Description: This engaging and comprehensive course builds on the skills developed in Writing 1, helping students further refine their writing, literature, and grammar abilities. Using a variety of methods—including selected principles from the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW), adapted specifically for CHAT students—students will have ample opportunities to practice drafting, editing, and polishing their work. Topics covered include more advanced techniques in outlining, summarizing, and both story and essay writing. Writing 2 emphasizes research and proper documentation skills.

Editing is an essential part of the writing process and a requirement for this class. Depending on the student’s writing level, assignments may need to be completed with guidance from an editor or home teacher. Each student must have an editor—such as a parent, older sibling, or outside tutor—who will proofread essays before they are submitted to the class tutor. Writing assessments are flexible and may be adjusted to reflect individual learning goals and ability levels.

The literature study aspect of the course will encourage critical thinking skills by examining elements of style, purpose, theme, plot, etc. The study of 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.