Description: This comprehensive course helps students develop critical thinking and essential skills in writing, literature, and grammar. Using selected principles from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), students will practice outlining and composing both stories and formal essays. This level introduces foundational research and documentation techniques.

Refining work through feedback is a core requirement of this class. Each student must have an "at-home editor"—such as a parent or tutor—who will help proofread and polish assignments before they are submitted. Writing assessments are flexible and may be adjusted to reflect individual learning goals and ability levels.

The literature study encourages critical thinking by examining style, theme, and plot, while grammar and vocabulary are covered through weekly topical practice and organic application in writing.

This class utilizes Google Classroom for assignments and feedback, occasionally incorporating other digital tools to facilitate discussion and the writing process.

Note: This is a year-long course with unique syllabi and literature selections for each semester. Mid-year enrollment may be possible; please contact the tutor for inquiries.

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: $271, $281 or $291 per semester (depending on registration date)
Level: Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: None
Homework: 3-5 hours per week
1st Semester Books:

• Peter Pan (J.M. Barrie, Dover Publications) [purchased by the tutor]
• A Christmas Carol (Charles Dickens, Dover Publications) [purchased by the tutor]

2nd Semester Books:

• Animal Farm (George Orwell)  ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 9780451526342  (to be purchased by the parent)
• The Gift of the Magi and Other Short Stories (O. Henry, Dover Publications) [purchased by the tutor]
• Great Short Poems (Philip Smith, ed., Dover Publications) [purchased by the tutor]

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.