•  Descriptive writing using sensory words and strong verbs and adjective
•  Creative Writing: Showing vs. telling, passive vs. active writing
•  Creative Writing: Figurative language; hyperbole, personification, similes, metaphors, etc.
•  Creative Writing: Writing from prompts according to the lesson's them. 
•  Poetry: Lantern, Stair poetry, Haiku, how a poem is really a short story that paints a picture in the reader's mind so we must choose the best words possible to paint a picture with our words. 

I'm a published author who developed these creative writing techniques when I started teaching an elective course at my kids' school over 10 years ago. I found that many students didn't know how to write creatively and bring the picture in their mind to the paper, so I designed a program for children using the techniques I used as an author. 

What parents are saying:

Gina is a phenomenal writing teacher! We have loved working with her. We have a range of ages and she is great at adapting to their ages and learning styles. She's very patient and good at helping them focus. My kids have learned so much and been stretched and challenged in the area of writing. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to advance in any area of writing! - Bethany mother of 4 tutored students.

Homework Offered
Homework will be given each week to reinforce the stand alone topic. This may include additional videos to watch outside of class and writing assignments. If they are turned in late, there is no guarantee that the assignments will be reviewed on time. 

Each week learners will be assigned homework to be done and turned in before the next class. Homework will be checked for completion and understanding. This is not an academic course where will writing will be thoroughly evaluated. 
0 - 1 hours per week outside of class
Assessments Offered
Learners complete weekly writing assignments, upload a pdf or photograph their work, and turn them in for review using  the Teacher message center. Students will be assessed for understanding of the lesson's material. A thorough evaluation of their poems and stories will not be done, but general feedback will be provided if necessary. 
Learners are expected to participate in class discussions and are assessed through class participation, verbal understanding of the assignments, and written assignments. 

*There will be no tests or grades for this course. An informal assessment will be done through class participation and feedback on homework assignments as needed, if assignments are turned in on time. I cannot guarantee feedback, if assignments are late. 
*If you need a grade for a class transcript, I'd be happy to give you a short written report and grade for your records. 
Grades Offered