What is the Age Range?
The Journal is Letterly's intensive journalism writing program designed to immerse students in consistent reading and writing exercises. Students write articles and essays in five rotating categories: Hard News, Science & Technology, Sports, Arts & Culture, and Creative Writing.
- Summer Sessions: 3-week duration, daily reading and writing
- School Year Sessions: 12-week duration, reading and writing submissions 2x per week
Students produce essays/articles of approximately 300-400 words each on given submission days (daily over the summer, twice a week during the school year).
Our team of coaches provides editing and feedback within 48 hours, allowing students to submit revised drafts. Polished submissions are published in our online journal: Letterly Journal!
What is the Age Range?
The Journal Bootcamp welcomes students aged 8 and up. Students are split into two age bands to accommodate developmentally-appropriate content: Goldfish Crew (8-12) and Shark Squad (13+).
Is it Self-Paced?
While students must submit by midnight local time, they have flexibility throughout the day to complete assignments. Instructions and assignment details are available in the Letterly Portal.
Are there Group Lessons?
The Journal program does not include group lessons. At the start of each bootcamp, there are live group orientation webinars, but afterwards, all courses are focused on the 1-on-1 relationship between the student and the coach.
Who Teaches the Students?
Our educators are carefully selected and trained to provide top-notch writing instruction:
- Recruitment: We hire from top U.S. universities, including Ivy League schools, with a rigorous selection process involving writing diagnostics, interviews, and background checks.
- Training: Every instructor is trained in curriculum design, best teaching practices, and trauma-informed care.
- Expertise: 67% of our coaches hold graduate degrees, and most come from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Penn.
Learn more about our exceptional team on our About Us page.
Writing Themes
Option A(sprint program): Each day, students choose one of three curated articles based on the daily theme for their submissions.
Option B(sprint program) & year-round program: Students choose one of six curated articles for their submissions.
Schedule (Option A Sprint)
- Monday: Hard News
- Tuesday: Science & Technology
- Wednesday: Sports
- Thursday: Arts & Culture
- Friday: Creative Writing or NYT Reading Contest (Summer and 13+ only)
Is there Writing on Weekends?
No. The program runs Monday through Friday, allowing weekends off. However, students may find it helpful to complete revisions or 1:1 meetings on the weekends.