Middle School Grammar: Advanced Sentence Structure, Punctuation & Editing Skills

🌟 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐫: 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Is it “who” or “whom”? When do you use a semicolon—and why does it feel like a mystery? This course helps learners finally make sense of grammar by breaking it down into practical, real-world use. Through sentence structure, punctuation, pronoun clarity, and those famously tricky rules, students will sharpen their skills and gain confidence in every sentence they write.

🌟𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐬—𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐬. 𝐉𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞.

This course is designed for learners ready to tackle grammar head-on—no busywork, no fluff. Each week focuses on a specific concept, untangling the rules and showing how grammar creates meaning. From agreement to ambiguity, students will explore how sentence structure shapes communication—and how to use it to their advantage. ✍️
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Learners can drop in any time without feeling lost, as each week features a brand-new topic that's engaging and easy to jump into—no matter how long the class has been running. Every day is a great day to start!
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Week of September 7 – Is This Sentence Right? (Colons, Commas, Semicolons)
Study how to correctly use colons, commas, and semicolons to improve sentence structure.

Week of September 14 – That vs. Which: Restrictive and Nonrestrictive Clauses
Learn the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses and when to use "that" vs. "which."

Week of September 21 – Run-ons, Fragments, and Comma Splices
Identify and correct run-on sentences, fragments, and comma splices for clearer writing.

Week of September 28 – Troublesome Verbs: Lie/Lay, Sit/Set, Rise/Raise
Master the correct usage of commonly confused verb pairs in sentences.

Week of October 5 – Who vs. Whom: Pronoun Case in Sentences
Understand when to use "who" vs. "whom" based on sentence structure.

Week of October 12 – Subject-Verb Agreement in Tricky Sentences
Learn how to ensure subject-verb agreement in complex sentences and with collective nouns.

Week of October 19 – Compound Subjects and Agreement
Practice ensuring subject-verb agreement with compound subjects.

Week of October 26 – Indefinite Pronouns & Agreement Rules
Study how indefinite pronouns affect subject-verb agreement in sentences.

Week of November 2 – Reflexive, Intensive, and Ambiguous Pronouns
Understand the correct use of reflexive, intensive, and ambiguous pronouns.

Week of November 9 – Appositives and Interrupting Phrases
Learn how to properly use appositives and interrupting phrases to add detail to sentences.

Week of November 16 – Modifiers: Misplaced, Squinting, and Dangling
Identify and fix misplaced, squinting, and dangling modifiers in sentences.

Week of November 23 – OFF – Late November Break

Week of November 30 – Prepositional Phrases & Sentence Balance
Study how to use prepositional phrases and achieve balance in sentence structure.

Week of December 7 – Phrases vs. Clauses (And How They Function)
Understand the difference between phrases and clauses and how they function in sentence construction.

Week of December 14 – Simple, Compound, and Complex Sentence Variations
Learn how to create and use simple, compound, and complex sentences effectively.

Week of December 21 – Relative Clauses: Who, Which, That
Study the use of relative clauses to add information about a noun in a sentence.

Week of December 28 – OFF – Winter Break

Week of January 4 – OFF – Winter Break

Week of January 11 – Parallel Structure in Sentences
Understand and apply parallel structure in sentences to maintain consistency and clarity.

Week of January 18 – Elliptical Constructions and Comparisons
Learn how to use elliptical constructions in sentences to avoid repetition in comparisons.

Week of January 25 – Verb Tense Shifts (Simple vs. Perfect)
Study how and when to shift verb tenses between simple and perfect tenses for clarity.

Week of February 1 – Introductory Elements and Comma Placement
Learn where to place commas with introductory elements to enhance sentence flow.

Week of February 8 – Colons and Semicolons (Usage in Sentence Form)
Master the use of colons and semicolons in sentences for emphasis and clarity.

Week of February 15 – Hyphens and Compound Modifiers
Understand when and how to use hyphens with compound modifiers in sentences.

Week of February 22 – Commas with Nonessential Elements
Learn how to use commas to set off nonessential elements in sentences.

Week of March 1 – Dashes vs. Parentheses (Function & Form)
Understand the difference between dashes and parentheses and how to use them for clarification.

Week of March 8 – Punctuating Titles and Dialogue
Study the rules for punctuating titles and dialogue in sentences.

Week of March 15 – Quotation Marks and End Punctuation
Learn the correct use of quotation marks and end punctuation when quoting speech or text.

Week of March 22 – Capitalization Rules That Are Often Missed
Identify common capitalization errors and learn when to capitalize for clarity.

Week of March 29 – Correlative Conjunctions and Agreement
Learn how to use correlative conjunctions correctly and ensure subject-verb agreement.

Week of April 5 – OFF – Spring Break

Week of April 12 – Verb Moods: Indicative, Imperative, Subjunctive
Study the three verb moods and how to use them correctly in different contexts.

Week of April 19 – Negative Constructions and Double Negatives
Understand how to correctly form negative sentences and avoid double negatives.

Week of April 26 – Ambiguity in Pronouns and Modifiers
Learn how to eliminate ambiguity in sentences by clarifying pronoun and modifier use.

Week of May 3 – Than vs. Then, Fewer vs. Less (Common Confusions)
Study the proper usage of "than" vs. "then" and "fewer" vs. "less" in comparisons.

Week of May 10 – Formal vs. Informal Grammar Constructions
Explore the differences between formal and informal grammar usage and when to use each.

Week of May 17 – Using “As” vs. “Like”

Learn when to use "as" vs. "like" in comparisons and their correct placement in sentences.

Week of May 24 – Grammar Rules That Aren’t Really Rules
Debunk some of the common grammar myths and clarify widely misunderstood rules.

Week of May 31 – Clarity Through Grammar: Choosing the Right Structure
Learn how to choose the right sentence structure for maximum clarity and impact in writing.

Week of June 7 – Using Subordinating Conjunctions
Study how subordinating conjunctions (because, although, if, when) connect dependent and independent clauses to form complex sentences.

Week of June 14 – Indirect Objects in Sentences
Learn about indirect objects, their roles in sentences, and how to identify them.

Week of June 21 – Using Ellipses and Dashes for Effect
Explore how to use ellipses and dashes in writing to create pauses, indicate unfinished thoughts, or show emphasis.

Week of June 28 – Complex Sentence Structure with Subordinate Clauses
Dive deeper into crafting complex sentences with multiple subordinate clauses to express layered ideas.

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Our classrooms are rooted in the Socratic teaching approach, where curiosity and critical thinking come to life. Learners are guided through open dialogue and meaningful conversations, allowing them to explore topics more deeply and develop a thorough understanding.

To accommodate diverse learning styles, we thoughtfully combine traditional methods—like videos and carefully chosen presentations—with interactive discussions. This balanced approach ensures that every learner feels engaged and supported in their journey.

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Please note that we value mental health and are committed to preventing teacher burnout. 

To support our team’s well-being, we take company-wide breaks during which no classes will be held and emails will not be answered.

You may experience a delay in responses during the following dates:


2025

April 19 - April 20 (Easter Break)
August 25-31st (Summer Break)


Week of November 23, 2025 OFF (Late November Break)
Week of December 28, 2025 OFF - Winter Break

2026

Week of January 4, 2026 OFF - Winter Break
Week of March 29, 2026
Week of April 5, 2026 - OFF - Spring Break


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.

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Policies and Guidelines 

🌟 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗼𝘀𝗼𝗽𝗵𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵
We believe in empowering educators to teach from the heart, embracing their unique styles and approaches. Each of our instructors brings their own passion and expertise to the classroom, which means not all classes will be taught in exactly the same way or use the same materials and assignments.

While the core topics and themes will always remain consistent, the teaching methods and resources may vary from class to class. This diversity enriches the learning experience and allows students to benefit from a range of perspectives and approaches.

We encourage our educators to stay true to their individual teaching styles while maintaining the high standards of engagement and quality that define our programs. This approach not only supports the creativity and authenticity of our teachers but also ensures that every class is an authentic and meaningful experience.

🌟 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
We strictly adhere to Outschool's refund and rescheduling policy for all of our classes. 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.

We follow a structured classroom weekly breakdown schedule to maintain consistency. In cases where an instructor is unavailable, we will provide a substitute teacher whenever possible to ensure the course or club/enrichment classes remain on track. If no substitute is available for a scheduled class, refunds will be issued. Please note that no refunds will be given for choosing not to attend a substitute-led session.

🌟 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
To ensure a safe and secure learning environment, students are required to keep their cameras on for an initial visual verification at the beginning of class. After verification, students are welcome to turn their cameras off if they prefer, unless they have been verified by Outschool and have the verification badge, which exempts them from this requirement.

We understand that every learner has different comfort levels, and we strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and supported. We meet students where they are, honoring their individuality and comfort while maintaining a safe, welcoming space for all.

🌟 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁
We believe that every learner deserves to feel valued and included. Our classrooms are welcoming and safe spaces for students of all backgrounds, abilities, and identities. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an environment where everyone is treated with kindness, respect, and dignity.

🌟 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
In compliance with Outschool's policies, we do not accept friend or contact requests from current or former families on any social networking site (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn). Additionally, we do not provide or ask for any personal information, including email addresses or phone numbers.

🌟 𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆
Our approach to homework prioritizes meaningful reinforcement rather than quantity. We assign one targeted activity each week that directly aligns with the material covered in class. These assignments are thoughtfully designed to help students apply what they’ve learned in a purposeful and effective way.

It is important to note that our organization does not offer classes that guarantee an hour of homework each week. Instead, we focus on comprehension and retention through thoughtful in-class discussions and purposeful assignments, avoiding excessive or repetitive work.

All homework assignments must be submitted during the week the lesson was taught in order to receive feedback. Writing assignments must be submitted in a typed format—either as a Google Doc, Word document, comment, or private email on the platform.
Photos of handwritten work will not be accepted since they are often too difficult to read and provide feedback on.

Learners who need assistance with typing are welcome to have someone type for them, as long as the work itself remains the student's own ideas and words.

All writing assignments will be assessed based on a rubric, and feedback will be given using that rubric to ensure clarity and consistency.

🌟 𝗙𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗙𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
We believe that learning is a collaborative process that involves the whole family. We regularly provide feedback to families because we value open communication and want to make sure everyone feels informed, supported, and involved in the learning journey. Our goal is to ensure that both learners and families feel confident and happy with their progress and experience.

We truly value family input and encourage open communication. Whether it’s celebrating successes or discussing areas to improve, we’re here to make sure everyone feels included in the process.