Accelerated Reading and Writing - Part Two (Thursdays, 7:30-9:00 pm), (Grades 8-11)

In Accelerated Reading and Writing (Part Two), students will study select classic and contemporary fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students will improve their own writing skills through analytical and creative writing assignments and through individualized feedback. For students who were enrolled in Accelerated Reading and Writing in Fall, 2024, 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.

Class activities in Accelerated Reading and Writing Part Two will focus on improving students’ critical reading skills and their ability to analyze literature. Class discussions and guided reading questions will develop students’ independent thinking and critical reasoning through students’ active engagement with each week’s texts. 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). Students will also be encouraged to submit at least one original piece to the New York Times’s student writing contest.

Note: This course is intended for talented high school students or very advanced middle school students.

Accelerated Reading and Writing - Part Two (Grades 8-11)