Designed for students eager to sharpen their essay-writing abilities, this course will equip you with essential techniques and insights to excel in your high school English classes and beyond. In New Jersey, all high school students are required to complete four years of English to graduate—a testament to the importance of strong writing and reading skills. Whether you aim for a career in the humanities, sciences, or any other field, the ability to communicate effectively through writing is crucial for success.

Course Overview:

Our comprehensive program covers all the key elements of essay writing, from crafting compelling thesis statements to analyzing literary devices. Each day, students will engage in focused lessons and practical exercises, guided by experienced high school upperclassmen who excel in both academics and writing.

📝Day 1: Essay Tips

• Learn essential essay-writing tips.
• Master MLA citations.
• Enhance your vocabulary.
• Practice embedding quotes seamlessly into your essays.

📝Day 2: TREEEES Paragraphs

• Understand paragraph structure using the TREEEES method.
• Explore common essay prompts.
• Develop effective thesis statements.

📝Day 3: Quote Journals

• Learn annotation techniques.
• Study the rhetorical triangle.
• Analyze diction and literary devices.

📝Day 4: Argumentative Essays

• Discover the research process.
• Build strong counterarguments and rebuttals.
• Apply the ACAPS method for structured argumentation.

📝Day 5: Narrative Essays

• Brainstorm effective topics.
• Develop the "big idea" or moral of your story.
• Use descriptive and figurative language to enhance your narratives.

Meet Your Instructors:

• Simon Ferriera is a rising junior at Livingston High School, excelling in both academics and athletics. He reached the USA Volleyball Nationals, showcasing his dedication and skill. Off the court, Simon's love for reading fuels his intellectual pursuits. Known for his collaborative spirit and positive energy, Simon is a fun and engaging teacher who balances lightheartedness with focus on achieving goals.
• Jenny Zhu is a rising senior at Livingston High School with a passion for writing. Her work has been selected to be featured in her high school's literary magazine, Inner Voices, for every year of her high school career. This past year, she was appointed assistant editor, working with other board members to select, review, and compile student-submitted writing and art into a final anthology. Her writing has been published in literary magazines and recognized by national competitions, including the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. She has also been granted admission to many competitive youth writing programs, including the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop, Juniper Institute for Young Writers, and the Sewanee Young Writers' Conference. She is also part of a national volunteer organization called WriteCause, where she works with other young writers to uplift teen voices through writing competitions and publication opportunities. She is looking forward to her first year with Teaching4Charity.

Course Details:

• Location: In-person at Living Stone Christian Church
• Recommended for: 8th-10th grade students
• Session Dates: July 8 - July 12
• Times: 10 AM - 12 PM
• What to Bring: A laptop, pencils/pens, highlighters, and a folder.

Join us this summer and take this opportunity to enhance your writing abilities and set yourself up for academic success.