Composition 103: Critical Thinking & Composition

Critical Thinking & Composition. Memoir, fiction, poetry, persuasion, comparison, and research: students move beyond fundamentals and learn to think critically through their writing. Placed by ability, not grade.

Composition 103 introduces the different ways that critical thinking can improve writing. Students learn to analyze, argue, compare, and reflect, developing the skills they’ll need for high school and college-level work. Using a variety of styles such as memoir, narrative, poetry, exposition, persuasion, and comparison, the students are encouraged to go beyond the fundamentals of writing and grow in confidence using their voice.

Most students in this class are in grades 8–10, but placement is based on writing readiness, not age. Take the placement quiz.

Intended For Grades: 8-12

Time Expectation:

Classes have daily assignments. Some assignments span several days to give flexibility. Assignments are intended to take approximately 1-1.5 hours per day to complete.

Class Objectives:

Demonstrate a sense of voice for different audiences
Cite textual evidence for research including in text citations using the MLA format
Write in several different styles, including narration, exposition, comparison, poetry, and description
Develop a thesis statement with confidence
Give constructive criticism and encouragement to another student

Class Features:

Students will submit their memoir and fictional story to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards writing contest
Students will have daily contact with a coach who evaluates mastery and skills and peers to discuss activities and workshop writing
Daily contact with a coach who evaluates mastery and skills will be provided
An online classroom will teach students time management and appropriate cyber behavior in a controlled environment.
A Parent Handbook in ebook form is included. This handbook gives you tips and suggestions for how to help/guide your child in their work. Weekly parent suggestions are also given in the classroom materials.

Pre-Reqs: Comp 102 or equivalent

Class Requirements

Composition 103 is designed for 8th to 12th graders who have had structured writing instruction in the past or have successfully completed Composition 101A & 101B or Composition 102.

Required Class Materials:

Write from the Heart: A Resource Guide to Engage Writers—available in our online store
One novel of the student’s choice
Three fiction short stories of the student’s choice (resources provided)
Collection of 15 poems provided as examples in a poetry unit.

Curious what a typical week looks like? Download a sample syllabus below to see exactly what your student will be doing in this class. Download Now

$599.00

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Purchase Course Materials:

Write from the Heart: A Resource Guide to Engage Writers

Price range: $22.99 through $39.99

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