Class Overview:
This year-long writing course is an organizational program inspired by Step Up to Writing strategies and Thinking Maps processes. These processes will walk students through the writing process (pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing, final copy, proofreading, and sharing) to help students organize their thinking and writing into a final essay by the end of each area of writing.
Four areas of writing will be covered throughout the school year in 8 week sessions:
Narrative Writing
Opinion Writing
Informational Writing
Argumentative Writing
Throughout the writing processes, students will utilize thinking map strategies, graphic organizing skills, and Step Up to Writing methods to guide the development of their writing. We will analyze and break down different student and teacher mentor texts to understand different styles and techniques of writing. Students will learn how to peer-edit, give peer feedback, self-reflect, and self-edit using student rubrics as part of the writing process.
Students will also develop digital and AI literacy skills, learning how to use technology ethically while evaluating source reliability and maintaining integrity in an ever-evolving writing landscape.
This class will meet every Tuesday from 9:00AM - 10:00AM. Students enrolled in this course are expected to attend each week for the full class period throughout both semesters of the school year.
This course qualifies for charter school reimbursement.
Coursework + Coursework at Home (Homework)
At Ethos Academy, we offer core classes through a hybrid learning model. This means students will complete weekly coursework at home in addition to in-class instruction. This work is essential to student success in the course.
Please plan for approximately 2 hours per week of coursework at home.
All students work at different paces, and some may require more time than others. I will ask that students have their coursework at home completed prior to the next class session.
It’s important that students complete coursework assigned for home. Assignments are progressive and build on top of one another each week. It’s important students DO NOT fall behind in their coursework assignments. Many assignments will be completed in the student workbooks (or composition books) and it is encouraged that they type their final drafts.
Required Curriculum and Supplies
A composition notebook and/or a laptop computer for final draft typing
Green, Yellow, and Red/Pink highlighter
Mechanical pencil and lead refills
Supply box to keep things together and organized in backpack
Payment Information
The cost of this course is $400 per semester, plus a $10 material fee for classroom supplies.
The material fee is collected during the registration period.
The material fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
Parent Partnership, Student Expectations & Classroom Culture
Middle school is an important season for students to grow in responsibility, organization, and independence and this class is designed to support that growth. At the same time, strong parent partnership remains essential.
Parent Partnership
Parents play a vital role in encouraging and supporting their students as they learn to manage assignments and develop strong study habits. Your encouragement, structure at home, and positive communication about school make a meaningful difference in your student’s success.
Parents are always welcome to contact me with any questions, concerns, or clarification needed throughout the year.
Student Responsibility
To get the most out of our class time together, students are expected to take ownership of their learning by:
Writing down all assigned coursework during class
Completing assigned coursework at home (homework) in a timely and thoughtful manner
Checking Google Classroom regularly to confirm what is expected to be completed at home
There is never a reason for a student to be unsure of what has been assigned. Between in-class directions, written notes, emails, and Google Classroom updates, expectations will always be clearly communicated.
Learning to track assignments and follow through is an important life skill, and I am excited to help students build that confidence this year.
Classroom Culture & Expectations
I strive to create a positive, fun, and engaging learning atmosphere in our classroom. At the same time, a strong learning environment requires students to be respectful of one another and focused during instruction.
This means that when I am speaking or giving directions, students are expected to listen attentively, avoid side conversations, and stay on task. Social time is valued and will be integrated into activities, but it should never take away from learning time.
By working together to keep our classroom focused, respectful, and encouraging, we create a space where every student can learn well, feel supported, and truly enjoy the process.
Contact Information
I am excited to partner with you on your child’s learning journey and am committed to supporting both you and your student throughout the year. Please feel free to reach out anytime via text, phone call, or email with any questions, comments, or concerns.
Natasha (Austin) Hoffman
760-219-6117