The Write Stuff (Ages 11-14)
In this year-long, multi-session course, students will learn essential skills for middle school writers. I believe that smaller classes allow for individualized attention, personalized feedback, and quality instruction. For this reason, enrollment in this class will be restricted to 16 students, which helps foster an environment of trust and connection that many young writers need.
Regardless of students' different writing levels, there is always room for them to grow as writers. We start with some basic grammar, move on to crafting beautiful sentences, well-organized paragraphs, and eventually explore different genres of essay writing. Time will be given to the exploration of creative writing as well. Along the way, we will take a close look at plenty of mentor texts, in order to learn by example. Most importantly, we will create a safe environment where we can practice writing together in class before students attempt their own first drafts at home. We also learn how to provide helpful feedback on our classmates’ writing and how to ultimately produce a piece of writing that has been revised, edited, and proofread. Culminating with an end of year reflection, this class gives students the chance to evaluate their growth as writers and showcase their best work.
Assignments will be posted, submitted, and graded through Google Classroom which creates a space where students can receive feedback and reach out with any writing questions. Regular access to a computer, laptop, or similar device that can access the internet and upload weekly assignments is required.
1 1/2 hour class, year-long course (32 weeks)
Tuesdays 12 - 1:30pm
Cost in total: $864
Dates: August 26, 2025 - May 26, 2026
Location: Thousand Oaks Teen Center
1375 E. Janss Road
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Affordable payments will be divided into four installments/sessions.
Fall registration begins 8/11/25, through Conejo Recreation & Park District, which accepts most Charter School funds.
For more information regarding registration, please contact leilani.weigand@gmail.com.