Cornerstone Academics
The Amber Road
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The Amber Road — Mindaugas Balys has been traveling the amber road in Lithuania for twenty-two years when he finds it closed in 1410. A new lord has taken the lands and is claiming the road tax the previous family always waived for amber traders. The man from Riga at the inn has been stopped for two weeks. Twenty-two years of dealing with what he found on this road has prepared Mindaugas for most things. The story is about whether it has prepared him for this one.
Each packet includes:
- Original classical short story (complete text)
- Notes on historical setting and literary tradition
- Narration prompts (oral and written)
- Comprehension questions — literal and inferential
- Vocabulary exercises
- Character Constellation graphic organizer (including Character Change Axis)
- Story Arc study (five movements, with attention to subtler turning points)
- Theme & Meaning questions
- Socratic discussion questions
- Literary Analysis (tone, diction, imagery, symbolism, contrast, motif, irony, structure, turning points, foreshadowing, allusion, narrative lens, narrative distance, narrative restraint)
- Copywork and memory work
- Optional writing prompts (reflective, explanatory, creative, analytical)
- Complete parent answer key
- Standards alignment
Written for Grade 12. Suitable for Grades 11–12 with guidance. This packet is available as a digital download only.

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Amazing! I love writing and want my children to also develope appreciation for it as well, this curriculum will help cultivate that.
It is perfect for the homeschool family who wants excellent writing style without the stress and pressure. The Teacher's guide walks you through each lesson so you can teach with confidence. Ten stars for Cornerstone Academics!
Sarah Samuel Mother of 3
We are so grateful for Serena! Her patience, kindness, and creative approach to teaching have made learning a wonderful experience for our family. She takes the time to understand how each child learns best and tailors every lesson to keep them engaged and excited. We have seen incredible growth not only in our child’s academic progress, but also in his confidence and love for learning. We could not ask for a better teacher!
Bethany Mitchell Mother
Serena is a wonderful teacher who treats every student with kindness, fairness, and respect. She encourages her students to challenge themselves and do their best, and she keeps parents well informed about their child’s progress. We truly appreciate her dedication and support.
PARENT OF A FORMER STUDENT

Read one story. Teach one week. Decide from experience.
Use it with your child. See samples of our stories, questions, and lesson pages.