IEW: Adventures in Writing, Part 1
In this 12-week course, learners will explore different topics while learning how to communicate and write with structure and style.
Karen Cross, MSEd - IEW Certified Instructor
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(72)
What's included
12 live meetings
13 in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Learners will have homework every week. It is highly recommended that learners complete the homework. Once they start writing, I will provide feedback on assignments according to the checklist, but I will not be giving a number grade.Assessment
Learners will receive feedback on a weekly basis on their writing assignments, but will not be given a grade unless requested.Class Experience
Beginner Level
In this course, your learner will be working through Adventures in Writing from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW). This course takes the students through unit four of the program. Your learner will learn how to make an outline by determining key words and then move into paragraph writing by summarizing non-fiction texts and retelling short fictional stories. In the midst of all that writing, your learner will learn how to spice up their pieces with stylistic techniques. Your learner should be familiar with how to construct simple sentences and have some basic knowledge of a paragraph. Because your learner will be reading some short articles and stories, a good sense of comprehension of grade-level materials will be helpful. When your learner attends the live meeting each week, we will review the new unit and/or stylistic technique. This time will also be used to focus on brainstorming and collaborative activities to aid in the writing process. There may be times we use Google tools to collaborate in real time together as a class. Vocabulary will be reviewed as well using Quizlet and will be incorporated into the activities. Your learner will also be able to ask questions about the assignment during this time. *** If you have siblings that will both be participating in this class, I will give you a $10 discount in the form of a refund for the additional learner(s). Part 2 for this course will run in the spring (January - April).
Learning Goals
Learners will be gently introduced to the IEW method by learning how to organize thoughts and ideas by creating key word outlines from fiction and non-fiction texts. After practicing that skill, learners will write paragraphs from them. They will dress up their writing by systematically adding parts of speech such as -ly adverbs, who/which clause, and strong verbs.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) Curriculum4 Units
12 Lessons
over 12 WeeksUnit 1: Unit 1: Note Taking and Outlines
Lesson 1:
Nile River, Yangtze River
This lesson will introduce learners to the structure and style method. There will be no writing this week. Learners are encouraged to practice retelling and recording it to send to the class. 65 mins online live lesson
2 assignments
Lesson 2:
Roman Hoplite, American Quarter Horse
Learners will continue to practice outlining and retelling. 65 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 3:
Orchestra and Conductor
Learners will create a two-paragraph key word outline and practice retelling. 65 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Unit 2: Writing from Notes
Lesson 4:
Roman Colosseum
This lesson introduces learners to the writing process by outlining and using those key words to create a paragraph. We will review vocabulary words for upcoming vocabulary test. 65 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
Please contact me if your learner has unique learning needs. I am able to differentiate activities and assignments to accommodate as much as possible, and help your learner be successful on their own level.
Parental Guidance
It is important to note that your learner will most likely need your help with each assignment. You should edit rough drafts and final copies before turning in to me. Checklists for each assignment can be found at the end of each lesson in the required Student Book for this class.
If you are requesting a grade, Google Docs is my preferred option. Handwritten documents will be accepted in PDF form only. All homework will be uploaded here on Outschool.
Quizlet will be used for vocabulary practice. This is completely optional and will not affect feedback in a negative way. It's good to be familiar with the vocabulary words because we will sometimes play games using Quizlet during live instruction.
All activities are only available to the learners in this class. In compliance with IEW's copyright policy, sharing of these materials with anyone outside of class is forbidden.
Pre-Requisites
Learners should be able to write simple sentences.
Joined June, 2020
5.0
72reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Maryland Teaching Certificate
Master's Degree from Walden University
I earned a Master's degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University in 2007 and currently hold a certificate in Maryland. I taught in the public school setting for five years as a special educator with a focus in autism. After having two children of my own, I became a stay-at-home mom.
Four children later, I became a homeschooling mom, and still hold that title today. I felt equipped to handle the task, but writing stumped me when it all seemed too bland. I stumbled upon the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) and instantly fell in love with their method, bought the training, and began implementing the program at home. Consistency was lacking, so I began teaching at a local co-op.
That grew into a desire to become a Registered Instructor and eventually a Certified Instructor (a title I hold today). I launched my own online writing business, Equipped for Writing, where I've tailored my online courses around the IEW model.
Each year brings new experiences and insights into effectively communicating with my students about writing. Seeing children grow and learn while enhancing their writing for their audience keeps me going. It is IEW’s systematic approach to writing that enables me to adapt lessons to different learning styles.
My commitment to differentiation (creating an environment that is conducive for each learner) is at the forefront of my mind. When you decide to enroll in one of my classes, I guarantee an open line of communication, ensuring your learner can navigate the learning journey at their own pace.
While I firmly believe and support parents’ pivotal role in their children's education, there are times when we all need a helping hand. That's where I, and others like me, come in. I have a passion for teaching, particularly when it comes to the written word. I enjoy sharing that passion to support homeschooling families. Learning should be interactive, and children should feel encouraged to ask questions out of curiosity and for understanding. Instruction should challenge without overwhelming.
Outside of teaching, I enjoy reading, going on walks with our dog, family movie nights, and indulging in crocheting. One of my favorite things to do is to watch my kids play sports.Reviews
Live Group Course
$16
weekly or $185 for 12 classes1x per week, 12 weeks
65 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-11
5-12 learners per class
