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7th & 8th Grade Classics Literature Study (Semester 2) | ELA Book Club

Explore classic novels in this engaging English Language Arts course! Led by a certified teacher, learners participate in Socratic seminars, enhancing critical thinking. Units includes graded projects and essays, perfect for homeschoolers!
Meg Connolly, Certified ELA Teacher
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(37)
Class

What's included

17 live meetings
14 hrs 10 mins in-class hours
Homework
2-4 hours per week. Learners will be asked to read roughly 1/4 of a novel per week. Exact page numbers will depend on the novel.
Assessment
For each novel, I provide optional project and essay prompts. Learners can complete an essay or a project to submit for feedback. Essays and projects will be submitted via Google Drive.
Letter Grade
If students submit an essay or a project, I will provide a rubric with a final letter grade, as well as comments within the essay or project itself.
Progress Report
I am always available and happy to work with caregivers to ensure that their learner's specific needs are met. If you wish to touch base with me about your learner, or discuss something in particular, don't hesitate to reach out and I will provide feedback.
Certificate of Completion
I am happy to provide a final grade after the course if requested. Students must submit at least two of the optional project/essay assignments to be eligible for a final grade.

Class Experience

US Grade 7 - 8
Intermediate Level
📚 Join the Adventure of Classic Literature! 📚

Does your learner love reading and discussing captivating stories? This book club is designed for more advanced 7th and 8th-grade learners who are ready to start reading high school literature and want to foster a lifelong love of reading in a fun, supportive setting.

This course is ideal if your learner wants to:

✅ Start exploring high school classic novels

✅ Build confidence in discussing and writing about literature

✅ Strengthen critical thinking and analytical skills

✅ Prepare for high school literature courses

🌟 How It Works 🌟

In this semester-long book club for 7th and 8th graders, we meet weekly to discuss age-appropriate classic literature. Each book is read over a 4-week period, giving learners the time to engage deeply with the text. Pay weekly, and learners can join for any or all book discussions.

Every class session includes:

Warm-Up Discussion (5-10 min): Learners share first impressions, predictions, or reflections on the week’s reading.
Literary Analysis Activity (15-20 min): Learners explore themes, characters, and symbols through thought-provoking prompts.
Group Discussion (15-20 min): Learners engage in deeper conversations, ask questions, and participate in thoughtful dialogue with their peers.
Wrap-Up (3-5 min): We close with predictions or reflections to reinforce learners' understanding of the text.

🌟 Why This Course? 🌟

This course creates a welcoming environment where learners can:

✅ Build a strong foundation for future literature studies

✅ Improve reading comprehension and literary analysis skills

✅ Participate in engaging discussions with peers

✅ Practice analytical writing in a guided, supportive format

🌟 Materials & Homework 🌟

Guided reading questions are provided for each book, encouraging deeper engagement.

Optional extension activities, such as creative projects and essay prompts, allow learners to submit work for personalized feedback.

🌟 Book List 🌟 (subject to change based on learner interest):

The Hobbit by JR Tolkien
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Of Mice and Men by Steinbeck
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

🌟 About the Teacher 🌟

Meg Connolly holds bachelor’s degrees in literature and philosophy and master’s degrees in teaching ELA (grades 7-12) and in teaching students with disabilities. With over 11 years of experience in U.S. public schools and online, she has taught courses ranging from special education ELA to AP Literature. Learn more by visiting her teacher profile.

🌟 Ready to Join? 🌟
Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into the world of classic literature! Sign up today and watch your learner’s love for reading grow!

👉 Join the Adventure Now! 👈

Learning Goals

Students will build a foundational knowledge of important literary eras.
Students will build a foundational knowledge of important genres, tropes, archetypes commonly used classic literature.
learning goal

Syllabus

Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum
Standards
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
17 Lessons
over 17 Weeks
Lesson 1:
The Hobbit by JR Tolkien
 - Introduction to the novel
- Activities and discussion centered around first part of the novel 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
The Hobbit by JR Tolkien
 - Activities and discussion centered around second part of the novel 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
The Hobbit by JR Tolkien
 - Activities and discussion centered around third part of the novel 
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The Hobbit by JR Tolkien
 - Activities and discussion centered around final part of the novel
- Discussion around overall themes and key takeaways 
50 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Learning Needs
This course offers a supportive, inclusive space. With guided discussions and flexible activities, neurodivergent learners can build confidence, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in a way that suits their unique learning styles.
Parental Guidance
All the novels taught in this class are pulled from standard middle and high school literature curriculum in the United States. However, be aware that many of them deal with adult topics. Please research each book and decide if it is ultimately appropriate for your learner.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Joined September, 2021
5.0
37reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Massachusetts Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Non-US Teaching Certificate in English to Speakers of Other Languages
Master's Degree in Education from Fordham University
Bachelor's Degree in English from Fordham University
Meg Connolly is a certified English Language Arts teacher with dual bachelor’s degrees in Literature and Philosophy. She holds master’s degrees in Teaching ELA for grades 7-12 and in Special Education, bringing a wealth of knowledge to her classes. Additionally, she is TESOL certified and has extensive experience working with ESL students. With 11 years of teaching experience in both the U.S. public school system and online, Meg is passionate about fostering a love for literature. Join her class for an engaging literary journey!

Reviews

Live Group Course
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$25

weekly or $425 for 17 classes
1x per week, 17 weeks
50 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 13-15
3-10 learners per class

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