Course Title: IEW Writing Workshop: Wonders of Science (Lessons 25-30)
Detailed Course Overview for Parents:

This course offers an excellent opportunity for students to develop their writing proficiency while exploring the lives and contributions of key figures in the world of science. Using the renowned Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) methodology, students will engage in structured, evidence-based writing activities focused on scientists such as George Washington Carver and Nathaniel Bowditch. The course is designed to guide students through the critical stages of writing—planning, drafting, revising, and finalizing—while fostering a deeper appreciation for both language and scientific achievement.

Educational Value:

Writing is a foundational skill that supports academic success across all subjects. This course provides a solid framework for students to organize and express their ideas with clarity and confidence. By integrating biographical and scientific content, it engages students not only in writing mechanics but also in the analysis of historical figures and scientific contributions. The IEW methodology encourages students to break down complex writing tasks into manageable steps, helping them build confidence as they progress from basic outlines to well-structured essays.

Course Benefits for Students:

Mastery of Writing Structure and Style:
Through the IEW approach, students will learn to write clear, organized essays by focusing on structure, coherence, and style. They will work on key writing techniques, such as keyword outlining, summarizing, and integrating research, which can be applied to writing in all disciplines.

Development of Critical Thinking Skills:
By engaging in research and analysis of the lives of notable scientists, students will enhance their critical thinking abilities. They will practice evaluating sources, identifying key information, and developing their own insights into the significance of scientific achievements.

Enhanced Research Capabilities:
Students will learn how to gather information from multiple sources, evaluate the credibility of research materials, and integrate their findings into well-supported essays. This skill will be invaluable not only in writing but in their overall academic careers.

Character and Literary Analysis:
In addition to writing research-based essays, students will be introduced to essential literary elements such as protagonist, antagonist, climax, and theme. These components will be examined in the context of historical figures, deepening their understanding of both narrative structure and scientific history.

Course Structure:

This course covers Lessons 25-30 of the IEW Wonders of Science curriculum. Each lesson is divided into two class days, allowing ample time for students to grasp new writing concepts, conduct research, and revise their work.

Lesson 25 & 26: Focus on a prominent scientist, developing research-based writing that incorporates external sources to deepen content.

Lessons 27 & 28: Study of George Washington Carver, with an emphasis on narrative techniques and literary analysis, exploring key elements such as theme, protagonist, and antagonist.

Lessons 29 & 30: Examination of Nathaniel Bowditch, with character analysis and more advanced writing techniques that integrate historical context and personal reflection.

Teaching Approach:

This course is highly interactive, featuring live instruction where students can participate in discussions, ask questions, and engage with their peers. Throughout the course, your child will receive detailed, individualized feedback to ensure they continue to improve their writing skills. They will also have the opportunity to revise their work based on teacher comments, promoting growth and mastery in each assignment.

Materials Required:

Wonders of Science IEW Student Book (covering Lessons 25-30)
Access to a word processor or notebook for drafting assignments
Earbuds or headphones to ensure clear audio during class
A separate device for each student accessing the class as per Outschool policy. 

Safety Measures:

In compliance with Outschool’s policies, all class sessions will be recorded for the safety and security of both parents and students. This ensures that you can review the lessons at your convenience and provides a means for accountability within the classroom environment.

Course Goals:

By the end of this course, students will:

Have developed the ability to construct well-organized, coherent essays based on research.
Be able to analyze characters and literary elements within a biographical and scientific context.
Demonstrate proficiency in integrating external sources into their writing, a skill crucial for higher academic work.
Gain confidence in revising and improving their writing through feedback and self-assessment.