2023-2024 Class Descriptions Math, Computer Science, and Science
CHAMPS 2023-2024
CLASS DESCRIPTIONS
MATH, COMPUTER SCIENCE, AND SCIENCE
Math Classes
Saxon Algebra ½ , Grades 7th-10th (Pre-algebra)
Topics covered will be prime and composite numbers, fractions, decimals, area, ratios and proportions, percent, signed numbers, order of operations, solving 1st-degree equations in one variable, evaluating and simplifying algebraic expressions, graphing coordinates, Application problems will be taught throughout the course as related to the above topics.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Saxon 8/7 or an A in Saxon 7/6 or similar course.
Text/supplies: Saxon Algebra ½ 3rd Edition,. Homework should be done on lined paper and in pencil.
INSTRUCTOR: Lissa Schellinger, lissa.schellinger@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 4/20
MONTHLY FEE: $30 plus, optional additional fee of $5 per week for one extra hour of instruction via Zoom class, if desired.
SUPPLY FEE: None
Saxon Algebra I, High School (or an advanced Middle Schooler)
Topics covered will be signed numbers, exponents, absolute value, order of operations, evaluating expressions, solving 1stand 2nd degree equations in one variable and 1st degree equations in two variable, factoring, operations with polynomials and rational expressions, graphing linear equations, an introduction to radicals, unit conversion, scientific notation, direct and inverse variation, area, volume and an introduction to probability and statistics. Application problems will be taught throughout the course as related to the above topics.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Saxon Algebra ½ or similar course.
Text/supplies: Saxon Algebra I 3rd Edition, a standard or scientific calculator will be permitted on some material about midway through the course. Homework should be done on lined paper and in pencil.
INSTRUCTOR: Lissa Schellinger, lissa.schellinger@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 4/20 students
MONTHLY FEE: $30 plus, optional additional fee of $5 per week for one extra hour of instruction via Zoom class, if desired.
SUPPLY FEE: None
Saxon Algebra II, high school (or an advanced middle schooler who meets the prerequisites)
Topics covered will be many informal geometry topics, negative exponents, quadratic equations, advanced factoring, radicals, metric conversions, and logarithms.Application problems will be taught throughout the course as related to the above topics.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Saxon Algebra I or similar course.
INSTRUCTOR: Lissa Schellinger, lissa.schellinger@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 4/20
MONTHLY FEE: $30 plus, optional additional fee of $5 per week for one extra hour of instruction via Zoom class, if desired.
SUPPLY FEE: None
Text/supplies: Saxon Algebra ½ 3rd Edition,. Homework should be done on lined paper and in pencil.
Fun with Math: 5-6 years
Fun with Math ages 5-6 will introduce and engage early minds, building basic math skills with topics such as single digit addition, counting to 100, fractions, (in)equalities, money, time, measurement, simple geometry, visual bar graphs, and two-digit place value. We will do this using manipulatives, stories, games, solving word problems, puzzles, the occasional worksheet, and real life examples. This 45 minute class is designed to be a fun supplement to and reinforcement of any learning done at home, with the fun companionship of friends.
INSTRUCTOR: Liz Cassidy, cassidies@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 3 / 10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MAT’L FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
Fun with Math: 7 - 9 years
Fun with Math ages 7-9 will engage the intermediate elementary math student to build upon basic math skills with the purpose of acquiring a solid foundation necessary for higher math levels. Suggested topics will include math fact drills, multi-digit addition and subtraction, single/double digit multiplication, double/single digit division, squares, cubes, fractions, (in)equalities, geometry, money, time, exponents, measurement, visual bar graphs, mixed operations, simple ratios, puzzles. We will engage in games, small team competitions, problem solving, the occasional worksheet, and real life examples. We will have fun learning shortcut methods and apply them in ways to expedite problem solving. This one hour class is designed to be a fun supplement to and reinforcement of any learning done at home, with the fun companionship of friends.
INSTRUCTOR: Liz Cassidy, cassidies@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 3 /10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MAT’L FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
Fun with Math 10 to 12 years
Fun with Math ages 10-12 will engage the advanced elementary math student to build upon intermediate math skills with the purpose of acquiring a solid foundation necessary for higher math levels.
Get ready for some fun! Build your Empire in Monopoly, hop aboard the Mexican Train, challenge yourself in logic, strategy, and puzzle games. Roll the dice and join your friends in an hour long class of board games, card games, dice games, Sudoku, dominoes… Learn about wages, tax, and tips, and how to change money; life skills that are important. All while playing games!
Suggested topics will include solidifying math fact drills, multi-digit addition and subtraction, multi-digit multiplication and division, squares, cubes, fractions, (in)equalities, geometry, money, time, exponents, measurement, visual bar graphs, mixed operations, ratios, puzzles. We will engage in games, small team competitions, problem solving, the occasional worksheet, and real life examples. We will have fun applying shortcut methods to expedite problem solving. This one hour class is designed to be a fun supplement to and reinforcement of any learning done at home, with the fun companionship of friends.
INSTRUCTOR: Liz Cassidy, cassidies@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 3 /10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MATERIAL FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
Math Lab, Grades 8-12
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Math Lab, your 8th - 12th grade math student will be able to receive help on their specific math curriculum. Students will come to class with their questions and will be able to work with the INSTRUCTOR one-on-one to work through their challenges. Students who are in Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, and above can enroll in this class. |
INSTRUCTOR: Bethany Kazmierowski, bethanykazmierowski@gmail.com
MIN/MAX: 1 / 1
CLASS FEE $20 / week
Computer Science Classes
3D Printing Engineering - Ages 8 - 15)
This class is open to new students that, are not currently enrolled in 3D Printing STEM. This class introduces kids to the exciting world of 3D Printing. Participants will learn how to create CAD designs using TinkerCAD and then print them out in 3D right before their eyes. Kids will learn the engineering design process while designing kid friendly items that will then be printed on the 3D printer. In addition, they will explore the world of science and engineering with hands on STEM projects. Each student is required to bring a Chromebook or lap top computer to class each week.
INSTRUCTOR: Melissa Lofrano, melissalofrano@3ddreammakers.com
MIN/MAX: 6/10
MONTHLY FEE: $45
MATERIAL FEE: $40 August / $40 January
Introduction to Video Editing, High School and Advanced Middle School Students
“Introduction to Video Editing” course will teach students how to use video editing software to edit, cut, color grade, color correct, use visual effects, create subtitles, audio correction, audio effects, green screening, and certain transitions to modify the video and audio elements to produce short videos. The course will be presented in a workshop format. Each class will start with instructions on various techniques and the remainder of the class will be used to practice the newly acquired skills as well as the past learning ones through hands-on projects. The student will explore their passions and hobbies, so that they can communicate their interests effectively and efficiently through videos.
We will have both in-class hands-on projects as well as occasional homework.
Technical Requirements: Students will be required to bring a working laptop for each class (PC or MAC). Learning Prerequisite: Students should be comfortable using computers/laptop and have the willingness to learn new technologies.
Software Requirements: The software will be supplied by the instructor for no additional fees; instructions on how to install the software will be provided in September 2023, before 1st class.
INSTRUCTOR: George Ciuca, gciu66123@gmail.com
Age range: This class is designed for high school students. Technically gifted middle school students are welcome to join the class too. The class may be listed in the student transcript as 1 credit (one full year learning) for information technology or an elective class.
MIN/MAX: 5/10
MONTHLY FEE: $25 per month.
SUPPLY FEE: none.
Lego League Robotics Class, Ages 9-14
This is a beginning and continuing robotics Workshop utilizing the latest Lego Mindstorm system - Spike Prime - and various Lego Robotics materials. The objective of this course is to introduce the student to basic beginning programming as well as problem-solving strategies and to design, develop and compete in robotic activities and challenges. This workshop will involve students in the development, building, and programming of a Lego Spike Prime robot using scratch-like Lego programming - a blocked-based visual programming coding language.
Students will work hands-on in teams to design, build, and program. This class will also encourage teamwork and collaboration in groups and teams. Topics may include motor controls, gear ratios, basic engineering concepts, use of sensors, timing, programming loops, design process, and decision-making. Student-designed robots will be programmed to compete in various challenges as developed by FIRST Lego League. This class should provide motivation and a base for students to continue in computer science and engineering classes.
AGES: 9-14 yo
MIN/MAX: 5 / 10
FEE: $25 / month
MATERIALS: $30 / per semester
MacGyver Robotics, Ages 10 and up
Step into the fun world of robotics where kids will start out learning the basic concepts of circuits and finish out soldering their own bot. We will be designing 12 projects throughout the year using some everyday household items and transforming them into race cars, wobble bots, walking spiders and much more. The kids will have opportunities to design, wire, glue and solder all to create something unique.
INSTRUCTOR: Annie Alvarez, aalvarez2011@att.net
MIN/MAX: 5/12
Class Fee: $30 per month, per student
SUPPLY FEE: $40 due August and $40 in January
PLC Programming Basic and Industrial Automation, Ages 14 and up
Students of this class will learn the basic of PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming using a programming language called LADDER. PLC are used to control automated machines in an industrial settings. The class will also introduce students to basic low voltage (24 Volts) electronic and teach students how to wire a sensor, a pusbutton, etc to the PLC.
INSTRUCTOR: Claudio Pandolfi, Panda.c@gmail.com
MIN/MAX: 4/10
MONTHLY FEE: $30/month per student
SUPPLY FEE: I am planning to build a so called “test board” where we connect the plc, sensors, pushbuttons etc that will remain property of CHAMPS after the class is over, and can be reused for future classes (so fee would be $0) or eventually sold and the money used for scholarships.
Students will need to have a laptop where to install the programming software.
Science Classes
Chemistry, High School
This course is designed to help students realize the important roles that chemistry plays in their personal lives and use chemistry knowledge to make informed decisions about issues involving science and technology. Areas of study include matter, atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, the mole concept, stoichiometry, solutions, acids and bases, thermodynamics, kinetics and gases, equilibrium, and nuclear chemistry.
Students will do homework through the week to learn the basic content and the in-class time will be spent reviewing the material and doing experiments to understand the concepts. There will be a test for each unit (12 total) included with the weekly homework assignments. Grades are based on points for homework (45%), labs (20%), & tests (25%). Semester final exams are also part of their grade, worth 10% of each semester grade.
INSTRUCTOR: Tammy Massey, godskd2@yahoo.com
MIN/MAX: 6/16
Class Fee: $30/month
Materials Fee: $25/semester (August & January)
Prerequisites: Students should have a good grasp of Algebra 1 math. Chemistry does involve a significant amount of conversions and manipulating equations.
Text/supplies: Students will primarily use a free online video course: http://www.gpb.org/chemistry-matters. All students should also have safety goggles, a 3 ring binder, scientific calculator, and access to a printer for printing weekly homework assignments.
Discovery Science, Ages 5-7
This is a beginning science class designed to engage 5-7 year olds and help them to discover and understand the world around them. We will touch on many different facets of science such as the senses, the solar system, plant life, health and safety, sound, seasons, animals, simple machines, anatomy, … This 45 minute class is meant to be a fun and exploratory learning class, supplemental to any science taught at home.
INSTRUCTOR: Liz Cassidy, cassidies@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 3 students, 10 students
CLASS FEE: $30/mo (Cash, check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MATERIAL FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
General Science, Middle school, grades 5-8
This class is an introduction to the General Science world around us. We will explore Earth science, including topics such as the scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, geology, archaeology, biology, and more. Students will discover the principles behind science and learn how to record and report data through hands-on experiments and creative lapbooks in the classroom.
Text: Students will need the Apologia Exploring Creation with General Science, 3rd edition textbook, and Exploring Creation with General Science Student Notebook. The student notebook will be helpful for students as they go through the class, preparing them for weekly homework and tests.
Parents will need the Solutions and Tests book for the 3rd edition.
Apologia texts can be purchased through websites such as Amazon, Rainbow Resource, and Christianbook.
INSTRUCTOR: Kinga, Maciejewski, kinga.km@gmail.com
MIN/MAX: 2/10
MONTHLY FEE: $30
SUPPLY FEE: $20 August/ $20 January
Physical Science, Grades 8 and 9
Physical Science Class Description: This physical science course explores topics in physics, chemistry & earth science from a creation point of view. Topics include atomic structure, periodic table, chemical bonds, reactions and energy, motion, forces, energy, waves and sound, light, electricity and magnetism, Earth’s structure, weathering, and atmosphere.
Students will do homework throughout the week to learn the basic content and the in-class time will be spent reviewing the material and doing experiments to understand the concepts. We will cover one module every two weeks. Each module requires students to read 25-30 pages from the textbook, do the module study guide questions and “on your own” questions, and take a module test. Students will be required to turn in completed handouts or lab reports from the in-class labs. Each student will also do a science fair project in the second semester. This course is designed to be the last science course the student takes before high school biology.
Grades are based on points for homework (50%), labs (20%), & tests (25%). The research project (module 15) is worth 5% of the grade.
Instructor: Tammy Massey
Age: Grade 7+. This is generally recommended as an 8th-grade course, but can be used for 9th-grade coursework.
Min/Max: 6 students/16 students
Class Fee: $25/month
Materials Fee: $15/semester (August & January)
Prerequisites: Completion of 7th grade level math
Text/supplies: Apologia Exploring Creation with Physical Science, 3rd Edition (Sample of text).
Please do NOT use past editions as they are significantly different from this one. https://www.apologia.com/product/physical-science-3rd-edition-student-textbook/
A student notebook can be purchased, but is not required. It simply helps the student stay organized and answer questions from the text in a single place. Apologia also makes an audiobook version of this text. Parents do not need to purchase the tests & solutions booklet.
All students should also have paper and a 3 ring binder to organize their handouts from class, notes, and homework.
Private Pilot Ground School, High school
The objective of this course is to introduce students to flight training and the aviation industry. We will be discussing the theory and concepts needed for preparing for the FAA private pilot aeronautical knowledge test (airplane). Topics include: airplane systems, aerodynamics, flight instruments, procedures and airport operations, communications procedures, weather, regulations, weather services, aircraft performance, navigation, enroute flight, and cross-country flight planning. We will be using the Jeppesen Private Pilot Textbook. Students will be expected to read and do homework weekly. We will also be going on a few optional field trips to local airports which will include tower visits, airline operations, and going for an airplane ride.
Required text: Jeppeson Private Pilot Text Book ISBN: 0884876608 (Can be found on Amazon – approximate cost $79 – can also be found as an ebook at https://jeppdirect.jeppesen.com/product_details.jsp?id=prod770007_ca) E6B flight computer can be found on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/Jeppesen-Student-Flight-Computer-JS514101/dp/B003VSE90A. Please speak with Mr. Wasser about purchasing a used copy. Textbook must be purchased before class starts in the fall.
INSTRUCTOR: Tait Wasser, taitwasser@yahoo.com
MIN/MAX: 4/12
CLASS FEE: $30 per month per student
MATERIAL FEE: TBD
Science Explorers, Ages 8-12
During the year students will be spending 3 months each on Chemistry, Biology, and physics. They will have a new hands-on project each week learning about different concepts such as chemical testing, body systems, dissection (using dissect it kit), and power challenges.
INSTRUCTOR: Annie Alvarez, aalvarez2011@att.net
MIN/MAX: 5/15
FEE: $40 per month
SUPPLY FEE: $40 due August and $40 in January