COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is a great "warm up" course for beginning writers who don't want to jump straight in to writing essays! Students learn the basics of expository writing by writing about things that are very familiar to them. They will make a first attempt at a full, five-paragraph, expository essay by the end. There will be one small writing assignment each week (probably a paragraph, i.e. no reading required) graded pass/fail with a little bit of feedback. Feedback will be based on content, not grammar, spelling, or mechanics. (If students need help in those areas, Ms. Finnigan will have a recommendation for them.) Students may handwrite their assignments but they must be submitted typed. Parents are welcome to type them up. Recommended grade will be based on: participation, weekly homework (P/F), and final essay. With enough interest, this course will be followed by another eight week class in the spring called Mastering the Expository Essay.
COURSE SCHEDULE & LOGISTICS
Course Duration:
- September 29 - November 17, 2026 (8 weeks)
Live Online Class Schedule:
- Tuesdays, 10-11 a.m. Pacific, 11-12 Mountain, 12-1 Central, 1-2 Eastern
Teacher-Student Interaction (Weekly):
- One, 60-minute live class
- One short writing assignment graded pass/fail with a little bit feedback
Class Size:
- 18 student maximum, 5 minimum
Course Texts:
- None
Questions? Email
Meet Ms. Finnigan
Hello! I received my B.A. in English from Boston College and my M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the University of Montana. I like to say "I was teaching online before it was cool." I taught high school at Kolbe Academy Online for nine years, and before that, I taught at a hybrid school called St. John Bosco in Atlanta. I've been working as a writing coach off and on since 2008.
Questions? Don't hesitate to reach out!
contact@teachtothetext.com
Note to Parents
Worldview
This class is nonsectarian, there is no religious content, and all are welcome!
However, please know that I am a Catholic and am sympathetic to families who choose to homeschool because they want to educate their children in environments that are respectful of their Christian values. Students should know that we will steer clear of controversial, "culture war" type topics. Students must dress modestly in case they choose to appear on webcam. No foul language or inappropriate themes should appear in the student's writing and students shall be respectful of each other. I consider my classes "safe spaces" for Christians, but this class, as far as content goes, will be very neutral. If you have any questions or reservations, please feel free to reach out to me, Ms. Finnigan: contact at teachtothetext dot com