IEW - U.S. History-Based Writing Semester 1 (Accelerated PACE)
What's included
12 live meetings
10 in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. There are exciting weekly writing assignment planned for each class! Completing these assignments is strongly encouraged, as it is a great opportunity to practice and develop your writing skills. I understand that every student is unique and has their own writing journey, so it's important to me that you feel comfortable working at your own pace. Homework time can vary based on the assignment and the individual, but we're confident that you'll find the tasks engaging and worthwhile! Students should schedule 1 - 4 hours for each assignment for optimal success. Each week students turn in 3 things. 1. Keyword Outline (KWO) 2. IEW Checklist 3. Final Draft of their paper Please Note that students and/or parents need to know how to upload attachments (PDF or Pictures) and how to use basic functions of Google Docs. All of these steps will be demonstrated in class for studentsAssessment
I welcome and encourage students to submit their papers for feedback in this class! To help students understand exactly what's expected in each paper, we'll be using the IEW checklist method. Following the checklist is highly recommended and will help students produce high-quality writing. As the instructor, my role is to review each paper and provide positive, constructive feedback. I won't be assigning letter or percentage grades, as the focus of the class is on developing writing skills and improving structure and style. While basic spelling and punctuation are expected, don't worry about being perfect - the most important thing is to keep working on your writing and making progress. To assess the writing process, I'll be reviewing students' Keyword Outlines and Checklists. And when it comes time to submit final drafts, I'll provide comments and feedback right in Google Docs to help students improve their writing even further. Remember, the goal is to develop your skills and become a better writer, and I'm here to support and guide you every step of the wayClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner Level
ACCELERATED PACE WRITING COURSE Embark on an intensive writing journey with our Accelerated Pace Writing Course, a condensed version of a typical semester-long class. In just six weeks, we will delve into the core principles of the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), focusing on nine structural models of writing and incorporating stylistic techniques to elevate your writing prowess. Course Overview: Part 1 - Units 1-5 Immerse yourself in the foundations of effective writing as we explore Units 1-5. This section sets the stage for comprehensive learning. Class Activities: Engage in collaborative reading of source texts. Grasp new concepts through instructor-led modeling. Work collectively on samples to reinforce learning. Participate in brainstorming sessions, games, and enjoyable activities to solidify understanding. Writing Enhancement: As students progress, they will master the art of adding style to their sentences and papers. Explore techniques such as dress-ups, varied sentence openers, and literary decorations to elevate your writing to new heights. Course Breakdown: Sessions 1 - 3 (Units 1&2): Explore Key Word Outlining (KWO), oral summaries, and written summaries. Learn to express information in your own words. Sessions 4 - 6 (Unit 3): Focus on Short Stories, understanding the key components of setting, character, conflict, climax, and resolution to craft compelling narratives. Sessions 7 - 9 (Unit 4): Master the art of summarizing a reference from a single source, honing your skills in concise and effective summarization. Sessions 10 - 12 (Unit 5): Shift your focus to creativity and unbridled expression. Write from pictures, emphasizing "thinking outside the box" and infusing your work with unique perspectives. Materials: This course requires the purchase of the "Student" version of the book with the cover featuring a scroll that says "We the People." Secure your copy here: Link to Purchase Join us for this dynamic writing experience, where language becomes a canvas, and your words take center stage!
Learning Goals
The ultimate goal is to give students writing skills they can apply to any subject or topic. The hope is to equip them to write for life, not just "school." When finished with this coarse students will have learned an organized way to synthesize information and communicate it from their point of view. These invaluable skills can be taken and applied to a myriad of subjects.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) Curriculum5 Units
12 Lessons
over 6 WeeksUnit 1: Introduction to Writing and Note taking
Lesson 1:
Unit 1 & 2: Lesson 1 & Lesson 2 - Spanish Explorers Arrive in America
50 mins online live lesson
Unit 2: Summarizing References
Lesson 2:
Unit 2: Lesson 3 - Englishmen Arrive in America
50 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Unit 2: Lesson 4 - The Mayflower Mishap - Kahoot Quiz 1
50 mins online live lesson
Unit 3: Short Stories
Lesson 4:
Unit 3: Lesson 5 - Ambush In the Wilderness
50 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
IEW is a systematic program that removes the ambiguity of writing and helps unique learners. I was diagnosed with Dyslexia and have worked with many dyslexic students. I can offer encouragement, understanding, and accommodation tips.
Parental Guidance
Students or Parents need to be able to upload attachments (PDF or Pictures) and how to use basic functions of Google Docs. All of these steps will be demonstrated in class for students.
Several times a semester we will utilize Kahoot for Vocabulary Quizzes. An account or log in is not necessary to join.
It is recommended that parents preview the sources texts prior to class. All content is designed to be age-appropriate.
Pre-Requisites
No Pre-Reqs. This class starts right at the beginning and takes students all the way through the IEW program.
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 voice 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
$275
for 12 classes2x per week, 6 weeks
50 min
Completed by 23 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-14
3-15 learners per class