Writing Exercises
Writing lessons draw on the Institute for Excellence in Writing’s Structure and Style methodology. “Structure” focuses on the arrangement of ideas to compose logical, cohesive pieces, while “Style” teaches a myriad of techniques to elevate language and engage readers.
Results
- Understand the framework of writing assignments
i.e., what structurally makes a story different than a literary analysis - Grasp the purpose of a paragraph and learn how to organize ideas
- Know how to outline different types of assignments
including stories, letters, event descriptions, and formal essays - Master techniques to make writing descriptive
- Learn how to grab and maintain your audience’s attention
Grammar Lessons
Writing is a craft, much like building a house or a piece of furniture. Like builders, good writers are familiar with the “tools” of their trade. Grammar provides children with the tools necessary to effectively communicate at the written and spoken level. Our students study grammar using materials from the Institute for Excellence in Writing’s Fix It! Grammar series.
Why study grammar?
- Learn the rules of sentence construction and punctuation
- Become familiar with proofreaders’ marks and editing best practices
- Master fundamental terminology necessary to discuss writing with instructors
Poetry Memorization
RWC students regularly memorize and recite child-friendly poetry.
Benefits
- Build vocabulary database
- Impart grammar knowledge by memorizing complex sentence patterns
- Bolster essential reading comprehension skills by deciphering complex thoughts
- Develop foundational public speaking skills
- Build academic confidence by discovering the fruits of consistent effort
Parent Communication
Parents are our greatest ally in ensuring the success of the RWC program.
Parents can expect:
- Regular reports of material covered
- Parent-teacher conferences each semester
- Access to their child’s instructor in between classes
In 2013, Ms. Lauren Bridgeford graduated with a BA in Languages, Literature, and Criticism from Hunter College. She has also obtained her DELTA (Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification from Cambridge University. Currently, Ms. Bridgeford is a Registered Instructor accredited by the Institute for Excellence in Writing, and she is pursuing her master’s degree in Secondary Education.
Deanna Heikkinen has been privately teaching writing as well as history, literature, and art history to students grades 2-12 for over six years. Prior to that, she was a tenured professor of humanities at Los Angeles Valley College with a focus on teaching the Great Books of Western Civilization. Additionally, she taught world history, western civilization, Native American history, and anthropology at the college level. Whether teaching elementary, middle, or high schoolers for Rose Writing Center, Deanna's diverse background allows her to serve as our test prep, academic support, and custom lesson specialist.
