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How Does CopyWork Work?

Copywork. One of the most useful and transforming tools in your toolbox is copywork. At every level, copywork is an excellent exercise in learning how to write. Not only will students get practice with their penmanship, but they will learn in an organic manner, how to use correct punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Additionally, you can use copywork as a tool to memorize. Memorization will happen easily as the writing is practiced all week, and this is of great value because memorizing does to the brain what exercise does to the body. This should only take 5-10 minutes per day. You will see an amazing transformation in writing in a short period of time if you follow this method.

Here is how I have used copywork in my homeschool.

Day 1. Read the passage together and then copy the words.

Day 2. Read the passage, say it together several times. Then students write the passage without looking at the words as I dictate. At this stage I answer questions about spelling or punctuation. We go over their written work together, and if there are mistakes, they either rewrite the whole passage or practice misspelled words. 

Day 3. Copy the passage one more time. Recite it without looking.

Day 4. Students write the passage with no dictation or copying.