Fix It! Grammar is a grammar curriculum that teaches through engaging stories. Students correct errors in context, helping them understand and apply grammar rules naturally.
Most homeschool families report completing core academic subjects in 3-4 hours per day for elementary students, compared to the 6-7 hours typical of traditional schools, due to the one-on-one instruction and absence of classroom management overhead (NHERI, 2024).
What is Fix It! Grammar?
Fix It! Grammar is a grammar curriculum designed by Pamela White and published by the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW). Instead of boring drills, it uses fun stories like fairy tales and classics. Students read short passages with mistakes, find and fix those errors, and then rewrite the sentences. This method helps them grasp grammar rules in context, making it easier to apply those rules in their own writing.
How it works
The program is set up weekly, keeping lessons simple. On Day 1, there's in-depth teaching with examples. From Days 2 to 5, students spend 10-15 minutes on daily editing tasks. They find errors listed at the top of each page (now with clear counts in the fourth edition), mark corrections, and rewrite the sentences. There’s also optional vocabulary work. Concepts are introduced one at a time and revisited throughout the year, adding complexity as students learn.
What makes it effective
Learning grammar in context is key. It shows students why rules matter and when to use them. The story element keeps them interested—they want to know what happens next. The fourth edition made improvements by stating how many errors to find, which means no guessing. Most days, students can work on their own after the initial instruction, with parents mainly involved on Day 1. High schoolers often complete a week’s work independently before checking answers.
Considerations before choosing
Fix It! Grammar doesn’t include sentence diagramming, which some families think is important. If your student learns quickly, they might find the spiral review a bit repetitive. Parents need to feel comfortable explaining Day 1 without a script. Start at Level 1, no matter the student’s age, if they’re new to grammar—the stories appeal to all ages, and the basics are crucial. Check IEW’s website for placement samples to help you decide where to begin.
The bottom line
Fix It! Grammar makes grammar lessons fun instead of dull. The mix of story-based learning, short daily lessons, and real-world application helps students remember and use grammar rules. Parents say their kids enjoy these lessons, which is rare for grammar curricula. At $29 for a full year, it's affordable, and it encourages independence in older students, giving parents more free time. If your family prefers context-driven grammar over traditional methods, this program is a great choice.
