Hello! I extend the deepest gratitude for allowing me to teach your child this year, we have much to look forward to.
There is much learning in store for your young adult this year. In the English I course, we will continue to develop our skills as writers, readers, speakers, thinkers, and people. In class, we’ll discuss a variety of critically acclaimed novels/plays, including:
The Metamorphosis, by Franz Kafka
How to Read Literature Like a Professor, by Thomas C. Foster
The Bluest Eye, by Toni Morrison
Zeitoun, by Dave Eggers
Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury
Mythology (including Oedipus Rex, by Sophocles and excepts from Metamorphoses, by Ovid)
Macbeth, by William Shakespeare
Because of their sensitive treatment of difficult but topical issues, we consider these novels an important and enriching part of the curriculum. I do want to let you know, however, that some of them contain adult language and situations, which I feel are appropriate when discussed responsibly in class.
Expect your child will have homework every night and on breaks. At home, I hope you’ll take a moment each day to ask your child what he or she is doing in my class. My mother used to do this, and although it drove me crazy, it meant that she was a part of my academic life. Looking back, I am profoundly grateful.
A bit about me: I hold a B.S. and an M. Ed from Rutgers University. I graduated my program with a 3.8 G.P.A. During my academic career, I had received Academic All-American Status five times, more than any other Rutgers student-athlete by two years. I have received Deans List Honors 2013-2019, and Graduated with High Honors. I have been in a tutoring role for the last seven years. I have tutored a variety of subjects for a wide range of age groups. I have gathered information from some of the top schools in the area to develop this curriculum at Apex Academy.
Please take a moment to read the course syllabus with your child. It will give both of you a good sense of the rigor of the course. I, admittedly, have profoundly high expectations, but I will work tirelessly with your young adult to ensure that he or she exceeds those expectations and is prepared for college.
When you are done, please sign the form indicating that you have read this document. We’re a team, and I want to make sure that we are all on the same page!
Since we both are committed to your child’s success, I want you to know that I am available on a regular basis. I am available to you by phone (201)-851-1122 and email NGravina@CognitionBuilders.com. I look forward to working with you all!