Workshops
Writing for Life: A Research, Writing, and Communications
Workshop
Program Type: Enrichment / Elective Program
Ages Served:
12-18 years old
Writing For Life is a
hands-on, integrated communications program designed for children aged 12-18. The
program blends foundational communication concepts with organizational skills
to foster inspiration, communication, critical thinking, organization, and presentation
skills. Through guided research projects and age-appropriate instruction, students
engage in experiential learning that supports critical thinking, organization,
communication and self-expression. Writing for Life provides a safe,
structured, and nurturing environment that encourages creativity while
introducing students to real-world communication concepts in an accessible and
engaging way.
Activities include topic development, research (including, but not limited to, library research, responsible online sources, and responsible AI sources), outlining and organizing content, guided individual projects, and presentation. Curriculum is developmentally appropriate and adjusted for age to ensure safe and effective learning outcomes.
Instructor / Provider Qualifications:
The program is led by an instructor holding a Bachelor of Arts
Degree in Communications (Journalism/ English), with 12 years of professional
experience as an Adjunct Instructor at NWFSC in Communication Arts (Preparatory
English), including program development, education initiatives, and curriculum
planning. Additional professional experience includes 25 years reporting,
writing, and editing, as well as recently providing writing analysis for AI training.
Employment background supports structured lesson design, learning outcomes, safety standards, and organizational oversight aligned with best practices for enrichment programming.
Program Length and Dates:
6-weekly sessions (two hours per class)
Tuesdays in Freeport, Florida 1:30-3:30 p.m. April 21-May 26, 2026
Wednesdays in DeFuniak Springs, Florida, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
April -22- May 27, 2026
Age-grouped instruction
To register, email tammytalk2020@gmail.com with "REGISTER" in the subject line.
6-week Curriculum Outline:
Week 1: Introduction and Evaluation
•
Meet and greet instructor and classmates
•
Writing evaluation
•
Research topic exploration
•
Learning focus: Essay format and source assessment
Week 2: Research and Writing Begins
•
Use library, internet browser, and AI to
determine scope of research
•
Review library protocols and best practices
•
Learn skills to use internet sources and AI
responsibly
•
Learning focus: Responsible research and
credible source development
Week 3: Outline and Organization
•
Produce a working essay outline
•
Define and develop primary sources
•
Develop a thesis statement
•
Learning focus: Preparing an outline and
organizing information
Week 4: Research and Source Development
•
Continue research using various credible sources
•
Define and develop credible secondary sources
•
Develop first draft of essay using prepared
outline
•
Learning focus: Responsible research and source
development
Week 5: Writing and Editing
•
Develop second draft of essay
•
Proofread for clarity, punctuation, and grammar
•
Edit content for clarity and readability
•
Learning focus: Writing, proofreading, and
editing
Week 6: Project Presentations
•
Verbal presentations of research projects/
essays
•
Group review of projects and constructive classroom
feedback
• Learning focus: Effective presentation, giving and receiving feedback and constructive criticism
Learning Objectives :
• Develop research, writing and verbal communication
skills
• Strengthen problem-solving and critical thinking abilities
• Enhance public speaking and verbal communication
confidence
• Encourage critical thinking and responsible research
• Introduce foundational communication concepts in an
age-appropriate way
Safety Policy Summary:
Writing for Life follows established safety procedures
including age-appropriate materials, instructor supervision at all times, and
clear behavior and emergency protocols.
All activities are designed with safety as a priority. Materials used are non-toxic and suitable for the age group. Attendance is monitored, and emergency contact information is maintained for all participants.
Attendance is recorded for each session and maintained for program documentation and Step Up For Students compliance.
Direct Pay Compliance:
Writing for Life accepts Step Up for Students scholarship funds via the EMA platform and complies with all direct payment documentation and service verification requirements.
Pricing Structure:
• 6-Week Writing for Life Program: $480
• Materials included
Writing for Life affirms compliance with all Step Up for Students provider requirements, including accurate service delivery, attendance tracking, and ethical use of scholarship funds.