First, students will learn how to understand the writing prompt. This is important because the prompt is like the GPS of the essay. Students need to understand the writing assignment before they can write an outstanding essay. 

 Second, they will write a thesis statement. An effective thesis will give their essay a main idea which leads to purpose and meaning. 

Third, students will create an outline for their essays. Prewriting is essential when writing a cohesive essay. 

Next, students will organize their introduction, body, and conclusion paragraphs with relevant details.

Then they will learn about the topic sentence, supporting details, and the closing sentence.

Also, students will be taught different types of sentences and word choice.

These lessons will be taught using PowerPoint presentations, video clips, lectures, and discussions.

I taught essay writing to children (general education, special education, and honors) for over 14 years. Once they learn the formula, they excel in their writing. 

Quick outline of the class per week-

Week 1: Understanding an essay prompt, completing an outline, and drafting the introduction paragraph.
*Students will be encouraged to email their work for specific feedback.
*Students will share chunks of their work in class each week.
*Students will be quizzed informally on what is taught in the class. 

Week 2: Review. Finishing outline and the introduction paragraph. Then starting body paragraphs #1 and #2.

Week 3: Review. Finishing body paragraph #3, and starting the conclusion paragraph.

Week 4: Review. Finishing the final drafts of their essays. 

Week 5: Students will be given the second essay prompt. They will complete a quick outline. Then they will work on the first draft of the writing. 

Week 6: Students will be quizzed informally. Finishing up the second essay (or third).