Writing Courses

Beginning in August of 2025, we will offer a new structure for our writing courses.  Instead of having small group live classes, you will be able to meet one on one with Mrs. Mindy to discuss your writing two times during the 8 week course.  You can sign up for any writing course at any time and work at your own pace through the modules.  

For the 2025/2026 school year you can choose from two options:

1.  Interactive Notebook, Video Lessons and Written Feedback $120

2. All of the above plus 2 (up to 15 minutes) individual writing conferences with Mrs. Mindy  $150

These conferences are available August-May ONLY.

 Writing courses for next year include:

Elements of Writing                                                                                                            

This course is designed to introduce your child to elements of good writing. It covers audience and author's purpose. The writing process (including prewriting strategies, drafting, revising and editing) is introduced. It also teaches the structure of an essay based on the keyhole method. Finally, students learn about the 6 traits of writing and how to assess their own writing in a holistic way.

Creative Writing I                                                                                                             

This course is designed to introduce your child to elements of creative writing. It covers narrative structures, how to craft a narrative, elements of plot, elements of characterization, elements of setting and how to craft narratives and poetry that exemplify these characteristics.

Creative Writing II                                                                                                            

This is the only course that has a pre-requisite. You must take creative writing I prior to creative writing II as this course builds upon the first. Take a deep dive into narrative structures, elements of novel writing, and how to really hone in on the craft.

Essay Writing                                                                                                                   

In this course students explore different modes of essay writing such as expository, persuasive, and literary analysis. Basic research skills are introduced such as evaluation and incorporation of sources. Students learn how to craft a strong essay. If your child has not taken Elements of Writing, it is highly encouraged that he or she does so. However, it's not a requirement.

Research Writing I

In this course students are introduced to research writing including how to find and evaluate sources, the beginnings of MLA format including document design, in text citations and works cite page, plagiarism and why it's important to avoid it,  The students will also choose a topic for their research paper for Research Writing II.

Research Writing II                                                                                                            

In this course students are guided through a gentle step by step process for writing a research paper. We will work together through all of the stages of writing and have a final product at the end.