What's included
37 live meetings
18 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Various writing projects, hands-on projects, etc. Only assignments that are handed in on time will receive feedback.Letter Grade
1 after class completionProgress Report
1-2 throughout the classCertificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 12
Enhance communication and writing skills for 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Master essential grammar, writing, and spelling skills that support academic improvement and empower learners to express their ideas confidently. This course covers a wide range of topics, including creative writing, literary devices, and thematic analysis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of high school-level English Language Arts. Learners will develop critical writing techniques and analytical skills essential for success. **If this class is full, please join our ongoing version. Request a schedule if you don't see one that meets your needs: https://outschool.com/classes/high-school-ela-shakespeare-poetry-writing-grammar-vocabulary-spelling-n5m0nDGl?usid=zbctO6vD&signup=true&utm_campaign=share_activity_link ** ------------------ CLASS ENVIRONMENT Our classrooms are guided by a Socratic teaching approach, fostering critical thinking and encouraging open dialogue among learners. By facilitating engaging discussions and posing thought-provoking questions, students are able to explore topics more deeply and gain a comprehensive understanding of the material. Our class size does not exceed 5 learners. This allows for more personalized attention from the educator, ensuring that each learner's individual needs and learning styles are met. With a smaller group size, there is also more opportunity for discussion and collaboration among classmates, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. Additionally, students may feel more comfortable and confident participating in discussions and activities in a smaller group setting. We incorporate a mix of traditional methods such as videos and limited PowerPoint presentations to accommodate various learning styles as well. In addition, we gamify our lessons, as much as possible, to make learning fun and interactive for students. By adding elements of games and competition, we are able to keep learners engaged and motivated to participate in their education. We also incorporate hands-on projects, wherever possible, to provide students with real-world application of their learning. Through these projects, students are able to apply their knowledge in practical ways and further enhance their understanding of the subject matter. By designing this type of diverse classroom environment, utilizing multiple teaching methods, we effectively address the diverse learning styles of our learners. _______ IMPORTANT DATES Please note we value mental health and want to prevent teacher burnout. With that said, we do take company wide breaks where there will not be any classes taught nor will we be answering emails. Please expect a delay in responses the following dates: 2024: August 19-August 25 (Summer Break) November 27-29 (Thanksgiving Break) December 23 - December 31 (Winter Break) 2025 January 1 - Jan 5 (Winter Break) March 17 - March 23 (Spring Break) April 19 - April 20 (Easter Break) August 25-31st (Summer Break) If you are enrolled, you will not be charged! We will be returning all emails the day or two after we return. In addition, teachers may need time off outside of these breaks as emergencies do happen. We always try our best to give ample notice when we can. You will never be charged for a day that we cancel classes. _______ CLASS POLICIES Refund Policy: We strictly adhere to Outschool's refund/reschedule policy for all of our classes. This means that once a class has been paid for, there will be no deviation from Outschool's guidelines. We do not offer refunds or rescheduling outside of what Outschool allows. Camera Policy: All students are required to keep their camera turned on during the entire class. The only exception is those that have been verified by Outschool and have the verification badge. Contact info: In compliance with Outschool's policies, we do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former families on any social networking site (Facebook, LinkedIn, etc.). We also do not provide or ask for any personal information such as email address or phone numbers. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with these policies.
Learning Goals
Learners will be able to compose a variety of written works, demonstrating a deep understanding of literary devices, themes, and genres while effectively using advanced vocabulary and grammar.
Syllabus
37 Lessons
over 37 WeeksLesson 1:
Creative Writing
Learners will improve their creative writing skills by using prompts to inspire and guide their writing.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Literary Devices
Learners will understand and identify various literary devices, such as simile, metaphor, and personification, in a text and analyze how they contribute to the overall meaning and tone of the piece.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Identifying Themes in Literature
Learners will be able to identify and analyze themes present in literary texts with depth and insight.
30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Narrative Essay (Part 1)
Learners will develop the ability to brainstorm and organize ideas effectively in order to create a compelling narrative essay.
30 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
There will never be any personal information shared. All resources used will be relevant and age appropriate. By enrolling in this class, you are granting us permission to utilize any and all external resources listed.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Teacher expertise and credentials
4 teachers have teaching certificates
Georgia Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Maryland Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
Oregon Teaching Certificate in Special Education
California Teaching Certificate in English/Language Arts
California Teaching Certificate in Special Education
3 teachers have a Graduate degree
Juris Doctor from New York Law School
Doctoral Degree in Special Education from University of Alberta
Master's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Master's Degree from Central Michigan University
Master's Degree from National University
9 teachers have a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University
Bachelor's Degree in English Language and Literature from Centro Universitário Anhanguera de São Paulo
Bachelor's Degree in American Studies from Smith College
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from Long Island University
Bachelor's Degree in Science from Southern Illinois University of Carbondale
Bachelor's Degree in Education from Centro Universitário UniCEUB
Bachelor's Degree in Foreign Language from Universidade de Brasília
Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Language and Literature from University of California, Berkeley
Bachelor's Degree in Education from North Carolina State University
Bachelor's Degree in Education from SUNY Cortland
KRISTINA VISNIESKY
I graduated from Cortland State University with a Bachelor's degree in Inclusive Childhood Education and a minor in English Language and Arts. Additionally, I hold a certification in Grades 7-12 English, and I am currently pursuing my Master’s degree in Literacy. Throughout my journey as an educator, I have had the opportunity to work with students across various age groups and learning environments, each experience deepening my passion for teaching and learning.
My teaching career began at a preschool that provided essential support to children with disabilities. Witnessing their growth each day was truly awe-inspiring, and it was here that I developed a profound love for working with these incredible kids. Their resilience and joy taught me valuable lessons about patience, empathy, and the power of education in transforming lives.
I also worked as a substitute teacher in high schools while simultaneously conducting observations at nearby elementary and middle schools. This experience allowed me to interact with students of varying ages and backgrounds, enriching my understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives within the classroom. The opportunity to guide and support students through different stages of their educational journey has been both enjoyable and fulfilling.
My initial interest in teaching was sparked by my involvement with the First Tee Program of Western New York, a remarkable initiative focused on teaching young golf athletes valuable life skills. Beyond the correct golfing techniques, I instilled important values such as perseverance, respect, honesty, and confidence. Witnessing their enthusiasm for these life skills, alongside their intellectual growth, was immensely rewarding and solidified my commitment to becoming an educator.
With a wealth of experience working with students and a deep belief in the transformative power of education, I am confident that I am destined to be an educator. I am passionate about fostering a love of learning in my students, helping them to grow both academically and personally, and making a positive impact on their lives.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$17
weekly or $629 for 37 classes1x per week, 37 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
1-5 learners per class