Overture Course Overview

Overture is our final grade-level course before students move into high school essay classes. Designed for confident writers who are ready to refine their academic skills, this course helps students strengthen structure, style, and independent thinking through a workshop-style format.

Live, instructor-led lessons guide students through the process of crafting thoughtful, well-organized essays. They choose their own topics, analyze source texts, and apply the Writing Symphony methodology to write both informative and persuasive essays. With weekly grammar practice and proven writing tools, students gain the skills to express themselves clearly and effectively.

Writing with Increased Independence

Students are expected to participate consistently and take ownership of their work. They continue using the Outline of Focused Facts (OFF), but now apply it to source texts of their choice, allowing for deeper engagement and creativity.

The course begins with informative essays and transitions into persuasive writing. Each step is taught explicitly, from developing a thesis to editing a final draft. Instructors provide personalized support and feedback to help students strengthen each piece of writing.

Preparing for High School Writing Success

Throughout Overture, students complete two major writing projects: a five-paragraph informational essay and a persuasive essay. They learn to research, cite sources using MLA format, address counterarguments, and organize their writing with clarity and purpose.

These skills provide a strong foundation for high school-level writing, helping students approach more rigorous academic tasks with confidence.

Overture Course Modules

• Module 1: Citing Sources and MLA Format
• Module 2: Informational Thesis Statement
• Module 3: Informational Body Paragraphs
• Module 4: Informational Introduction, Conclusion, and Final Edits
• Module 5: Persuasive Topics and Thesis Statement
• Module 6: Persuasive Sources and Counterarguments
• Module 7: Persuasive Body Paragraphs
• Module 8: Persuasive Introduction, Conclusion, and Final Edits

Each module builds on the last, reinforcing core writing habits while encouraging students to take on more complex challenges.

Why Choose Overture?

Overture is the perfect course for students who are ready to move beyond foundational writing and prepare for high school expectations. With a balance of structure and flexibility, it helps students develop academic independence, write with purpose, and express complex ideas with confidence.

Whether your student is preparing for advanced coursework or simply loves writing, Overture provides the tools and support they need to succeed.