2024-2025 Class Descriptions: Math, Computer Science, Science
Math Classes
MTH: Pre-Algebra, Middle School to High School
Saxon Algebra ½ : 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, evaluationg 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: 2/20
FEE: $30
SUPPLY FEE: NONE
MTH: Algebra 1, High School, or advanced middle school
Saxon Algebra I: Topics covered will be signed numbers, exponents, absolute value, order of operations, evaluating expressions, solving 1st and 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: 2/20
FEE: $35
SUPPLY FEE: NONE
MTH: Algebra II, High School, or advanced middle school who meets the prerequesites
Saxon Algebra II: 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 Algbra I or similar course.
Text/supplies: Saxon Algebra ½ 3rd Edition,. A standard or scientific calculator will be permitted. Homework should be done on lined paper and in pencil.
INSTRUCTOR: Lissa Schellinger, lissa.schellinger@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 2/20
FEE: $35
SUPPLY FEE: NONE
MTH: 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, and real life examples. This 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: 5 / 10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MAT’L FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
MTH: 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, critical thinking, and real life examples. We will have fun learning shortcut methods and apply them in ways to expedite problem solving. This 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: 5 /10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MAT’L FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
MTH: Games, Logic, Strategy, and Life! - Ages 10-13
Get ready for some math, logic, and strategic 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, critical thinking… Learn about important and necessary life skills such as wages, tax, and tips, how to change money, and much more! All by playing games!
INSTRUCTOR: Liz Cassidy, cassidies@comcast.net
MIN/MAX: 5 /10
CLASS FEE: $25 (Cash, Check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MAT’L FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
Computer Science/Engineering Classes
CS: 3D Printing Beginner- Ages 8-12
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: 7/14
CLASS FEE: $45
MAT’L FEE: $40 due beginning of each semester
CS: 3D Printing Advanced Engineering Class- Ages 12 and Up
Prerequisite: At least 1 year of Beginner 3D Printing or working knowledge of TinkerCAD (Under 12: Permission of instructor required)
- will expand their knowledge of TinkerCAD with advance features. Students will use the engineering design process while designing both 3D Printed and non-3D Printed projects. Some advanced areas will include TinkerCAD simulation, reverse engineering, 3D Printing vs other forms of manufacturing, 3D Printing business ideas and more. Each student is required to bring a Chromebook or lap top computer to class each week.
INSTRUCTOR: Melissa Lofrano, melissalofrano@3ddreammakers.com
MIN/MAX: 7/14
CLASS FEE: $45
MAT’L FEE: $40 due beginning of each semester
CS: 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.
INSTRUCTOR: Cathy Jones-Endres, cljonesendres@gmail.com
AGES: 9-14 yo
MIN/MAX: 5 / 10
FEE: $25 / month
MATERIALS: $30 / per semester
CS: Circuitry Bot Lab, 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 wil 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
CS: 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 pushbutton, etc to the PLC.
INSTRUCTOR: Claudio Pandolfi, cp@pandaautomation.com
MIN/MAX: 4/10
MONTHLY FEE: $30/month per student
SUPPLY FEE: None
Students will need to have a laptop where to install the programming software.
Science Classes
SCI: Biology, 8th grade and up
This biology course is a survey of all biology topics including cell biology, genetics, classification, evolution, and ecology. Students have weekly reading assignments, comprehension questions, labs, and projects. Each week, we will review material learned over the week and work together on various labs and activities. Regular quizzes and tests will be given to demonstrate mastery of the content. Semester exams will also be included in the course. We also plan to go on fieldtrips to the Field Museum DNA lab and the Shedd Aquarium.
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. There will be a test for each unit (16 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.
Prerequisites: none
Text/supplies: Apologia Exploring Creation with Biology, 3rd Edition. Please do NOT use past editions as they are significantly different from this one. https://www.apologia.com/homeschool-high-school-biology/. There is a student notebook that can be purchased, but is not required. It simply helps the student stay organized and answer questions from the text in a single place.
All students should also have paper and a 3 ring binder to organize their handouts from class, notes, and homework.
Instructor: Tammy Massey, godskd2@yahoo.com
Min/Max: 6 students/16 students
Class Fee: $30/month
Materials Fee: $25/semester (August & January)
SCI: Children’s Gardening, Ages 8-10
In this class kids will be learning about the importance of plants and how to become good at taking care of their own gardens. There will be lots of fun, hands-on activities and crafts for the kids to help explain the science behind the growing process. We will explore what is required to maintain healthy plants at all stages of development and will use group projects and games to support the topics covered.
INSTRUCTOR: Jamie Presco, jpresco34@gmail.com
MIN/MAX: 5/12
CLASS FEE: $20/mo.
SUPPLY FEE: $20.00 in August, $20.00 in January.
SCI: 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, earth science, sound, seasons, animals, simple machines, anatomy, … This 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: 5 students, 10 students
CLASS FEE: $30/mo (Cash, check, Zelle: cassidies@comcast.net)
MATERIAL FEE: $15 in August, $15 in January
SCI: General Science, Middle school, Grades 7th – 9th
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 test book. This year students will be writing their own labs and vocabulary. They will need a 3 subject notebook to keep all this organized.
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: Annie Alvarez
MIN/MAX: 6/12
MONTHLY FEE: $30
SUPPLY FEE: $30 August/ $30 January
SCI: Physics, High School
This course is designed to help students realize the important roles that physics plays in their personal lives and use physics knowledge to make informed decisions about issues involving science and technology. Areas of study include motion, forces, momentum, energy, electricity, magnetism, waves, optics, and nuclear physics.
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. Contact info: godskd2@yahoo.com
Prerequisites: Students should have a good grasp of Algebra 1 math. Physics involves a significant amount of conversions and manipulating equations.
Text/supplies: Students will primarily use a free online video course: http://www.gpb.org/physics-in-motion. All students should have a 3 ring binder, scientific calculator, and access to a printer for printing weekly homework assignments.
Instructor: Tammy Massey, godskd2@yahoo.com
Min/Max: 6 students/16 students
Class Fee: $30/month
Materials Fee: $25/semester (August & January)
SCI: 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
SCI: Science Explorers II-A, Ages 8 -10
During the year we will be spending 3 months each in Astronomy, Oceanography, and Engineering. We will have a new topic each week with engaging hands-on projects. With the completion of each field of science the students will have a building design challenge, pulling everything we learned together.
Homework Requirement is optional: Everything will be organized and assigned through google classroom. Students will be assigned roughly 2 hours of homework per week. If you would like to track your child’s progress, I can show you how you can easily do this at home.
INSTRUCTOR: Annie (Annette) Alvarez, aalvarez2011@att.net
MIN/MAX: 5/15
FEE: $40 per student, per month (Payment: Check, Cash or Zelle 630-618-7442)
MATERIAL FEE: $40 in September, $40 in January
SCI: Science Explorers II-B, Ages 11-12
During the year we will be spending 3 months each in Astronomy, Oceanography, and Engineering. We will have a new topic each week with engaging hands-on projects. With the completion of each field of science the students will have a building design challenge, pulling everything we learned together.
Homework Requirement is optional: Everything will be organized and assigned through
google classroom. Students will be assigned roughly 2 hours of homework per week. If
you would like to track your child’s progress, I can show you how you can easily do this
at home.
INSTRUCTOR: Annie (Annette) Alvarez, aalvarez2011@att.net
MIN/MAX: 5/15
FEE: $40 per student, per month (Payment: Check, Cash or Zelle 630-618-7442)
MATERIAL FEE: $40 in September, $40 in January