Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)

IEW teaches writing through a systematic, incremental approach. Kids learn specific techniques (stylistic elements and structural models) that build on each other. It's formulaic by design — and that's actually its strength. Turns reluctant writers into competent ones.

Pros

• Structured approach gives struggling writers a clear path
• Video instruction by Andrew Pudewa is genuinely engaging
• Works across all learning styles
• Students produce polished writing surprisingly quickly
• Can be used with any content area (history, science, literature)
• Strong for kids who "don't know what to write"

Cons

• Formulaic style can feel restrictive for creative writers
• Parent training DVD is long and can feel like a seminar
• Expensive, especially the Theme-Based Writing sets
• Dress-ups and decorations system has a learning curve
• Not ideal for kids under 3rd grade

Best For

• Reluctant or struggling writers who need structure
• Families who want a video-taught program
• Parents who feel unqualified to teach writing
• Students who need to improve academic/essay writing

Skip This If...

• Your child is a natural, creative writer who just needs practice
• You want a gentle, journal-based approach
• Your kids are younger than 3rd grade
• You find formulaic writing instruction frustrating

The Verdict

IEW won't win any awards for nurturing creative expression, but it's remarkably effective at teaching kids to write clearly and competently. If your kid stares at a blank page and says "I don't know what to write," IEW gives them a framework. Andrew Pudewa's teaching style keeps kids engaged, and the structured approach means progress is visible and measurable.