Best Suited: Grades 4th-7th, new, young, or struggling writers.

Scope: In this comprehensive year-long course spanning Units 1–9, students will master note-taking, retelling narratives, summarizing references, writing from pictures, composing essays, and engaging in an independent research paper project.

Duration: 1 year, meeting once a week for 30 weeks, with each session lasting 50 minutes. The class follows a standard academic calendar year, and most sessions are scheduled in the mornings from Tuesday to Friday (PST).

Goals: The primary objective of this course is to provide students with a robust foundation in writing that transcends academic boundaries. We aim to equip them with versatile writing skills applicable throughout their lives. By the course's end, students will have honed their abilities in organizing and synthesizing information, effectively communicating their unique perspectives, and cultivating skills adaptable to various subjects and scenarios.

Class Time: During class sessions, we will read source texts collectively, explore new concepts through engaging activities and group discussions, and progress through the writing process step by step. Through teamwork, we will complete sample assignments to reinforce learned concepts. As we venture into writing papers, students will share their work for constructive feedback, learn to incorporate style elements, and enhance their writing through creative activities in a supportive environment.

Assignments & Assessment: Weekly writing assignments are designed to be exciting and enriching. Completing these assignments, including a Keyword Outline (KWO), IEW Checklist, and the final draft, is strongly encouraged. I understand each student's unique writing journey, emphasizing a comfortable pace for individual progress. Weekly homework may vary in time but is designed to be engaging and worthwhile, with suggested optimal times ranging from 1 to 4 hours.

Students are encouraged to submit papers for feedback using the IEW checklist method. I provide positive, constructive feedback without assigning letters or percentage grades, focusing on skill development, structure, and style. Assessment includes reviewing Keyword Outlines and Checklists, with comments provided directly in Google Docs during the submission of final drafts.

Parent Commitment: Parents play a vital role in supporting students by helping them schedule proper assignment time, editing rough drafts for basic spelling and punctuation, assisting with technology, and communicating any scaling needs.

Materials Needed: A specific text is required for this course, with the "Student" version recommended for access to Vocabulary Cards used in class. Purchase the book with the cover featuring a scroll saying "We the People."

Technology Used: Zoom, Google Docs, Google Classroom, and Kahoot will be utilized. Students need to log in to Zoom, navigate Google Docs and Classroom, and upload attachments. Demonstrations will be provided in class.

Cost/Cancellation Policy: $600/yr, $100 Non-refundable deposit secures your spot, Remaining payment of $500 is due 1 week before class starts.  There are no refunds for missed classes.