top of page
Concrete Wall

Foundations of Literature & Composition

Serving as the foundation for a college prep English track, this course will ground ninth and tenth-grade students in the fundamentals of literature and academic writing. Key concepts of plot, characterization, setting and theme are emphasized. Students will grow in their ability to read, think and write about literature analytically. They will fill up their toolbox for the task of analysis by learning literary term and devices, by practicing the skill of asking what, why and how questions of the text and by discussing, debating and defending their discoveries with classmates. Writing assignments are focused on incrementally developing the skills necessary to write outstanding analytical essays.

REQUIREMENTS

Required texts:
To Kill a Mockingbird (ISBN 978-0-06-093546-7)
The Lord of the Flies (ISBN 978-0-399-50148-7)
The Screwtape Letters: The Annotated Edition by C.S. Lewis. (ISBN 9780062023179)
Short stories, poetry and other resources will be provided by Mrs. Bergman.


Copy/supply fee: $35 (given to Mary Bergman at Orientation or the first class day)


Annual tuition: $410.00 ($41.00/month for 10 months, August – May or $46/month if prorated or on a 9-month payment plan)

ABOUT THE TEACHER

Mary Bergman

B.A. English


Mary’s lifelong love of great books led her to pursue a degree in English literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Upon graduation she attended the College of Education at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. After marrying a handsome Marine officer, she moved to Hawaii, Louisiana, and South Carolina before settling in Richmond. Homeschooling her three children over the last 20 years has been one of her greatest joys and biggest challenges. In addition to teaching her own children, Mary has taught in private schools, homeschool academies and churches. Most recently she has been serving as the Elementary Education Director at her church.


bwbergman@verizon.net
"

bottom of page