Class Overview
This class works well for any high school student who needs solid information on how to write a proper essay and needs a Language Arts credit.
We begin with essay writing instruction and spend most of the second semester writing essays and studying The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.
Many students are familiar with writing reports on various topics and might even refer to these as “essays.” However, the proper structure of their report is nowhere near the structure expected in formal essay writing. As stated by the author, Lesha Myers, in the course overview of the text we will use, The Elegant Essay course teaches middle and high school students the form of essay writing, that is, the basic structure or format or organization that undergirds all types of essays.”
Concentrated instruction will cover the following topics: Thesis statements, Essay organization, Transitions, Introductions, Conclusions, Descriptive essay practice, Persuasive essay practice, and Planning charts.
Once most of the essay instruction has been completed, weekly essay assignments will be given to provide continual practice of the skills learned.
Early in the second semester, our literature book study will begin with assigned weekly readings, in-depth research, and class discussions. In addition, the students will learn the nuances of writing literary analysis essays as they become familiar with Markus Zusak, the author of The Book Thief. Zusak is a master writer who expertly brings the stinging truth of Hitler’s dictatorship to his readers with strength and emotion through creative expression and characters not easily forgotten.
We will meet for an hour of instruction each week for 30 weeks, with moderate homework assigned regularly. Additional time for individual encouragement, tutoring, and editing help will also be provided weekly when needed during my office hours.
Class Schedule
Wednesdays 10:00 am – 11:00 am
- First day of class: August 30
- Thanksgiving Break: November 22
- Last day of first semester: December 13
- First day of second semester: January 17
- Winter Break: February 21
- Easter Break: March 27
- Last day of class: May 8
Class Materials


The Elegant Essay (Student book only) by Lesha Myers M.Ed.; Third Edition, March 2011.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.
Additional Supplies: Highlighters, Notebook/Organizational system, Laptop or access to a computer, Pen and pencil, email address.
Once registered, students will receive a Google Classroom sign-in.