Benjamin Franklin, Mark Twain, Jacquelyn Kennedy Onnassis and many other famous men and women began their careers as journalists. There are many reasons writers become journalists. Perhaps it is the excitement of being present at, or one of the first to learn of, a news event. Perhaps it is the pride one takes in seeing one's name in print. Or, perhaps it is the satisfaction one gains from uncovering information that can change the lives of one's readers.

This course will introduce you to this specialized form of writing. You will learn how to write that all-important first sentence -- the lead. Through a series of entertaining exercises, you will practice arranging information in order of importance. You will learn the sometimes subtle differences between news and feature writing and be asked to write articles based on jumbled details provided. By the end of the course, you will be able to write a news or feature article based on an interview you conduct with an individual.

Assignments are generally short and require word processing. Internet access is required.

Duration: 14 Weekly Sessions
Cost: $210
Grades: 7-12
Course begins: September 15, 2008

123, ABC...Could writing an essay be as simple as this? Yes! In this online course, students learn how to apply a classic formula to write essays. This course focuses on developing students' abilities to use a standard essay structure and write essays “on the spot” about any assigned topic. Lectures, online class activities, and assignments will examine the fundamentals of composition and incorporate description, persuasion, interpretation, and comparison-contrast. Students will learn how to support their writing through the use of active verb tense, clear and vivid details, and examples to support their inferences. Additionally, the course will cover the procedures of editing, proofreading, and revising.

Class sessions will focus on students learning how to select a topic and/or address the assigned topic, construct an outline, and write an easy-to-follow essay. Students will learn how to choose a writing plan to fit the essay's purpose. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to better express their interpretations and opinions about subject matter, including literature. This practical writing course will provide students with skills to succeed in course work and exams.

Students will interact with the teacher and other students in the class by posting and reading messages relating to the lectures on our online threaded discussion board. Also, students will receive feedback on their assignments via e-mail from the credentialed English teacher. No textbook is required. However, a dictionary and thesaurus would be helpful. Assignments require word processing. Internet access is required.

Duration: 14 Weekly Sessions
Cost: $210
Grades: 7-12
Course begins: September 15, 2008

Have you ever finished reading an incredible book or short story and said to yourself, "How can I write like that?" If so, then this is the class for you. Students will be taught the specific steps in the writing process--from finding sources of inspiration to editing the final draft.

You will begin by being introduced to the highly structured style of newspaper stories, take a trip through poetry, and then learn how to create short stories that will hold the reader's attention. Specifically, you will learn how to create characters that "live," describe scenery like a poet, and write action that will leave the reader "ducking for cover."

No textbook is required. However, a dictionary and a thesaurus would be helpful. Assignments require word processing. Internet access is required.

Duration: 14 Weekly Sessions
Cost: $210
Grades: 7-12
Course begins: September 15, 2008

To, too, or two? All three words are spelled correctly, but only one of them should be used when ordering dessert! This course focuses on developing a good understanding of grammar that will help students express their ideas more clearly and effectively. Lectures, online class activities, and assignments will help them practice choosing the correct parts of speech, word usage and sentence structures. Additionally, the course will cover the mechanics of writing to practice using correct punctuation and capitalization.

Class sessions will focus on students learning proofreading techniques to correct common errors and make the best vocabulary choices. Upon completion of the course, students will be able to apply their skills to better express themselves in oral and written communications.

No textbook is required. However, a dictionary and a thesaurus would be helpful. Assignments require word processing. Internet access is required.

Duration: 14 Weekly Sessions
Cost: $210
Grades: 7-12
Course begins: September 15, 2008