How Our Classes Work
Write from the Heart is unique among online classes for homeschoolers: it blends the flexibility of an asynchronous online style with the peer collaboration of a classroom. This means that there are no set class times, but students interact with one another on a daily basis.
The students are all given a password and unique log in to our online classroom. Each week, the students will utilize a syllabus that lists their daily tasks for the week. All tasks are due by 11:59pm, EST. Some tasks last several days, while others require the students to finish in one day.
Workshop Format
One of the most important features of Write from the Heart is the collaborative writing process. Every paper is reviewed several times before it is turned in for a grade. Students learn about composition not only by writing themselves, but by learning how to critique others and think critically about their own piece.
In the workshop approach, your child’s paper is reviewed:
● At the outline stage by a writing coach
● After each revision by two separate peers in the class.
● In an instructional “conference” with a writing coach.
● After the final draft by a writing coach using a grading rubric.
How Are Students Graded?
All students receive homework grades for their classwork. This includes activities, paper revisions, and peer interactions. A gradebook is provided so that students can track their grade throughout the class.
Final papers are graded by professional coaches and includes specific feedback throughout the paper as well as a rubric that evaluates development, organization, voice, and grammar. Strengths are highlighted and errors are clearly explained.
The goal in all grading is to encourage the student. By the end of the class, students will have a concrete collection of works showing revisions along with professional feedback on all assignments.
