MEK Review’s MLC Critical Reading

For 25 years, MEK has worked hard to create programs and develop curricula that speak to the needs of every child we serve. And we believe that the key to succeeding in rigorous high school courses and on difficult admissions exams is early preparation. Our MLC Critical Reading program provides challenging lessons that will give MEK students the skills to excel in the classroom and the tools to earn elite scores on tough high school admissions tests.

How can our MLC Critical Reading program set your child up for their academic future?

Read on to find out!

What is MLC Critical Reading?

MLC Critical Reading is a course designed to enhance student’s reading comprehension, analysis, and writing skills. Students build confidence that they can use both in school and for future admissions exams.

What is the difference between MLC-Standard and MLC-Enriched?

MLC-Standard and MLC-Enriched have similar curriculums and course objectives, but there are a few minor differences.

MLC-Enriched courses are offered in-person on MEK’s Closter Campus and are a great fit for students who struggle in the online classroom. Students get to work with their peers in a small group setting of 4 to 8 students. And teachers emphasize classroom, study, and communication skills.

Alternatively, MLC-Standard courses are offered virtually. These classes are perfect for students who are performing on grade level but are looking to master topics in core subject areas. And virtual classes mean that students have the flexibility to attend classes that work for their schedule.

Can I take MLC Critical Reading and MLC Writing at the same time?

Students cannot take MLC Critical Reading and MLC Writing at the same time.

Students must take MLC Writing before they take MLC Critical Reading as the courses build on one another. MLC Writing focuses on teaching students the essential grammar and essay writing skills that are the foundation for MLC Critical Reading. 

What’s the criteria for taking the course?

If students are new to MEK, they must take our MEK Learning Circles Evaluation Test. Any student scoring above 60% on the MLC Evaluation Test can skip MLC Writing and register for MLC Critical Reading. 

Students who are currently taking or have taken our MLC Writing class must consistently score a 3 or higher on their essays in order to advance to MLC Critical Reading.

What does a typical class look like?

For students in MLC Standard courses, students meet in small groups of 4 to 8 students for live, virtual classes once a week for 90 minutes.

Students in MLC-Enriched courses meet once a week for 90 minutes in small groups of 4 to 8 in-person on our Closter Campus.

The Critical Reading Circles for students in MLC-Standard and Enriched use the following class structure:

• 45 minutes: Group discussion and analysis of text; brainstorming for literary essay
• 30 minutes: Write literary essay
• 15 minutes: Revision and editing practice using student essays
• HW: Revise essay; complete next reading text and questions

What will my child learn during this class?

The focus of this course is literary analysis. Students learn to analyze and write about a variety of different text types through reading strategies, such as annotating and note taking. These are skills not often taught in the traditional classroom.

By the end of the course, students have stronger reading comprehension skills and can write a polished literary analysis essay.

Students begin with fiction and nonfiction texts. Then, they are introduced to more difficult texts, such as poetry in grade 6 and political cartoons in grade 7.

What are the benefits of this course?

MLC Critical Reading is a great supplement to the traditional classroom. Students master reading comprehension, writing, and study skills that are the foundation for academic success.

Everything covered in our MLC Critical Reading course is aligned with the ELA Common Core State Standards. So, you can rest assured that your child is getting the support they need to excel in their classes at school.

Getting Started

Interested in enrolling your child in our MLC Critical Reading courses? Contact us today for a consultation and to schedule an MLC Evaluation Test!