from TGATB, we will decide if our youngest children will use TGATB or LLFALE. Our eldest children, ages 9 & 15, are doing wonderfully with TGATB and love it, and are independent with it, so they will stick with that. The only reason I'm not doing TGATB with our 3 youngest children is that we are currently doing Jolly Phonics and they absolutely love it and are thriving with it. This reading program is so effective at teaching phonemic awareness, decoding for reading, encoding for spelling, writing and grammar, in such a fun way, that they don't want to stop. To do TGATB and JP is just too much right now. So, that is why I'm looking at LLFALE. The main problem is that Level 2 is severely lacking in any reading formation, other than just simply teaching a few graphemes and spelling variations in isolation. I also am not a fan of the spelling portion. The way things are grouped according to spelling patterns, such as in McGuffey's Eclectic Primer, is the most effective manner in which to teach children. The good thing with TGATB is that their reading words can be used as spelling words. This is something that has been totally overlooked in the program. I also love the spelling program, "Spelling You See", but alas, we have far too much to keep us busy already, and the cost is just too much for just spelling for 4 children every year. It's over $60 Canadian per year per child! For just spelling! Anyway, thanks for the review, but I did find it was very biased, especially considering so many of your rave reviews of TGATB prior to you becoming an author for Masterbooks. You may have had honest reasons for switching in the end, but TGATB is so much better than for what you give it credit. Our eldest daughter hated LA prior to TGATB, and same with our middle child. Now, they both love LA! Take care and God bless.
All Things Godly, Good and Beautiful I didn’t read the whole passage. But I don’t have a laser printer and I had to print some of it in other places. And it was so difficult, by far the hardest thing ever. My mini books didn’t line up they were backwards on some pages and I printed exactly how I was supposed to. The printer freaked out and now half my book is single sided. 🤦🏻♀️. I will NEVER print TGTB ever again. I’ll buy it instead so much easier. Also I did notice that it was taking my kids much to long to do their lessons. I was only getting through about 2 lessons a week if I’m lucky after calculations, it would take much longer than 36 weeks to complete one book. My kids have a terrible attention span and they need around 2-3 breaks before finishing a simple lesson. So I know what she means. I don’t have that other book however so I can’t judge but TGTB. So far has been difficult but is doing a decent job helping my children learn. So, yeah
Or, use an Epson EcoTank. Each ink bottle (every single colour and even the black) is good for 6000 colour pages and 7500 black pages as it uses a different technology. Each ink bottle is ~20 CAD when you want to change them after many years. 4 ink bottles every countless years. So, you can print many years of TGATB for nearly free at home. Just buy paper. I'd still rather buy the whole books or at least pay them as a thank you for giving the PDF for free and to support their company. Their shipping is what ruins it and I don't like paying ~60USD for shipping just for a few books.
Great comparison!!!! Thank you for sharing. 👍🏽
LLFALE level two is more like TGATB level one or even level K for the first half. I looked at the sample on Masterbooks website and one of the spelling words halfway through was "no"--- that's one of my 6 year old's spelling words in level K, and that's halfway through the book. I am using TGATB levels K, 3 and 4 right now with 3 of my children and we are loving it. There is plenty of guidance on TGATB website on how to manage multiple children. No way does it take hours and hours.
I guess someone would have to do a side by side scope and sequence comparison instead of comparing a few spelling words :)
@@linseyk5728 I absolutely DID compare scope and sequence. Just like their math curriculum, it runs about a grade or 1 1/2 grades behind the other curriculums. I suppose if your child has special needs it would work.
@@valleyhavenfamilyschool8951 That's in line with what Jenny Phillips says, " Some children just starting this curriculum begin
one or even two grade levels lower than their grade level".. also, around 4-5th grade, their math program "catches up" or passes other popular math curricula. Their highschool math suggestions are the same as some other popular math programs... with a smooth transition.
All I ever hear is how much kids LOVE TGATB. Is it really true that kids love TGATB or is it the parents? We are currently using TGATB and I don't want to switch from TGATB because I LIKE it, but my kids HATE it!!! They are begging for something new for next year and are even researching other curriculums themselves.
Tami Ivory I can only speak for my family and my kids love it. It’s working well for us for LA and the K Math is outstanding. We are anxiously awaiting level 1 Math.
This definitely helped me decide that The good and beautiful is definitely what I want to stick with. However I only have 2 kiddos. Language lessons just would not be challenging enough. We will be using masterbooks for science next year and we are very excited about that. Thanks for the review 👍
I am currently using MLFLE and TGTB for LA. I have to clarify several statements for mamas who are looking at TGTB LA. We never sit down for 70-80 minutes for a lesson! My kids (age 9 and 7) do their independent reading, spelling practice, and phonogram flash cards in the morning on their own. Reading takes 20 minutes, 5 minutes each for the others. Once we sit down for a lesson we set the timer for 20 minutes and stop working when it’s done. I love love love that we are getting art study (a very Charlotte Mason characteristic), and geography all combined together! In level 2, the kids are supposed to write a Thank You letter each week. I couldn’t believe that you left that out, and highlighted one page of letter writing in LLFLE as if it was comparable. Also, my kids have loved TGTB readers and once they are done they choose their own books. I respect your decision to not want to purchase from a Mormon, even though I am one and can confirm that we are very much Christians. But, you never mentioned what denomination LLFLE is from. Also, people from different religions all helped write TGTB-not just Mormon. They both look like good curricula, but I think I’ll definitely be sticking with TGTB for how rich and deep it is while still being a gentle approach for my kids. Thanks!
Greatly appreciate you taking the time to share..Seriously, seriously needed this!! Every single point you've touched on here is exactly what's been on my heart. I am all things "Charlotte Mason methods" to my core, but have struggled w/ feeling like it's not enough at times.. On the other hand, I can not deal w/ overloading my littles either..especially w/ our eldest, presh DD (10 yrs old).. dealing w/ high functioning ASD. As "Home Education" based families...we are completely inundated with curricula choices these days..to the point that sometimes it's crazy hard to choose which way to go. So, again I thank you so much for this. Right when I first started listening to this vid..I yelled out! "OH! My word, I LOVE HER!!" I just could not help myself.. Keep up your great work R.. you've voice is so very much appreciated & needed.. Pray the Lord continues to bless you & yours greatly.. Can not wait for your other reviews on all the curricula y'all have been using this year!! Eagerly awaiting all that!! Kindest & Best... Peace out yo! ^_^
I always appreciate comparison videos but this one was so odd. I heard you talk about the writer of TGTB and her religion but you didn't mention who the actual author of LLFLE is? What is the specific denomination they belong to?
she doesn't know. I've asked her before. LOL.
She doesn't care what denominations the other authors are from.
They are Christians and often do videos of their curriculum on the Masterbooks TH-cam channel and FB group. They have homeschooled their kids for close to 20 yrs and have been in ministry. So yes the influence over the curriculum is quite a difference
@@Chubbles85 YOUR RIGHT. I think she cares about whether their views are introduced in the curriculum.
I know it’s a little late since this is now an older review- but I do think the first half is a very fair comparison. The second half where she gives more of her personal opinion is prefaced just fine with Rebecca saying exactly what she was going to do. So, I’m not sure why there is so much hate. Good and fair review!
Great video, and came at the perfect time. I've been so back and forth with these two curriculums, trying to make the best decision for my family and my child's learning style. Thanks for all of the info!
It is worth mentioning that TGTB language arts covers geography, art, spelling, vocab, writing, grammar and literature. I really enjoy the way these subjects are intertwined. Yes, it will take longer than 10 minutes but if you are going to cover those subjects at all, you're spending time doing it somewhere else. It has NEVER once taken us 70-80 minutes to finish our TGTB lessons. All those things do not HAVE to be done every day.... You have to make each curriculum work for you and your kids. If a lesson is long break it up over 2 or 3 days. No big deal. Also, you can download levels 1-5 for FREE. Both curriculums look great but I know for sure TGTB IS great. It did seem a little heavy handed and biased. We're all in this together!
We do TGTB levels 1 & 3 this year and it hasn't taken us more than 30 minutes for a lesson, and then they do their 20 minutes of reading before bed, usually. We love that it incorporates multiple subjects. My daughter gets excited when geography or art is in the lesson!
@@jennifergarrett5378 cx. ccc cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccdc0.vh
You said what I was about to say. TGTB has so much intertwined and takes so much pressure off parents to incorporate everything from art appreciation to poetry. I plan to use Masterbooks math but will be using TGTB for everything else.
Thank you so much for such a comprehensive review! We used TGTB this school year, but I’m considering other options for next year and this video helps me a lot!
thank you for spending so much time with all of us strangers to show us some of the differences between homeschool curriculums, making the daunting experience less so
This was a really helpful review!! I'm so excited to jump into out language lessons for a living education with my 1st grader!
My kids love master books. New master books user here and I’m glad to have found it
What about for junior high and Hs level, would you still recommend language arts for a living education? Would it be enough? Do you supplement with other language arts/writing/poetry books?
How about history and science? What are you using?
Thanks so much for all your reviews. I started with Math Lessons after watching your review. Loved it and we are now also using the History and Science from Master books. I love their approach in teaching. I think I will also be switching to this next year for Language Arts. Love your honesty!
Amy Cabrera have you joined the moms of MasterBooks fb page? Wonderful encouragement and insight. Love MasterBooks ❤️
@@MikeKendrickMusic yes, I have. Great page for ideas and help.
I know this is an old review but I actually feel like this should be a “why I switched?” Video not a comparison. I appreciated it from that perspective but it was not an unbiased compare and contrast. We’ve used tgatb for the summer and I’m leaning towards masterbooks for the fall. I loved seeing them side by side and do appreciate that!
The biggest difference, that you don't discuss, is that level three in the two aren't really comparable. They are obviously not on the same skill level. It would have made more sense to compare the LLFLE level three to TGTB 1 or 2, to be honest. TGTB is much more advanced, as evidenced by the content, the appearance of the material, etc. I would also like to note that most lessons in TGTB are intended to be worked over a few days, not necessarily completed in one sitting. We also have never done 80 minutes for LA. We don't do the checklist, because we don't do stringent schedules every day. It's not a set-in-stone requirement, I mean, nothing is...it's YOUR homeschool. No one is forcing an 80 minute LA lesson.
I love my Good and Beautiful lessons. I am 9 years old and finished level three. I am excited to start level 4 this summer. Thank you Good and Beautiful
Thanks for the review! It was super helpful. We are using the TGATB K, and so far so good. I don't commit to a curriculum, or have any sense of loyalty to any one curriculum producer. I use what works for us :) As for you sharing your opinion, thank you! Apparently it's becoming harder and harder to be honest?? Happy homeschooling!
Omg.....I love this comment
I’ve seen several curriculum comparison videos and constantly hear them fawn over the one they pick and prefer. Why is this any different? Oh because she is very opinionated on how she really doesn’t want any LDS influences over what she teaches her children and people don’t like that she’s being honest. TGTB has been deceptive in the past about what they do so if Rebecca feels a little annoyed at their whole “brand” then it’s understandable.
Thank you I appreciate the up close look at comparing the two, I was considering the good and the beautiful but had chosen language lessons and seeing this confirmed my decision thanks so much
How are you like mlfle ?
Feircefully Made I love it! Still using it now
Thank you for your review. It was very helpful and I especially appreciate your honest opinion.
I love how passionate you get! Thanks for your honesty! :)
I’m so glad you posted this! I was going back and forth between these two (thinking ahead for next school year) you’ve greatly helped me in my choice!
Have you looked at master books science? I’m trying to find a science curriculum that’s really hands on with lots of experiments.. do you have any suggestions?
Thanks for your help!
Thank you so much for this! I have been going back and forth on these two. This helped make the decision tremendously!
TGATB also encompass geography and art how would you supplement those if using language leasons?
Love your reviews; keep them coming please!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, it was helpful for me to see inside both curriculums side-by-side. What do you know about the Writing Strands books?
Hello dear and a non related question for you, could you please tell me what you’re doing for Canadian history? I’m a Canadian transplant here in the us. I would like some Canadian content for my kids and am looking for some type of supplement to use. Thank you!
Thanks for
This review. After watching this I’ll be switching my language arts curriculum!!
What exactly does the level 3 of LLLE use the 101 Bible stories book for? I already own that. Thanks for this video!
It is used for every day 4 to read together (or have them read if they are able), they copy the picture, and the caption. Kind of like a Bible study/reading built in. I love it! The kids love trying to copy the picture.
Hey girl. Do you mind if I ask what program you use that uses the chalkboard writing on the screen. It’s so nice and professional and I would like to use it for my business videos.
Thank you for doing this review. I’m now considering the good and the beautiful.
Also I’m Canadian but live in Florida. Sounds like your Canadian. Kudos
I really appreciate knowing the background on both, thanks for Your opinion, I can now make my own choice. I really enjoy hearing someone else's opnion and point of view on curriculum.
As it turns out, I use both of these curricula. This is an unbiased review of both. For real. Hang with me. Let's start with full disclosure that I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. (Yep, I know it's longer than the nickname that others give us, but we are passionate about Jesus and don't mind saying the whole thing.) I really never post comments on public forums, so enjoy this one. I found The Good and the Beautiful (TGATB) when it was in the beta stage. That first year I actually printed out the downloads. NOT worth it! Believe me! The next year I was grateful they were beginning to offer a pre-printed version. Pricey, yes, but not more so than printing my own. My older son (11 or 12 at that point) was happy to work though TGATB. But my younger daughter (9-10 at that time) really dreaded doing the printed out TGATB pages. I wanted her to like it, but there is no point in buying something she won't happily work in. As the next school year began I didn't know what to shift to. (A side note... I'm OLD so kinda experienced... these are the last of 5 kids with my oldest in college now and second to oldest about to return from his mission in Utah! Ha! Our friends snicker that we need missionaries in Utah.) So back to my quandary for my 10-year-old. I did what I always do when I have a question. I prayed. I did not want to spend a ton of time searching. (Don't ask why I found this TH-cam review.... we will chalk it up to the need for an unbiased review that God led me to.) So, I prayed to know what to do for my daughter. I heard "go search _____" . I have no idea what I was told to search. Back before the turn of the millennium, I found CM and knew, though she was dead, I was not alone in my educational philosophy. I am always happy to find CM inspired stuff. Montessori too (that's another story). I also like John Holt and Stephen Covey. (You have to go read the book I wrote about all that... this is already getting too long.) I'm pretty sure my google search had something to do with CM. That's how I found Language Lessons For A Living Education. Wow! More really long names! When I looked at the website and a few reviews I basically thought it might work (I was still cheering for Jenny Phillip's team, but my daughter could not be dissuaded.) The feeling was actually stronger than "I thought it would work"... I felt I had been led to what would work without going through hours of research. I was grateful. My daughter agreed to use it. (If I buy it, they have to do the whole thing because, I mean, money!) I thought I would get her an "easier than her level" book so she could feel encouraged that she could really do this on her own. She finished the book in January or February. I intended to have her work faster than one lesson a day since it was a little low level for her. As she approached the end of the book I asked if she wanted the next one or to go back to Jenny Phillilps. Remember, she has done both now. She wanted to have the next LLFALE book. Which I ordered and then would not let her start it until she did all those extra pages in the back of the book and all the stuff she accidentally skipped in the middle. About two weeks later I was satisfied she had actually done everything and she was so excited to get to start the next level. (We all know that kids ALWAYS love a new curriculum. For about 2 days.) She is now 11 and gets her work done. My 13 year-old boy works hard at the Jenny Phillip's one. They are both happy. They both work. God could lead you to either one. A little warning for my friends in Utah (I grew up there but have live in Missouri for 24 year)... there is a story line in the LLFALE about kids in a Sunday School class and the adult teacher leads them along in some Biblical studies. It is not Primary. It would not feel familiar to your kids. But I really like my daughter getting a feel for what her other Christian friends may experience. I think it's cool to get to peak in on what it might be like in another denomination. You are warned. Carol Webster... homeschool mom, author, yoga teacher www.principlebasedlearning.com/ holdingspacepractice.com/ www.amazon.com/Homeschooling-Those-Think-They-Cant-ebook/dp/B00FNI0E64
My daughter is in the first grade. She has been using The Good and the Beautiful Language Arts since she was in Pre-K. It takes us anywhere from 20-30 minutes to complete the work together. She loves it. She also frequently chooses books of her own from our bookshelf to read alone or with a family member. She loves the handwriting workbooks as well and is begging to move on to cursive at the end of her current workbook. This is the same child that told me one year ago that she never wanted to learn to read and she was determined she was going to hate it. She dug in her heels for the first month, but quickly fell into the groove of The Good and the Beautiful curriculum. Her favorite part about it is the Beginning Reading Boxes that come with it. She also gets excited when she conquers and new sight words ladder row. Another note to consider: I have two teenagers. One just graduated and the other is a Junior. Reading has always been a priority in our homeschool life and I really saw it pay off for them in their high school years. Their depth and breadth knowledge of language arts carried them through absolutely amazing courses which required college level reading and writing. It carried them through Shakespeare, history, speech, debate, leadership training, foreign language studies and basically everything else. Giving your kids a little extra strength in Language Arts is a blessing that will last them a lifetime. My suggestion for parents who feel it is taking their kids too long to do The Good and the Beautiful lessons is just to break them in half. Do part of the lesson one day and the other half the next day. Eventually they will catch up to speed and things will begin to simplify.
Am I understanding correctly that you used TGATB for your high schoolers? I have not seen a review of TGATB for middle and high school yet.
Just wondering if you are going to do a review of Writing Strands by Masterbooks? Would love to hear your opinion on it!
Thanks for the comparison and for turning me onto masterbooks. I was so close to buying The good and the beautiful but after seeing masterbooks I'm so excited to go with them instead and I feel alot better about the decision. Also masterbooks are so affordable for what your getting and I really appreciate that. I'm so excited to use them for this next year!
do you buy Language for Living education through masterbooks.com or answers in genesis website?
I love the layout of Language Lessons for a living education. I don’t see a kinder level though, what language arts do you suggest for kinder level?
Do you think a kiddo that has been taught in a more traditional style like Abeka could transition to Language Lessons for the Living Education without much difficulty?
loved the first half. this is exactly what I needed 😀👌. Thanks so much for taking the time to share such an organized side by side comparison. Hope that love has calmed the hard feelings of the second half 💕. Either way your a wonderful inspiration.
Ur absolutely right its not just a denomination. Im just wondering though the master books my sons 5 almost 6 and we did all his letters and phonics but idk if the living for an education 1 is to ahead of him or if it is the right level like blending and vowels
When will LLLE 1 be ready?
Have you noticed any problems retaining the information in LFLE?
so far I haven't, but we are only about 1/3 of the way through. It's still pretty new! Next month I have a comparison review of all the top LA curriculums that I could arrange.
Could you compare Logic of English and Living Education Language Arts? I'm currently using LOE and really like it but wish it had a Christian component
Is there a reader that goes with the living education level 3?
Thank you so much for sharing this!! How do I work with a child that hates to sit down and do his school work?
I'm so glad you did this! I've been using level 1 TGATB and my son and I HATE it! I've been looking at Masterbooks curriculum and this was super helpful for me thank you!!! ❤
I am glad you have the experiences you have with the Good and the beautiful. So that way you can share the pros and cons. This is a good comparison for children like my son who does not have attention span to do such long drawn out work. The only thing I am wondering is what book list would you recommend?
Have you used any Bravewriter programs such as The Wand or Jot It Down or any others? I'm curious how they compare to LLFLE or TGTB. I have a 1st grader & we are still trying to find a program that we love!
I do! I do a Brave Writer lifestyle over here
@@HomeschoolOn Oh great! I can't wait to watch that one. Thanks!
Thank you! I love this! I have been hearing so much about all the people who love The Good and the Beautiful. I ordered it once a few years ago for my older daughter but she really didn't like it. I have had so much trouble finding a language curriculum that works for us. I have 4 kids ages 15, 13, 7 and 3. I am really going to look into Language Lessons for a Loving Education for my 7 year old for sure for next year. This is awesome!❤️
Thank you do much for this video. This will be my 1st year homeschooling and I was stressing about a good language arts curriculum. You've helped a lot.
What would you suggest when trying to get caught up?
Ugh I agree. So we have used the good and the beautiful pre k and k primer and i LOVE IT. but the kindergarten is a HUGE jump in time. I'm over it. My 7 year old only has 15 minutes of focus for LA and it goes way beyond. Plus its confusing. It's too much. Where else can I go for that level?
Tgtb level k is more like a grade 1. Maybe try a sample of LLFALE level 1 and see if it would be doable for your child.
@@jodygoodwin77 there is currently no LLFLE 1. Basic Language skills is MasterBooks equivalent to LLFLE 1.. It will soon be converted.
You are my HERO - God BLESS YOU!!!! You have helped me IMMENSELY!!! I 100% feel the same about these curriculums and children and faith 🙏🏻.
I've been dabling in TGTB and although there are some elements I like, alas the lessons are still too long for us (and like weirdly inconsistent--some are way too easy and take no time, and some are way too hard). Anyhoo, I do love TGTB reader and the phonics flash cards so I'll be using those, but I'm def considering switching to LLFLE next year. Thanks for this awesome video Rebecca!
Great comparison! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for this review of Language lessons for living education. We currently use horizons and been using them for years but now noticing the tension in my kids when doing LA. This gave me a good understanding of the curriculum and switching LA
I’ve heard The Good and the Beautiful is pretty advanced (level 1 is really for second grade and so on), would you agree with that?
I realize this is an old review but I am so thankful for it! My kids are currently using TG&TB and we're over it. I was debating if Masterbooks was the way to go and this review has answered most of my questions.
Thank you SO VERY MUCH for doing these reviews! I always look for your videos to help me out! This will be our fourth year of homeschooling and I think we are finally getting it down! LOL!!!! :) I have one in High School as well and it is sorta freaking me out but with a lot of prayer we are gonna GET IT!!! :) Thank you again!
First of all I would like to thank you for the time and effort put into reviewing these curriculums! The format and layout of this review is good and helpful, although I don't feel this is a very accurate comparable review. As I looked on both sites for myself : I found that LLFLE match there levels to actual grade level where TG&TB levels aren't meant to match grade level. So as a viewer trying to decide what's the right fit for us from this review is very difficult due this fact. Yes, I get it, we all need to do our own research and prayer to find what fits our family. I watch TH-cam curriculum videos to help me with this process. I don't believe I will be returning to your channel for reviews if the comparison aren't apples to apples. But thanks for giving it your best shot. God bless!
Is there any curriculums in Spanish, that are similar?
Thank you for this. We have really enjoyed TGATB this year but we are more “classical-ish” homeschoolers. Looking at the Master Books curriculum is intriguing too. I will have to look at it some more online before buying my curriculum for next year.
Thank you for doing this review. I know it must not be easy to get the backlash from many after sharing your opinion, but I appreciate the honesty from you.
Thanks for this review, I've been thinking about making the switch for my 6 year old boy we're on level k of the good and the beautiful but it's like pulling teeth to get him to even do half of the lesson. We use Master books for math and he loves it and now after seeing the master books English I think we will switch over!
Thank you for the video it was extremely helpful!! because I was stuck between two curriculums
I totally agree with you 100% I used tgatb 2 yrs ago and hated it! I have 5 kids too, i dont have time to dedicate over an hour to Language arts! I now use Language lessons and LOVE IT!!!
Same, Same, Same!!! all except the 5 littles.. seriously, wishing we had 5 + littles, but unbelievably thankful for our presh 2 miracle babes.. ;)
This is great. I'm ALMOST SOLD on LLFLE.... but I'm coming from ABeka. Lol.
I have over- achieving tendancies a bit and my oldest does too ...and loves book work.
But...my 2nd oldest is a different learner and I'm going to have to look outside of the box I think.
You and I grew up on ABeka, Rebecca...what do I need to brace myself for when we switch!?
Oh ya, anything Charlotte Mason coming from ABeka is a HUGE adjustment. ABeka is totally traditional, this is a completely different philosophy of education. The biggest battle is your own expectations and need to do. It takes time.
Do you have a recommendation for something similar to the Language Lessons for a Living Education for upper Elementary and Jr. High?
Katie Carnahan Queenhomeschool Language Lessons has middle school and high school. Or you can you MasterBooks Writing Strands! Both are excellent, biblical, affordable, and very Charlotte Mason based approach.We use both for our teens.
@@MikeKendrickMusic I hadn't heard of Queenhomeschool Language lessons!
Homeschool On you will probably like a lot of their stuff. They will be at the TTD convention in Nashville this year in March. Sandi Queen will probably be speaking too. If you will be at that conference maybe you can look through their stuff personally or just checkout the website. My homeschool is mostly made up of MasterBooks, Queenhomeschool, and Simply Charlotte Mason since they all are young earth, biblical and very CM method/approach since that is what works best for our large family. We all love it! (My high school and middle school teens and my younger crew. Six kids in all) 😉 blessings!
👍🏻👍🏻 we ditched TGTB and started Language Lessons and loving it!! So much less stress for all of us!!! 🙌🏻
We are about a month in language lessons ☺️
Prins family farm I agree. Loving language lessons for a living education. It simple and captivating. No fluff for my active children that don’t want to sit down for long periods. I have 4 kids and so I also appreciate this as a mama of a large family
So great to hear!!!
Was it ditched due to style? Looking into lessons now?🤔
@evenm076 TGTB was an overload. It did not fit our family homeschool style. My boys love LLFLE open and go!
This is super helpful. We are using TGTB and I’m just not loving it. It is way too time consuming for multiple kids and grade levels and mine are fighting me on the length of lessons. I was looking at Masterbooks and I think it might be the right choice for us.
As a parent, I REALLY liked TGTB, but my almost 12 yr old still talks about how much she didn’t like it. She’s my best student! 🤷🏼♀️ It’s been a year since we used it. We are definitely considering this new one from Masterbooks. I’ll definitely be doing it with my 3rd grader.
Was very helpful and I really appreciated the background of each company. Those definitely factor into my curriculum choices and I thought it was a very truthful and kind way of putting it.
I discovered master books after seeing one of your videos.
We are going to start elementary bible and grammar in a couple of weeks. In the mean time my daughter has been doing some TGAB until we get our MB stuff. It seems a little dry, although i do like their spelling and vocab words. She's super excited for EB&G to come!
Thank you so much for this comparison! I used TG&TB and it got to be drudgery for my child because of how long the lessons were and it took us 1 1/2 years to complete.. The following year we just used some short grammar and spelling lessons every day , along with Hooked on Phonics for reading. I want to have more writing instruction incorporated also, so I’m now looking at Master Books LLFALE for 4th grade. You’re review was very helpful! The religious issue was also a concern for me even though I never found anything really wrong with any content in TG&TB, I felt like because the writer didn’t share my faith, I was always having to be vigilant about any subtle influences in the content.
Thank God this was not no where in the top 10 videos I found to research Homeschool. I was like whoa. I really wanna Homeschool starting next year and I have been researching like crazy for my 6 kiddos. The tone after the comparison had me thinking what the hec??? Is Homeschool as much drama as Highschool cause if so I would just leave my kids in public schools. I need core Christian values, curriculum that will push my kids to their potential, build kind strong Christ like minds/hearts. To me in your comparison it seemed the first one would do that. So I guess we will be trying the TGATB.
Master books is more God centered with academics included and TGTB is more academics with God included.
I chose God centered just because that’s my priority though.
THANK YOU for sharing this AND your opinions! Everyone keeps saying it's biased, but that's why I watch curriculum reviews. I want to hear your opinions! I also echo your sentiments about TGATB - we've used it now for two years and my son is beginning to really hate it. He wiggles & squiggles and can't focus and I keep thinking "there has to be a better way than this!" I absolutely LOVE Jenny's work, but it's okay if that style doesn't work for everyone. We're going to give Language Lessons a try next year (we already use their math)! Thank you again & thank you for your honesty!
It takes my kids 20-25 minutes to do TGTB LA! I have no idea how it would take 70!!?? Even for my ones who struggle with it
Thank you for this comparison; it really helped me
Thank you for solidifying my decision not to use G&B. I am brand new to homeschooling and don’t have this huge budget to work with. We are currently using Easy Peasy online for science and language arts, but the reading isn’t working for my kids and the language arts is ok. I think my kids need something more straight forward and structured along the lines of this language arts program. I’m looking for something people stand by and love, but nothing too complicated for us to figure out how to work through, because if I’m being honest I don’t feel qualified or smart enough to be teaching any of this, but I don’t want to cheat them out of a great education. I am looking for something that incorporates great literature, reading, writing and grammar/English. Is this a full language arts curriculum that would incorporate all of that?
Right now I am using Teaching textbooks for math, which works well for us and an Evanmoore for spelling, but I am need of social studies, geography and history.
I could use Easy Peasy for all that, but I think these books could be more engaging for them. Any encouragement or advice?
Thanks so much for your honest review. I loved seeing the side by side and will definitely be sticking with Masterbooks. We are already using their math curriculum and LOVE it. We love their biblical based material and the "tone" of all their lessons. I am sure we will enjoy this L.Arts curriculum just as much.
I wanted to also encourage you to continue putting forth this type of honest reviews. Like you so wisely explained to another commenter, a review should include YOUR honest opinion, especially when you feel so strongly about one or the other. Don't succumb to pressure to stay in the middle ground. Keep being completely honest with your reviews, even at the risk of losing some followers. God will honor it. God bless.
This is the exact video I needed. Thank you!!
Mom of 7 kids here, ages 13, 10, 9, 8, 6, 4, 2 and expecting baby in May! BUSY mama! My question is how the poetry and art compare in the two options here? I was really considering TGATB for the lovely poetry and the readers and art study BUT.... with a new baby coming and toddlers and a child with special needs (in speced) I am guessing I'll NEED to go simple with LLFALE so that I don't lose my mind and so my kids actually get to keep going forward and not get stuck in one book/lesson for too long. Busy moms who really enjoy poetry and art and want that enrichment for your kids and wish you had HOURS more to pour into EACH individual child BUT have a LOT of kids.... please weigh in!!!
Rachel L Center you need to decide on which subjects you want to spend more time in. If all subjects need to be less busy work then go for curriculum that is hassle free.
I'm using both right now because I like the grammar better in LLFLE, but I like everything else about TGTB. I don't have them do all the stuff pointed out in the beginning of the book... I honestly didn't know it was there =) I just open and go. My girls read on their own and I just can't find the time for phonics cards. It takes me about 30 minutes to do both lessons per kid. I have an Ecotank printer so I print off the free TGTB for next to nothing and I have the physical readers. I had no idea LLFLE had a PDF version!
I have done level 1 and 2 of MB and we LOVE it!!! It is wonderful and my son is learning so much! I am also using it for my kinder boy. We love MB
First of all, neither of these curriculums are “Charlotte Mason”. At best they might be described as CM inspired, or incorporating elements of CM. Charlotte Mason didn’t use workbooks to teach at all. LA was taught only by reading books, doing copy work, dictation, and narration. Totally different.
Second. I found your examples of how long it takes TGTB to be exaggerated. I’m using level K (which I believe to be a more direct comparison to LLFLE you showed in this video). We spend 20 mins on the workbook pages or assigned reading, 5 on handwriting, and 5 more on phonics cards or spelling a few days a week. With transitions it takes us about35 minutes. But this includes handwriting and the readers. If LLFE takes 15 mins, you still have to add the assigned independent reading time, which makes them much more comparable. It’s about adjusting the curriculum to your needs. We don’t necessarily need to follow it exactly as written. I don’t think comparing level 2 of each was a fair comparison, as TGTB is quite a bit more advanced than LLFLE.
Additionally, it’s hard to remain unbiased when you’re working for Masterbooks. I appreciate that you tried, but I think there should be a disclaimer about this fact.
Finally, as someone who was raised LDS, I find your remarks about the religion to be very un-Christian. There may be some weird differences in belief that make you uncomfortable, but that doesn’t discount the good it does. The LDS church has many faithful member who are good people, and TGTB is a thorough curriculum that works well for lots of homeschoolers. We all need to be aware of what influences our children, but putting such great emphasis on doctrinal differences that may come across from a curriculum that has a panel of people of different faiths working hard to make it non-denominational and a creator willing to listen to feedback and make changes just seems a pharisaical to me.
Asha Livingstone, I know this is old, and I’m sorry. I use TGATB for science and history, and I had no idea the creators were LDS. Bible verses are used, so I didn’t think anything else of the religious backgrounds of the creators. My girls and I have really been enjoying both subjects with them. I have a few more science units on my list to try this next school year. They’re so doable!
LDS are not Christians, you do not believe in the same Christ as us. Isaiah 43.10 there is no God beside me, that is what God said, but mormons believe otherwise. Mormonism is very much not a christian religion. Please read what the Word of God says about Christ, salvation is by "grace alone and through faith alone that no man can boast" and not "salvation by grace after all that you can do". As Chstians, we have to be very discerning when it comes to the truth of the Word of God. It doesn't matter how much good you do unfortunately, the Lord says, our righteousness is like filthy rags... it will not stand before the judgement. The only way to be made right with Him is to repent and believe on the Lord Jesus as your savior. Not the Mormon Jesus who is a created being, that one can't save you. But the I AM, the God eternal that exists in three persons Father, Son, Spirit. That Jesus is the only one that can save!. have a blessed night
Thank you so much. I love your honest opinion. I have liked Masterbooks but I wanted to see why The Good and The Beautiful had so much buzz. I ordered the language books just to try it but if it seems to go against the Bible then it won't last at my house. I'll have to see. I agree with you at the end of the video, "Are your kids enjoying it?" I put a sticky note on my mirror that says, "Mom first" that way I always remember as much as I want to educate my kids, I need to remember my kids need the love of a mom over good grades. Hopefully, we will end up with both. 😄
Thank you! This was helpful.
Wow... clearly understanding of TGATB is not there. My kids are WAY ahead in reading and we let them choose their books. We never spend more than 30 minutes on LA and my kids are doing so well. I REALLY wanted to like this video, but you still haven’t gotten over your need to put down TGATB. Also, please be honest with your viewers and tell them you work with Master Books. You were fine with TGATB until you started writing for Master Books. If Master Books has such a great LA, then promote it without slamming other companies.
New to master books and I love it. I agree with TGTB. I tried it, and I mean I really tried it but I ended up ripping it out and then discarding and just eventually tossed the whole thing. Then I tried again and my kids hated school so much it took 1.5 years for them to get over doing TGTB I don’t know what it was about it. Even the reading books. They’re still on my shelf brand new and they wont touch them.
Thank you so much fir this review it has helped me sooo much
I've just recently discovered your channel and I GREATLY appreciate the way you bring these curriculum to our living rooms. THANK YOU! I also used TGATB for many years. We are Christian missionaries overseas and it was a very convenient way to teach my kiddos English while they went to national school. HOWEVER, after reading Micah Wilder's testimony in PASSPORT TO HEAVEN and his mom's testimony in her book, UNVEILING GRACE, I decided I needed to get rid of it. It is definitley is NOT another denomination. It is a dangerous deception.
I’ve been considering TGATB for my pre-k, 1st, and 7th grader knowing that it is written with at least an LDS perspective and not agreeing with that aspect but hearing good things about content. This review was useful to me because MB was my other pick and I appreciated being about to see them side by side. I’m sad to read some of these comments, we should lift each other up as homeschool families. Thank you, Rebecca.
Jasmine Martinez I’m torn on tGaTb and masterbooks also, I have pre k , 1st grade too which one did you choose
Wow. Just wow. Thank you so much!
This was super helpful, thanks!
I am confused by this review. You are obviously pro LLFLE because you work for them, but you have said in other videos that a few of your kids are behind in grade levels. So, if they are not where they should be, then why trust that LLFLE is enough? I honestly want to know, because I have looked a lot at LLFLE and compared to TGTB and was torn because I like both.
Thank you for this!😊
Thank you sooo much just what I wanted to hear