weekly

or for 8 classes

The Write Skill: Practice Writing a Research Paper

Ages 13-16

Live Group Course

Help your learner master research writing. Led by an Ivy League-educated instructor, lawyer, and former biologist, this course teaches students to research, analyze, and craft polished essays step-by-step.

Sasha Franklyn

Live video meetings

1x per week, 8 weeks

2-6 learners per class

45 min

About Learning Overview Teacher Reviews

What's included

8 live meetings

6 in-class hours

Homework

1-2 hours per week. In this course, students will be asked to complete research and writing steps initiated during each session as part of their homework. These tasks will help reinforce the skills learned in class and provide an opportunity to apply them to student research projects. Students will receive feedback either during class discussions, peer review sessions, or directly from the instructor between sessions. While homework is optional, it is strongly encouraged to ensure students build upon their progress each week and produce a polished research paper by the end of the course. This final paper can serve as a valuable model for future research writing projects and academic assignments.

Progress Report

Upon completion of the course, each student will receive written feedback regarding their progress toward the course objectives.

Class Experience

US Grade 7 - 10

Ready to Master Research Writing?

Develop essential research and writing skills in this engaging and interactive 8-week course! Students will learn how to explore thought-provoking topics, evaluate credible sources, synthesize information, and craft well-organized essays. Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this course will guide you step-by-step through the research writing process.  



✍️ What We Will Study

Each week focuses on a key aspect of research writing to help you create a polished final paper. Check out the syllabus for a detailed week-by-week outline!



🧠 Why This Course is Perfect for Aspiring Writers and Researchers
- Build Confidence in Research Writing: Gain the tools to write strong arguments supported by credible evidence.  
- Think Critically: Learn how to analyze information and synthesize ideas to form your own opinion.  
- Practical Skills: Develop writing techniques that will benefit school assignments, personal projects, and real-life communication.  



📚 How We Will Learn 
- Interactive Lessons: Explore step-by-step strategies for writing a strong research paper.  
- Hands-On Practice: Complete engaging activities to improve your writing and research skills.  
- Collaborative Workshops: Share drafts, provide feedback, and learn from peers in a supportive environment.  
- Individualized Support: Small class sizes allow for personalized attention and tailored guidance.  



🚀 Ready to Build Strong Research Writing Skills?

Join this comprehensive course to master the art of research writing and create a polished, well-supported essay by the end of the program!



💬 Have Questions?

Feel free to reach out anytime to learn more about the course or how it can help improve your writing skills!

Learning Goals

Develop Research Questions—Students will learn to formulate clear, focused, and researchable questions to guide their investigations.

Locate and Evaluate Credible Sources—Students will learn to identify, evaluate, and select credible sources of information to support their research and arguments.

Syllabus

Standards

Aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS)

8 Lessons

over 8 Weeks

Lesson 1:

Introduction to Research Writing and Brainstorming Topics

 Understand the purpose of research writing and brainstorm potential topics within the theme Technology and Kids’ Lives. By the end of the session, students will have selected a focused topic for their research paper.

45 mins online live lesson

Lesson 2:

Asking the Right Questions

 Learn how to formulate clear, specific, and researchable questions about a chosen topic. By the end of the session, students will have finalized their research question to guide their project.

45 mins online live lesson

Lesson 3:

Finding and Evaluating Credible Sources

 Learn how to locate credible sources and evaluate their reliability. By the end of the session, students will have identified at least two credible sources and documented them in preparation for their research paper.

45 mins online live lesson

Lesson 4:

Taking Notes and Citing Sources (MLA Format)

 Practice taking organized research notes and learn how to create accurate MLA citations for their sources. By the end of the session, students will have completed notes and citations for at least one source.

45 mins online live lesson

Other Details

Supply List

Students will need internet access and potentially library access to research and identify potential source materials for their research projects.

External Resources

In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:

Google Docs

Sources

Students will be conducting research and will need access to trusted age-appropriate websites such as news sites, encyclopedia sites, and books they might want to obtain from their local library. Students will decide what types of resources to explore for source materials, and parents and guardians are encouraged to monitor student selections. Additionally, students should consult Purdue OWL's MLA guidelines: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_and_style_guide.html.

Meet the teacher

Sasha Franklyn

Joined November, 2024

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

2 Degrees

Juris Doctor from Columbia Law School

Bachelor's Degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from Harvard University

✨ Meet Your Research Writing Instructor

I’m an Ivy League-educated instructor, licensed lawyer, and former research biologist with expertise in genetics and epidemiology. With over a decade of experience teaching writing, critical thinking, and research skills in both K-12 online and traditional classrooms—as well as 1:1 tutoring environments—I specialize in helping students master the art of research writing. My professional background has equipped me with extensive experience in conducting in-depth research, identifying credible source material, and synthesizing complex information into clear, well-structured research papers.

📚 What I Bring to Our Research Writing Classes

- 🔍 Advanced Research Expertise
As a licensed lawyer and former research biologist, I bring a unique perspective on conducting detailed investigations, analyzing data, and building well-supported arguments. Students will learn the critical skills of identifying credible sources, paraphrasing effectively, and using citations to back up their ideas.

- ✍️ Professional Research Writing Skills
Gain step-by-step guidance on how to organize your ideas, craft compelling thesis statements, and write essays and research papers that stand out. Whether you're new to research writing or want to refine your skills, I provide tailored support to help you succeed.

- 🧠 Critical Thinking Through Research
Learn to evaluate information, draw meaningful conclusions, and develop a strong, reasoned opinion on complex topics. My instruction focuses on building your ability to synthesize ideas and present them clearly and persuasively.

- 📖 A Proven Teaching Approach
I have helped students of all ages, from beginners to advanced learners, achieve success in academic and professional writing. With personalized feedback and engaging lessons, I guide students to create polished research papers they can use as models for future projects.



🚀 Why Join This Research Writing Course?

This course combines my professional experience as a lawyer and biologist with my passion for teaching writing and critical thinking. Whether you're preparing for academic assignments, honing professional skills, or exploring new research techniques, each session is designed to meet your unique goals. Students will leave with a polished research paper and the confidence to approach future projects with clarity and precision.



📩 Ready to master research writing and build your skills? Join me today!