Institute for Excellence in Writing - IEW UNIT 3 (Writing Short Stories)
In just 4 sessions, students will learn to write short stories. We will focus on the basic elements of any story; Characters/Setting, Plot/Conflict, Climax/Resolution.
Paige Bombacie - IEW Registered Instructor
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(182)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. After each session, the student will have a 3 paragraph paper to write. Each lesson will be accompanied by a corresponding work packet for students. It is recommended that students print out the packet before coming to class. The packet serves as a tool for completing weekly learning assignments. Students have the option to submit their completed assignments through the Outschool platform in the "Teacher" tab for feedback. Participation in-class activities, challenges, and peer reviews will make this a rich experience for students. I desire that each of my students utilize the resources provide for them.Assessment
The IEW utilized a checklist method for clearly communicating what is expected for each paper. Students will be encouraged to follow the checklist. Students may turn in their papers for Teacher review and feedback. Grammar and spelling corrections are not focused on but are sometimes addressed. Basic editing should be done by the student and/or parent.Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 6
Beginner Level
Welcome to our Online Short Story class, designed to help you master the basics of writing short stories using the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) method. In this class, you will learn and apply the Key Word Outlining (KWO) method, engage in brainstorming and writing processes, and receive personalized feedback to enhance your writing skills. Each session will introduce new concepts and provide hands-on practice to ensure you are confident and successful in your storytelling journey. What You'll Learn: - Key Word Outlining process - Story Sequence Chart for story organization - Elements of style and catchy titles - Developing themes and unique story elements - Writing and revising short stories Class Structure: Each class will consist of: - Introduction of new concepts - Demonstration of the concepts with a sample - Hands-on activities including keyword outlining, brainstorming, writing, and revising - Teacher-student interaction for feedback and guidance - Peer work-sharing and feedback opportunities Prior Experience: Students must be familiar with the IEW Keyword Outlining Method and have completed Units 1 & 2.
Learning Goals
By the end of this 4-session class, students will have written 4 short stories. They will understand how to organize a story into a story sequence chart and clearly communicate the main elements of a story. They will have learned several "dress-ups" and "decorations" style techniques to enhance their story.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) Curriculum4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
The Bat & The Nightingale
Introduce Key Word Outlining using the Story Sequence Chart
Discuss foundational story elements: Characters/Setting, Plot/Conflict, Climax/Resolution
Review Unit 1 & 2 Dress ups, Including Quality Adjectives, ly words, Strong Verbs
Retell a short story assigned by the teacher in your own words 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 2:
The City Rat & The Country Rat
Use the Story Sequence Chart to organize a short story retelling
Focus on creating fun, catchy titles
Add “ Decorations” to enhance stories - Conversations with Strong Verbs
Review Paper Formatting 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 3:
The Little Red Hen
Discuss themes within a short story
Brainstorm ways to change characters and settings while keeping the same theme
Improve writing style by imitating favorite authors
Add “ Decorations” to enhance stories - Simile and Metaphor 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Lesson 4:
Student Choice: Composing Your Own Short Story
Discuss Conflicts
Apply all learned concepts to compose a three-paragraph short story using the Story Sequence Chart
Add “ Decorations” to enhance stories - Alliteration
Receive feedback and revise your story
Share your work with peers and provide positive feedback 50 mins online live lesson
1 assignment
Other Details
Learning Needs
I teach in a systematic step by step format designed to help the most reluctant learner achieve success. I have worked with many students with unique learning needs and my goal is to provide a class that can be adapted as needed.
Pre-Requisites
My Unit 1 & 2 Class teaches the foundational IEW Outline method and is highly recommended for optimal success in the class. Reading level 2-3 grade.
Supply List
Submitting assignments is optional. If a student desires to submit papers they will need the following. Ability to submit papers via Google Docs. Handwritten papers can be scanned or photographed and uploaded into OS. When student submit papers they must include their KWO and IEW checklist. Before class print the lesson packets provided and bring a writing utensil to class.
Joined December, 2019
4.9
182reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree from University of Washington
I'm a dedicated educator with over a decade of experience teaching IEW. My passion is to make writing engaging and enjoyable for my students, and I strive to bring creativity and interactivity to every lesson.
As a parent of three children, I've had the opportunity to use the IEW program at home and have walked my own kids through the program. This personal experience has given me a unique perspective and deep understanding of the challenges that students and families may face in the writing process.
In my classes, I aim to create a supportive and dynamic learning environment that encourages students to take risks and develop their own unique voices as writers. I believe that with the right guidance and support, every student has the potential to become a skilled and confident writer.
Whether in the classroom or at home, I'm dedicated to making writing a positive and rewarding experience for all students, and I'm excited to share my knowledge and passion with you.Reviews
Live Group Course
$50
for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
50 min
Completed by 6 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
3-12 learners per class
