Comparative Essay Writing: Comparing the Grinch and Ebenezer Scrooge

In this class, students will learn to write a comparative essay. This three to seven-page essay will compare and contrast the character traits, actions, and ultimate conclusion of the Grinch from Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol.  Students will need to read both books in order to write a good essay. 
In week one's class time, we will discuss the Grinch. Students will discuss with one another and with me and will notate the specific, important traits and actions of this character. These notes will be used in the final essay writing. 
In week two's class time, we will discuss Ebenezer Scrooge. As with week one, learners will discuss Scrooge's actions and character traits with one another and with me and will take specific notes for the final essay. 
In week three's class time, students will how learn write a comparative essay. They will learn to outline their essay and how to begin their rough draft. Students will be given time to outline and to share their ideas from this outline.  They will learn that a rough draft is the time to brainstorm. Length is not as important in a rough draft, but most of the information that will be in the final essay will need to be included. In this class, students will also learn how to cite their sources. Extra sources are not necessarily required for this project, but they are welcome. Students, though, will need to at least cite the two books used in this essay. Homework for this week will be writing the rough draft. At the end of this week, learners will submit their rough draft, via the Outschool portal, to me.  In order for the student to receive feedback prior to the next class, students will need to submit the paper, at the most, two days prior to week four's class. 
In week four's class time, learners will proofread and edit their rough draft for grammatical errors and content. This class will focus on how to correct errors and how to write concise sentences.  We will devote the rest of the class time to editing the rough draft to a three to seven-page final essay. 
In week five's class time, students will present and discuss with the rest of the class their comparative essays. This week will be a time of fun and encouragement for a job well done.  If students do not wish to read in class, they can request that the teacher share their paper.  
I will teach this class through direct instruction, PowerPoint slides, and discussion. I believe it is important for learners to discuss their ideas with me and with one another. New ideas arise in such discussion. I believe students learn best when they can have fun and be creative.