Accelerated Reading and Writing (6-9th)

9/13-12/13, 13 classes; Every Friday, no class on 11/29, 7:30-9:00 pm EST

In Accelerated Reading and Writing, students will study poetry, fiction, and classic literature while developing their own writing skills. The course will improve students’ critical reading skills and their ability to analyze literature. Class activities will be focused on teaching students close reading skills and fostering students’ independent thinking. Class discussions and guided reading questions will develop students’ critical thinking skills through their active engagements with each week’s texts. Analytical writing and creative writing, including a poetry unit in which students write their own poetry, will help students “read like a writer.” The analytical reading and writing assignments will focus on authorial craft and style and the elements of strong writing. Students will practice close reading skills that will prepare them for future upper level (AP level) coursework (both AP Literature and AP Language & Composition). Grammar, vocabulary, and close reading lessons will also help students prepare for future success on English Language Arts standardized tests (in particular, students will learn concepts that will improve their ACT and SAT scores).

This course is intended for talented high school students or very advanced middle school students. This course is suggested for students previously enrolled in Advanced Reading & Writing and for talented newcomers. For students who were enrolled in Advanced Critical Reading and Writing in 2023, this course will build on skills learned in that class. Newcomers are welcome but will be expected to complete a benchmark assessment to ensure their correct course placement.

Accelerated Reading and Writing (6-11th)