Fall

Courses

All courses offered Saturdays and Sundays - unless otherwise specified

The Academic Foundations Program (Grades 4-6)

Math and Science Courses - Period 1 1 Foundations of Mathematics  2 Problem-Solving Analysis  3 Introduction to Algebra 4 Topics in Algebra 5 Mathematics of Sports and Games  6 Rocketry and Science 7 Experimental Chemistry  8 Intro to Cell and Molecular Biology  9 Introduction to Astronomy 10 Amazing Animal Adventures   11 LEGO Robotics 12 Children's Pre-Engineering 13 Beginner Chess Class 14 Creative Geometry 15 Dollars and Cents 16 Vedic Mathematics 17 Mountain Maker, Earth Shaker   Laboratory Course (double period) 1 Computer Graphics

Humanities Courses - Period 2 1 Introduction to the Art of Speaking  2 Cartooning and Animation 3 Introductory Creative Writing  4 Historical Murders, Mysteries & Intrigue 5 Latina pro Liberis (Latin for Kids) 6 Legendary Figures of the Middle Ages 7 Mock Trials and the Justice System  8 The Magician’s Art 9 Study Skills  10 Logic, Who Needs It? 11 Theater and Drama 12 Fairy Tales on Trial 13 Introduction to Polymer Clay 14 Conflict Resolution 15 Drawing II

Math and Science Courses

1.  Foundations of Mathematics (FM01)

This course is designed to strengthen students�f conceptual understanding of mathematics and to lay the groundwork for the study of higher mathematical areas such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry and calculus.  Topics include arithmetic structures, set theory, logic, relations and functions, sequences and series, and higher mathematical structures.  This is an excellent course for the development of a good mathematical base.

2.  Problem-Solving Analysis (FM02)

This course is aimed at motivating curiosity and developing ability in problem-solving techniques.  Students working individually, and in small group sessions, will be provided with a variety of problem situations that can be approached via several modes of solution.  Emphasis is on presentation of enjoyable problems that provide opportunities for intuitive and inductive reasoning, mathematical discovery, reasoning skills, creativity and originality of thought.

3. Introduction to Algebra (FM13)

Begin to explore the world of algebra in this class.  Become familiar with the basic operations of signed numbers, algebraic language, linear equation, and operations with polynomials and factoring.  An excellent introductory course for students who have not had algebra.

4. Topics in Algebra (FM19)

This course if for students who have some experience with Algebra or just want to be challenged mathematically.  They will explore beginning topics in Algebra as a foundation for when they begin their formal study of the subject.  Students will learn about simplifying algebraic expressions, solving equations in non-standard form, operations with polynomials, and factoring.

5.  Mathematics of Sports and Games (FM04)

Now that world chess champion Gary Kasparov has lost a match to a computer, more people are interested in artificial intelligence.  This course is an exploration of the mathematics and computer science of sports and games.  We will study the mathematics of chess, checkers, card games, baseball, football and even business negotiations.  We will use traditional methods and invent our own, using statistics, probability and other mathematics.

6.  Rocketry and Science (FS12)

Apply math and science by building and flying your own model rocket.  Learn about space, space exploration, and the study of motion and propulsion.  Use math to solve problems, physics to determine altitude and speed and your own creativity to build a working model rocket. (Limited to 10 students)

7.  Experimental Chemistry (FS06)

Students experience and observe the chemical and physical behavior of atoms and molecules through hands-on experiments and demonstrations.  Students use laboratory equipment to gain real-life knowledge of chemistry.  Experiments introduce such concepts as acid-base chemistry, synthesis, purification and analysis, crystallization, distillation, stoichiometry, etc.  A great first course for students in the laboratory.

8.  Introduction to Cell and Molecular Biology (FS07)

This introductory course includes DNA and the study of concepts of basic chemistry and molecular and cell biology.  We use different micro-organisms in a variety of lab exercises to illustrate fundamental principles of microbiology, as well as, more advanced techniques used by molecular biologists.

9.  Introduction to Astronomy (FS09)

Students will be introduced to the many interesting aspects of the day and night sky.  They will become aware of the real nature of the sun, moon, planets and stars and why they look and behave as they do.  Other celestial phenomena near the Earth, as well as in deep space, will be examined.  Students will see how humans have studies space in the past and in the present, and what possibilities exist for future investigations.

10.  Amazing Animal Adventurers (FS19)

This class is designed to engage the animal lover in everyone.  Animal sciences will be explored from veterinary and zoological standpoints.  The students will learn how the earth and all of its creatures are intertwined while finding new ways for they themselves to coexist.  Hands on with a variety of real animals will strengthen the bond between education and wildlife and allow for up close discoveries of fur, scales and fins.  Come redefine your own anatomy and biological processes and see just how amazing we animals really are!

11. LEGO Robotics (FS16)

This class is an introduction to building and programming robots using the LEGO Mindstorms Robotics Invention System.  Students will learn mechanical design, construction, programming and teamwork skills.  Students will work in small teams and use LEGO blocks, motors and sensors to build robots with different function.  Saturday only.  (Limited to 10 Students)

12.  Children�fs Pre-Engineering (FS14)

This program will stimulate the natural curiosities of boys and girls that exist in the world around us.  Children will use the design process to put their imagination to the test, linking math and science.  Children will create and construct devices to solve problems affecting their environment, as well as, society at large.  The children will experience the excitement of discovery through educational, creative and fun learning courses.

13.  Beginner Chess Class (FS18)

The game of Chess has been around for hundreds of years and remains popular around the world.  It�fs a great way to relax, have fun, and meet people.  We are now seeing more girls enjoying this game at tournaments. (Hungarian Judith Polgar is ranked #8 in the world among the men!) Studies have shown that learning and working in Chess helps develop skills in logical thinking, pattern recognition and spatial visualization.  In this class we will learn to play Chess, use Chess notation to solve puzzles, learn about Chess on computers, and practice the main goal of Chess. CHECKMATE!

14.  Creative Geometry (FM05)

"Students learn best when they construct their own mathematical understanding."  This quote from the U.S. Dept. of Education sums up how students will learn geometry in this course.  You will use all your thinking skills to invent, investigate and make connections about geometry properties.  You will follow logical reasoning paths, using manipulative activities like Pin geoboard,s, Polygon Tiles and rubber bands to discover geometry.

15.  Dollars and Cents (FM17)

"Money makes the world go around.." In this course, we will examine the best ways to earn money through various investments, including the stock market, real estate, bonds, etc.  Students will also learn the principles of time, value of money and risk and turn.  A good course for anyone who wants to double their dollars.

16.  Vedic Mathematics (FM18)

Memorize family and friends with your ability to do multiplications, squaring and other calculations faster than ever before.  Learn neat tricks to simplify calculations and equations solving based upon a 5,000 year old mathematical system.  (Saturday only)

17.  Mountain Maker, Earth Shaker (FS20)

Take a serious look a the ground under your feet!  Determine the identity of the rock and mineral samples and investigate how processes deep below Earth�fs surface cause dramatic changes where we live.  Simulate the forces that cause earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions and explore some of the most exreme natural disasters in Earth�fs history.  (Saturday only)

Humanities

1.  Introduction to the Art of Speaking (FH01)

You�fll capture their attention, motivate them or entertain them when you learn the essentials of speech making.  This performance course is designed to prepare you to face an audience in and outside the classroom.  It is a practical course that includes preparing an outline for a speech to be delivered in and critiqued in class.  From this experience you�fll grow in poise and confidence and become an effective communicator.

2.  Cartooning and Animation (FH02)

Using simple shapes and lots of imagination, students learn the fundamentals of cartooning, caricature and animation.  They will create their own cast of characters, draw their favorite superheros and learn how to add "POW" to their cartoons.  Perspective, composition, figure drawing and other art fundamentals will be explored and emphasized as necessary to realize each individual�fs artistic vision.  An anthology of student work will be displayed and published at the end of each semester.

3.  Introductory to Creative Writing (FH04)

Some of the greatest authors and poets of the world may have started their writing careers in a creative writing class.  Students will be inspired to write through exposure to various genres, including fantasy and poetry.  Emphasis is placed on strategies for creative idea development.

4.  Historical Murders, Mysteries and Intrigue (FH06)

A course guaranteed to fascinate and challenge both history and mystery lovers alike.  Subjects covered include the disappearance of Amelia Earhart, the explosion of the Hindenburg, the "death" of Beatle Paul McCartney, the Lindbergh baby kidnapping, the mysterious life of Princess Anastasia, the true meaning of the "Wizard of Oz" and, of course the J.F.K. assassination.  In short, we will investigate the most fascinating and thought-provoking events of all time.  Armed with film, speculation and actual historical artifacts, this course promises to be an entertaining and unique opportunity to study, learn and enjoy the pursuit of historical truth.  (Saturday only)

5.  Latina pro Liberis (Latin for Kids) (FH13)

Latin wasn�ft just the language of stuffy old guys in togas; everyone in Rome spoke it from childhood.  Learn some common, everyday expressions in Latin and how to make up your own using the grammar and vocabulary spoken throughout one of the greatest empires the world has ever known.  Tour the Roman�fs daily life and the way they talked about it.  We will explore a wealth of English words with classical roots, so by learning some Latin you�fll get a better understanding of your own language as well.

6.  Legendary Figures of the Middle Ages (FH05)

Find out what Robin Hood, King Arthur and Indiana Jones were really like.  From the high sea adventures of the Vikings, to the forest of Sherwood, on to the battlefields of Europe with Richard the Lion Hearted, to the scary Transylvania home of the real Count Dracula; the Middle Ages provides us with the most interesting and fascinating people, places and events in history.  Through extensive use of film, literature, folklore and the professor�fs collection of medieval weapons, incredible stories of mystery, intrigue, romance and adventure will come to life. (Sunday only)

7.   Mock Trials and the Justice System (FH07)

This course converts the classroom into a modern courtroom.  Students become judge, jury, prosecutor, defender and witness in a series of exciting and controversial simulated trials that depict the way our legal system operates.  Real examples of learning by doing take place as the classroom drama finds students in vital decision-making situations.  Courtroom strategies, trial procedures and organizational skills are highlighted through simulation of real-life courtroom happenings.

8. The Magician�fs Art (FH10)

A fun-filled journey through the true secrets of magic.  Find the magician within yourself as you create mysteries using coins, cards, ropes, wands and everyday objects.  Transform a leaf into a flower, sand into a shell and learn the endless possibilities of the mystery in magic.  Study the fundamentals of this performance art using aesthetics, social skills, psychology and the history of the magician.  Create your own magic show with such classics as the Cups and Balls, Professors Nightmare and Coins Across.  Put solids through solids, make predictions and defy the laws of nature by levitating your friends.

9.  Study Skills (FH08)

Improving your grades may not require you to spend more time studying: you may only need to study more efficiently.  This course will offer a wide variety of study skills, with an assortment of useful strategies, while directing students toward academic self-sufficiency.  Learn to manage time, improve concentration and remember more of what you study.  Note-taking techniques, test-taking skills, memory tricks, presenting effective oral and written reports and winning strategies for specific kinds of classes are among the topics that will be covered.

10.  Logic, Who Needs It? (FH17)

What are the most common mistakes found in every day thinking?  How can we avoid them and thereby increase our reasoning powers?  Join us this semester for one of the most intriguing, challenging and practical courses you�fll ever take.  Become a more critical thinker and more reflective consumer of information and advertising.

11.  Theater and Drama (FH09)

An ideal course for the student who is an actor at heart.  The vocal and physical skills essential to free the imagination and allow actors to create believable characters will be central to the activities and direction of this class.  Both improvisation and pantomime will be used.  Creative slef-expression, characterization, creative drama techniques and acting style will be all involved in creating a measure of identity, self-confidence and stage presence.  (Saturday only)

12.  Fairy Tales on Trial (FH19)

Did you ever wonder what would happen if the Wicked Witch from Snow White was brought up on attempted murder charges?  Would the dwarves testify on Snow White�fs behalf?  Come to class and lean about the real fairy tales that inspired the Disney classics, and join the class in an interactive exploration of the ideas that make our legal system run.  Role play the parts involved in the courtroom drama as we explore two of the most well-known fairy tales.  (Sunday only)

13.  Introduction to Polymer Clay (FH20)

Designed to explore the creative side of the mind, this course is a true hands-on approach to 3-D models using polymer clay.  It will cover basic methods and techniques of clay handling to create a vast variety of characters from whimsical to life-like while encouraging creativity and imagination.

14.  Conflict Resolution (FH21)

The purpose of this course is to allow the participants to grasp the idea of conflict and understand their role in situations where conflict arises.  It will also give them the tools they need to analyze that conflict and to learn how to respond to conflict in a positive communication techniques which will enhance their communication skills in dealing with conflict.  (Saturday only)

15. Drawing II (FH25)

This advanced course which emphasizes the study and application of art elements and principles of perception through assignments focused on the development of individual drawing skills to realistically represent natural and manmade forms using dry drawing media while providing training in the coordination of hand and eye.  Concept-base assignments each day encourage students to create ideas and transform them to individual language.  Students will learn Leonardo da Vinci's scientific approach towards understanding how our world works and how we see it by using our brain to observe nature and concentrate on human beings.

Double Period �| Laboratory Course

1.  Computer Graphics (FL17)

Using up-to-date computer workstations and software, students will learn how to create and modify computer images.  Learn to use presentation software such as Microsoft PowerPoint, page design software such as Adobe PageMaker, and image manipulation programs such as Adobe Photoshop.  Students will also learn the "ins and outs" of using the World Wide Web to conduct research and to search for images and information for their projects and reports. (Limited to 15 students)