Princeton Writing Academy offers a comprehensive English Language Arts curriculum focused on improving writing skills.
Grammar focus:
- to study the rules and nuances of grammar, and put that knowledge to use in writing
- to enrich vocabulary, expand word knowledge, and incorporate word skills in writing
- to encounter a variety of reading genres and study the writing techniques employed in order to inform student writing
- to engage text in an informed way that allows students to make connections between what they read and what they observe
- to experience the power of words and learn skills that will help students wield words effectively
High School and 8th grade transition:
Students may choose between an open or a closed curriculum. In an open curriculum, students will bring assignments and ideas (homework, areas to focus on, competitions, etc.) to the instructor who will work with students to identify specific focus areas. The curriculum will be adapted or new materials created to address these areas. In a closed curriculum, students will work through a variety of assignments—creative writing, argumentative writing, and literary analysis—balanced according to individual need. In both cases, the primary focus is to prepare students for the rigors of high school writing, particularly literary analysis and advanced placement courses. Additionally, workload will be tailored to fit individual circumstance. For busy students, the goal will be an overall reduction in workload (e.g. becoming a more efficient writer and/or working on school assignments).
Students may choose between an open or a closed curriculum. In an open curriculum, students will bring assignments and ideas (homework, areas to focus on, competitions, etc.) to the instructor who will work with students to identify specific focus areas. The curriculum will be adapted or new materials created to address these areas. In a closed curriculum, students will work through a variety of assignments—creative writing, argumentative writing, and literary analysis—balanced according to individual need. In both cases, the primary focus is to prepare students for the rigors of high school writing, particularly literary analysis and advanced placement courses. Additionally, workload will be tailored to fit individual circumstance. For busy students, the goal will be an overall reduction in workload (e.g. becoming a more efficient writer and/or working on school assignments).
Progress Reports, updated by instructors, are available for parents and students to view throughout the school year.
See sample.
See sample.
Weekly lesson plans target specific standards, yet are individualized as appropriate.
See sample.
See sample.
Small group instruction is encouraged
as it creates a "writers group" environment
where students can share and learn from one another.