Laurel Tree Tutorials offers numerous summer courses, ranging from group classes to individual tutorials. These courses include literature and composition for both junior and senior high students. The information listed below is for Summer 2009; for Summer 2010, modifications will be made to class offerings and schedules. Stay tuned for updates!
Group Classes
Introduction to Literature I (June 22-July 3)
Students who feel unprepared for a full English class will benefit from this two-week introduction to literary analysis. We will focus on key elements of literature such as theme, setting, and characterization. The course will help students to unlock the rich treasure chest of literature, and each assignment will provide the tools needed to succeed in more advanced English classes.
Course includes e-mail, online forums, and live AIM chats. The chats will take place on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons, 1:00-2:00 PM EST. They are optional, but will benefit students greatly; they serve as online discussions of the material covered in class. Students can raise questions, compare opinions, and benefit from the instructor's comments on specific topics.
Students in grade 7-10 will benefit most from this introductory course. If you have questions about its suitability for your child, please contact me.
Required Texts
Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray
The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth Speare
Course Fee: $80 per student.
Introduction to Literature II (July 27-August 7)
This second session of "Introduction to Literature" uses a format similar to that of the first. Chats are scheduled for the same time slot. However, we will use other books and focus on slightly different aspects of literature, including symbolism and dialogue. Students who choose to take both sessions will certainly benefit; on the other hand, those who wish only to enroll in one section may do so without detriment to their understanding of the material.
Required Texts
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
Course Fee: $80 per student.
Senior High Writing I (July 6-18)
Students in this two-week course will seek to sharpen their creative writing skills. Assigments may include a short story, epistolary narrative, and descriptive essay. No matter their current writing level, all students will learn to compose their thoughts in a clear, winning manner; everyone will receive constructive feedback from instructor and peers, a key element in improving writing.
Course includes e-mail and online forums.
Students in grades 9-12 will benefit most from this course. If you have questions about its suitability for your child, please contact me.
Course Fee: $80 per student.
Senior High Writing II (August 10-21)
Students in this two-week course will seek to sharpen their prose writing skills. Assigments may include a character sketch, persuasive essay, and personal reflection. No matter their current writing level, all students will learn to compose their thoughts in a clear, winning manner; everyone will receive constructive feedback from instructor and peers, a key element in improving writing.
Students who choose to take both sessions of "Senior High Writing" will certainly benefit. On the other hand, those who wish only to enroll in one section may do so without detriment to their understanding of the material.
Course includes e-mail and online forums.
Students in grades 9-12 will benefit most from this course. If you have questions about its suitability for your child, please contact me.
Course Fee: $80 per student.
Individual Tutorials
One-on-one tutorials during the summer months work much the same way as those conducted during the school year. Time frame is up to the individual family. You may arrange a session which lasts all summer long, or for tighter schedules, for five or six weeks. You are free to tailor the tutorial to fit vacation and work schedules.
Individual instruction has many benefits, not the least of which is flexibility. These customized, one-on-one tutorials may include the following material:
-elementary composition
-advanced composition and creative writing
-introduction to literature
-advanced literature analysis and discussion
-SAT or AP essay preparation
Individual tutorials may be conducted solely via e-mail, or for additional cost can incorporate "live" AIM chats.
Available weeks: June 22-August 28
Course Fee: Individual tutorials cost $25 per week. Additional "live" AIM chats may be included at the rate of $20 per hour.