Course History for Planet Homeschool
Arts | Computer Science & Design | Engineering | Humanities | Life Skills | Makers | Mathematics | Physical Education | Science | Social Science | Test Prep
Arts
Applied Arts | Performing Arts Education | Visual Arts
Applied Arts
Culinary Arts | Fiber Arts | Graphic Design | Metalworking | Woodworking
Culinary Arts
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Sculptural Fantasy Cake DecoratingDr. Tiffany Skidmore
Ages: for 10–19 years Learn multiple cake decorating techniques, from frosting flowers, stars, and shells to fondant sculptures finished with edible glitter. Over the course of the semester, you will make your own cake, colored decorator frosting, and colored fondant and then use your imagination to design and engineer sculptural fantasy cakes and cupcakes. |
Fiber Arts
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Fiber Arts: Knit/CrochetKim Chase-Kozak
Ages: for 10–19 years Fall Semester: Crochet Welcome all to the wide wooly world of fiber arts! Possible topics may include looming, knit, crochet, weaving, needle felting, wet felting, winter wear, holidays, applied math, amigurumi/shapes/creatures, colorwork, lace, granny squares, free knit/crochet, donation items, yarn bombing, whatever you can dream up! The class will very much reflect the personalities and desires of each individual. Come socialize and learn and/or work on knit or crochet. This class tends to be a nice relaxing break in the day. Prerequisites: None. All ages and levels. For beginners just starting basics to experts wanting some time and space to practice and consult on new techniques. Optional supply fees:
This full-year course will accept new students for Spring Semester. No charge for continuing students who have paid the supply fee once already. You are welcome to supply yourself if you want. NOTE: There will be an option to purchase additional supplies as a group. Opportunity for 1 or 2 teen assistants with excellent people and needlework skills who are willing to focus on helping others over their own work (contact Kim Chase-Kozak if you’re interested!). |
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Needlework Creature WorkshopKim Chase-Kozak
Ages: for 10–19 years Have you ever wanted to learn to crochet monsters, cute creatures, a Tardis, characters, and more? Amigurumi is the Japanese art of knitting or crocheting small stuffed animals and anthropomorphic creatures. (Try googling to see what great things you can make!) Learn to crochet or advance your skills! This class is flexible for those who already knit or who have other patterns or project ideas. Homework expectations: expect to spend the first several weeks of class learning to crochet and practicing at home, particularly if you are a beginner. The $30 optional supply fee (recommended for beginners in particular) will get you 2 crochet hooks, enough yarn for 2-3 beginning projects, many appropriate beginner- to intermediate-level patterns, access to my stash of yarn, and other creature supplies (embroidery floss, various eyes, felt, stuffing, etc). If you have a particular self-chosen project or pattern you’d like to tackle, you will be responsible for those supplies. If you have paid the supply fee, you can continue to use the stash/notions all semester even if you end up buying yarn for something. |
Sewing (Beginning to Intermediate)Maria Almli
Ages: for 10–19 years We will make a pincushion, pajama pants, and a project of your choice. Possibilities include a bag, skirt, mittens, cape, decorative pillow or simple quilt. Online tutorials will be available for reference at home. Prerequisites: None. Accommodations for different skill levels are available from beginners through the intermediate level. $15 supplies fee includes materials for the pincushion. Required materials: All students will need their own sewing machine, pins, seam ripper, and sharp scissors. Students will need to provide their own fabric for the pajama pants and the free choice project. Homework expectations: Some sewing outside of class will be necessary to complete projects. |
Graphic Design
Introduction to Graphic DesignDawn Keenan
Ages: for 12–19 years Welcome to the exciting and ever-changing world of graphic design. Learn how to use space, color, fonts, and pictures to create a visually appealing page. Hands-on projects and lively discussion await you in this fun class where you will come away with a mini-portfolio of your efforts. |
Metalworking
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Artistic MetalworkingMichelle Lehman
Ages: for 12–19 years Identity crisis? This hybrid shop/art class will introduce the basic concepts of several types of metalworking including casting, embossing, electro-etching, and welding. Students will explore some of the history of metalworking as we create a variety of projects featuring different metals and techniques. Students will also have the opportunity to visit my home and use a plasma cutter and MIG welder to create a unique, functional, or artistic piece. |
Woodworking
WoodworkingMichelle Lehman
Ages: for 12–19 years In this hybrid shop and fine arts class, we will explore the world of woodworking using hand and power tools to create a variety of projects. Wood can be used to craft functional, beautiful, and fun items. We will explore a wide array of tools and techniques to cut, shape, carve and finish our designs. Possible projects include:
Families should be aware that some tasks may be challenging for younger students. |
Performing Arts Education
Dance | Music | Theater Arts
Dance
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Intro to Ballroom and Country Western DanceBill Smith
Ages: for 10–19 years In this introduction to social dancing for beginning and intermediate dancers, we’ll focus on the fundamentals of country waltz, cha-cha, East Coast swing, West Coast swing, and country two-step dances. Come have fun learning this great lifelong skill! |
Ballroom DanceMs. Dorothy Rose
Ages: for 10–19 years This course began many years ago as a result of students’ requests and has remained very popular ever since. This class will provide students with a useful, life-long skill that will benefit them physically and socially. Dances included in the course are Waltz, Fox Trot, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Tango, Cha Cha, Samba, Mambo, Polka, Rhumba, Quick-Step. In addition, students will learn several “warmup” group dances. |
Music
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Guitar, Ukulele or HarmonicaJoe Filipovich
Ages: for 10–19 years Music lessons for guitar, ukulele, and harmonica for 1 or 2 students per 30-minute lesson. Students in the same class session must be playing the same instrument and should be of similar age (for example 10–12, 13–15, or 16–18). Tuition includes an instruction book with chords, scales, music, and songs. Guitar rental available: $125. Students will pick it up on the first lesson and return it on the last lesson. The other option is $37 for a month-to-month rental. Guitar rentals are limited and are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Harmonica and ukulele rentals are not available. Ukuleles, harmonicas, and guitars can be purchased at most local music stores. Harmonicas can cost as little as $15 and ukuleles can cost as little as $60. |
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Music Composition WorkshopBenjamin Klein
Ages: for 12–19 years In this workshop, we will explore different ways in which to create music through various composition, improvisation, and other music-making strategies. Students are invited to participate as both composers and performers where the focus of the creative work will be to write music for each other to play and experiment in. All performing and music experience levels are welcome. Projects will be guided to include the contribution of all participants. We will also listen to the music and survey various composition strategies that other composers have undertaken to create their work in order to inspire ideas for our workshop. Required materials: Students will need to supply their own musical instruments. |
Songwriting for AllBrady Geary
Ages: for 11–19 years Have you ever wanted to write a song? Whether you have musical experience or not, this course will help you write lyrics and music for an original song—plus, you’ll get experience with both poetry and basic music theory. |
Theater Arts
Theatrical Productions | Acting Technique | Technical Theater
Theatrical Productions
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Theatrical Production: The Sound of Music or SpamalotDr. Tiffany Skidmore
Ages: for 10–19 years
Student actors will spend each week learning music, lines, blocking, and choreography for the final show. In addition to weekly in-class rehearsals at PHS, participation in two theater retreats and an open dress rehearsal is expected. Auditions will be held in the Fall to determine major role placements, but all registered students will play a part no matter when they join the cast. Cast members are also encouraged (but not required) to register for Julianne Bruce’s Stagecraft class, where they will be given the opportunity to help create the sets and costume pieces for the show. NOTE: $50 supply fee is waived for cast members who are also signed up for the Stagecraft production arts class. Auditions for principal roles will be held in August of 2020 (dates TBA). |
Acting Technique
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Improvisational TheaterDavid Weinlick
Ages: for 10–19 years Creativity-on-demand can be tough. Although improvisation is very much about making things up on the fly, there are still ways you can practice the art of being spontaneous. This class will explore students’ ability to work “off-script” and enhance their creative play. Students will learn tools of the trade used by professional improvisational actors, and they will develop their ability to act out worlds of their own imagination. The class will focus on improvisational teamwork to create scenes together, even when those ideas may clash. Get ready to break through any social reticence and find your own dramatic genius. Students should be prepared to feel ridiculous at times. |
Sing! Dance! EnsemblePrudence Johnson
Ages: for 10–19 years This musical performance class is centered on great music and history as the students dig into the roots of American popular music. They’ll learn four decade-defining songs, study vocal techniques and styles, stage presence, and collaboration. The final on-stage revue will feature the four big songs gleefully arranged and choreographed. Occasionally, Prudence may invite guest artists to help teach this class. Prerequisites: Reading and singing experience is a plus but not required. This full-year course will accept new students for Spring Semester. |
Technical Theater
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Costume and Stage Make-up with ProstheticsMichelle Lehman
Ages: for 12–19 years Learn the fundamentals of prosthetic making and application as well as make techniques for costume and stage in this hands-on class. We will begin the term by creating a lifecast, sculpting a prosthetic appliance, and casting our prosthetic just in time for Halloween. From there, we will learn other application and make-up techniques to bring to life fun and gruesome characters and creations. This class is not suitable for students with a latex allergy. On the first day of class, all students will do a product test to check for reactions. Some tasks may be challenging for younger students. |
Visual Arts
Drawing | Filmmaking | Painting | Photography | Printmaking
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2D ArtValerie Geary
Ages: for 12–19 years Calling all artists AND nonartists. That’s right. Whether you are a skilled artist, someone that doodles or you like art but never make any yourself this class will fit you perfectly. Try your hand at a variety of projects such as designing wallpaper, stylizing animals, and making art with words to name a few. This class will get you started on an individual project, give you time to work and feedback to help you along the way. And the best part is seeing the range of amazing creations from all the students, side by side. |
3D ArtValerie Geary
Ages: for 12–19 years Come make amazing 3D creations using a variety of materials. We will use clay, recycled materials, and paper to jump into the world of 3D art. These projects will be fun for everyone whether you consider yourself an artist or not. Projects may include art wind chimes, scale model sculptures, and zentangle-inspired reliefs. This class will get you started on an individual project, give you time to work and feedback to help you along the way. And the best part is that you will leave with some awesome art! |
Drawing
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Advanced DrawingMegan McNinch
Ages: for 12–19 years In-class exercises and sketchbook work will help students learn new skills while building on and reinforcing drawing basics. We’ll explore principles of design, anatomy for artists, drawing a likeness, basic color theory, and more. Students will also look at and discuss work by a wide variety of contemporary and traditional artists. Prerequisites: This class is designed for students who have taken drawing classes previously or have independently explored drawing fundamentals and are ready for a more challenging course. The $30 supply fee includes one sketchbook. Additional sketchbooks may be purchased through the instructor for $12 each or independently. |
Middle School DrawingMegan McNinch
Ages: for 10–15 years Students will learn drawing fundamentals while exploring their personal interests. Fun and engaging in-class exercises and sketchbook work will focus on improving drawing skills and helping students express their creativity. Students will experiment with pencil, ink, charcoal, and more. In addition to student work, we will look at and discuss work by a number of artists and explore a wide variety of drawing styles. The supplies fee includes one sketchbook. Additional sketchbooks may be purchased through the instructor for $12 or independently. |
DrawingMegan McNinch
Ages: for 12–19 years Students will learn drawing fundamentals while exploring their personal interests. Fun and engaging in-class exercises and sketchbook work will focus on improving drawing skills and helping students express their creativity. Students will experiment with pencil, ink, charcoal, and more. In addition to student work, we will look at and discuss work by a number of artists and explore a wide variety of drawing styles. $30 supplies fee includes one sketchbook. Additional sketchbooks may be purchased through the instructor for $12 or independently. |
Filmmaking
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Painting
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Photography
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Printmaking
Relief PrintmakingMegan McNinch
Ages: for 12–19 years Students will experiment with a variety of relief printmaking processes including linocuts, woodcuts, collagraphs, and more. Through printmaking we’ll also explore design essentials and principles like color, balance, and proportion. In class discussions, we’ll look at work by printmakers and artists from around the world and throughout history. The class will culminate in a themed print exchange and the option to bind prints into a simple bound or accordion book. |
Computer Science & Design
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Advanced Minecraft Redstone with Breadboard Electronics and Arduino ProgrammingMichelle Lehman & Ethan Lehman
Ages: for 10–19 years Delve deep into the world of Minecraft to create advanced projects using redstone. Having covered the basics and completed several redstone builds to hone our skills, we’ll now work on coding command blocks and setting up game mechanics for custom maps and mini-games. The $20 supplies fee covers the cost of sensors and electrical components. Required materials:
This full-year course will accept new students for Spring Semester. |
Beginning Programming with Minecraft ModsKim Chase-Kozak
Ages: for 10–19 years A fun introduction to programming using tools designed to make beginning programming less daunting. Ready to think like a programmer? Learn about variables, data types, functions, loops, logic, conditionals! Sound confusing? It won’t by the end of this class! We will do most of our learning in the world of Minecraft Mods. Access to the Minecraft Mod Blockly tool will be provided with registration for this class. This will be a Minecraft-focused class, but may require a little in-class flexibility! We may move to in-class activities or possibly apply some of these principles in the free programming tool Scratch if our wifi is problematic. Scratch is a better tool for demonstrating some principles, can be used offline, and is formatted very similar to the Minecraft Mod Blockly tool. Prerequisites: beginning programmers welcome. Required materials:
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Engineering
Design, Build, Test: StructuresPeter Hoh
Ages: for 10–14 years Use the engineering design process to explore materials and structures. We will work collaboratively to build structures out of various materials such as paper, cardboard, and wood. Then we’ll test our structures to see how they respond to forces. We will analyze what works and what doesn’t to learn how we can make better structures. Students should bring a notebook and pencil to class each week. When necessary, the instructor will alert families that students need to bring protective eyewear. Prerequisites: Students should have the fine motor skills necessary to use scissors. Homework expectations: While time will be provided during class for design work, some students might prefer to think about their design between class sessions. When we start making projects over multiple sessions, families will be responsible for transporting the partially-finished projects to and from PHS weekly. Supplies fee covers masking tape, glue, paper, cardstock, index cards, brass fasteners, zip ties, and hardware (nuts, bolts, screws). Image: Photos by Peter Hoh. All rights reserved. Used with permission. |
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Humanities
Cultural Studies | English Language Arts | History | Languages | Literature | Philosophy
Cultural Studies
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English Language Arts
Creative Writing | Essay Writing | Journalism | Public Speaking
Creative Writing
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Creative WritingNora Parker Cox of The Light Academy
Ages: for 12–19 years Join us as we explore the main parts of creative writing! We’ll start with characters (and yes this includes villains), move on to plot, and end with, well, how to finish — and all along you’ll have a chance to experience world building hands-on by adding to a giant class map! Each day of class will have games to warm-up our imaginations, chats about all things creative writing, and plenty of time to write (or draw if comics are more your thing). At the end of the semester, you’ll have a chance to share something you’ve been working on (but you certainly don’t have to)! |
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Novel and Short Story WritingTim Hereid
Ages: for 10–19 years At the heart of every person is a story. You have a story you want to tell. You may not even know it. This class will help you tell it and many others. This class will help students develop short stories and novels through a positive, helpful, and confidence-building critique method used in writer’s groups around the world. Students can expect to do lots of writing, some revision, and to regularly celebrate their and others’ writing. Students can come into class with their own ideas, but that is not required. Through quick, fun, and engaging writing prompts and activities, students will be able to develop a number of ideas and pick from them to get started writing. |
Fan FictionJeanne Bain
Ages: for 10–19 years What happens when Katniss Everdeen, Captain America, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer enter the Doctor’s TARDIS? Will they fly through time and space and fight a battle in the Hogwarts Castle? Get lost in Howl’s Moving Castle? In fanfiction, anything goes! Sharpen your pencils, engage your wit, push up your sleeves and explore the craft of creative writing through fan fiction! Warning: Plenty of group writing, improvisation, and cosplay. |
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Essay Writing
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Research Paper WritingCarrie Pomeroy
Ages: for 10–19 years Research papers do NOT have to be a tedious slog! They can be a great opportunity to challenge your thinking, surprise yourself, and make new discoveries about a subject that fascinates you. We’ll explore how to choose a focused topic, craft a thesis statement, organize research, and more. Through weekly assignments, in-class activities, and peer review, you’ll work your way up to writing a research paper step by step. In the process, you’ll practice skills you can use in high-school academic work and beyond. Please note: though we may touch on some points of grammar and punctuation toward the end of this course, we’ll primarily be focusing on building academic writing and critical thinking skills. Tuition includes a copying fee for course hand-outs. |
Research Paper WritingElise Duval Werger
Ages: for 14–19 years This class is for high-schoolers who wish to develop and improve their academic writing skills. Students will complete a formal research paper on a topic of their choice. Gain academic writing practice with a topic that fascinates you! Because this class will focus on academic writing skills, it is expected that participants already have a basic working knowledge of grammar and punctuation. Homework expectations: Weekly assignments, writing exercises, and peer review will keep the process manageable and enjoyable. |
Essay and Nonfiction WritingTim Hereid
Ages: for 12–19 years If you love writing, or if you hate writing, this class is for you. In school, college, life, and work today, writing is more important than ever. Everyone has to be able to write. Through fun, focused activities, Students will build their skills in writing about life, personal experiences, and serious current events. Together, we will write a descriptive essay, a persuasive essay, and an analysis essay as well as a “choice essay” for the last part of the course. Students will have input/choice throughout the course on the topic of their essays. Successful communication through writing just requires practice, confidence, and knowledge. Because of this, we will spend some time on the fundamentals of writing, including basic grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and essay structure. |
Journalism
PodcastingMaria Almli
Ages: for 11–19 years Explore different types of podcasts, learn how to interview, put together a story, and record and edit audio. Workshop each other’s pieces. Optional Field Trip: Students will also have the opportunity to tour a radio station. Required materials:A smartphone, laptop computer and headphones are required for this class. It is possible that an iPod touch or iPad could substitute for the smartphone. If you do not have a smart phone, please check with the instructor about the specifics of your device prior to signing up. A permission slip allowing child’s voice on the internet is required for this class. Homework commitment:This class requires homework including listening assignments, fieldwork, and audio editing. |
Newspaper & PhotojournalismTesha Christensen Pettit
Ages: for 10–19 years Do you like to write reviews on movies or music? Snap photos or take video? Let others know what’s going on? Delve deep into a topic and write a hard news story? Feature someone’s hobbies? Do you know that everyone has a story to tell? Be part of an online newspaper at Planet Homeschool. Learn the basics of being a reporter while becoming a more discriminating news consumer. Try your hand at writing several different kinds of news stories to find your niche. We’ll talk about why freedom of the press is protected in our constitution, and how the working environment varies for reporters around the world. As technology changes, we’ll learn about the shifting news landscape and we’ll talk about how becoming a good news writer will benefit you no matter what career path you take. |
Public Speaking
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History
Modern American History: Reconstruction to 1980Theresa Redfern-Hall
Ages: for 13–19 years Using the amazing power of hindsight we will look at events and decisions that shaped Modern American History! We will use primary documents, art, literature, movies, web sources, potential speakers to analyze our more recent US history. Students will engage in class discussion and challenge themselves and each other to view history through the eyes of those who lived it.
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History of Rock and RollDr. Tiffany Skidmore
Ages: for 12–19 years Fall Semester: Origins to 1970 Learn about the origins of rock music, the genres that have influenced it, and its impact on the music of today. Discuss the relationship between popular music, culture, and history. Learn to identify standard rhythms and chord progressions and learn to analyze song structure. In past years, my classes have also enjoyed composing and performing songs as a group. Homework expectations: Assignments for this class will include several short writing assignments, one longer paper, and one class presentation. Note: Because most rock songs contain mature content, families will be given a list of songs that will be studied in class each week. Students who wish to leave class for certain discussions will be welcome to do so. |
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Revolution: A World HistoryTim Hereid
Ages: for 12–19 years Governments can make their citizens quite grumpy sometimes, and so revolt is a constant theme in world history. While revolutionary movements might have slightly different goals and begin for slightly different reasons, they have much in common. Revolutions begin from an act of government violence and erupt as a result of further state-sponsored violence. We’ll study various revolutions throughout world history with additional special focus on the 20th century, the revolutions of 1968 and the recent “Arab Spring”. Students will get a sense of the causes, demands and success of various revolutionary movements through discussion, debate, mini-lecture, videos, reading and role play. |
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Art HistoryValerie Geary
Ages: for 10–19 years Fall: 1400s through Impressionism The lives of artists can be as interesting or even more interesting than the artworks each artist creates. This class will focus on one or two artists each week. Learn about faces made of fruits and whether an artist really tethered himself to a ship’s mast during a storm to completely understand the experience of a tempest. Find out who made a monthly time capsule by taping a box closed each month filled with things ranging from drawings to birthday cake. We will move chronologically looking at not only the artist and artwork but also the time period, geography, and major historical events during the artist’s lifetime. We may be tempted to create a bit of art along the way but these would either be group projects or simply projects to better understand a medium and in no way is “art talent” a requirement. |
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Languages
American Sign Language | French | German | Japanese | Spanish
American Sign Language
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French
French ConversationMs. Dorothy Rose
Ages: for 10–19 years
French is a gateway to the worlds of art, music, literature, cuisine, business, and diplomacy. This class is designed for students of all levels and all ages. The emphasis is on speaking and understanding the language. Reading, writing, and culture are incorporated, as well. The goals of the class are achieved through the use of stimulating, interactive, individualized activities, created by the instructor. Success and enjoyment are guaranteed! Prerequisites: None. All ages and all levels are welcome, and all materials are included in the tuition. This full-year course will accept new students for Spring Semester. |
German
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Japanese
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Spanish
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Spanish ConversationMs. Dorothy Rose
Ages: for 10–19 years
Bienvenido! Next to English, this practical language is the most frequently used language in the U.S. Although some writing, reading, and culture are incorporated into this stimulating, interactive, individualized course, the emphasis is on speaking and understanding the spoken language. A great variety of activities and methods will be used to appeal to all learning styles. Prerequisites: None. All ages and all levels welcome, and all materials included in the tuition. This full-year course will accept new students for Spring Semester. |
Beginning SpanishMs. Dorothy Rose
Ages: for 10–19 years
Bienvenido! Next to English, this practical language is the most frequently used language in the U.S. Although some writing, reading, and culture are incorporated into this stimulating, interactive, individualized course, the emphasis is on speaking and understanding the spoken language. It is geared mainly for beginning students, who will be speaking español in no time at all! A great variety of activities and methods will be used to appeal to all learning styles. Prerequisites: None. Students at all levels are welcome and will benefit from this class. |
Literature
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The Evolution of Black LiteratureRiley Davis
Ages: for 13–19 years This class is to explore the history and evolution of black literature and how it has shaped the image of the black community in America. We will utilize multiple literary forms including contemporary novels, graphic novels, film, plays and poetry. This class will not be white washing or watering down the important and graphic violence that the black community faces and has faced through history due to the actions of white supremacy. Students will be challenging their personal conscious and subconscious perceptions and biases of what is blackness. |
What the Dickens?Elise Duval Werger
Ages: for 12–17 years Immerse yourself in the world and works of Charles Dickens. Explore details of life in 19th century London. Discover why Dicken’s characters are so memorable, how he gets away with scathing social criticism, and why this master of satire is still popular today. This class will focus on three of Dickens’ works (Oliver Twist, A Christmas Carol, and A Tale of Two Cities), along with some of the major societal issues which serve as backdrops to these tales (such as industrialization, the role of government as it relates to poverty, and social revolution). “The Best of Times”? Guaranteed! Homework expectations: Students will be expected to read up to 100 pages per week. Assignments will focus on the techniques of writing literary analysis. Textbooks:
Unabridged, any edition. |
Gruesome Fairy TalesTheresa Redfern-Hall
Ages: for 12–19 years Peeling away all the glitter, gowns, fairy godmothers and singing mice, we get down to the real origins of fairy tales. The original fairy tales are not those wonderful happy ever after stories some children have read to them at bedtime. They were warnings about life and what happened to those who didn’t listen. Fairy tales have been around forever, cultures have similar tales, each with a cautionary tale included. This class digs into those tales and really analyzes what happens in the original stories before Disney changed them. We also learn about fractured fairy tales, how to create them and will, by the end of the class, have compiled our own group of student created fractured fairy tales. |
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Literature with Harry PotterValerie Geary
Ages: for 10–19 years Using the first three Harry Potter novels (Sorcerer’s Stone, Chamber of Secrets, and Prisoner of Azkaban) we will explore literary devices such as personification “the car burped out the suitcases”, themes of courage and family, the imagery of Hogwarts castle and the symbolism of the sorting hat. We will also use additional readings (handed out in class) including short stories, nonfiction, and poetry to compare and further explore these popular works of fiction. Prerequisites: Students will need to have read the first three Harry Potter novels prior to the first day of class. |
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The Lord of the Rings as LiteratureElise Duval Werger
Ages: for 12–19 years Join this year-long exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien’s classic tale. Examine Tolkien’s sources (including Beowulf & the tales of King Arthur) and learn about the conventions of epic literature. Dig into Tolkien’s use of languages (including those he created). Immerse yourself in his use of poetry, setting, theme, and motif in this engrossing book. Enjoy losing yourself in Middle Earth and analyzing TLOTR to your heart’s content. Homework expectations: Participants will read 2–3 chapters (approximately 40 pages) per week and engage in regular (short) writing assignments. Occasional extra reading of source material optional. A full-year course. Spring registration is limited to students enrolled in the Fall. |
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Philosophy
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Life Skills
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Bike RepairTyler Skidmore
Ages: for 10–19 years This course will provide the fundamentals of how to repair and tune up bicycles. This course would be useful for someone looking for a bicycle repair job, someone who is a bike enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys tinkering. Class will be held in the parking lot (or another space large enough for bikes, bike stands, and students). |
Makers
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FANDOM!Michelle Lehman
Ages: for 10–19 years From Harry Potter to Star Trek sometimes fandoms just take on a life of their own. We’ll explore several class selected fandoms and their cultures while geeking out with some FAN-tastic projects. Ever wanted to make a sonic screwdriver, tool your own leather bracers, build a phaser or assemble your own light saber? Then this is the class for you! |
Advanced Harry Potter Crafts & GizmosMichelle Lehman
Ages: for 10–19 years Go beyond wand making and butterbeer to create magical creatures and objects from the world of Harry Potter. We will sew, sculpt, craft, and create our way through projects that will bewitch the mind and ensnare the senses. From caring for Mandrakes in Herbology to learning Vera Verto in Transfiguration to exploring the restricted section of the library to create our very own Sorcerer’s Stone, this class is the next best thing to going to Hogwarts! |
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Mathematics
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Middle School Math EnrichmentJudy O’Neill
Ages: for 10–14 years A group math enrichment experience for middle school homeschoolers in 5th–7th grades. This class is intended to supplement whatever math curriculum you are using. Topics may include Pascal’s Triangle, simple probability, graphs and charts, working with base 10 and other number bases, math “magic”, history of mathematics and mathematicians, logic problems, the metric system, and mathematics games. Families who register at least 2 weeks prior to the start of class will have the opportunity to request specific topics to be covered. Prerequisites: none Homework expectations: There will be a minimum amount of homework on an occasional basis. |
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Probability and Statistics of GamesDavid Weinlick
Ages: for 10–19 years This course will introduce students to the principles of statistics and probability, focusing on games as a tool for understanding what probabilities mean. Students will be able to better interpret statistics and apply their knowledge to real-life situations. We’ll explore how games of chance work, and what ’the house always wins’ really means. Students can apply what they learn to building a better Magic deck, improving their odds in dice games, and so on. To the extent possible, the class will focus on games chosen by the students that can provide examples of the principles of probability. After covering the essentials of statistical probability, students will demonstrate that knowledge by applying it to questions of their own. Prerequisites: Students should feel comfortable with algebra basics. |
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Physical Education
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Introduction to Yoga and MeditationMarisa Vargas
Ages: for 12–19 years Practicing yoga builds strength, enhances concentration and self-esteem, cultivates a peaceful, relaxed state of body and mind, and offers teens tools for managing stressful situations. This class will include learning yoga poses (asanas), introduction to meditation, mindfulness techniques, basic principles of yoga philosophy and relaxation opportunities. The instructor will guide the students to find balance in body and mind by introducing yoga poses in a meditative way as well as flowing sequences of poses and fun breathing techniques that will keep the students engaged and active as well as creating a peaceful mind. Required materials: Participants will need to bring their own yoga mat to class, but teacher will provide yoga blankets and blocks. |
Science
Astronomy | Biology | Chemistry | Geoscience | Interdisciplinary | Physics
Astronomy
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Biology
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Phenology JournalingLauren Borer of Naturally Curious Education
Ages: for 10–19 years Use a field journal to learn how to keep track of the seasonal changes that happen as we go from summer to fall. Students will draw, write, and record information, honing their observation skills and their understanding of the natural world around them. |
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Chemistry
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Geoscience
Geology
Geology of MinnesotaLauren Borer of Naturally Curious Education
Ages: for 10–16 years Minnesota has an amazing geological history! It really is the land of not only 10,000 lakes, but a land formed by fire and ice! In this fall semester course, we will cover basic geology – processes, rocks and minerals, and geologic time – and learn about Minnesota’s geological wonders. We will have two optional field trips during the semester for $15 per field trip:
No textbook is required. Most classes will be lab and project-based. |
Interdisciplinary
Atmospheric science | Biophysics | Environmental science
Atmospheric science
High Altitude Balloon ScienceTim Hereid
Ages: for 11–19 years This hands-on, science-intensive workshop will focus on the art of high altitude ballooning. High altitude ballooning, the act of sending a helium-filled weather balloon to the edge of space (in our case, equipped with an HD camera) and then back down, is an increasingly popular, highly educational, and incredibly fun way to learn about physics, weather, and our atmosphere. It is also a great way to vicariously travel to space! The workshop will take place over several weeks in which students will explore such topics as lift, atmospheric pressure, the composition of atmospheric layers, the laws of motion, buoyancy, radiation, thermal effects, gravity, and microgravity. Students will perform in-class experiments, presentations and learn the equipment and steps necessary to launch a high-altitude balloon. The materials fee covers materials for experiments, the cost of helium, and of the sacrificial weather balloon. The workshop will culminate in the launch of our own high-altitude weather balloon and with watching the video footage of its journey. It is possible for the balloon (and all of my gear) to be lost in transit. I haven’t lost a balloon yet, but it is possible! In this case, we wouldn’t be able to watch the video of our balloon’s flight. |
Biophysics
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Environmental science
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Physics
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Middle School PhysicsDr. Tom Anderson
Ages: for 10–14 years This physics class will give middle-school students fun hands-on experience with energy, momentum, forces, and other concepts that help us understand the universe around us. Focus will be on experiments, measurements, and a gentle introduction to problem-solving with professor Dr. Tom Anderson. |
Space Travel, The Future, and YouTim Hereid
Ages: for 13–19 years A Basic Physics Course. We live in an exciting time for space travel. In our lifetimes we’ll see private moon missions, the colonizing and possible terraforming of Mars, explorations of distant solar system objects like “2014 MU 169” and the mining of asteroids for precious metals. Companies like SpaceX and Blue Origins are welcoming in a faster, cheaper and more awesome chapter of space exploration by creating reusable rockets and space planes. NASA is the most successful space program anywhere in the world and is sending out probes, orbiters and landers faster than ever before. Organizations like the European Space Agency, CERN, NASA and others are discovering more about the nature of our universe and the possibility of life on other worlds. This class will explore all of these topics and more. Students will engage in discussion and debate about the impact of new technologies, alien life and space travel on society. They will engage in hands-on activities and group work, write, watch videos, listen to mini-lectures and most importantly, tap into their sense of wonder about the vastness of our universe. A full-year course. Spring registration is limited to students enrolled in the Fall. |
Fundamental of Physics: Light, Heat, Motion and EnergyTim Hereid
Ages: for 10–15 years This hands-on course with familiarize students with major concepts in physics including matter, energy, the structure of atoms, forces, and motion. Geared toward a middle school audience, we will engage in experiments, small group work, lectures, discussions, and debates. We will not only explore the fundamentals of physics but reach beyond to the questions physics has yet to discover. Where did all of the “stuff” in the universe really come from? Are there other universes? What about other dimensions? Why does gravity work? We’ll ask these questions and more in our attempt to unlock the secrets of the universe and understand the world around us. |
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Social activities
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Gaming
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Social science
Civics and Government | Economics | Futurology | Geography | Psychology | Religious Studies | Social Studies of Marketing
Civics and Government
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Economics
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Futurology
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Geography
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The Promise of Place: High School GeographyTim Hereid
Ages: for 13–19 years What does where I live have to do with who I am? How does the mortality rate in my hometown affect my chances of living a long life? How does Gross Domestic Product affect my chances of getting a job after high school or college? Why does it matter where I’m “from?” Answer these and hundreds of other questions in this rigorous course that teaches the core concepts of high school geography, employing each of the Minnesota academic geography standards. Students will engage with geographic data, create their own maps, be able to identify major landforms (and nations and capitals), learn to negotiate latitude and longitude, learn the important geographical locations and features of our globe, debate global issues related to geography, use place as a lens through which to understand the world and produce a final project of their own choosing. |
Human GeographyTim Hereid
Ages: for 12–19 years Human Geography studies the movement of people, culture, money, language, ideas, technology, and information across our world. By studying physical and electronic maps including those available through Google Earth, students will begin to see these phenomena in action. By creating their own maps of their local environments, students will learn and employ the basics of cartography and see their city, town, or community in a new light. This class will help students understand immigration patterns, topography and its influence on human decision-making, global and national language patterns, globalization, and diplomacy, among other concepts. While these topics may seem complex, maps and geography are not. Students will be able to actually see patterns emerge before their eyes as they study maps and resources from all over our world and throughout history. Students will also have a very short course in countries, capitals, and major land features as a part of the class. |
Psychology
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Psychology of a Serial KillerTheresa Redfern-Hall
Ages: for 12–19 years We see them in movies, tv shows and read about them in bestselling books. But who are these people that violate every ounce of our human moral code? Are they like Dexter from the popular TV show? Or do they follow the path of the villain in Silence of the Lambs? Why does someone become a serial killer and why is the public so fascinated with them? We will begin our class by discussing what is “normal psychology?” and then move into abnormal psychology. The class will learn about the history of serial killers and what the FBI has to do with serial killers? We will then apply that information to case studies of famous serial killers. Another area that will be covered will be the forgotten victims of serial killers, the families of the victims. We will also look into the reasons why society is so fascinated by these individuals. This is a class that was originally requested by students. It deals with a difficult topic and is for mature students. |
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Religious Studies
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Social Studies of Marketing
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Test Prep
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