Fall 2009

The Academic Horizons - Seventh Grade

(Students are required to take two courses. One in math/science and one in humanities.)

All courses are offered on Saturday or Sunday unless otherwise noted.

CLOSED - SUNDAY ONLY (AHH01) Verbal PSAT/SAT: The new SAT verbal test places greater emphasis on the reading comprehension and sentence completion sections of the test.  Success on the test, like success in school work, requires solid skills in critical reading and critical thinking.  This revised verbal SAT preparation course emphasizes those analytical language skills.  There is significant carry-over to all other subjects studied in school. Instructor: Joanne Owens

(AHH02) Ancient Civilization-The Science of History -Saturday Only: Technology, Science and History unite to create a dynamic exploration of ancient civilization. Students, acting as ancient people, will tackle complex technological and logistical challenges. Traveling to Egypt, students analyze approaches to move a large stone overland from a dig site to the river bank for transport. Students will experiment with sand and water to solve this ancient problem. How will they lift the heavy granite blocks as they construct the pyramid? Students will prepare a site for the construction of a pyramid and discover ways of lifting the stone blocks using mobile lifting engines. As ancient Romans, students will build a ten foot long, eight foot high, three tiered arched arcade which is the everlasting symbol of the Roman aqueduct. The Romans are historically applauded as the ancient world’s best bridge builders. Using two water stations, students will build a floating ‘pontoon’ bridge and a stick built, 'pile' bridge. Very detailed teamwork and communication, using task booklet instructions, guide them to success in these challenges. Model soldiers, horses, and carts pose as logistical questions for movement from one shore to another. The Infantry capabilities of the Roman Army were the foundation of all massed troop warfare, making the study of their troop formations and battle tactics essential to understanding the power and grandeur of the Roman Legions. Students, dressed in replica uniforms, are arranged and massed as legionnaires in formations, are taught to march in battle order, and use large wooden shields and faux spears to simulate battle techniques. Instructor: Lawrence Kenney

CLOSED(AHH03) Arabic: This course will give the student the opportunity to converse, read and write the fastest growing language in the United States. It is designed to introduce students to the Arabic language and culture simultaneously. By the end of the course students will have the basic knowledge to carry on conversations and write short texts in Arabic. Instructor: John Soeid

CLOSED(AHH04) A Writer's Journey: Multi-Genre Writing - Saturday Only: Come embark on a journey to discover and develop your writer's voice! Learn from classic (Hawthorne,Poe) and contemporary masters (Roethke, Cummings) and translate the modeled tools and techniques into individual and creative works of fiction and poetry. Experiment with hybrid forms like the Fibonacci and Japanese Tanka. Learn the power of metaphor, memory, and form while gaining the courage and confidence as writers and speakers of your personal stories. Instructor: Rachel Kim

(AHH05) Legendary Figures - Saturday Only: 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’s collection of medieval weapons, incredible stories of mystery, intrigue, romance and adventure will come to life. Instructor: Jim Woods

(AHH06) Critical Reading: Science Fiction-Saturday Only: This course will focus on the many components that make up the science fiction genre. Students will explore and critically analyze readings of science fiction writing from famous authors, such as J.R.R. Tolkien, Ray Bradbury, Orson Scott Card, and more. Students will be challenged to use critical thinking and problem solving analysis of the text by identifying metaphorical prose, underlying themes. They will then discuss their findings among peers. The course will also use reflective journal writing in order to allow students to explore their own thoughts and analysis of the texts. In addition to reading, the course will include samples of film, technology, creativeness and lots of fun. Come and explore wondrous worlds and fantastic creatures where only your imagination is the limit! Instructor: Brian Saccomanno

CLOSED(AHH07) Psychology of Magic - Saturday Only: This course is designed to familiarize the student with the psychology of magic and how this science is used and incorporated everywhere in our everyday world.It is an introductory study of the science of presentation, utilizing the performance art form we call " magic". While learning sleight-of hand and enhancing dexterity the student also develops a unique and creative thinking process. Using direction, misdirection, and aesthetics, this hands-on course teaches diverse techniques and ancient skills which can be incorporated into marketing, teaching, and employed within any profession or social event. The student will study the basic psychological rules used in the performing arts as well as in the corporate world. Learn the history of this fascinating and scientific structure used throughout the ages. Instructor: Beverly Suzan

(AHH08) Thinking on your Feet - Saturday Only: Public speaking with eloquence and confidence -- The ultimate on-camera commercial training, public speaking, improvisational training, all rolled into one. If you have ever had secret ambitions of starring in national TV commercials, want to wow them as a public speaker in your school, or perform an acting scene without a script, this is your changce. The instructor acted in national commercials and Broadway Shows to backup his extensive teaching and training background. Gary Martin

CLOSED(AHH09) Creative Writing - Sunday Only: 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. Instructor: Miriam Hlawatsch

(AHH10) Historical Mysteries - Sunday Only: 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. Instructor: Jim Woods

CLOSED (AHH11) Take a Stand! - Sunday Only: Have a passion for making your point? Come and find out how to effectively argue your points and show the world your ideas. This course focuses on the two basic types of academic argumentation: policy debate and Lincoln-Douglas debate. Students will engage in developing solid arguments and building debate cases. Actual debates will focus on current events and issues of importance to the students. Effective listening is critical to effective speaking — a persuasive communicator needs both skills. Persuasion & Debate  is grounded in rhetorical tradition, modern theories and practices in the language arts. Students address topical issues through persuasive essays, speeches and debate rounds, and learn the use of Socratic seminar techniques through structured controversy. This course focuses on the principles and practices of effective communication in all speaking situations that students encounter in school and later in life as adults. Instructor: Gary Martin

(AHH12) Graphic Novels - Sunday Only: Award-winning author/illustrator of the graphic novels Blindspot and Katman, both published by Henry Holt for Young Readers, Kevin C. Pyle, will teach you how to create characters, build worlds and tell your stories with words and pictures. This class will introduce students to all the narrative tools unique to graphic novels and take them through the process of creating their own self-published mini-comic. Special focus will be spent on the visual representation of complex emotions, the identification and use of literary devices, and classic three-act plot structure. All drawing levels are welcome as comics provide an excellent foundation for budding writers, animators and film makers. Instructor: Kevin Pyle

(AHS01) Algebra I and Technology - Saturday Only: Explore concepts in Algebra I using computer software such as Geometer's Sketchpad, Excel and graphing calculators. Emphasis will be placed on selected topics in algebra, while introducing the major capabilities of the software. Topics will include: the fundamentals of algebra, linear algebra, parabolas and quadratic equations, functions, and transformations and vectors (A graphic calculator is required.) Instructor: Mary Wiley

(AHS02) Algebra I - Sunday Only: This course is designed as a first course in formal algebra. Students will acquire fundatmental algebra concepts and skills necessary for the study of higher mathematics. Topics include order of operations, properties of real numbers, evaluating and simplifying algebraic expressions, the law of exponents and operations with polynomials. Instructor: Franc Lacinski

(AHS03) Algebra Part II - This course will provide students who have algebra experience with a strong foundation for the study of higher mathematics. The focus will be on developing proficiency and conceptual understanding of algebra. Topics include graphs, and functions, factoring and solving equations, and systems of equations. Instructor: Nicole Zayatz

(AHS04) Aviation Science - Saturday Only: Explore the exciting world of flight.  Learn about the physics that make modern flight possible, through a variety of fun aviation projects. All students build model airplanes that really fly (using paper, styrofoam and balsa wood). By applying a knowledge of angles, control surfaces, weight and balance, force, Newton’s laws, and Bernoulli’s principle, students discover how to effect a desired outcome. We illustrate many facets of aviation, including occupations, history (kites, hot air balloons, dirigibles, gliders, helicopters, planes, rockets and key individuals), plus other practical references that relate their school studies to the activities they enjoy doing. All students will exercise critical thinking and applied understanding to the planes they build (skills that will have applications throughout their lifetimes). We invite individual exploration, and each student will construct and fly a few different airplanes or gliders, including an experimental one of his or her own design. There are no additional charges; all materials are included. Instructor: Mike Twomey

(AHS05) Chaos Theory and Mathematics - Saturday Only: We will study the applications of chaos theory through fractals, tessellations, pi and Fibonacci numbers. In science we will study the butterfly effect and “chaos” in nature. In addition we will apply chaos theory to stock market predictions, pop culture and play with Sonic on the Wii or the Xbox. Chaos theory deals with the behavior of nonlinear systems that under certain conditions exhibit a phenomenon known as “chaos”, which is characterized by a sensitivity to initial conditions. These systems are especially sensitive to tiny changes in starting conditions, such that a slight change in the initial conditions will result in drastically different outcomes. For example systems like the atmosphere and the solar system and other areas such as plate tectonics, turbulent fluids, economies, and population growth are very dependent on the initial conditions. Chaos theory is a way to mathematically and scientifically describe and predict these types of events. Instructor: Lavina Sequeira

CLOSED SATURDAY ONLY:(AHS06) Zoology: Attention future veterinarians! The animal kingdom is vast and often mysterious. Participants learn the basics of animal biology related to structure and physiology. Students investigate evolutionary mechanisms that lead to the diversity of vertebrate and invertebrate animals. While conducting hands-on and virtual dissections and field work, students identify, compare, and contrast the critical features used to classify animals into major groups. Instructor: Tom Koehler

(AHS07) Green Challenge: Global climate change and the health of our environment are a major concern. The Green challenge will focus on how to plan for long-term solutions in the green building industry and other related green technologies that promote a healthier way of life.  Through the challenge, students will learn about sustainability, and how integrated design and conscientious planning allow for systems to work together maximizing efficiency.  The Challenge is intended to bridge connections between students and green professionals, resulting in an exchange of knowledge normally not available in a classroom setting.  The academic component will focus on implementing standards and other criteria relevant to school curriculum, which results in powerful collaboration, interdisciplinary, and technology rich experiences.  The challenge will also promote higher order thinking skills and enhance student involvement and knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.  In addition, the challenge is intended to help students become aware of the variety of green collar careers that will be available as well as better prepare students with skills and knowledge they will need for the workforce of the future.  Instructor: James Verrengia

CLOSED - SUNDAY ONLY: (AHS08) Math PSAT/SAT: This course is geared toward improving scores n the PSAT/SAT math section.  Included in the course are test-taking techniques and strategies with reinforcement units in arithmetic, algebra problem solving, basic geometry and quantitative comparison. Instructor (Saturday): Cynthia Sanchez Instructor (Sunday): Abby Hersch

CLOSED(AHS09) Culinary Chemist - Saturday Only: Have you ever wondered why fruit turns brown when you cut it? Why flour makes soup thick? How does pizza crust become fluffy when baked? Explore the chemical insides of food in this hands-on science course. Through cooking, see chemistry in action, with the added benefit that you can eat the results. Instructor: Stephanie Hardwick

CLOSED (AHH13) Physics of Music - Sunday Only: Physics and music are inseparable, yet treated as two distinct subjects.  This class will smash the two fields back together with a good deal of noise, theory and experimentation.  We will make instruments and know their properties; we will find out how musicians use physics to manipulate sound; we will crack open sound waves; we will see how computers allow us to create, represent and modify music; we will work with the MSU Henry Partch instrument collection.  Expect this course to be creative, scientific and loud. Instructor: Scott Spencer

CLOSED (AHH14) Study Skills - Sunday Only: 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. Instructor: Kathryn Kuebler

(AHSD1) 3D Character Animation and Design - Sunday Only: Ever wanted to create a new character or monster for your favorite video game?  This course is a hands-on, creative learning experience on how to create a 3D character from scratch.  Starting from learning the basics of a major 3D modeling program called Blender, to creating a fully animated character straight from your own minds.  We will also learn how to analyze game art in an already existing game, and learn how to create and adapt a brand new character into that game. Instructor: Nicholas Sacino