Academic Research & Writing

Elementary Writing Program (K-5th Grade - Ages 5-11)

Our Academic Writing Program helps students develop strong writing skills by using research-backed methods like the Hochman method and the 6+1 traits of writing. Whether students are strengthening their foundational writing skills or preparing advanced pieces for competitions, our program fosters critical thinking, structured argumentation, and clear articulation. We emphasize both technical skill and creativity, ensuring students become confident and capable writers.

Our elementary program introduces young learners to the fundamentals of writing through engaging, interactive lessons. The program focuses on:

• Sentence Building & Early Composition – Teaches students how to construct complete sentences, use punctuation correctly, and develop early writing habits.

• Storytelling & Creative Expression – Encourages young writers to develop their imagination through storytelling, descriptive writing, and simple narratives.

• Basic Grammar & Vocabulary Development – Strengthens early grammar skills, expanding vocabulary and sentence variety to improve clarity and expression.

• Writing for Communication – Helps students express thoughts and ideas clearly through letters, journal entries, and simple opinion writing.

Middle School Writing Program (6-8th Grade - Ages 11-14) | High School Writing Program (9-12th Grade - Ages 14-18)

Our curriculum is structured into three levels based on students' proficiency and needs: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Each level builds essential skills in:

• Sentence & Paragraph Mastery – Students learn to construct grammatically sound and varied sentences, ensuring clarity and impact. They develop strong paragraph structures with topic sentences, supporting details, and transitions that enhance readability.

• Essay Writing – Focuses on thesis development, logical organization, and argument support. Students practice different types of essays, including expository, persuasive, analytical, and narrative writing.

• Research & Evidence-Based Writing – Teaches students how to conduct research, evaluate sources, and incorporate evidence effectively. They learn to integrate citations and craft well-supported arguments.

• Grammar & Style – Strengthens command over grammar, punctuation, and syntax. Students refine their writing style through exercises in conciseness, clarity, and academic tone.

• Creative & Expressive Writing – Encourages originality and voice through storytelling, personal narratives, and descriptive writing. Students learn to engage readers with compelling language and vivid details.

Competitive Writing Program (Ages 13-18)

For students seeking to push their writing skills further, our competitive program prepares them for national and international writing competitions. This track builds on the core program while emphasizing:

• Advanced Argumentation & Rhetoric – Teaches students how to craft sophisticated arguments, analyze texts critically, and write persuasively at a high level.

• Literary Analysis & Commentary – Develops skills in close reading, interpretation, and response to literature. Students learn to analyze themes, symbolism, and authorial intent with precision.

• Competition-Level Writing – Guides students through the process of drafting and refining pieces for competitions, including essays, poetry, and creative writing contests.

• Journalistic & Opinion Writing – Provides training in writing editorials, opinion pieces, and investigative articles. Students learn to present compelling arguments with clarity and depth.

• Publication & Portfolio Development – Helps students curate a strong portfolio of their best work, preparing them for submission to writing competitions, literary journals, and academic applications.

With structured instruction, expert feedback, and a focus on both technical and expressive writing, our Academic Writing Program equips students with the skills they need for academic success and lifelong communication mastery.