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All about The Journal

Everything you need to know about The Journal program.

What is The Journal?

The Journal is Letterly's seasonal intensive writing program, offered over the summer and during winter break, designed to immerse students in daily reading and writing exercises.. Students write articles and essays in five rotating categories: Hard News, Science & Technology, Sports, Arts & Culture, and Creative Writing.

  • Summer Session: 3- or 6- or 9-week options. 
  • Winter Session: 2-week option during the winter holidays.

Students produce an essay/article of approximately 300-400 words every day (Monday through Friday). 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.

For additional details, visit The Journal Program page.

What is the age range?

The Journal 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+). 

How does it work?

Students complete one essay daily from Monday through Friday, with a submission deadline of midnight (local time).

  • Progress Tracking: Parents and students receive email notifications about progress.
  • Feedback Timing: Coaches review submissions within 48 hours, with a 48-hour turnaround for students to submit their own second drafts.

Total Essays per Program:

  • 3-Week Summer Boot Camp: 15 drafts x 2 revisions each
  • 6-Week Summer Boot Camp: 30 drafts x 2 revisions each
  • 9-Week Summer Boot Camp: 45 drafts x 2 revisions each
  • 2-Week Winter Boot Camp: 10 drafts x 2 revisions each

Is this 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 study portal.

Are there group lessons?

The Journal program does not include group lessons. For other types of writing courses, please explore our regular writing courses.

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 many come from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Penn.

Learn more about our exceptional team on our About Us page.

Daily writing themes

Each day, students choose one of three curated articles based on the daily theme for their submissions.

Schedule:

  • Monday: 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.