Review of Pathway Readers

 

A few years ago I was looking for a phonics/reading curriculum for my oldest.  I wanted something that would help improve his knowledge of the phonics rules and so that I could evaluate him on his reading comprehension.

I had seen a post on The Old Schoolhouse Magazine’s facebook page, another reader had asked for suggestions with similar expectations I had.

I kept seeing over and over Pathway readers. So I did some research and then eventually ordered the entire set.  We LOVE them!!!

The stories are written by Amish farmers and are used in Amish and Mennonite Schools.  Pathway publishers was started by Old Order Amish men, David Wagler and Joseph Stoll.

One thing I love about these books is that you do not have to worry about the political agenda that has taken over many school textbooks nowadays.

The Amish live lives in their own communities and as a result have not been subjected to the immoral values that seem to have taken over our nation. The stories contained in the  books are wonderful, wholesome and Godly. They each teach a moral value or life lesson that I believe all kids can enjoy.

My oldest LOVES the stories in the books and enjoys the lessons. It is a win win for us. Also, those who know me personally know I cannot resist most things Amish:).

Pathway Readers cover phonics, vocabulary, reading, and comprehension. However, you can also use them to tie into writing assignments and copy work if you want. Recently we had 2 of my sons tested.

My oldest tested as reading on a 9-12 grade level and my middle son tested already on a first grade level with still a few months left in what would be his K year, so I know the books teach what they should. Another wonderful thing about the Pathway Readers are they are so affordable. That is why I purchased the entire set at once. The workbooks are very modest in price.

Here is an overview of the books:

• available for preschool through eighth grade

• a standard in Christian education for many years for home educators and Christian schools

• all stories, poems and reading selections encourage Godly character and moral values

• utilize a strong phonics approach in early grades

• vocabulary building lessons in all grades

• build good reading comprehension skills

• some grammar in all grades except pre-school

• can be used on their own with their companion workbooks as a comprehensive phonics/literature program or to supplement your chosen curriculum

• The teacher guides/keys are particularly handy in the early grades for checking on phonetic markings. For older grades, allow the students to mark their own work using the keys. The guides save the parent/teacher much time in marking assignments and contain teaching ideas and tips.

• hardcover readers, paperback answer keys and student workbooks

• Pathway readers make a great addition to any library

• These readers do not promote Amish doctrine and are suitable for anyone looking for solid, moral-based literature.

In Christ,

Laura