LEVEL 7
Each class is 2 hours. Each session is 8 classes (total of 16 hours)
We develop these reading, writing, and critical thinking skills through the study of classical and contemporary great books in their historical contexts. We do so by removing the artificial divide between literature and history. An interdisciplinary approach helps students understand the deeper underpinnings of civilizations, instead of simply memorizing isolated dates and events.
Course Description
Level 7 introduces students to literature about Early Modern history, including the scientific revolution and civil wars around the globe. This level emphasizes:
- Identifying a text’s theme and examining its development over the arc of the narrative
- Analyzing how story elements (setting, character, plot, theme, mood, e.t.c.) shape each other; denotative and connotative meanings of words and their effects on meaning, mood, and tone; examining how rhyme, sound, and form contribute to meaning
- Identifying character development as a narrative progresses, and analyzing how the author develops and contrasts different points-of-view
- Writing and grammar instruction includes objective summary of texts; acknowledging alternate arguments; organizing reason and evidence logically; introducing specific claims, clear reasons, and detailed supporting evidence; using words, phrases, and clauses to cohesively clarify relationships between ideas; diagramming sentences; three-level outlining; practicing a formal style for analytical writing; using precise domain-specific language when making a claim.
- Practice using language and story devices to write short stories and poetry
- Selected literature and history that intertwine in the Early Modern era (1600 to 1850)
Small Classes
There is maximum of 6 students per cohort (6:1 student-to-teacher ratio) to ensure personal attention.