IEW: Elementary U.S. History-Based Writing Lessons, Part 1
In this 12-week course, students will not only learn some history of America, but also learn how to write about it in an interesting way.
Karen Cross, MSEd - IEW Certified Instructor
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(79)
What's included
12 live meetings
13 in-class hoursClass Experience
In this class, your learner will be working through a modified version of U.S. History-Based Writing Lessons from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW). ***You do not need to purchase this book to participate.*** All materials needed will be provided by me. 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 then retelling short fictional stories. In the midst of all that writing, your learner will spice up their pieces with sentence dress-ups as well as vary their sentence structure with different openers. Your learner will receive detailed feedback based on the rubrics given before each lesson.
Your learner should already be able to construct simple sentences and have some basic knowledge of a paragraph. Because your child will be reading some short articles and stories, a good sense of comprehension of grade-level materials will be helpful.
***Grade appropriate historical fiction novels will also be incorporated into this course. Most are optional and will simply be used to reinforce the historical time period being studied and written about. One novel, "A Lion to Guard Us," will be required reading. I will guide the learners through a book report in Unit 3.
Topics will include:
UNIT 1: KEY WORD OUTLINES
Week 1: The Great Surprise
UNIT 2: WRITING FROM NOTES
Week 2: Searching for Fortune
Week 3: More Explorers
UNIT 3: RETELLING NARRATIVE STORIES
Week 4: The Mayflower, Pt 1
Week 5: The Mayflower, Pt 2
Week 6: A Journey to America, Pt 1
Week 7: A Journey to America, Pt 2
UNIT 4: SUMMARIZING A REFERENCE
Week 8: Boston Tea Party
Week 9: Benjamin Franklin
Week 10: George Washington
Week 11: Thomas Jefferson
Week 12: The Louisiana Purchase
*** If you have siblings, I will give you a $10 discount in the form of a refund for the additional learner.
It is highly recommended that you take Part 2 of this course in the spring.Learning Goals
Learners will be taught to organize thoughts and ideas by creating key word outlines from fiction and non-fiction texts, and writing paragraphs from them. They will dress up their writing by systematically adding parts of speech such as adverbs, strong verbs, and quality adjectives. Learners will also practice varied sentence structure by using a different sentence opener.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Because this course does include assignments around marginalized groups, questions will be handled with the utmost respect for all people. We are all created with equal dignity and that will be communicated to the learners.
Supply List
A Lion to Guard Us by Clyde Robert Bulla A list of a variety of historical fiction novels will be provided in the syllabus and are optional for participation. Binder Dividers Lined paper Pencils Pens Highlighters Printer Printer paper PC or laptop Reliable Internet connection
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined June, 2020
5.0
79reviews
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 Class
$165
for 12 classes1x per week, 12 weeks
65 min
Completed by 9 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-12
3-10 learners per class
