First Language Lessons for the Well-Trained Mind is a scripted grammar curriculum for grades 1-4 that combines classical education principles with Charlotte Mason methods, using poetry memorization, copywork, dictation, and oral instruction to build grammar foundations.
What is First Language Lessons?
First Language Lessons for the Well-Trained Mind is a homeschool grammar curriculum created by Jessie Wise, co-author of The Well-Trained Mind. Published by Well-Trained Mind Press, the program introduces grammar through poetry, art, and stories rather than isolated drills. The curriculum blends classical education's emphasis on memorization with Charlotte Mason's methods of copywork, dictation, and narration. Lessons run 10-15 minutes and are fully scripted, making it accessible for parents with any level of grammar knowledge.
Key Takeaways
- Covers grades 1-4 across four levels with 85-100 lessons per book
- Fully scripted lessons require minimal parent preparation
- Uses poetry memorization, copywork, dictation, and narration
- Secular curriculum with no religious content
- Affordable at roughly $19-33 per level depending on grade
Grade Levels and Structure
The curriculum spans four levels: Level 1 for grades 1-2 (100 lessons), Level 2 for grades 2-3 (100 lessons), Level 3 for grades 3-5 (89 lessons), and Level 4 for grades 4-5 (85 lessons). Levels 1 and 2 include only a teacher's manual since instruction is primarily oral. Levels 3 and 4 add student workbooks that introduce sentence diagramming. The program offers flexibility—students completing Level 1 in first grade move to Level 2, while those finishing Level 1 in second grade can jump directly to Level 3.
Teaching Methods
Each lesson combines several classical and Charlotte Mason techniques. Memory work includes poems, grammar rules, definitions, and short lists that children memorize through repetition. Copywork develops handwriting while reinforcing spelling and grammar conventions. Dictation in later levels has children write sentences from memory after hearing them read aloud. Narration through picture studies requires children to describe what they see in complete sentences. The spiral review system revisits concepts throughout, with dedicated review sections at the end of each book.
What Parents Should Know
This is a parent-intensive curriculum—it requires your active participation, not independent student work. The scripted format means you don't need grammar expertise, but you do need to be present for each lesson. Some families find the repetition tedious, particularly students who grasp concepts quickly. Level 3 receives occasional criticism for lessons that feel long. The curriculum covers grammar only; you'll need separate resources for phonics, reading, and writing composition. An optional Audio Companion ($8-13) provides recorded poems and songs for memorization practice.
The Bottom Line
First Language Lessons works well for families wanting a structured, classical approach to grammar without religious content. The short lessons and scripted format make it manageable for new homeschoolers, while the emphasis on poetry and memorization builds language appreciation alongside grammar knowledge. Parents who value efficiency and direct interaction with their children will appreciate this program. Those seeking independent work or who have children resistant to repetition may find it frustrating. At under $35 per year for most levels, it's among the most affordable grammar options available.
