English
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Middle School English Language Arts Writing Course
This course offers twelve writing assignments for a semester long worths of writing, covering formal essays to creative writing. Learners receive feedback on all submissions and mini-grammar lessons to help improve their writing.
Class Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
Beginner - Advanced Level
Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)
In this self-paced course, you'll delve into a diverse array of writing genres, from informal essays to poetry and mythology. 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧: Module One: Informal Essay Writing Module Two: Definition Essay Module Three: Persuasive Essay Module Four: Personal Narrative Module Five: Research Paper Module Six: Creative Writing and Dialogue Module Seven: Book Report and Writing a Review Module Eight: Compare/Contrast Essay and Outline Module Nine: Poetic Expression Module Ten: Literature...
12 lessons//12 Weeks
Week 1Lesson 1Informal Essay WritingIn this module, learners will explore the fundamentals of informal essay writing. They will learn how to express their thoughts and opinions in a relaxed, conversational style. Topics covered may include personal experiences, reflections, or opinions on various subjects. Assignment: Write an informal essay on a topic of your choice, focusing on expressing your thoughts and feelings in a relaxed manner.Week 2Lesson 2Definition EssayIn this module, learners will delve into the art of writing definition essays. They will learn how to define abstract concepts or specific terms with clarity and precision, using examples and explanations to support their definitions. Assignment: Craft a definition essay defining a word or concept that holds personal significance to you, providing clear definitions and supporting examples.Week 3Lesson 3Persuasive EssayThis module focuses on persuasive writing techniques. Learners will study strategies for effectively persuading readers to adopt their viewpoint or take specific actions. Emphasis will be placed on logical reasoning, evidence-based arguments, and persuasive language. Assignment: Write a persuasive essay advocating for a particular stance on a controversial issue, using compelling arguments and evidence to convince the reader of your viewpoint.Week 4Lesson 4Personal NarrativeIn this module, learners will explore the genre of personal narrative writing. They will learn how to craft engaging narratives based on personal experiences, memories, or observations. Techniques such as vivid description, character development, and narrative structure will be covered. Assignment: Create a personal narrative recounting a significant event or moment from your life, focusing on vivid storytelling and emotional resonance.Week 5Lesson 5Research PaperThis module introduces learners to the process of conducting research and writing academic papers. They will learn how to formulate research questions, locate credible sources, and integrate research findings into their writing. Proper citation and documentation techniques will also be covered. Assignment: Write a research paper on a topic of your choice, conducting thorough research and presenting your findings in a well-organized and academically rigorous manner.Week 6Lesson 6Creative Writing and DialogueIn this module, learners will explore the craft of creative writing, with a focus on dialogue. They will learn how to write compelling dialogue that advances the plot, reveals character traits, and creates tension or conflict. Techniques for effective storytelling and character development will be discussed. Assignment: Create a short story or scene that incorporates dialogue to develop characters, advance the plot, and evoke emotion in the reader.Week 7Lesson 7Book Report and Writing a ReviewThis module combines critical analysis with creative expression. Learners will read a selected book and then write a book report that summarizes the plot, analyzes the themes, and offers personal reflections. They will also learn how to write concise and insightful book reviews. Assignment: Read a book of your choice and write a book report that provides an overview of the book's content and your personal response to it. Additionally, write a concise book review.Week 8Lesson 8Compare/Contrast Essay and OutlineIn this module, learners will focus on the compare/contrast essay format. They will learn how to identify similarities and differences between two subjects, develop a clear thesis statement, and organize their ideas using an outline. Assignment: Write a compare/contrast essay comparing and contrasting two subjects of your choice, using a well-structured outline to guide your writing.Week 9Lesson 9Poetic ExpressionThis module explores the art of poetry writing. Learners will study various poetic forms, techniques, and devices, such as rhyme, meter, imagery, and metaphor. They will experiment with different poetic styles and learn how to express emotions and ideas through verse. Assignment: Create a poem in a poetic form or style of your choice, focusing on using poetic devices to convey meaning, evoke imagery, and evoke emotional responses in the reader.Week 10Lesson 10Literature Analysis EssayIn this module, learners will analyze literary texts and write analytical essays exploring themes, characters, and literary devices. They will learn how to interpret and critically evaluate literature, drawing connections between textual elements and broader themes or contexts. Assignment: Write a literature analysis essay analyzing a selected literary text, focusing on a specific aspect such as theme, character development, or narrative structure.Week 11Lesson 11Myths and Just So StoriesThis module explores myths, legends, and "just so" stories from various cultures and traditions. Learners will study the narrative structures, themes, and cultural significance of these stories, and may also create their own myth or "just so" story. Assignment: Choose a myth or "just so" story and create your own myth or "just so" story.Week 12Lesson 12Fables and Tall TalesIn this module, learners will explore the genre of fables and tall tales. They will study the characteristics of these stories, such as moral lessons, anthropomorphized animals, and exaggerated or fantastical elements. Emphasis will be placed on storytelling techniques and the cultural significance of these narratives. Assignment: Create your own fable or tall tale inspired by the narrative conventions studied in this module.
- Developing a Range of Writing Styles: By completing various writing assignments, including informal essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, creative writing pieces, and poetry, learners will develop the ability to adapt their writing style to different purposes and genres. Critical Reading and Analysis: Through the reading of short stories, ballads, epics, and optional mythological texts, students will improve their ability to critically read, analyze, and interpret various forms of literature. Research and Information Synthesis: In the research paper assignment, learners will practice conducting research, evaluating sources, and synthesizing information to support their arguments, enhancing their research and information literacy skills. Effective Communication: Writing essays, creative pieces, and participating in a book report and review will help students hone their skills in effective communication, clarity, and organization of ideas. Literary Analysis: Learners will develop the ability to analyze and interpret literature in a structured manner, evident in the literature analysis essay assignment, thus improving their critical thinking and literary analysis skills. Revision and Improvement: The opportunity for a final revision in the last week of the course encourages students to refine their work, apply feedback, and showcase their growth as writers. This promotes a culture of continuous improvement and self-assessment.
𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗝𝗮𝗱𝗲 (𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿): I started my path to teaching in college when I volunteered with AmeriCorps. I went on to teach in traditional public schools after I completed my M.Ed. and received my teaching license, but I quickly learned the school environment was not the ideal setting for myself or my child. That is when I transitioned to homeschooling and teaching online. I have been teaching writing course for fifteen years. My primary objective in each class is to help the learners feel comfortable and gain confidence in their writing.
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Homework
Frequency: includedFeedback: includedDetails: Each module will have writing assignments that they will write and submit for feedback.Assessment
Frequency: includedDetails: Feedback will be provided both in-text and on a rubric for each assignment that is submitted.Grading
Frequency: includedDetails: Submitted work will receive a percentage grade.
Please communicate with the instructor if accommodations or modifications are needed. Academy teachers are trained and educated on how to meet unique learning needs and classes can be adjusted as needed.
1 file available upon enrollmentAll PPT and learning material will be made available to the learners. They may need pen/pencil or paper to take notes during class.
Teacher expertise and credentials
1 teacher has a teaching certificate
Illinois Teaching Certificate in Elementary Education
1 teacher has a Graduate degree
Master's Degree in Education from University of Minnesota
1 teacher has a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Degree in History from University of Minnesota
Welcome to Teacher Jade’s Writing Academy, where we ignite the love for writing in young minds! Our formal essay writing and creative writing courses are tailor-made for youth ages 8-18, delivered by exceptional teachers fueled by a genuine...
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Self-Paced Class
$18
weekly or $215 for all content12 pre-recorded lessons
12 weeks of teacher support
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1 year of access to the content
Completed by 377 learners
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Ages: 11-16