Upper Grammar American Literature

This course, covering classic Early America period literature (Aligned with IEW's US History-Based Writing) will engage your upper grammar level student to understand, enjoy and think critically about the classic literature he/she reads, with in-depth discussion guides culminating in a one-hour, live interactive discussion with an experienced literature instructor, Melissa Sweeney, MA Literature.
 
Level
This course is appropriate for upper grammar students in grades 4th-6th, or 9-12 years old.
 
Book List
Sept.-- William Bradford, Pilgrim Boy
Oct.-- Ben and Me, Robert Lawson
Nov. -- By the Great Horn Spoon! Sid Fleischman
Feb. -- Arrow Over the Door, Joseph Bruchac
March -- Benjamin West and His Cat Grimalkin, Marguerite Henry 
April -- Homer Price, Robert McCloskey
 
Meeting Schedule
Seven class meetings on Wednesdays, 8AM PST, September 2, 2026-April 7, 2027.
Our orientation on 9/2 will be a shorter class, but your student won't want to miss it. We will tour Canvas and discuss the literary terms for the first assignment.
 
Virtual Classroom
This course is hosted by Canvas. The name and email you provide at checkout will be used to create your student’s Canvas profile. You will access the live class each week either by the email invitation or by logging in and clicking on "Big Blue Button" then selecting the new conference, which should be available by about 5 minutes before class time. Classes will be recorded and the recording can be accessed in “Conferences” in the afternoon on class day and will be available for a week.
 
Assignments & Grading
All coursework will be posted in Canvas. On average, students should expect to spend about 30 minutes reading their assigned literature per school day. The written worksheets can be done as students read (recommended) or the day before class. Students should have their filled-out worksheets with them during class in order to participate. An optional discussion grade (points) is available in Canvas.
 
Deposit and Discounts
A $50 non-refundable deposit holds your student's spot. You can pay the remaining balance with monthly payments or in full before the class begins. Use this link to register with a deposit. Families with multiple students will receive a 50% discount on tuition for subsequent registered siblings. Also, a referral credit of $20 will be awarded to any family who refers another registered student/family.
 
Payments
Payment plans are available! Message me at melissa@seeitexcellent.com to make payments without paying a service fee or to set up a payment arrangement. This course is $140 when using manual payments.
 
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