Creative Writing / Writing to a Prompt / Descriptive Story Essays (Ages 10-14)
Students will compose creative pieces of writing in response to a prompt. They will be guided in focusing on story elements and character development. *Adrian Sydor is also offering the same exact lesson at various times.
Natalie Sydor, M. Ed
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(262)
What's included
1 live meeting
45 mins in-class hours per weekHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students will work on completing the creative writing prompt responses that were started in class. Journal writing will be transformed into strong paragraphs. Those can be expanded into extended, detailed, and very creative written works of art.Assessment
Learner progress will be assessed through class participation and story completion.Class Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Intermediate - Advanced Level
This class is designed to help students organize their ideas by journaling and writing to a prompt. Their focus will be on giving attention to details to compose a creative piece of writing. They will practice describing and creating clear images in the reader's mind. Each class will begin with a discussion on how to structure a well-organized, descriptive, and creative piece of writing. While focusing on strengthening each student's writing skills, our goal will be to create a descriptive paragraph which can be developed into a detailed, descriptive story/ essay.
Class structure:
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1. Whole group activity:
- discussion about a visual prompt
- guided journaling practice
- creating details
- focus on imagery
2. Independent writing practice (new topic every week)
- journaling / rough drafts
- editing / improving
3. Students may share their work with classmates.
4. Homework:
- finish up writing
- rewriting
- creating final copies
Students may share their work through a Google Docs link.
Videos of the lessons are not shared.
Week #1 - Time travel / waking up in another location
Week #2 - What if scenario
Week #3 - Would you rather writing prompt
Week #4 - Train travelsLearning Goals
Students will practice journaling and creating a descriptive piece of writing.
Other Details
Supply List
Students will need to attend class with paper and a pencil, or they may use a notebook if they would like to keep all their stories organized.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined February, 2020
4.9
262reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Illinois Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
Master's Degree in Education from Saint Xavier University
Hello, my name is Natalie Sydor. I have been an English Language Arts and Reading Teacher for over 20 years. I have taught ELA and Reading to students from the ages of 5 - 18. My students have been native English speakers as well as English language learners. My lessons have focused on phonics, grammar, speaking skills, writing skills, comprehension, literary work analysis, and research. I have taught in the mainstream classrooms and have also worked in small group and tutoring settings teaching: phonics, ESL, Guided Reading, Spanish, Ukrainian, English language skills and test taking skills.
My responsibilities have included monitoring students' progress from all academic abilities. I understand that everyone is unique. Some students need guided attention and support to thrive, while others need minimal guidance and prefer a more independent environment to succeed. I have helped my students to progress to their academic goals and have helped them learn to strive for continued improvement. I guiding my youngest son through his Home School Education. My goal is to help motivate every student to work hard and achieve their highest academic potential!
I have a Bachelor's Degree in English/Education from Loyola University (Chicago, Illinois), as well as ESL and Bilingual Certifications from Concordia University (Chicago, Illinois). My Master's Degree is in Education and Teacher Leadership from St. Xavier University (Chicago, Illinois). I have also completed 45 graduate credit hours at Colorado State University in English, Reading, and Multicultural Education. My continued attendance at seminars contributes to my own personal and professional growth. I currently work as an Academic Advisor at a University.
I love to spend time with my family, especially with my three grown children and their families. I like to cook and bake (gluten free and allergy friendly meals), take walks, and explore nature. I also read a lot! That’s definitely a super important part of my life. I spend time working in our native plant garden, I take care of our organic vegetable gardens, raise Monarch butterflies in the summer, and go on walks with my dog Juniper.
I am proud to have the opportunity to teach on the Outschool platform and to work with your learner. Please consider joining my classroom soon!Reviews
Live Group Class
$15
weekly1x per week
45 min
Completed by 34 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
3-7 learners per class
