Orthography As Outlined in the State Course of Study for Illinois   By: Elmer W. (Elmer Warren) Cavins (1864-)

Orthography As Outlined in the State Course of Study for Illinois by Elmer W. Cavins is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in improving their spelling and writing skills. While the title itself may not be catchy or intriguing, the content within the book is exceptional.

Cavins, in his detailed explanation and guidance, offers a comprehensive approach to orthography, which is the study of correct spelling and writing conventions. He ensures that readers understand the importance of spelling accuracy and how it directly affects their overall communication skills.

What sets this book apart from others on the subject is its alignment with the State Course of Study for Illinois. By adhering to these guidelines, Cavins creates a structured and organized learning experience, making it suitable for teachers, students, and even self-learners. This book can be an excellent tool for educators, as it aligns perfectly with the curriculum, helping them make lessons more effective and engaging.

One of the book's strengths is its clarity and simplicity. Cavins avoids using complex language or unnecessary jargon, allowing readers to grasp the concepts easily. The chapters are well-structured, progressing from basic rules to more advanced topics. Each chapter concludes with exercises and practice problems, enabling readers to apply what they have learned and reinforce their understanding.

Cavins also includes helpful tips and mnemonic devices to assist readers in memorizing difficult spellings. Moreover, he focuses not only on correct spelling but also on correct word usage and sentence structure, making this book a well-rounded resource for improving overall writing skills.

Additionally, despite being targeted towards the Illinois State Course of Study, this book can benefit a broader audience. Cavins' approach is universal, emphasizing principles and practices that apply to English spelling rules in general. Therefore, individuals outside of Illinois can also find value in this guide.

However, some readers may find the book slightly dry, as it primarily focuses on explanations of spelling rules and practices. It lacks personal anecdotes or engaging stories that could have made it more captivating. Nonetheless, the author compensates for this by providing clear examples and exercises that keep readers actively involved.

In conclusion, Orthography As Outlined in the State Course of Study for Illinois by Elmer W. Cavins is an excellent resource for those seeking to improve their spelling and writing skills. Its adherence to the Illinois State Course of Study makes it an ideal tool for educators, while its clear explanations and practical exercises make it accessible to a wider audience. Despite its lack of literary flair, the book's value lies in its ability to teach and reinforce spelling accuracy, making it a must-have for anyone striving to master the English language.

First Page:

This book is prepared for teachers and pupils who use the Illinois State Course of Study. The outline in Orthography for the Seventh and Eighth Years is the basis of all that is included herein. Three fifths or more of this work is word analysis which, valuable as it is, teachers as a rule are unable to teach without the aid of a text, never having learned much of it themselves. What, for example, can the average teacher unaided do toward writing a list of words to be analyzed which contain the root ann , meaning year? He might turn in the dictionary to annual , anniversary , and annuity , but he must fall back on his acquired knowledge for such as, biennial , centennial , millennium , perennial , and superannuate ... Continue reading book >>