Description: In this engaging and comprehensive writing course, students will build on the critical thinking and essential writing skills begun in Writing 1 using selected principles from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) adapted specifically for CHAT students.

In this course, students will deepen their skills in note taking, outlining, story writing, report writing from single and multiple sources, writing from pictures with an emphasis on essay writing. Writing 2 will cover research skills and documentation later in the year. The course is designed to meet students at their individual levels, allowing for differentiation in instruction as they apply stylistic techniques in a step-by-step approach.

Each week the student will leave class with a specific assignment for the coming week, which may need to be done with some supervision from their editor/home teacher.

An important component of the class is that each student must have an editor to proofread all assigned essays before they are turned in to the tutor. The editor can be a parent, an older sibling, or an outside tutor. Editing is a vital part of the writing process and a requirement for this class.

The literature study aspect of the course will encourage critical thinking skills by examining elements of style, purpose, theme, plot, etc. Grammar and vocabulary will be covered by topical weekly practice and organically through writing.

This class uses Google Classroom as a platform for submitting work and receiving feedback. We will also occasionally be using other online platforms and tools to help facilitate discussions and the writing process itself.

Note: Although Writing 2 is formatted as a year-long class, each semester has its own syllabus and literature selection. It may be possible to add to this class at semester. Please contact the tutor with questions.

Tutor: Amanda Gonsalves has a BA in English and German from Iowa State University with a Secondary Education teaching degree. She has taught in public schools, in homeschool coops and various Bible studies. Her desire is to help students bring the light and life of Jesus into each of their contexts through critical thinking and clear communication. "Mrs. G" lives and homeschools in Bloomington, where she enjoys reading, creating, and spending time with her four daughters and husband.

Cost:  $259, $269 or $279 per semester (depending on registration date)
Level: Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: Writing 1 or tutor approval
Homework: 3-4 hours per week
1st Semester Book (to be purchased by the parent):

• Peace Like a River (Leif Enger) (to be purchased by the parent)

2nd Semester Books (to be purchased by tutor) :

• Short, Short Stories (Paul Negri, ed., Dover Publications)
• 101 Great American Poems (Literacy Project, ed., Dover Publications)
• The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Dover Publications)

Supplies: Books purchased by tutor are included in the cost for the class (above). Each student will need writing utensils, paper, a three-ring binder dedicated to this class with five dividers and a pocket folder. Computer access is needed at home.