Course Descriptions

AY 2023 -2024

Fifth Grade Math

Textbook: Math Mammoth Grade 5

Miller (2023)

The four operations: order of operations, equations, review of the four operations, partial products, multiplication algorithm, review of long division, 2-digit divisor, long division and repeated subtraction, divisibility and factors, primes and finding factors, prime factorization.
Large numbers and the calculator: exponents and powers, place value system, multiplying by powers of ten, adding and subtracting large numbers, rounding, when to use the calculator.
Problem solving: balance problems and equations, problem solving with bar models.
Decimals, part 1: tenths and hundredths review, thousandths, decimals on a number line, add and subtract decimals, comparing and rounding decimals, multiply a decimal by a whole number, divide decimals by whole numbers.
Graphing: the coordinate grid, number patterns on the coordinate grid, line graphs, double and triple line graphs, average (mean).
Decimals, part 2: multiply and divide by powers of ten, multiply decimals by decimals, multiplication as scaling, dividing decimals, the metric system, divide decimals by decimals, converting between customary units of measurement, problem solving.
Add and subtract fractions: fraction terminology, review mixed numbers, adding and subtracting mixed numbers, equivalent fractions, adding and subtracting unlike fractions, finding the least common denominator, word problems, measuring in inches, line plots.
Multiply and divide fractions: simplifying fractions, multiply fractions by whole numbers, multiply fractions by fractions, fraction multiplication and area, simplifying before multiplying, multiply mixed numbers, multiplications as scaling, fractions are divisions, dividing fractions by sharing divisions and fitting the divisor.
Geometry: angles review, polygons, classifying quadrilaterals, classifying triangles, volume of rectangular prisms, volume is additive, area and perimeter problems, star polygons.

Sixth Grade Math

Textbook: Mathematics: Structure and Method Course 1

Dolciani et al. (1992)

Operations with whole numbers: review of the four operations, expressions, properties of addition/multiplication, distributive property, order of operations, problem solving models and applications.
Using variables: writing mathematical expressions/equations/inequalities, solving equations and inequalities, problem solving with mathematical expressions.
The decimal system: exponents and powers of ten, the decimal system, comparing decimals, rounding, decimals with the four operations, multiplying or dividing by a power of ten, problem-solving using estimation.
Geometry: points/lines/planes, measuring segments, angles and angle measure, triangles, polygons, circles, congruent figures, geometric constructions.
Number theory: finding factors and multiples, tests for divisibility, squares and square roots, prime and composite numbers, greatest common factor, least common multiple.
Fractions: the concept of a fraction, equivalent fractions, fractions and mixed numbers, comparing fractions, fractions to decimals, decimals to fractions.
Operations with fractions: fractions and mixed numbers with the four operations, ratios, proportions, problem solving using proportions, scale drawing.
Solving equations: equations and variables, equations and the four operations, decimal and fraction equations, word sentences and equations, problem solving by writing equations model.
Percent: percents and fractions, percents and decimals, computing with percents, percent increase/decrease, discount.
Areas and volumes: areas of rectangles/parallelograms/triangles/trapezoids, volumes and surface areas of rectangular prisms.
Integers and graphs: negative numbers, adding/subtracting integers, products with one or more negative factors, quotients of integers, solving equations, the coordinate plane, graphs of ordered pairs, graphs of equations.
Statistics: picturing numerical data, pictographs, circle graphs, mean/median/mode/range, stem-and-leaf plots, box-and-whisker plots, histograms.

Prealgebra

Textbook: Pre-Algebra: An Accelerated Course

Dolciani et al. (1992)

Introduction to algebra: expressions and equations, order of operations, exponents and powers of ten, the decimal system, properties of real numbers, inverse operations, solving and checking word problems.
Positive and negative numbers: integers, decimals on the number line, adding/subtracting/multiplying/dividing positive and negative numbers, using positive exponents, negative integers as exponents.
Rational numbers: factors and divisibility, prime and composite numbers, positive and negative fractions, equivalent fractions, least common denominator, fractions and mixed numbers with the four operations, fractions and decimals.
Solving equations: equations with the four operations, decimal and fraction equations, combined operations, writing expressions for word phrases, word sentences and equations, writing equations for word problems, solving word problems.
Geometric figures: points/lines/planes, measuring segments, angles and angle measure, triangles, polygons, circles, congruent figures, geometric constructions.
Ratio, proportion, and percent: ratios, rates, proportions, solving problems with proportions, scale drawing, percents and fractions, percents and decimals, computing with percents.
Percents and problem solving: percent increase/decrease, percents and proportions, simple interest, percents and problem solving.
Equations and inequalities: equations-variable on one side and variable on both sides, equations in problem solving, writing inequalities, equivalent inequalities, solving inequalities, inequalities in problem solving.
The coordinate plane: equation in the coordinate plane, equations in two variables, graphing equations, graphing systems of equations, using graphs to solve problems, graphing inequalities.
Areas and volume: areas of rectangles/parallelograms/triangles/trapezoids/circles, using symmetry to find areas, volumes and surface areas of prisms/cylinders/pyramids/cones/spheres, mass and density.
Applying algebra to right triangles: square roots, approximating square roots, the Pythagorean Theorem, similar triangles, special right triangles.
Statistics and probability: pictographs/circle graphs, mean/median/range, frequency distributions, histograms, combinations, probability of an event.

Algebra 1

Textbook: Algebra: Structure and Method Book 1

Dolciani et al. (2000)

Course Description:

The course introduces students to variables, algebraic expressions, equations, inequalities, functions, and all their multiple representations. In this class, students will develop the ability to explore and solve real-world application problems, demonstrate the appropriate use of graphing calculators, and communicate mathematical ideas clearly. This course lays the foundation for mathematical literacy that will help students be successful in every subsequent course in mathematics. Topics will include: an introduction to algebra, working with real numbers, solving equations and problems, polynomials, factoring polynomials, fractions, applying fractions, introduction to functions, systems of linear equations, inequalities, rational and irrational numbers, and quadratic functions.

Honors Algebra 2

Textbook: Algebra and Trigonometry: Structure and Method Book 2

Dolciani et al. (2000)

This is an honors second-year algebra course and features more demanding methods and problems that will prepare students for advanced mathematics in high school and college. The topics, studied at a fast pace, include the language of algebra, solving equations and inequalities, linear equations and systems, function notation and properties of functions, polynomials and factoring, rational expressions, quadratic functions, conic sections, complex number systems, radicals, exponents and arithmetic, and geometric progressions and series. To be successful mathematicians, students will learn to make sense of problems and persevere in solving them, reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct viable arguments, and critique the reasoning of others. In addition they should demonstrate an ability to model with mathematics, use appropriate tools strategically, and attend with precision. Also, students will be able to look for and make use of structure and look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning.

English Language Arts (5th and 6th grade)

Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales Writing Lessons

This class follows the “Structure and Style Writing Method” from the Institute for Excellence in Writing. Students learn to take notes, retell narrative stories, summarize references, write from pictures, and compose their own fables, myths, and fairy tales. This class begins simply and increases gradually in complexity to build student confidence in reading and writing skills. Units 1 and 2 begin with one of Aesop’s fables from which students learn to create a key word outline. Class discussion will explore literary elements of setting, character, conflict, theme, symbolism, metaphor, etc. Vocabulary, spelling, grammar, and sentence structure will also be a part of lesson planning. As the term progresses, students will practice using more stylistic techniques in their writing, such as similes and metaphors, alliteration, and conversation. Direct and differentiated instruction, structural models, checklists, and useful word lists help support students as they develop their writing skills.

English Language Arts (7th and 8th grade)

Coursework is designed to facilitate mastery of the Common Core State Standards and to help students become better readers, writers, speakers, and thinkers. We’ll improve grammar and punctuation, advance vocabulary, sharpen public speaking skills, and have a great time learning together. Students will learn how to write a narrative, literary analysis, creative writing pieces, and formal emails. Along the way, we’ll enjoy great pieces of classic literature, including pieces by James Hurst, Edgar Allen Poe, Guy de Maupassant, Amy Tan, and Langston Hughes.

Four main teaching methods and strategies are used in order to reach and engage all learners.

1. Direct Instruction – This is the traditional method of teaching consisting of direct lecturing or vertical teaching. This consists of repetitive practice, didactic questioning, drill and demonstration. This method is used when introducing new ideas, literary terms, punctuation and grammar terms, new vocabulary, and rubric instructions.

2. Interactive Instruction – This is the strategy used for the majority of the lessons, where the learning environment promotes interactions and discussion. Students engage in discussion and peer-editing exercises in groups of two or more. Students are encouraged to express thoughts and ideas freely.

3. Experiential Learning – this strategy incorporates the idea of how to think rather than what to think, and emphasis is placed on the process of learning rather than the product of learning. The purpose is to connect what is learned in the classroom to student experience. This encourages students to make connections with what they have learned in the past to new contexts.

4. Independent Study – Students are encouraged and assigned to work independently on essays, reflect on readings, and complete assignments outside of class.

Short stories (first half of term):

“Thank you Ma’am” by Langston Hughes
“The Cask of Amontillado,” by Edgar Allan Poe
“The Rules of the Game” by Amy Tan
“The Scarlet Ibis” by James Hurst
“The Gift of the Magi” by O.Henry
“The Necklace” by Guy de Mauppasant
“The Pie” by Gary Soto

● “Feather Pillow” by Horacio Quiroga

● “The Witness for the Prosecution” by Agatha Christie

● “Through the Tunnel” by Doris Lessing

● “The Storyteller” by Saki

● “Daughter of Invention” by Julia Alvarez

Lesson plans, activities, and other materials collected from educational resources online, including teacherspayteachers.com.

In-class discussion, check for understanding, individual meetings, and written assignments, including:

Personal Narrative
Literary Analysis of “The Necklace”
Completion of “Rules of the Game”
Original story following same format of “The Gift of the Magi”

2nd half of term:

● Literary Analysis questions for short stories

● “Micro Fiction” – 2 sentence stories in the drama, romance, horror, and sci-fi genres

● Final short story project – showing understanding of the elements of the short story – setting, point of view, plot, character development, and theme.

● Author biography

● Creative writing exercises (different point of view, story continuation, different choice by protagonist)

Additional assessments include:

Punctuation, grammar, and vocabulary exercises, literary term practice and application.

Dungeons and Dragons (“DnD”) is a group story-telling game which uses dice rolls to determine the outcome of certain actions. Think of it like a movie where each player can control one of the characters on the screen. As the Dungeon Master (“DM”), I control the overall world, plot and other interactable characters, while each player controls their own character with their own abilities and decides how they’d react and further the plot. Many students find this to be a fun, comfortable and exciting way to socialize with peers while practicing creative thinking and problem solving. Parents and players can also note that I have a firm policy against in-game references to alcohol, firearms, or sexual content of any kind.

(This last part in bold may not be necessary, so feel free to remove it, I’ve just been asked by parents before about the nature of the content involved in the game- I’ll leave it up to you whether you consider it necessary)

Environmental Science (5th – 8th grade)

Through engaging, inquiry-based instruction, activities and projects, this course will provide middle school students with the information necessary to understand the workings of our planet and the life upon it. Environmental science is especially crucial today as we search for solutions to the environmental problems facing society. This field encompasses all branches of science, including conservation ecology, weather, astronomy, human anatomy, physics, chemistry, and modern technology. In this course students will first learn to make observations, and use the scientific method to design and perform experiments. Throughout the year students will be exposed to facts, details, and experiences which will allow them to develop a respect for how everything on Earth is interrelated. We will focus on many of Earth’s amazing living organisms and the places they inhabit. We will also learn how each tiny element in the environment has a role to play in the great tapestry that is our planet.

Honors Physics (High School)

This rigorous, algebra-based high school course is designed to provide students with an engaging honors-level curriculum that emphasizes abstract reasoning and applications of physics concepts to real-world scenarios. Topics are examined in greater detail than general physics and provide a solid foundation for college-level coursework. Course components include 1-D kinematics, vectors, projectile motion, Newton’s laws, uniform circular motion and universal gravitation, energy, momentum, electrical forces and charges, circuits, and waves and sound. Throughout the course, students participate in a variety of interactive and hands-on laboratory activities that enhance concept knowledge and develop scientific process skills, including scientific research and technical writing.

The Geography of Food (5th – 8th grade)

The Geography of Food will bring students through the biggest ideas of Geography: Do climate and topography determine a civilization’s growth, history, and development? In what ways does access to resources affect the development of societies and communities? How can geography affect culture? And lucky for us, we get to do it through the lens of food. Beginning with our own food traditions, we will explore the ways in which American cuisine is world cuisine. From there, we will figure out where foods originated and how they came to be eaten across the world. As we explore the origins of food through project-based learning (and lots of cooking), we will look at the interconnection of food and culture. In the latter part of the year, we will bring a focus to the world as a whole and the Earth as our home as we begin to ask ourselves about our food future in our global community. We will explore climate change, population growth, and the amazing people behind our future food solutions. Much of the learning will take place inside the classroom, with smaller assignments given weekly when appropriate. Throughout the year, students will be expected to do several projects that require research but can produce a range of projects from a poster to a meal. The class will end with a capstone project related to any of the topics discussed in class. Much of the work for the capstone will be done in class, but some parental support may be needed.

Spanish (All grades)

While acquiring communicative skills and being able to speak and write in Spanish, students will have fun learning music, culture, food, history, and traditions of Latin America.

Learning objectives include:

Correctly conjugate verbs and apply other basic aspects of grammar

– Become familiar with basic vocabulary and common phrases

– Engage in and understand short conversations

– Write short sentences and paragraphs on familiar topics.

– Develop an awareness and appreciation of Hispanic cultures.

To achieve these objectives, students will engage in class discussions, structured conversations with peers and the instructor, listening and comprehension exercises, and written and spoken assessments.

Resources include

– Textbook packets [from Hoy día Spanish for Real Life Volumes 1 and 2 by authors John T McMinn and Nuria Alonso García, published by Pearson.]

– Workbook packets [photocopied from Hoy día Spanish for Real Life Student Activities Manual Volumes 1 and 2 by authors John T McMinn and Nuria Alonso García, published by Pearson.]

Learning assessments include:

– Participation in class activities and verbal projects

– Students maintaining an organized binder with all of the class materials and completed assignments

· Small tests at the end of each unit

Nature Journaling (All grades)

This class will broaden and deepen student curiosity, wonder, and attention. Through a combination of sketching, labeling, recording thoughts, and forming questions and explanations, students will embark on a journey of scientific inquiry and self expression. Using such prompts as “I notice… I wonder… This reminds me of…” class will focus on recording and reflecting on observations made in nature (a leaf, clouds, grass, flowers, tree, acorn, etc.) The goal will be to sharpen critical and creative thinking skills, build self-confidence, and improve writing skills. Activities will focus on using metaphors, similes, and descriptive writing and will include poetry, persuasive writing, narratives, descriptive essays, map making, etc.

Visual Art (All grades)

This course teaches a survey of fundamentals for drawing, color theory, painting, and other building blocks of visual art. At the completion of the course, students will have increased confidence and technical ability to express themselves creatively with visual media (drawing, painting, basic art history concepts, more depending on interest).

Music Appreciation (All grades)

This class, taught by professional songwriters and musicians Lisa Housman and Dave Falk, will explore songs and songwriting from a variety of perspectives. Many musical forms and styles will be shared and discussed, focusing on blues, ballads, folk songs, songs of conscience, and songs about our changing times and cultures. The history and cultural significance of a variety of song forms and songs will be discussed, and students will also explore elements of songwriting, including song forms, rhythms, rhyme schemes, blues and major scales, and literary techniques including the use similes, metaphors, personification, hyperbole, and alliteration in songwriting. Students will write original song lyrics, both independently and in a group, and will receive assistance in the writing process, as well as opportunities to share their work in a supportive setting. Dependent on student interest and time, we may also have an opportunity to work on vocal and instrument techniques. This will be a fun class, with lots of student involvement and ideas!

Tween & Teen Talk/Social Thinking (All grades)

Welcome to Tween & Teen Talk! In this discussion group we will be building connections with one another while exploring various topics. These topics include mental health, forming healthy relationships, developing mindfulness skills, stress management strategies, exploring current events, planning for life after highschool, and much more! The goal of this discussion group is to support one another in a positive light and experience personal growth as individuals and as a collective. The number one rule is to HAVE FUN! This is YOUR group. Some days, Tween and Teen Talk is divided into separate groups depending on topic and age appropriateness.

Art History (All grades)

A year-long survey of the progression of western art including ancient, medieval, renaissance and modern/contemporary eras. The course will serve as an intro to art history, touching on major movements, big names and influential concepts as they develop and inform one another over time. Historical context will be employed to enrich and broaden students’ understanding of the artwork in question, however the form, technique and conceptual goals of the art itself will be our primary focus. Students will come away with a general understanding of the progression of visual art in the western world throughout history, the language to discuss artistic concepts, and confidence in expressing their own views and opinions on art in an informed manner.

Fall 2022 Course Descriptions

Civic Life and Government

To help our community of learners understand the roots and foundations of democratic government through primary documents, such as the United States and Massachusetts Constitutions; how and why government institutions developed; how government evolves through legislation and court decisions; and how individuals exercise their rights and civic responsibilities to maintain a healthy democracy in the nation and the Commonwealth.

The purposes of this class are to use the 4 domains of literacy (reading, listening, speaking and writing) as we:

• extend students’ knowledge of United States and Massachusetts government

• expand their capacity for civic reasoning

• strengthen their ability to develop research questions and conduct inquiries

• introduce significant recurring questions about the United States Constitution, rights, responsibilities, citizenship, a free press, and the concept of the common good

• establish foundational knowledge about government

Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales Writing Lessons (Middle School)

Reading & Writing (High School)

The first unit of the term will focus on a close reading of To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of a young white girl’s growing awareness of racial injustice in the Jim Crow South. When her father takes on the task of representing a black man falsely accused of raping a white woman, she is forced to face the individual and systemic racism present in her small town and the impact of racial prejudice on the lives of all members of the community. The text pushes students to face an uncomfortable past, consider the ways that many of the book’s themes continue to resonate today, and think about how its warnings and lessons should inform the way we move toward the future. Coursework will include in-depth reading and analysis of the text and historical context sources, class discussions, chapter quizzes and questions, vocabulary in context, final paper, and much more! Coursework is designed to facilitate mastery of the Common Core State Standards and to help students become better readers, writers, speakers, and thinkers. We’ll improve grammar and punctuation, advance vocabulary, sharpen public speaking skills, and have a great time learning together. One of the underlying goals will be to prepare students for college writing. After the completion of this unit, we will have a blast reading and talking and writing about Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet!

World History II: The Rise of the Nation State to the Present

To help our community of learners understand the connections between the events of the 19^th and 20^th centuries to today’s world we will read, listen, discuss and write about significant primary and secondary sources from the last 200 years. Students will learn about the Industrial Revolution, 19^th century political reform in Western Europe, and imperialism in Africa, Asia, and South America. They will explain the causes and consequences of the great military and economic events of the past century, including World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, and the Russian and Chinese revolutions. Finally, students will study the rise of nationalism and the continuing persistence of political, ethnic, and religious conflict in many parts of the world. For the final project students will create an artifact of social relevance worthy of inclusion in college admissions portfolios.

Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology

To understand the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of living things, we will begin with an introduction to biological principles, including the unifying themes of life, the scientific method, and biological tools and technology. We will also explore the chemical principles that affect living things. The basic unit of life is the cell, and we will undertake an in-depth study of cell structure and function, energy, homeostasis, growth, division, meiosis, and genetics. Next will be a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, neurological, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems. Students will be asked comprehension and critical thinking questions and will perform many laboratory activities with dissections. Various other methods of learning will be introduced, including lectures, discussions, cooperative learning, videos, PowerPoint presentations, microscope work, and group projects.

Middle School Math/Prealgebra

Textbooks: Middle School Math Math in Focus, Singapore Math

Math Mammoth Marshall Cavendish Education

Course Descriptions:

This course will cover the following topics:

Fifth Grade

The four operations: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
The order of operations, simple equations and expressions, long multiplication, long division, divisibility, primes, and factoring
Place value with large numbers and the calculator
Problem solving and simple equations
Decimal arithmetic (all operations)
Graphing and statistics
Fractions (all operations)
Geometry: review of angles, area, and perimeter; drawing circles; classifying triangles and quadrilaterals; volume of rectangular prisms

Sixth Grade

review of the basic operations with whole numbers
beginning algebra topics: expressions, equations, and inequalities
review of all decimal arithmetic
introduction to ratios and percent
prime factorization, GCF, and LCM
a review of fraction arithmetic from 5th grade, plus a focus on division of fractions
the concept of integers, coordinate grid, addition & subtraction of integers
geometry: review of quadrilaterals & drawing problems; area of triangles & polygons; volume of rectangular prisms with fractional edge lengths; surface area
statistics: concept of distribution, measures of center, measures of variation, summarizing distributions, boxplots, stem-and-leaf plots, histograms

7th and 8th Grade/Prealgebra

Introduction to basic algebra concepts
Integers and their operations
Solving one-step equations, including with negative numbers
Operations with negative rational numbers
Solving linear equations and writing equations for word problems
Graphing linear equations and an introduction to the concept of slope
Ratios, rates, proportions, and percent
Geometry: angle relationships, compass & ruler constructions, drawing problems, Pi and the area and circumference of a circle, cross-sections formed when cutting solids, surface area, and volume
The Pythagorean theorem (optional)
Probability
Statistics

Algebra 1

Textbook: Algebra Structure and Method Book 1

Houghton Mifflin Company

Course Description:

High School Geometry

Textbook: Geometry for Enjoyment and Challenge

McDougal, Littell & Company

Course Description:

This course includes an in-depth analysis of plane, solid, and coordinate geometry as they relate to both abstract mathematical concepts as well as real-world problem situations. Topics include logic and proof, parallel lines and polygons, perimeter and area analysis, volume and surface area analysis, similarity and congruence, trigonometry, and analytic geometry. Emphasis will be placed on developing critical thinking skills as they relate to logical reasoning and argument. Students will acquire and demonstrate knowledge of concepts, definitions, properties, and applications of the topics listed above as well as develop the computational skills and strategies needed to solve problems. Students will develop critical thinking and decision making skills by connecting concepts to practical applications.

Financial Literacy

This course is designed to prepare students for financial adulthood. This semester students learn the benefits of budgeting, develop skills for managing debt and establishing credit, practice the financial decision-making involved in buying a car, explore choices involved in purchasing a home, and weigh their options for healthcare coverage, auto insurance, and other types of protection against financial risk. Through class discussions, group activities, and individual work, students will practice the skills essential for a financially healthy life.

Spanish 101

Spanish 101 is a beginner course that introduces the Spanish language to students who have no previous knowledge of the language. Students are introduced to basic vocabulary, common phrases and the grammatical structure of the language. Course objectives include acquiring communication skills, and ability to speak and write in the present tense; conjugate verbs and apply other basic aspects of grammar; become familiar with basic vocabulary and common phrases; engage in and understand short conversations; write short sentences and paragraphs on familiar topics; and develop an awareness and appreciation of Hispanic cultures. To achieve these objectives, students will engage in class discussions, structured conversations with peers and the instructor, listening and comprehension exercises, and written and spoken assessments.

Spelling & Grammar

Using a morphemic strategy, students learn basic spelling patterns and progress to new and more irregular spellings. Carefully planned multisensory sound discrimination exercises to nurture and develop phonological awareness and segmenting skills. Dictation exercises including sentence writing to learn and practice correct punctuation and grammar.

Drama

By studying and practicing forms of performance from the stage to film to voice acting, we aim to develop the ability to express oneself, comfort appearing in front of others, and familiarity with various performing methods. Primary focus will be placed on finding appropriate material for students to spend time practicing and rehearsing their own skits, monologues, scenes, etc., with occasional classes set aside to watch performances and discuss what we can learn from them as a class. If time allows, we will also examine the “backstage” side of drama, in terms of sets, lighting, staging, and so on.

Media Literacy

Today when we are surrounded by more entertainment media than ever, it is essential to learn and continuously develop the skills necessary to fully understand and interpret that media. This class will aim to give students the skills to critically examine the shows, movies, youtubers, music and writing that they absorb, and to draw their own conclusions about these pieces based in observation. A secondary goal of the class will be the ability to express ones views and conclusions on a piece in a clear and reasonable fashion, once opinions have been formed. We will begin by discussing shows and movies that the students are already familiar with, but will dedicate the bulk of our class time to watching and reading new things together and digging deeper through group conversation.

Dungeons and Dragons

Dungeons and Dragons (“DnD”) is essentially a game about telling a story as a group while using dice rolls to determine the outcome of certain actions. Think of it like a movie where each player can control one of the characters on the screen (which makes me the director I suppose).

The party has been hired to track down a group of lost adventurers, and have survived a treacherous trip through the Dwarven mountains, a trek through desert lands, and have now reached an ancient dragon temple. Good luck on your travels everyone!

Visual Art

Goal is to give students the tools to pursue the kind of art that most engages them with confidence. While it is wonderful to see students tangibly improve in technique, the larger focus of the class is on attempting new methods and learning how to practice effectively. The key to our class is in learning the skills and mindset to keep pushing and practicing, and acknowledging progress along the way. Each class we narrow our focus onto one aspect of art making (color, line, shape, proportion, etc.), beginning with an artist or piece of media as an example whenever possible. From there, I will guide the class in a series of short exercises to get hands-on experience with this concept, periodically taking time to give feedback and offer direction. When possible, we also like to take a class here and there to just mess around with a new material (plaster cloth, polymer clay, etc). The goal is to incorporate as diverse media as possible in connecting students with artistic concepts through images that they may already be familiar with, or would engage them effectively. Artists from throughout history are referenced, as are movies, video games, comics, etc. Occasionally, short youtube videos are incorporated that effectively break down very specific elements (“how to draw hair,” “using certain colors,” etc).

Chess

The chess program will introduce beginner-level students to the game of chess where they will acquire some of the skills necessary to enjoy the game and play good chess. After an initial period of immersion in playing the game and learning the basics, the students will move on to learning about chess strategy and tactics. Understanding the imbalances in chess positions, and learning the practical skills necessary to navigate them will be another focal point. Throughout the course, problem-solving will be the major method of learning all aspects of the game. We will also cover things like reading chess notation and using a modern day chess timer so that the students are prepared should they decide to try tournament competition.

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