Veritas In Academia

FFL Explore

Tutor: Shelly Westrich and middle/high school age VIA robotics students

This class is FULL. A wait-list will be kept based on the order completed registrations are received.

Course Description: First Lego League (FLL) Explore is a robotics program designed for kids ages 6-10. Teams of 2-6 students work together to discover how science and technology impact the world around them. Teams work with legos to build a motorized model, program using Lego Education WeDo Software, and create a Show Me poster related to their research of the yearly theme. Teams will compete in a Lego Explore Expo which is typically held in the spring. For more information contact Shelly Westrich at swestrich3@comcast.net

Ballet

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Materials Fee Note: We have some initial costs for supporting ballet including bars (barres) and mirros. It is anticipated the additional Materials Fee will be significantly less next semester.

Ballet (ages 3-6)

Class Description: Come and learn this beautiful style of performance dance for beginners. Younger children will learn the basics of the ballet style of dance, including terms, poses, dance positions, common ballet moves, ballet barre and center exercises, and stretching. The children will also learn a routine putting different ballet positions and moves together. There will be Catholic-Christian music and a performance for family at the end of the year.

Ballet (ages 6-9+, no upper age limit)

Class Description: Come and learn this beautiful style of performance dance for beginners and/or intermediate dancers. Older children will learn both the basics and/or intermediate instruction of the ballet style of dance, poses, dance positions, common ballet moves, ballet barre, center, and across the floor exercises, and stretching. The children will also learn a routine putting different ballet positions and moves together. There will be Catholic-Christian music and a performance for family at the end of the year.

How to Pray (ages 6-9)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Course Description: Come and learn different types of prayer, different ways of praying, and essentially how to do it. All children will be learning how to use their imagination in the art of contemplative prayer to Jesus. There will be a Marian element to this class as well (leading the children to Mary). We will learn and practice how to make hidden, little sacrifices to Our Lady, which is so pleasing to both her and the Lord. We will learn and practice different virtues, including faith, hope, and humility. The children will discover or deepen their knowledge of their patron saint(s) and their guardian angel, growing in relationship with them.

Materials Fee Note: The additional materials fee for this class should be largely a one-time cost for some non-consumable materials. It is anticipated the additional Materials Fee will be significantly less next semester.

Little Artists 2

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Course Description: Come and explore the JOYS of art! We will have fun creating 2-3 step art projects with crayons, markers, colored pencils, glue, 3D paper art, modeling clay, craft paint and more. Moms are always welcome to stay. :)
Children ages 6-9.

Family Study Hall

Tutor: you! Talk to us about how you can help!

Course Description: Mom school time.

The lunch room is reserved for quiet, family study time, or Mom School following morning announcements until lunches, and then again after lunches through the end of the VIA day. This is roughly 9 - 11:30 and 12:30 - 4.

If you need Mom visiting time please respect those working with their children by conversing in the hall.

How to Pray (grades 4-6)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Course Description: Come and learn different types of prayer, different ways of praying, and essentially how to do it. All children will be learning how to use their imagination in the art of contemplative prayer to Jesus. There will be a Marian element to this class as well (leading the children to Mary). We will learn and practice how to make hidden, little sacrifices to Our Lady, which is so pleasing to both her and the Lord. We will learn and practice different virtues, including faith, hope, and humility. The children will discover or deepen their knowledge of their patron saint(s) and their guardian angel, growing in relationship with them.

Materials Fee Note: The additional materials fee for this class should be largely a one-time cost for some non-consumable materials. It is anticipated the additional Materials Fee will be significantly less next semester.

4th-6th Science

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Course Description: Unique class offered each semester.
This course will use the “Real Science 4 Kids Focus On” curriculum to present “real science” concepts at an age-appropriate level. In this course students will be experimental scientists. We’ll learn about the world around us, and then explore how it works through experiments. Special emphasis will be placed on keeping a laboratory notebook and what it should include (objective, hypothesis, method, results, conclusion, etc.).

We'll explore physics the first semester and biology during the second semester.

Short homework assignments will occasionally be given. Students will also be asked to supply basic household items for some of the experiments (i.e., plastic cups, pennies, bananas, batteries, duct tape, etc.). If experiment supplies are needed, parents will be given a week notice.

Supplies
- A 1-inch binder with loose leaf paper,
- A pencil case with pencil, eraser, colored pencils, scissors, and a glue stick will also be handy for in-class work.
- All curriculum materials will be supplied by instructor.

Materials Fee Note: We're taking our best guess at the additional materials fee for this class. Any surplus collected will be applied to the second semester's materials fee. The greater the number of students registered for the class, the greater the decrease likely.

IEW Language Arts

Tutor: Julia Johnson

Course Description: This language arts class is created for grades four through six. We will read energetic, age appropriate literature to spark writing quality sentences and paragraphs. We will focus on the writing process and introduce aspects of Andrew Pudewa’s Institute for Excellence in Writing. Students will also enjoy journaling, Caught’ya Grammar, Daily Oral Language, Grammar Ball and Mad Libs.

Course materials:
IEW Following Narnia Volume 1
Colorful pens!
Pencils
Spiral Notebook
Folder
The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis
$5 for word walls, posters and extra enhancing materials to decorate our IEW classroom

Exploring the World of Art

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Course Description: We will learn about the different forms of art; their history and origin. We will learn the techniques to create our own works of art using each of these forms. Impression, Pointillism, Mosaic, and Fresco are just a few examples of what we will study and create.
Fall and Spring semesters can be taken independently of each other.

Conversational Spanish

Tutor: Ana Grace Plotts

Course Description: Learn to speak Spanish the way all people learn their native language - by using it. We will discuss, listen, celebrate, play and eat our way through the Spanish language. We will immerse ourselves in the faith, culture, and daily life of the Hispanic people. In addition to in-class participation, there will be outside time required for specific online tools, and outside speaking/hearing opportunities.
Supplies Needed: Students will need access to a computer at home to use Duolingo 10-15 minutes per day. Post-it Notes (5-90 sheet pads of 5 different colors) and lined paper in a three ring binder or a folder.

VIA Choir (ages 9 and up)

Tutor: Dianna Anderson

Course Description: : We will be exploring the joy of music by singing a wide range of pieces including learning Latin pronunciation for some of the songs. Techniques for breathing, vocal exercises, and enunciation will also be worked on.

Piano Lessons

VIA is blessed to have two wonderful, piano tutors this year:


Piano Lessons with Diana Anderson (4th - 12th grade) (4th through 12th)

Tutor: Dianna Anderson

Course Description: All skill levels welcome and adapted to. Lessons include learning a classical-style technique, basic principles of music theory appropriate to the student, and learning to read notes through studying the different songs.

Piano Lessons with Mary Margaret Bolin (6 years of age through 12th grade)

Tutor: Mary Margaret Bolin

Course Description:These fun and engaging piano lessons for beginners will include learning proper technique, music theory basics, and reading music.

Supplies Needed:
The 6 to 9 year olds would need the Primer Level-Lesson Book-Piano Adventures Faber and a blank Composition Notebook.

Older beginners would either start at the same level and move to the next quickly, or start with the Level One-Performance Book-Piano Adventures Faber. They should also bring a blank Composition Notebook.

Cost note:: As you will see on the registration form there are two different costs listed for these lessons. Younger students (shorter attention spans) will have 20 minutes lessons while the older ones will have 35 minutes (give or take 5 minutes, which will be determined when VIA works out the specific lessons schedules in August.)the exact scheduling time in August.)

How to Pray (grades 7-12)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Course Description: Come and learn different types of prayer, different ways of praying, and essentially how to do it. All children will be learning how to use their imagination in the art of contemplative prayer to Jesus. There will be a Marian element to this class as well (leading the children to Mary). We will learn and practice how to make hidden, little sacrifices to Our Lady, which is so pleasing to both her and the Lord. We will learn and practice different virtues, including faith, hope, and humility. The children will discover or deepen their knowledge of their patron saint(s) and their guardian angel, growing in relationship with them.

Materials Fee Note: The additional materials fee for this class should be largely a one-time cost for some non-consumable materials. It is anticipated the additional Materials Fee will be significantly less next semester.

Saxon Math 87 with Pre-Algebra I

Tutor: Robin LaFond

Course Description: In this first semester, we will cover Lessons 1-60 of the Saxon Math 87 with Pre-Algebra textbook. Each week 3-5 lessons will be presented from the textbook. Homework will be assigned, and students will be expected to come to class having checked and corrected their own homework problems. Students will spend 4-5 days per week at home on homework. Tests will be completed at home and handed in to be scored by the teacher.
Upon successful completion with a grade of 80% or better in this course, students can move directly to Algebra 1. (The additional course of Algebra 1/2 is taken only if more review is needed for a solid foundation for Algebra I. Saxon 87 includes Pre-Algebra and gives more of an initial review of earlier concepts to be mastered.
New students will be accepted second (spring) semester with tutor approval.

Supplies Needed: Saxon Math 87 with Pre-Algebra, THIRD EDITION--Student Textbook, Solutions Manual, and Tests & Worksheets Booklet; Folder for worksheets and corrected tests.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Saxon Math 76 or similar.

THE HISTORY OF GOVERNMENT and THE FORMATION OF THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC

Tutor: Jordan Monson

Course Description: In this course we will discuss the role of government as well as the many forms and ideological structures that formed the governments of history. The majority of this course will focus on lecture and discussion regarding the formation of the United States republic, with scholars having an in depth understanding of this government’s founding documents and how it functions. We will also be studying important figures and events instrumental in the framing and history of the U.S. government. The U.S. Constitution will be read and understood in its entirety. Scholars should come to class prepared to take notes and participate in discussions.

Supplies Needed: Scholars should have a paper copy of the United States Constitution, notebook, and three pencils adequately sharpened for proper application to paper.

Biology

Tutor: Sherry Zeisel

Course Description: This comprehensive survey of biology applies a solidly Catholic perspective to everything from evolution to life issues in a way that no homeschool biology course has yet attempted to do! In the first semester, students will learn the background of biology, with units on ecology, cell biology, and biochemistry, and then move on to a survey of the five kingdoms of organisms. The second semester is devoted entirely to human anatomy and physiology. The two together form the complete high-school level course. The course includes video lectures, extensive notes, homework and answer keys; no textbook required! In-class time will be devoted to labs and “office hours” with the tutor.

Course materials: Students will need access to a computer for daily video lectures. Lab supplies are covered in the supplies fee.

Prerequisites: At least one high-school level science course, such as general or physical science. Biology is commonly done in 10 th grade, but can be done earlier if the student has completed the prerequisite.

United States History

Tutor: Dr. Chuck Chalberg

Editorial comment from the VIA administration: Dr. "Chuck" Chalberg is a priceless. If you want more than checking a box for your MN High School graduation U.S. History requirement, this is the place for you. Dr. Chalberg is a national treasure. Your students will not just learn what happened in U.S. History, but why! What were people thinking? Why things worked, and others failed. Don't miss a chance to expose your student to this great opportunity to expand their ability to learn how to think. Dr. Chalberg's 30 years of teaching and acting out history at Normandale and around the country as Teddy Roosevelt, G.K. Chesterton, Rickey Branch, make the discussions in class truly come alive.

Course Description: American History from the Age of Exploration to the Civil War and Reconstruction. The heart of the course will focus on 1) the road to the American Revolution, the revolutionary era itself and its aftermath and consequences; 2) the road to the Civil War, the war itself, and the aftermath and consequences.
Supplies needed: A Land of Hope by Wilfred McClay

Acting

Tutor: Amy Bittner

Course Description: This class is intended to provide young actors with an overview of the concepts of acting, the basic techniques of acting, and a brief look into dramatic literature. We will look at physical form, vocal techniques, and creating a character, as well as some beginner information about the world of Theatre. During this course students will investigate voice, movement, text, improvisation, and performance with the goal of improved performance skills and theatrical understanding.

Introduction to Theology: Faith and Reason

Tutor: Jenna Leighton

Course Description: Pope Saint John Paul II said “Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth--in a word, to know himself--so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves.” (Fides et Ratio). In this class, we will use both Divine Revelation and human intellect to contemplate these truths. In easy-to-understand language and visuals, we will cover some of the most profound theological mysteries including the Trinity, creation, the nature of man, Heaven, the Fall, the incarnation, the Church, Grace, and the Sacraments.

Grades: 6th-8th (open to highschool)
Curriculum: The Catechism of the Catholic Church

Art

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Basic Drawing

Class Description: This class is for the student with little or no drawing experience. It is also for the student who has had previous drawing classes but wants to gain more confidence in his/her skill.

Supplies needed: 14” x 17” pad of sketch paper (Quality drawing paper for final drawings will be provided by tutor)
Set of drawing pencils
Blending Stumps (a variety of sizes)
Gum Eraser (also called “Art Gum”)
Plastic Eraser (Factis extra soft)
Kneaded Rubber Eraser (recommended brand: Generals)

Amazing Colored Pencil

Class Description: Come experience the beauty of color! Colored pencil is an amazing versatile medium. Students will learn the techniques needed to create painting-like works of art.

Supplies needed: 9” x 12” table of colored pencil paper (Recommend brand: Strathmore)
Prismacolor Premier colord pencils (24 count set)
Colorless blender. Most are sold in packages of two. (option to purchase a single from tutor)
Bottle of baby oil (generic)
Box of cotton swabs (generic)

Prerequisites:Basic Drawing or equivalant, basic drawing skills.

Humane Letters: A Great Books Seminar

Tutor: Susan Steinke
Course Description: In this year-long course, students will strive to better understand the world around them through the ideas of those who came before us. The main work of this course will be the reading and Socratic discussion of foundational works of literature from Ancient Greece and Early Christianity. Students will learn how to read critically and closely, and to share what they observed in discussion with their peers. They will also practice crafting analytical essays with strong thesis statements and support from the text.

The books we’ll delve into together are the Illiad and The Odyssey of Homer, The Republic of Plato, The Confessions of St. Augustine, and On the Incarnation by St. Athanasius (if time allows). Homework will be assigned each week; this might include reading assignments (likely approx. 70 pages per week), mid-week critical thinking check-ins, journaling assignments, rough-draft essay assignments, etc. It will be important to keep up with homework (especially reading assignments) in order to foster fruitful discussion during class.

Supplies: Many translations of these works exist, and it’s important that every class member uses the same one. Please purchase the following:
- The Iliad of Homer translated by Richmond Lattimore
- The Odyssey by Homer, translated by Robert Fitzgerald
- The Republic of Plato (2nd edition) translated by Allan Bloom
- The Confessions by St. Augustine translated by Maria Boulding, O.S.B. (New City Press)
- On the Incarnation by St. Athanasius, with an introduction by C.S. Lewis, St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press. **May wait to until spring semester to purchase when we're certain time will allow for it.
- A binder for handouts and a notebook or loose-leaf paper for journaling before discussion, brainstorming, etc.

Faith, Science & Apologetics

Tutor: Jenni Fuchs

Course Description: Students will learn why there is credible evidence for our faith and how science and faith are NOT opposed. Most of the material presented is based on work by Fr Robert Spitzer SJ, Ph.D. with the Magis Center and CredibleCatholic.com. Topics may include:
   · Can science disprove God?
   · Is there any evidence for a Creator in the universe?
   · Is the universe random and meaningless?
   · Does the Bible conflict with science?
   · Does the Bible conflict with evolution?
   · Is there medical evidence of a soul?
   · Why would an all-loving God allow suffering?
   · Could the complexity of life and DNA come about without divine intervention?
Little-to-no homework

Economics

Tutor: Jenni Fuchs

Class Description: Students will learn about money (its origin and history), the dollar (its origin and history), investment cycles, velocity, business cycles, recessions, inflation, the demand for money, government (its economic behavior), and more. All explanations and interpretations are according to the Austrian and Monetarist schools of economic theory based on the book Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? And A bluestocking guide to Economics. If time permits, the class topics will continue into basic accounting. Whether you're a manager, business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, you’ll need to know basic accounting, including how to manage an account balance and how do you increase profits.
Length: One semester
Grades 7+

Physical Science

Tutor: John Leighton
Course Description: full description coming soon.

Survey of High School Science

Tutor: John Leighton
Course Description: MN High School granduation requirements include three science classes which must include Biology and at least one of Chemistry or Physics. So the common approach is to take both Chem and Physics. For those looking for an alternative, this class will cover other areas including Astronomy, Weather and other topics that naturally come up in the course of them and exploring the natural world around us.

IEW Writing and Grammar: Narnia 2

Tutor: Susan Steinke
Course Description: In this year-long course, students will learn advanced writing skills while exploring the last four novels in "The Chronicles of Narnia" series: Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle. We’ll use these novels as the basis of learning to write with “structure and style” through IEW’s writing method.

We will also use IEW’s Fix-It Grammar to reinforce grammar skills. Class time will include discussion of the chapters read, learning new vocabulary, developing key word outlines, learning about and adding “dress-ups” to our writing, and practicing grammar concepts. Weekly homework will be assigned that will include reading, writing, and grammar assignments, with possible mid-week check-ins. Gentle direction, guidance, and encouragement will be given to each student on their journey to becoming a better writer.

**Please note, this is a different and more advanced class than the “IEW Narnia” 4th-6th grade class offered at VIA in the past. This is “Narnia Level 2” for 7th grade and above. "Narnia 1" is not required for this class.

Supplies:
- Every student will need a copy of “Following Narnia Volume 2: Aslan’s Country (Student Book only) available from IEW (iew.com). The cost is $29.
- All “Fix-It Grammar” materials will be provided.
-In addition, students will need a binder with loose leaf paper and divider tabs. -They will also need access to the following books by C.S. Lewis: Prince Caspian, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The Silver Chair, and The Last Battle.

Christian Anthropology: The Meaning of the Human Person

Tutor: Jacob Nelson

Course Description: This will be both an analytical and synthetically view of the human person according to Christian Tradition and guidance from John Paul II and his Theology of the Body. This is not a sexual education course. JPII understood the body as sacrament and we should take heed of his wisdom and his warnings.

Algebra I

Tutor: Robin LaFond

Course Description: In this first semester, we will cover Lessons 1-60 of Saxon Math Algebra I textbook. Each week 3-5 lessons will be presented from the textbook. Homework will be assigned, and students will be expected to come to class having checked and corrected their own homework problems. Students will spend 4-5 days per week at home on homework. Tests will be completed at home and handed in to be scored by the tutor.
New students will be accepted second (spring) semester with tutor approval.

Supplies Needed: Saxon Algebra I, THIRD EDITION--Student Textbook, Solutions Manual, and Tests & Worksheets Booklet; Folder for worksheets and corrected tests.

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Saxon Math 87 with Pre-Algebra, Saxon Math Algebra 1/2, or similar

Latin I

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Course Description:
As Catholics, the Latin language is part of our faith heritage. Since over half of English words have Latin as their root, learning Latin enables students to interact with and participate in the world around them on a deeper level, particularly in the Liturgy.

This introductory Latin course will develop a firm foundation of grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills with the goal of recognizing core elements and the basic patterns of Latin sentences. Students will learn a number of Latin prayers; not only how to say them, but also what they mean in the original Latin. Students will also be introduced to elements of Roman history as well as Latin in the modern world. Class time will focus on learning new vocabulary, grammatical concepts, and translation practice. Weekly homework will include vocab practice and workbook assignments.

Course materials:
    Latin Alive! Book 1 (student edition). Classical Academic Press (classicalacademicpress.com) has it for $24.95.
    A folder or binder to store handouts,
    Loose leaf paper or notebook with perforated pages for classroom work,
    Index cards and storage box for vocabulary flashcards.

Spanish I & II

Tutor: Karyn Schneider

Course Description: Learn to speak and understand Spanish the way all people learn their native language - by using it!

We will discuss, listen, play and eat our way through the Spanish language immersing ourselves in the faith, culture, and daily life of the Hispanic people. We will be using two books. The first will walk us through the Spanish language, starting with "Hola!". This will allow advanced students to polish their skills and students that are new to Spanish will have all of the tools they need to succeed. Beginner students should also be aware that we will move fairly quickly through some of the first chapters of this book. However, beginners will also receive extra support during class time. The second text, Read & Think Spanish, is a fun filled collection of short articles in Spanish about traditions, geography, music, etc! This text makes these articles easy to read with vocabulary aids on each page! The texts have additional resourses that can be accessed through their app for families that find this supplemental material helpful.

In addition to in-class participation, there will be outside time required for specific homework assignments, online tools, and outside speaking/hearing opportunities.

Spanish I course materials:
    Read & Think Spanish, Premium Third Edition
    Practice Makes Perfect Basic Spanish, Second Edition: Beginner (about $15 on Amazon)

Spanish II course materials:
    Read & Think Spanish, Premium Third Edition
    Practice Makes Perfect Basic Spanish, Second Edition: Intermediate (https://www.amazon.com/Practice-Makes-Perfect-Intermediate-Spanish/dp/1260121690/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=mcgraw+hill+intermediate&qid=1589206877&sr=8-6)

American Sign Language 1

Tutor: Kathy Michael

Course Description: This class will introduce students to American Sign Language and the culture of Deaf people. The class will focus on building ASL vocabulary and dialogue needed for everyday conversations. This will be a fun and interactive class where students will be challenged to communicate using ASL. Along with learning ASL vocabulary, students will learn the importance of non-manual markers such as facial expressions. Students will also be introduced to the rich history and culture of the Deaf community. During the semester we will invite a Deaf person to one of our classes to give students the opportunity to learn first hand what it is like to live in a Deaf world. If you are looking for a fun and interesting way to learn another language this may be the class for you!

Physics

Tutor: John Leighton

High School Literature, Drama

Tutor: Amy Bittner

See important scheduling note

Course Description: This class presents a study of foundational plays, theatrical styles, and famous productions throughout theatre history. We will dive into Greek Classics, Medieval Theatre, Elizabethan Drama, Farce, Classicism, Realism, Naturalism, Modern works, and the Theatre of the Absurd. Students will also learn Aristotle’s six elements of drama, the principles of dramatic structure, and how to read a play for production.

Required Materials: Once there is a quorm of students the tutor will send out a survey to see which books the students have already read so as to avoid as many duplicates as possible.

Public Speaking

Tutor:
Course Description: (no prerequisite) It doesn’t matter what occupation or endeavor God calls us to in this life, speaking in front of others isinevitable. The sooner students can learn public speaking skills, the more comfortable they will become. This class will train students to prepare and deliver a variety of speeches including but not limited to: Self-Introduction, Narrative, Descriptive, Demonstrative, and Persuasive. The Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) Speech Boot Camp program will be used as a backbone and includes a bit of videolearning during class, along with provided handouts. Each student will prepare a notebook in whichhandouts and notes will be placed (this will serve as a good reference for the future). This class is sure toengage students not only in the physical aspects of speaking in front of others, but also in the mental and spiritual preparation needed for effective speaking. To the students: in the words of St. Padre Pio, “Pray, hope and don’t worry.” Rest assured, this class will be most enjoyable!

"Be slow to speak, and only after having first listened quietly, so that you may understand the meaning, leanings, and wishes of those who do speak. Thus, you will better know when to speak and when to besilent." -Saint Ignatius

Required Materials: Three ring binder.
All instructional materials will be provided by the tutor.

Language Arts with IEW

Tutor: Julia Johnson

Course Description: Creating amazing essays and stories that astound this teacher, students write using the IEW process. Free writing and journaling create variety in our language expression, as well. Literature choices are exceptional as we read aloud and enjoy the quiet of book reading. Daily Oral Language, “grammar solving,” thoughtful discussion, and games, add amusement to our Tuesdays as we find our voices in the lost art of writing.

Course materials: Coming soon

Love of Writing

Tutor: John Leighton

Course Description: People and God communicate in many ways, some mystical and some banal. But the most ordinary of these ways is language. Language, however, is a double-edged sword that need be wielded carefully. How often have we uttered something uncharitable, only to immediately regret and long to corral the echoes of our words. Wielded well, language communicates goodness, beauty and truth, or parries another sword that denies these attributes of holiness. This writing class will attempt to impart to the student the following abilities: i) to know the metrics of good writing, and to discriminate between the good and bad; and ii) to learn how easy it is to write, so easy that writer's block is banished to its proper abode in the hinterland of fantasy.

This course will prepare you for life and college by focusing on writing prose, for fiction follows non-fiction. Great fiction communicates truth, and thus is only as good as the underlying reality. To identify the metrics of good prose, one must be exposed to great writers. And so we will be reading many of the great writers of our language, as well as employing the following resources: i) "Excellence in Writing;" and ii) "Elements of Style." We will also expose ourselves to bad writing so as to obtain the skill of avoiding such drivel. Finally, we will meditate on the wonder of our God, so that our souls excite in the Good, the Beautiful, and the True. A soul in ecstasy cannot help but attempt to communicate itself.

Prerequisites: Student should have a command of basic grammar and be able to write a complete paragraph.