2009-2010 Class Descriptions


Journey through the Months
Ages:  4-5 year olds
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline-Session 1-4 week class-$45 if registered by deadline/$49.50 if registered after deadline (September 16-October 7)
All supplies included
Instructor:  Cassie McCollum
Max:  10 students
 
If your preschooler is anything like my youngest, he/she wants to go to class just like his/her older siblings. In this class, preschoolers will get that opportunity. In our class, your children will participate in art projects, science experiments, social studies, math and reading lessons all based on the months of the year. For example, in October we will might study Autumn, owls, pumpkins and fire safety (first week of October is Fire Safety Week). Each student will also have the chance to participate in traditional pre-k activities like Show and Tell time. This class will provide your preschooler with a fun learning experience!!


Chemicals, the Environment and You
Ages:  5th Grade-9th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

The objectives of the module is to  1.) help students understand the relationship between chemicals in the environment and human health, 2.) show the ever-changing nature of our understanding of the influence of chemicals on health, 3.) help students think about the relationship between knowledge, choice, behavior and enhance health.  This module will integrate inquiry science, environmental studies, human health, history, decision-making concepts, and mathematics.  The topics include: chemicals and toxicology, dose-response relationships, risk assessment and environmental hazards.   This learning unit was developed by the National Institute of Health.  A detailed look at the module can be found at http://science.education.nih.gov/customers.nsf/MSEnvironment.htm.



Doing Science: The Process of Scientific Inquiry
Ages:  5th Grade-9th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

The objectives of this module are to 1.) learn the basic aspects of scientific inquiry – including generating hypotheses, collecting evidence, testing hypotheses, and reaching conclusions,  2.) provide the students with an opportunity to practice critical-thinking skills – this includes evaluating information from a variety of sources and assessing its usefulness and distinguishing between causal relationships and mere associations, and 3.) convey to students the purpose of scientific research.   This module will integrate inquiry science, human health, mathematics, science, technology and society by using real-life situations.   It was developed by the National Institute of Health.   A detailed look at the module can be found at http://science.education.nih.gov/customers.nsf/MSInquiry.htm


The Brain: Our Sense of Self

Ages:  5th Grade-9th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

The objectives of this module is to help students 1.) understand the principles of the brain and nervous system, 2.) experience the process of scientific inquiry, and 3.) recognize the role of science in society and the relationship between science and human health.  Specifically, we will cover the structure and functions of the brain, neural pathways, reflexes and voluntary actions, learning and factors that affect learning.  This module is inquiry and group-participation based.  It was developed by the National Institute of Health.   For detailed look at the module can be found at http://science.education.nih.gov/customers.nsf/MSSelf.htm.


Open Wide and Trek Inside – A Study of the Mouth
Ages:  1st Grade-4th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

This is a hands-on interactive module about the mouth.  The objectives are to 1.) understand the principles of oral health, 2.) experience the process of scientific inquiry, and 3.) to recognize the role of science in society.  Topics include the purposes and parts of the mouth, the types of teeth, tooth decay, oral bacteria, and oral disease.  The students will be asked to think and figure things out for themselves in a process of scientific inquiry.  There will be hands-on activities.  And there will be web-based activities that can be done at home (optional).  This learning unit was developed by the National Institute of Health.   Details of this module can be found at http://science.education.nih.gov/customers.nsf/ESDental.htm.


TOPS Electricity and Magnetism
Ages:  4th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline (per session)
Two sessions Commitment
Supplies:  shoe box to carry supplies and 3 D batteries
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12
 
Science is more than a set of facts.  It is a process of discovery.  This 2 session class will use hands-on methods to learn about electricity and magnetism. 

In the electricity part they will create their own circuits to study series and parallel circuits, conductors and insulators, switches, circuit diagrams, and electrical resistance using common materials such as tin foil and paper clips.  There will also be various demonstrations of different concepts involving electricity.  There will occasionally be some homework (at most an hour a week). 

In the magnetism portion, students will map a magnetic field, graph how the strength of a magnet changes with distance, make compasses, telegraphs, electromagnets, and more.


TOPS Metric Measuring
Ages:  4th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor: Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

This hands-on class will help the student learn the beauty of the metric system. All metric units are tied to the same physical reference: a water cube that measures 1 centimeter on each side.  We will start this unit learning basic metric prefixes.  Then we will study length and volume using sugar cubes and progressing to water cubes.  We will build a balance to understand the meaning of grams and relate it to the mass of our water cube. Then we will use all of these measurements to study density.  Students will have to make and read graphs.  An understanding of the metric system is valuable for all future science work.  Middle school students will be given extra (slightly harder) work since they should be able to progress a bit faster.  There will be math involved.  Students should be comfortable decimals and with multiplying and dividing by 10 by moving the decimal.  Calculators will be needed for some lessons. Students will need to have a shoebox in which to store their materials.  They will also need to provide their own empty soda can.  


Math for the Sciences
Ages:  5th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Donna Eckert
Min/Max:  8/12

In this class we will learn how math and science fits together.  In elementary science classes, students learn concepts.  In this class we will begin putting math to use to further understand these concepts.  We will start with units of measurement – to understand the metric system.  We will learn to do conversions (e.g. changing miles to kilometers). We will study significant digits – what they are and why they are used.  We will look at limits of certainty in measurements.  We will look at orders of magnitude and scientific notation.  In the second month of classes we will  use math in different areas of science.   In physics we will look at Newton’s laws from a mathematical perspective.  We will look at energy and work.  In chemistry we will learn about Avogadro’s number and the meaning of a mole.  We will work density problems and use math to find out the thickness of aluminum foil.  Basically we will do lots of scientific word problems.  This class is for middle school students who understand the basic math operations.  We will use algebra concepts – which they will learn on a need-to-know basis.  A calculator will be required.  There will be some homework – no more than an hour a week.


For the Love of Birds

Ages:  K5-4th Grade
Cost:  $67 if registered by deadline/$73 if registered after deadline
Instructor: Grace Eckert
Min/Max:  6/10

This elementary level course will give students and appreciation of birds.  We will learn about local birds and how to identify and attract them.  We will talk about the structure of birds (bones, wings, beaks, etc.), the habits of different birds, attracting birds, and more.  There will be hands-on activities every week.   

The class is taught by a 17-year-old homeschooler who is currently studying ornithology using a home study course put out by the Cornell School of Ornithology.  This will be her first class and she is excited about sharing her love for birds.


Decimals
Ages:  3rd – 5th graders
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Suzanne Dawson
Min/Max:  4/10

Through hands-on learning, practice activities, and reinforcement with fun games, students will develop the concept of decimals and learn how to use decimals in arithmetic and in the real world.  Students will learn the following topics:  place value, decimals that add to one, comparing decimals, converting decimals and fractions, adding and subtracting decimals, multiplying single digit decimals, multiplying and dividing by powers of ten, writing checks, decimals in economics (money, calculating profits and losses), and real world decimal problems arising in different career fields.

Students should have a basic understanding of fractions prior to entering class; however, students do not need any background in decimals.    We will learn to do basic decimal arithmetic by hand.  Students should bring a calculator so that we can also do a wide array of real world decimal applications.


Percents

Ages:  3rd – 5th graders
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Suzanne Dawson
Min/Max:  4/10

In this class we will use hands-on manipulatives, practice activities, and fun games to develop the concept of percents and to learn how to use percents in arithmetic and in the real world.  Students will explore the following topics:  what is a percent; percents that add to 100%; converting fractions, decimals, and percents; calculating the percent of a number; creating and interpreting pie charts; calculating discounts and interest; and real world percent problems arising in different career fields.

Students should have a basic understanding of fractions and decimals prior to entering the class; however, students do not need any background in percents.  We will do basic arithmetic with percents by hand.  Students should bring a calculator so that we can do a wide array of real world percent problems.


Logic
Ages:  3rd – 5th graders
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Suzanne Dawson
Min/Max:  4/10

In this class we will challenge our minds with many different fun types of logic questions and critical thinking games.  Students will learn basic logic.  In addition, we will work as a team to digest the information in the problem, categorize critical thinking problems, find a problem solving strategy, and work through a problem to completion.  Each class will cover a wide range of types of problems  to maintain interest and will conclude with a chance to improve on critical thinking games.  We will also focus on critical thinking in math applications so that students will be more prepared to understand and solve math word problems.

 

Word Problems
Ages:  3rd – 5th graders
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor: Suzanne Dawson
Min/Max:  4/10

This class will teach basic problem solving strategies to conquer math word problems.  We will incorporate word problems into games to help word problems become challenges students are motivated to attack.   We will work as a team to digest and visualize the information in the problem, recognize categories of math problems, find a problem solving strategy, work through a problem to completion, and check the validity of the answer.  We will focus on real world word problems that arise in a broad spectrum of careers which  involve arithmetic, fractions, decimals, percents, and measurement.  Students will become aware of how math is really needed and used in the real world. 

Students need a very basic understanding of multiplication, fractions, decimals, and percents.  Students may bring calculators if needed.    

  

Elementary Drawing
Ages: 6 to 12 yrs old
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Young Rembrandts
Min/Max:

Our elementary-age curriculum is designed to teach basic to advanced drawing skills, art techniques and vocabulary. We believe that drawing is the bedrock skill required for future artistic success. We give them skills to express their creativity, and believe that all children can - and should - learn to draw. We provide all materials and teach new lessons each week in a positive and nurturing environment bringing out the best in each child. You'll see increased art abilities, learning skills, self-confidence and self-esteem.  
 

Cartoon Drawing
Ages: 6 to 12 yrs old
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Young Rembrandts
Min/Max:

Learning to draw can be fun, especially when we create silly characters, funny expressions and drawing sequences that tell a joke! This delightful program combines Young Rembrandts' innovative, step-by-step drawing method with light-hearted subject matter that engages children, their sense of humor, and their vivid imaginations.


Pastel Drawing
Ages: 8 to 12 yrs old
Cost:  $92 if registered by deadline/$101.20 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Young Rembrandts
Min/Max:

This Young Rembrandts class will introduce students to a new medium, pastels.  Although students will still draw a variety of engaging images, this class will focus on basic pastel application and coloring techniques.  Also, we will explore the many ways to illustrate shadow and light with pastels in their drawings.  Please wear an old t-shirt or art smock for this class.

 

General Literature

Ages: 6th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Supplies:  3 ring binder
Instructor:  Beth Ali
Min/Max: 4/10

Emphasis on different types of literature ie., poetry, short stories, play, etc. We will probably will study a different form each week.
 


Intro World Literature

Ages: 6th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Supplies:  3 ring binder
Instructor:  Beth Ali
Min/Max: 3/8
 
In this class we will learn about different types of literature from around the world. Emphasis will be placed on broadening the students awareness of literature from different cultures.

Short Story
Ages: 6th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Supplies:  3 ring binder
Instructor:  Beth Ali
Min/Max: 3/8

In this class the student will be introduced to short stories of different genres. The students will be working on finding their own voice writing their own short story during the course of the class.

Poetry
Ages: 6th Grade-8th Grade
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Supplies:  3 ring binder
Instructor:  Beth Ali
Min/Max: 3/8

Poetry class- In this class the student will be introduced to poetry from different periods in history and different cultures. The student will learn some terminology and be given opportunities to write their own poetry.


GA State History
Ages:  4th Grade-8th Grade
Two session commitment
Cost: $70 per session if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline.  Two session commitment-Total Cost:  $140-154
Supplies:  Large Scrapbook. Scrapbook pages. Page protectors. Markers, pencils, scissors, ruler, and crayons.  Bag to keep these things in. (Other items may be needed as the class progresses.)
Instructor:  Rebecca Ferguson

This course will be an introduction to the state of Georgia, including mapping skills, state firsts , history, the people, the land, economy and commerce, politics and government, culture and lifestyle, notable people, a time line, state events and attractions, and places to visit.

They will be creating a notebook about the state of Georgia.   “Notebooking” is a fun tool that captures all the students have learned about a particular topic, in this case:  The History of Georgia, and turns it into a concise, creative piece of work.  They will be able to recall information and share their notebooks with others helping them to remember what it is they have learned.


World History
Ages:  11 years old and up
Cost: $70 per session if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline.  Two session commitment-Total Cost:  ($140-154)
Supplies:  Notebook with paper (not a spiral), markers and/or crayons, pencils, scissors.  Other itmes my be needed as the class progresses.
Instructor:  Rebecca Ferguson

This course will challenge students to explore several important unexplained events that helped shape history. Students will use primary source materials, posters, and simulations to find clues and to make informed decisions about these events.  These real-life mysteries encourage students to research, think, debate, and form conclusions.
 


Hip Hop

This class is 55 minutes.
Ages:  6 years old and up
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Creative Movement and Dance
Website:  www.creativemovementanddance.com

This exciting class offers a wide range of fun and up-beat movement!  Children learn class discipline, coordination, left and right skills, patterns in movement, and basic jazz dance technique.  Since Ballet is the basis of all dance training, the students will also be introduced to several basic concepts of Ballet technique and vocabulary.  Also in the jazz/hip-hop program, students will be exposed to lyrical, Broadway, and popular styles of dance using fun, upbeat, age appropriate music.  Students should wear tennis shoes and comfortable clothes.


Multi Media Art

Ages:  7 years old and up
Cost:  $80.00 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Phillis Bostar
Min/Max:  1/10

We will explore several media in this class.  We will start with graphite pencil drawing, move onto painting with watercolors.  We will learn the basics of pen and ink drawing.  This class will finish up with an age appropriate craft.


Art History at The Met

Ages:   7 years old and up
Cost:  $80.00 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor: Phillis Bostar
Min/Max:  1/12

Using the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, we will explore art and artists from early civilization to modern art.  We will compare art from the East and West during the same periods and  how  they influenced each other when the cultures began to interact.  Also in this class will be a section on "primitive" art covering indigenous peoples of the Americas, Africa and Australia.


Entrepreneurship - Lets start a Business
Ages:  7 years and up
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor: Phillis Bostar

Do you know what goes into starting a business?  What do we sell?  How much do we charge?  We will start our own business with each of us marketing our own product or skill.  We will set up a store, develop an advertizing strategy, and venture into the market place of Roberts School with an Open for Business sign.  Our experiences will teach us how to serve our market, have fun and make a profit.


Clay Adventures
Ages:  5 years old and up
Cost:  $80.00 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Session 1:  No class on September 2nd.  Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Teresa Barnes

Children will learn basic hand-building techniques including pinch-pot, slab, and coil construction. They will learn to express their creativity in a fun but educational environment.


Fun With Chess

This class will be 55 minutes.  (10:00-10:55)
Ages:  5 years old and older
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Kid Chess
Website:  www.kidchess.com

Chess is a Gymnasium for Your Brain. Participation in Chess has been shown to increase test scores in reading and math. Chess helps develop critical thinking, problem solving abilities, concentration, memory, attention span, patience, sportsmanship, and other skills. At Kid Chess, the Kid Comes First. Though our staff and students include top-rated tournament players, our focus is on the enrichment and entertainment of kids. The beginner is every bit as important as the champion. Class will include a trophy for each participant, “Bughouse” (a version of team chess), computer-aided instruction, and many other ways to learn and enjoy this great game. Teaching for all levels and ages, from those that do not know how to play on up to champions! Each child will receive instruction appropriate to their own level.


Piano
Ages:  5 years and older
Cost:  $85 if registered by deadline/$93.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Music On Wheels
Website:  www.musiconwheelsga.com

Books:
Ages 8 years old and up
"Bastien Piano Basics"  By: James Bastien  (Level 1)
"Theory"  By:  James Bastien (Primer Level)
"Note Story"  By:  John W. Schaum

Ages 5-7
"Favorites"  By: Faber & Faber  (Primer Level)
"Theory"  By: James Bastien (Primer Level)
"NoteStory"  By:  John W. Schaum

Students will learn Theory & Application of piano performance. Our classes are taught through worksheets, arts & crafts, singing & playing music, games and many other creative ways in which learning is made fun for students. Music on Wheels presents a Holiday Performance and an end of the year spring Recital & Awards Ceremony scheduled for May 2009.


LEGO® Simple Machines

Ages:  8 years old - 12 years old
Cost:  $115 if registered by deadline/$126.50 if registered after deadline
(2 session commitment-total cost-$230-$253)
Instructor:  YES! (Youth Engaged in Science)
Website:  http://www.yesgeorgia.com/

Simple Machines Part I is a beginner level class. 

Concepts are taught through hands-on experimentation with LEGO® models
Forces and Structures, Inclined Planes, Levers,
Wheels & Axles, Gears, Pulleys and Compound Gears.
Learning the mechanical advantage of each type of simple machine
Introduction to motorization
Simple graphing and data collection exercises
Experiments using trial and error

Part II
Investigation and Invention level applying simple machines learned in the Explorations Course
Packed with experiments and design work for each type of machine
Graphing and data collection exercises
Introduction to gear ratios


LEGO®  Robotics

Ages:  10 years old and up
Cost:  $115 per session if registered by deadline/$126.50 if registered after deadline
(2 session commitment-total cost-$230-$253)
Instructor:  YES! (Youth Engaged in Science)
Website:  http://www.yesgeorgia.com/

This class integrates practical applications of computer science, math, fundamental physics, engineering, and writing into a rich and challenging course. The curriculum includes materials designed by the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy and the NASA Robotics Educator Program designed to foster mathematical and engineering competency as well as technological and scientific literacy. We will utilize the LEGO® MINDSTORMS products for this class.


Hands-On Science and Technology using LEGO®
Ages:  8 years old - 12 years old 
Cost:  $115 if registered by deadline/$126.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  YES! (Youth Engaged in Science)
Website:  http://www.yesgeorgia.com/

This class is a hands-on approach to physical science and technology.  Students will work with LEGO® models to learn various physical science and technology concepts, including forces and motion, basics of simple machines, measurement, energy, and magnetism through experimentation


Hands-On Geometry with Zome Modeling
Ages:  8 years old and up
Cost:  $115 if registered by deadline/$126.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  YES! (Youth Engaged in Science)
Website:  http://www.yesgeorgia.com/

This class will utilize Zome manipulatives to give your student hands-on experimentation with geometry and help them connect numbers to shapes in the real world. They will explore symmetry and proportion, angles, area, perimeter and polygons while working in 2 and 3 dimensions. For those with an eye for art and pattern we will also work with tessellations and pattern recognition. In addition, students will learn about geometry connections to science and fine arts. Guaranteed fun while they learn!


LEGO®  WeDo Robotics
Ages:  7 years old and up
Cost:  $115 if registered by deadline/$126.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  YES! (Youth Engaged in Science)
Website:  www.yesgeorgia.com

Introductory Robotics utilizes the new LEGO Education WeDo robotics set to teach students ages 7 - 9 how to build fun models and then program them to move.  Students are introduced to motors and sensors, which are built into models that are then connected to a computer to be programmed using a simple programming tool.  The WeDo robotics concept is designed to cover a broad range of curriculum targets.  Students build models of machines and animals, program actions and behaviors, measure distance in centimeters and speed in rotations, investigate how machines work.


Guitar for Beginners
Ages:  8 years old and up
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline.  (Depending on final class size optional private or semi-private lessons will be offered at $120 if registered by deadline or $132 after deadline.)

Instructor:  Barry Edelson
Supplies:  Guitar, Music Stand, and pencil
Contact Info:  Email:  barryedelson@bellsouth.net 

This course assumes no previous playing experience and covers all the fundamentals necessary to ultimately the master the instrument. These include learning to play all the basic chords and scales. Proper musicianship will be stressed including playing in time with a beat, hearing the difference between various notes and playing along with others. By the end of the course students will be able to strum along with their favorite songs and also be able to play single note phrases necessary to becoming the next “guitar hero”.

Student is required to provide a guitar. All course materials will be provided by the instructor.


Totally Technology: Word Processing
Project: "Word Fun"
Ages: 7-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Students build office skills, create projects & have fun, too!  Using our unique delivery system, students learn powerful technology skills as they create their own projects.

Computer Requirements


Computer Art, Animation & Programming - Intermediate
Ages: 9-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadlin
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Dive into the world of video animation by creating characters that dance, sing and interact with one another.  Add sound effects and music clips to create dynamic art and video animations using Scratch, the innovative programming language created just for kids by the MIT Media Lab.

Computer Requirements



Computer Art, Animation & Programming - Beginning
Ages: 7-8
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
nstructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Dive into the world of video animation by creating characters that dance, sing and interact with one another.  Add sound effects and music clips to create dynamic art and video animations using Scratch, the innovative programming language created just for kids by the MIT Media Lab.

Computer Requirements

Computer Art, Animation & Programming - Advanced
(formerly Video Game Animation)
Ages: 9-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Once you start, you don’t want to stop!  Students add to their previous video animation, or start from “Scratch” with an all-new creation. New skills and creative adventures await the experienced Scratch programmer!

Computer Requirements

Totally Technology: Spreadsheets
Project: "Excel-ent Machines"
Ages: 7-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Students build office skills, create projects & have fun, too!  Using our unique delivery system, students learn powerful technology skills as they create their own projects.

Computer Requirements

Video Game Design - Part I
Ages: 9-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Two Session Commitment, Total Cost:  $200 ($180 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$220(/$198 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Students learn to design, create and edit their own arcade-style video game: design the action, create the characters, and edit the objectives and outcomes.


Video Game Design - Part II
Ages: 9-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Prerequisite: Video Game Design - Part I
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total
Website:  www.computerexplorers.com/224

Students continue to build their programming skills, and begin to work on their own games.  Students will also take home a CD with their game on it so that they can challenge their friends and family.

Computer Requirements

Totally Technology: Multimedia
Project: "Art of Animation"
Ages: 7-11
Cost: $100 ($90 with own laptop and software) if registered by deadline/$110 ($99 with own laptop and software) if registered after deadline
Instructor: COMPUTER EXPLORERS
Min/Max: 6/8 (with CE laptops) up to 12 total

Students build office skills, create projects & have fun, too!  Using our unique delivery system, students learn powerful technology skills as they create their own projects.


Computer Requirements

Computer Explorer Computer and Software Requirements

Minimum Laptop Requirements
Windows XP, ME, 2000, Vista
133 MHz Pentium or faster
Minimum 128 MB RAM
2X CD-ROM drive or faster

Software Requirements
for Totally Technology: Word Processing - Microsoft Word 2003 or 2007
for Totally Technology: Spreadsheets - Microsoft Excel 2003 or 2007
for Totally Technology: Multimedia - Microsoft PowerPoint 2003 or 2007
for Computer Art, Animation & Programming - Scratch by MIT Media Lab (free download from http://scratch.mit.edu/download)
for Video Game Design - Stagecast Creator 2 from Stagecast Software, Inc. ($49.95 at www.stagecast.com)

 

Acting and Improvisation
Ages 7 - 14
$90 ($70 for additional siblings) if registered by deadline/$99 ($77 for additional siblings) if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Carolyn Choe
Min/max: 6/12

Through interactive exercises, theatre & improvisational games, and scene work, student’s imaginations and creativity can blossom to its full potential. By creating character and learning to trust their instincts students can build self confidence, make new friends & develop independent thinking.  This class is for those new to the stage as well as those who have had previous acting classes.

Let's Put On A Show!
Ages 7 - 14
$90 ($70 for additional siblings) if registered by deadline/$99 ($77 for additional siblings) if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Carolyn Choe
Min/max: 10/16

From the audition process, through rehearsals and ending with the actual production performed on the last day of classes, the students get a chance to show off their acting skills by going thru the process of putting on a play.   We will be producing the play written in the previous session by the Playwriting class.  You need not have been the previous acting or playwriting class to take this class. 
 

Broadway Playwrights
Ages 7 - 14 year olds
Cost:  $90 if registered by deadline/$99 if registered after deadline
           Siblings:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Michelle Boykin
Min/Max:  6/12

Do you have knack for writing? Want to turn your ideas into a play? A musical? A masterpiece? Broadway playwrights, taught by Michelle Boykin, trained in script writing in Los Angeles California, you will learn nifty, thrifty ways to get your brain cells working to produce a play of many acts. She's even going to throw in some acting and improv to get the juices flowing. The show you write will be produced by Carolyn Choe in Session 2!


Fashion Illustration
 
Ages 5 years and up
Cost:  $75 if registered by deadline/$82.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Rachel Bick
Min/Max: 3/15
Supplies:  drawing pad and colored pencils

This course is an introduction on how to draw fashion figures and design clothing.  Learn proportions of the male and female figure as it applies to fashion design.
Students learn to illustrate fabrics, color and different styles.


Costume Design
Ages 8 years and up
Cost:  $85 if registered by deadline/$93.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:   Rachel Bick
Min/Max:  2/15
Supplies:  One-two yards of fabric

In this class students will learn to design and construct costumes for a hypothetical movie.  Students learn to design and adapt a costume to a certain movie character.  Students will learn to make the costume they design!


Advanced Fashion Illustration
Ages: 5 years and up
Cost:  $80 if registered by deadline/$88 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Rachel Bick
Min/Max:  3/15
Supplies:  11 x 14 sketch book, 11 x 14 tracing paper, pencil, marker, colored pencils

Using the fashion figure students learn to develop their own individual style.  Also learn to illustrate fabric, design clothing.
Students will also learn to make inspiration boards.  (colleges that inspire clothing)  We will also study color, source of light and shadow technique.  At the end of class students will have a portfolio piece,  colored fashion drawings with a college to go with.


Advanced Costume and Fashion Design

Ages: 8 years and up
Cost:  $95 if registered by deadline/$104.50 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Rachel Bick
Min/Max:  3/15
Supplies:  fabric, trim, tape measure, scissors

In this class students will learn basic construction of costume and clothing.
Students will design and make  one piece of clothing in class.  This class will also teach basic sewing skills.  A portable sewing machine will be provided by the teacher.


Ancient China
Ages: 
Cost:  $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline  ($10 sibling discount)
Instructor:  Karen Beauvais

Travel back in time to Ancient China with us as we explore the history of Imperial China.
We will start our journey on Marco Polo's silk road and explore all the sights and experiences a caravan from Europe might have discovered.
Week 1 “The oldest Empire”Introduction to Chinese culture and geography
Week 2 Confucius says...
Week 3 Emperors and Dynasties
Week 4 Ancient Chinese dress and culture
Week 5 Great Chinese Inventions
Week 6 Walls and Waterways
Week 7 The creation of paper and Chinese Art.
Week 8 Festivals and Games (Chinese celebration with ethnic food to finish our last class.)



Navigating and Exploring our World
Ages:  K-4th Grade
Cost: $65 if registered by deadline/$74.75 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Karen Beauvais
Min/Max:  5/20

An adventure in mapping and exploring. Seven Continents in seven weeks.
In this class we would discuss and study the 7 continents and their respective oceans.
Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Antarctica, Europe, and Australia.
We could also cover great explorers(Marco Polo, Lewis and Clark, David Livingstone, Sir Edmund Hilary, Great navigators like Columbus and Magellan) who mapped new lands as well as how to utilize a map, a globe, a compass and even a GPS.
Every week we would look at and model a different navigation tool. Maps, globes, constellations, astrolabes, telescopes, compasses, satellites and modern GPS systems.
The last week would be a review with prizes.


Egyptology

Ages:  K-5th Grade
Cost: $65 if registered by deadline/$74.75 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Karen Beauvais
Min/Max:  5/20

Week 1 The Fertile Crescent and Nile Delta
Week 2 Sanskrit and Hieroglyphics
Week 3 Papyrus
Week 4 Famous Pharaohs
Week 5 Mummies
Week 6 The Pyramids
Week 7 The Bedouins and nomadic Desert Life
Week 8 Egyptian "Feast like a King"
Crafts will include paper making, shadow boxes of Egypt, Pyramid models, making a mummy, spelling our names in hyroglyphics, crafting King Tut's ankhs.

Around the World in 8 Weeks
Ages:  K-5th Grade
Cost: $70 if registered by deadline/$77 if registered after deadline  Sibling Discount-$10
Instructor:  Karen Beauvais
Min/Max:  5/20

Did you ever dream of traveling the world? Well hop into our hot air balloon with our crazy  class puppet “Hambone” and join us for a 8 week whirlwind tour of the globe! Discover the oceans, the continents and the interesting people groups within. Each week we will have a different ethic art project that pairs with the continent we are studying. This class will cover climate and mapping extensively, as well as the tools used to measure and track both weather and distance.


*Optional weekly reading suggestions will be given for those who want to incorporate the class into their school week as a unit study.

Beginning Writing: Writing for the reluctant writer
Ages:  3rd-5th grade
Cost:  $70.00 if registered before the deadline/77.00 if registered after deadline
Instructor:  Rebecca Ferguson

This will be a fun class focusing on choosing a topic and writing simple paragraphs.  Instruction will also include grammar and punctuation basics.  This class is intended to aid the reluctant writer by increasing confidence and skill. 



The History of Aviation: A study of the places, people and time that influenced flight and its many advances.
Ages:  Middle School and up
Cost:  $78.00/$70.00 before the deadline 
TWO SESSION COMMITMENT-SESSION 3 AND SESSION 4 (Total Cost:  $140 before deadline)
Instructor:  Rebecca Ferguson
Min/Max:  6/12
Additional supplies will be needed.

This class is designed to teach the history of aviation while at the same time allowing the students the opportunity to discover how various types of aircraft fly in addition to describing the terms drag, lift, velocity, gravity, and thrust.  They will demonstrate flight principles and cause and effect relationships.  They will collect, organize and analyze data.

Students will learn about the people who invented, flew, and made an impact on aviation.  They will learn where, why, and when the first flight happened.  They will discover women’s role in aviation.   They will design and build various types of aircraft and test the aerodynamics of their craft.   This class will include building a historical model airplane.