Writing & Rhetoric A

Why This Class

As a parent, you recognize the importance of strong writing skills for your student’s future success. You want to help them not only excel in high school writing assignments but also develop the communication skills to influence others positively. This course helps by guiding your student through the fundamentals of great writing.

Mentors in this course support students in mastering the essential rules of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and digital etiquette as they develop their unique writing voice and style. Students also explore examples of effective rhetoric including famous speeches, biographies, and memoirs. They then apply their new knowledge and skills to create a personal essay and speech that showcase their perspective on one of life’s big questions. Along the way, mentors give personalized feedback and encourage multiple iterations to promote mastery.

By completing this course, students increase their appreciation for thoughtful, well-organized writing and speech. They learn to write in cohesive paragraphs and are excited to continue expanding their writing skills to thrive throughout high school and beyond.

Overarching Questions

What is oracy and how can I use oracy skills to improve how I listen and speak?

How do I write an essay incorporating both an external text and my reflections?

What are the most important grammar and usage skills and how can I master them?

What are some of the greatest speeches ever given?

How can I implement techniques from great speeches into my communication?

Reading List

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom

Essays and short stories by provided by mentor

Course Details

Recommended Grade: 9th (Freshman)

Prerequisites: None

Estimated Weekly Hours: 4 (Classic); 6 (Honors)

Format: Live

Credits: 0.5

Please contact our Customer Support Team at support@williamsburglearning.com if you have questions.
Please note that program and course descriptions, as well as reading and materials lists, are subject to change as we continuously improve our curriculum throughout the year. Book and materials lists for the upcoming school year are published in SIS mid to late June. Some courses require subscriptions e.g., Adobe software or online magazines that may not be covered by partner schools.