Enrichment Courses - Spring 2025
Essay Writing
Foundational: Spring Session TBD (Begin 1/6, No Sessions Week of 3/10 and April/1)
Writing is a process, and the best way to grow and improve is to practice. The foundational course will focus on crafting an expository essay using all steps of the writing process. This course will strategically move through the elements of the writing process, equipping students with the foundational skills needed to write an expository essay. In addition, participants will practice writing shorter responses using prompts similar to those seen on the new integrated writing component of the SOL. This course is ideal for students in grades 4-5.
Intermediate: Wednesdays, 5-6 PM Dates: January - April (Begin 1/6, No Sessions Week of 3/10 and April/1) - THIS SESSION IS FULL. If there is enough interest, a second session may be scheduled.
For students who have mastered the basic expository essay, an intermediate course will offer a deeper look at crafting high quality expository writing and also introduce students to the art of persuasive writing. Students should have a strong understanding of the writing process and be capable of independently writing a basic expository essay before registering for this course. In addition, participants will practice writing shorter responses using prompts similar to those seen on the new integrated writing component of the SOL. Best for students in grades 6+ or who have taken the Foundational course.
High School Readiness - 8th Grade Only
Tuesdays, 5:15-6:15 PM Dates: January-April (Begin 1/6, No Sessions Week of 3/10 and April/1)
This course is designed for the 8th grade student who has solid skills in essay structure (expository, persuasive, narrative), usage and mechanics, and the writing process. The focus will be on developing stronger voice and expression to include expansion of vocabulary and use of figurative language. The fall semester will include some practice in timed essay scenarios, while spring will focus on preparing for high school.
One-to-One
Location: Gather (Short Pump Location) OR Virtual
Unlike the course offerings which provide opportunities for enrichment, these sessions are recommended for students who are struggling to meet learning targets in their reading and writing coursework, in need of remediation, or requiring focus on specific skills. These session can be a combination of growth activities and current schoolwork support.
Email Sara Luckert directly regarding 1:1 availability and how these sessions could work.
Essay Reading
Location: Virtual
Applying to an IB program? Specialty Center? College? We will read your essay(s) and provide written feedback detailing strengths and areas that need improvement. Given the variance of essay lengths and quality, pricing will work as follows. $30/per essay per initial submission. A submission includes initial reading, feedback on content, voice, and written expression, as well as proofreading for usage and mechanics. If additional readings are needed, fees will be negotiated.
Email Sara Luckert directly to learn more about how this process could work.