Language Arts

A study in classic British literature, from short stories to poetry to essays to the big, thick novel. Students will learn how to read between the lines of literature to explore literary elements like theme, setting, characters, plot, point of view, and many other literary devices. We will explore the legacy of the authors, and students will complete an independent study project on the author of poet of their choice. We will also read short selections and one novel over the course of the year, heavily involving discussion groups to dig into the meat of what we read. There will also be a handful of writing assignments throughout the year.

Composition 1 is an introductory writing class geared toward students who have not had much writing experience, with special attention paid to general grammar, sentence structure, paragraph structure, punctuation, and spelling. We will also touch on topics like creative writing, literary analysis, research, and grade-appropriate vocabulary lessons. By the end of the course, the student should have improved writing and editing skills in areas of both paragraph writing and format writing (i.e. narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive), increased critical thinking abilities, and reduced anxiety about writing in general.

Composition 2 is an introduction to high school-level writing, with an emphasis on writing mechanics like paragraph structure and basic essays. We will focus on writing expository, descriptive, and persuasive essays, in addition to a smattering of creative writing to help students learn to enjoy the craft. Students will also be introduced to research, and we will also include some literary analysis. Plus, students will receive a heavy dose of in-class consultation, meaning they’ll need to be able to write and revise under tutor supervision during class.

Composition 3 serves a dual purpose: it reinforces the concepts presented in Compositions 1 and 2 while also preparing students for the advanced level Composition 4. This class divides neatly into two semesters, with the first focused on improving previous skills learned (essay writing, etc.), and the second introducing more advanced essay writing, written literary analysis, and research papers. Plus, we will focus on revision and making early drafts better on subsequent rewrites/edits- both as homework and in class under the tutor’s supervision.

Composition 4 is a college preparatory class that focuses almost exclusively on developing the skills students will need to succeed at collegiate-level writing. Students will write argumentative, literary, and analytical papers in order to learn not just writing but also collegiate-level research, with additional emphasis on proper documentation in MLA and APA formats. Research instruction includes proper source notation, proper paraphrasing, proper quotation, and what is and what is not plagiarism. We will also brush on literary analysis, which will require some outside reading. Regular access to Microsoft Word is a must, as well as access to the internet and /or public library. Students who can work independently will do well.

Creative Writing is a great class for the student who wants to hone his/her writing skills or the student who needs to develop confidence in his/her writing ability. The class will explore the various methods and styles of creative writing through fiction, non-fiction, poetry, screenplays, songwriting and the short story. A variety of hands on projects will help students apply their skills in an imaginative way. The class will culminate in the publishing of a student work anthology, with writing samples included from each student’s portfolio. No textbook is required for this class. Information will be given to the students from a variety of sources. Supply fee includes supplemental materials/books, copies, handouts, anthology costs and any costs for special projects.

This class will develop a love for reading that enhances all other areas of learning. We will use a variety of materials and methods including worksheets, journaling and reports to get an in depth view of grammar, spelling, vocabulary, and reading. Students will interact in class but will be working from their individual level. Supply fee covers ALL hand-outs, books, notebooks. Students may be added mid-year with tutor’s permission.

This class is focused on teaching thinking and communication skills using literature as a base. We will be using Total Language Plus to study three novels: Amos Fortune, Adam of the Road, and The Witch of Blackbird Pond. These novel studies cover spelling, vocabulary, comprehension, listening, grammar & punctuation review, analytical & critical thinking, and writing projects. (Grammar is not a primary emphasis of this course. Students are expected to be continuing grammar studies elsewhere.) Supply fee covers notebooks, dividers, handouts, 3x5 cards, and transparencies. Students may be added when a new book is started (approximately every 10 weeks).

This class is focused on teaching thinking and communication skills using literature as a base. We will be using Total Language Plus to study these novels: The Yearling, Words by Heart, and The Scarlet Pimpernel. These novel studies cover spelling, vocabulary, comprehension, listening, grammar & punctuation review, analytical & critical thinking, and writing projects. (Grammar is not a primary emphasis of this course. Students are expected to be continuing grammar studies elsewhere.) Supply fee covers notebooks, dividers, handouts, 3x5 cards and transparencies. Students may be added when a new book is started (approximately every 10 weeks).