Elevate Your Writing to College-Level! the Synthesis Essay
What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentAssignments
2-4 hours per week. 3-6 throughout the classProgress Report
1-2 throughout the classClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Intermediate - Advanced Level
Discover the art of effective writing and argumentation in this dynamic and accessible course, perfect for learners ready to refine their skills and build confidence. Dive into key concepts like analyzing rhetorical situations, synthesizing and integrating sources, crafting persuasive arguments, and fine-tuning your work for MLA formatting and audience connection. Whether you're a confident writer or just starting out, this class offers something for everyone. What You’ll Learn: Analyze & Apply: Identify rhetorical situations and use them to inform your writing. Synthesize Sources: Integrate evidence and ideas from multiple perspectives seamlessly in innovative ways. Build Your Case: Develop strong arguments with clear, compelling stances. Polish to Perfection: Edit for MLA formatting and engage your audience effectively. Class Experience This course is designed for students with moderate to advanced skill levels associated with grades 9 - 12. Lessons are presented through engaging, asynchronous weekly lectures that allow you to learn at your own pace. Assignments are crafted to build on each skill, with detailed, personalized feedback guiding your progress. You’ll explore concepts through video lessons, written resources, and practice exercises, ensuring a thorough and well-rounded understanding. Why This Class? My teaching approach emphasizes clarity, accessibility, and individual growth. You’ll gain confidence in your writing while learning how to approach any topic with critical thinking and innovative communication. This course is perfect for learners looking to strengthen their academic writing or those preparing for college. Get ahead by taking the next step toward becoming a confident, effective writer!
Learning Goals
Students will write a complete synthesis essay with MLA formatting.
Develop skills in critical thinking, source evaluation, and argumentative writing.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Understanding the Synthesis Essay
Lecture: What is a synthesis essay? Choosing topics and understanding rhetorical situations.
Assignment: Select a topic and draft a thesis statement.
Lesson 2:
Research and Source Integration
Lecture: Finding, evaluating, and annotating sources.
Assignment: Submit 3 annotated sources with key points and possible uses.
Lesson 3:
Drafting Your Essay
Lecture: Structuring your essay and synthesizing perspectives.
Assignment: Write and submit a rough draft (minimum 750 words).
Lesson 4:
Polishing Your Final Essay
Lecture: Revising, editing, and emphasizing your voice and stance.
Assignment: Submit the final essay (1250–1750 words).
Other Details
Learning Needs
Designed to support diverse writing abilities with personalized feedback.
Pre-Requisites
Students should have basic knowledge of essay writing and MLA formatting.
Supply List
Writing materials and sources referenced will be student-selected but guided by instructor recommendations.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Learner Supplies:
Access to a computer, internet, and a word processor.
External Resources:
Access to library databases or Google Scholar for research.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I hold a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing and have extensive experience teaching college-level courses that prepare students for academic success. I currently teach in the English Department at the City College of New York, where I focus on guiding students through the fundamentals of academic writing and critical thinking. I also previously taught courses in film and communication at Baylor University, broadening my expertise in interdisciplinary approaches to education. With years of experience teaching first-year writing courses, I am deeply familiar with the challenges new college students face and excel at helping students identify and overcome problem areas in writing, research, and analysis—skills essential for succeeding in college and beyond.
Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$32
weekly or $125 for all content4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content
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Ages: 14-18