2026 Writing Curriculum
January 5 - May 22, 2026 • 20 Weekly Assignments • 5 Monthly Themes
This month, we embark on an exciting journey through the lives and adventures of history's greatest explorers! From the ancient Silk Road to the frozen poles, from the depths of the ocean to the vastness of space, we'll discover the courage, curiosity, and determination that drove these remarkable individuals to venture into the unknown. Get ready to be inspired by tales of discovery, perseverance, and the human spirit's endless quest to explore new frontiers!
Marco Polo's journey along the Silk Road opened the eyes of Europeans to the wonders of the East. Write an essay exploring the significance of Marco P...
The race to the South Pole between Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott is one of the most dramatic stories in exploration history. Write an essay c...
Jacques Cousteau revolutionized our understanding of the ocean through his pioneering work in underwater exploration. Write an essay about Cousteau's ...
The Apollo missions represented humanity's greatest achievement in space exploration. Write an essay about the Apollo program and its legacy. What wer...
This month, we explore the incredible power of words to transform society! We'll study the speeches, letters, and writings of courageous individuals who stood up for justice, equality, and freedom. From the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement, discover how passionate voices sparked movements that changed the world. Learn how the pen truly can be mightier than the sword, and find inspiration in the words of those who dared to speak truth to power!
Patrick Henry's famous speech "Give me liberty, or give me death!" became a rallying cry for American independence. Write an essay analyzing the power...
Frederick Douglass used his powerful voice and writing to fight against slavery and advocate for human rights. Write an essay exploring Douglass's con...
Susan B. Anthony dedicated her life to securing voting rights for women. Write an essay about Anthony's role in the women's suffrage movement. What st...
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech is one of the most iconic speeches in American history. Write an essay analyzing the impact of Ki...
Welcome to the future! This month, we dive into the imaginative world of science fiction to explore visions of what tomorrow might hold. From utopian dreams to dystopian warnings, from friendly robots to time-traveling adventures, we'll examine how writers have imagined future societies and technologies. These stories aren't just entertainment—they challenge us to think about the ethical questions and possibilities that await humanity. Get ready for a mind-bending journey through the worlds of tomorrow!
Science fiction writers have imagined both utopian and dystopian futures for humanity. Write an essay comparing utopian and dystopian visions in scien...
Artificial intelligence has been a popular theme in science fiction for decades. Write an essay exploring how AI has been portrayed in science fiction...
Science fiction has long explored the possibilities of traveling to distant planets and stars. Write an essay about interstellar travel in science fic...
Time travel is a fascinating concept that raises complex questions about cause and effect. Write an essay exploring time travel in science fiction. Wh...
Many science fiction stories explore the consequences of environmental degradation and climate change. Write an essay about how climate change is port...
This month, we celebrate the breathtaking beauty and incredible diversity of our natural world! From the lush Amazon rainforest to the vibrant Great Barrier Reef, from the sweeping Serengeti plains to the towering forests of the world, we'll explore Earth's most amazing ecosystems. But we'll also learn about the challenges these places face and what we can do to protect them. Prepare to be amazed by nature's wonders and inspired to become a guardian of our planet!
The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, but it faces serious threats. Write an essay about the Amazon rainforest. What ma...
The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder, but it is under threat from climate change and human activity. Write an essay about the Great Barrier Reef...
The annual migration in the Serengeti is one of nature's most spectacular events. Write an essay about the Serengeti migration. What animals participa...
Trees and forests play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our planet. Write an essay about the importance of trees and forests. What ecologic...
Our final month takes us on an epic journey through history! We'll travel back in time to witness the rise and fall of mighty empires, the rebirth of art and science during the Renaissance, and the dramatic transformation of society during the Industrial Revolution. By understanding how the past has shaped our present, we can better prepare for the future. Get ready for an adventure through the ages that will show you how history continues to influence our world today!
The Roman Empire was one of the most powerful civilizations in history, but it eventually fell. Write an essay about the rise and fall of the Roman Em...
The Renaissance was a period of remarkable cultural and intellectual achievement in Europe. Write an essay about the Renaissance. What factors sparked...
The Industrial Revolution fundamentally changed how people lived and worked. Write an essay about the Industrial Revolution. What technological innova...
Ready to Start?
Check out the grading rubric and example papers to understand what's expected, then submit your first assignment!