What is the Homeschool Online Writing Co-op?
It is an eight week course for homeschool students in grades 9-12. There are eight lessons with writing assignments that are designed to develop and reinforce good writing skills. Lessons are e-mailed by the instructor to the student each week. Completed assignments are e-mailed by the student back to the instructor by the due date. The instructor provides encouraging feedback, aka "constructive input", about the student's work via e-mail, and is available for students' questions throughout the Co-op Session.
It is not necessary for students to be online at a designated time. Students' lessons, assignments, and e-mail interaction can be done at their convenience. Each lesson's assignment is due a week from the time the lesson is sent, to provide ample time for students to work. Average time students spend per week on a lesson and assignment is 2-3 hours, but this varies depending on the student.
What Tools Are Needed?
Students will need access to the internet and an e-mail account. They will also need a word processing program, such as Microsoft Word or Works. Basic knowledge of the word processing program is necessary. A good dictionary and thesaurus are also handy. If a student is willing to make the effort, they should reap results from the Co-op.
Students of all writing skill levels are welcome! Everyone can grow and improve in their writing and communication skills. Interaction between Co-op participants is done on the Co-op's forum. The forum is where students can exchange ideas, read each other's assignments and provide positive and encouraging feedback amongst themselves.
Is the Co-op a Replacement for High School Language Arts?
No, the Co-op is designed to be a supplement to, not a replacement for, a High School Language Arts course. Lessons and assignments address grammar and mechanics in a general way, but the focus is on the process of writing. Any student can improve with practice, encouragement, and the right tools!
How long has the Online Co-op been around?
The Online Co-op started in the spring of 2005, and has hosted sessions every spring and fall since. Students from all over the globe have participated, including those from Japan, Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New Hampshire, Virginia, Indiana, and Kentucky.
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