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The CLAA's Writers' School is made up of the following series of courses, which will be opening as students make their way through the program.
Classical Prose
This course introduces students to the classical theory of prose writing. The ability to refute and confirm narratives is also developed in this course. Competence in these forms is essential for future writing and speaking, which regularly draws upon narrative skills to offer proof for an opinion, and for professional applications in law, politics, theology, etc.. See sample lesson.
Prerequisites: None.
Co-requisites: Classical Grammar I
Figures of Speech
In this course beginning students survey the classical figures of speech, which form the basis for style. This course teaches the features and functions of each of the figures of speech and provides enjoyable exercises in their use.
Prerequisites: None.
Co-requisites: Classical Grammar I
Theses
In this course students are required to examine complex issues from both sides (thesis and antithesis). Topics are political, philosophical and theological--but general in nature. The aim of this course is to develop a student's ability to work through both sides of an issue that (a) he may argue for truth and not mere preference and (b) that he may learn to anticipate an opponent's best arguments and prepare their refutation in advance.
Prerequisites: Classical Prose
The Art of Poetry I
In this course students are introduced to the history, philosophy and practice of classical poetry. Students are exercised in the Epigram, Pastoral, Elegy, Lyric, and Ode. Students learn all poetic numbers and rhymes as well as which pertain to classical languages and which to English...and why.
Prerequisites: Figures of Speech
Declamations
The final exercise of classical writing instruction is the declamation. The declamation requires a student to address a specific issue, muddied by the details of unique circumstances. Students are exercised in both deliberative declamations (which seek to persuade an audience of future action) and forensic declamations (which persuade an audience of past actions). These are the questions of real life and the ultimate challenge of a classically trained writer. It is important to note that the declamation provides the natural context for research writing.
Prerequisites: Theses
The Art of Poetry II
In this course students continue in their studies of the history, philosophy and practice of classical poetry. Students are exercised in the composition of Epic (Narrative), Tragic and Comic poetry in the classical tradition. Aristotle, of course, is our guide.
Prerequisites: Art of Poetry I
CLAA Writers' Society
The CLAA will invite its finest student writers to join the CLAA Writers' Society. In the Society, students will will receive individualized coaching and advanced training to continue their development in the craft, while enjoying the fellowship of other society members.
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The CLAA's Writers' School courses are taught by Mr. William Michael, the founder and director of the Classical Liberal Arts Academy. Mr. Michael is the CLAA Grammarian and brings a wealth of linguistic and literary knowledge to children's writing instruction. Mr. Michael has a reputation for teaching advanced concepts to young students in a way that few other teachers can and allows gifted boys and girls to get a head start on many subjects that other children are never exposed to. Students assignments are reviewed by Mr. Michael directly and are revisited and developed until mastery is achieved.