At the end of the course, students should be able to demonstrate why the author used specific ideas, word choices, or writing structures 

I have been teaching homeschool for 10 years, teaching High School English, Creative Writing, American Literature, and Honors AP courses for English. Taught in public schools from 2016-2020, K-12, teaching High School English during those 4 years (including Honors AP English and American Literature). I have over 60 credit hours toward my psychology degree, with 2 English Composition Courses (English Comp 1 & 2), a creative writing course, as well as a course on the analysis of movies and their impact on society.  I have worked with students with special needs from ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. All 4 of my children have autism and ADHD, and 2 of my children and I have dyslexia, so I have experience firsthand as well as with my own children not just students when it comes to working with special needs. 

Homework Offered
Assessments Offered
Written report: Literary Analysis Essay- the format that will be looked for students will be given as follows:
I. Introduction:
a. Hook: Start with an engaging hook or attention-grabbing statement related to the literary work.
b. Background: Provide relevant background information about the author, the work, and its context.
c. Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main argument or interpretation you will be exploring in your essay.

II. Body Paragraphs:
a. Topic Sentences: Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates to your thesis.
b. Supporting Evidence: Provide evidence from the text to support your points. This can include quotes, examples, or specific scenes.
c. Analysis: Analyze and interpret the evidence, explaining how it supports your thesis. Discuss literary devices, themes, and the author's choices.
d. Transition Sentences: Use transitional sentences to smoothly connect ideas between paragraphs.

III. Structure of Analysis:
a. Character Analysis: Explore the motivations, traits, and development of key characters.
b. Setting Analysis: Examine how the setting contributes to the overall atmosphere or theme of the work.
c. Plot Analysis: Analyze the structure of the plot, including key events, conflicts, and resolutions.
d. Theme Analysis: Discuss the major themes present in the work and how they are developed.
e. Symbolism and Motif Analysis: Explore symbols and motifs and their significance in the narrative.
f. Style and Tone Analysis: Analyze the author's writing style and tone and their impact on the work.

IV. Conclusion:
a. Restate Thesis: Summarize your main argument without introducing new information.
b. Synthesize Main Points: Briefly review the main points made in the body paragraphs.
c. Broader Implications: Discuss broader implications or insights gained from your analysis.
d. Concluding Thoughts: End with a thoughtful reflection or a call to action.
Grades Offered

"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood

Britannica for background on Margaret Atwood
Sparknotes for background on The Handmaid's Tale
Literary Hub article "Margaret Atwood on How She Came to Write The Handmaid’s Tale"

Resources for essay writing:
Harvard College Writing Center
Purdue University: Online Writing Lab: Essay Writing

Literary Analysis Techniques:
Pittsford Schools: Literary Devices—Techniques and Elements
Masterclass:22 Essential Literary Devices and How to Use Them In Your Writing