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Registration for 3rd Quarter classes opens on Thursday, November 20, at 6:00 am. A 10% early registration discount is offered through Decemeber 12, and classes begin the week of January 12.
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Remember to read all class details because several classes have similar names and others have multiple sections. Filter classes using the buttons below or click “Advanced Search” for more options.
FAQ: Have the class prices gone up? Yes, because Quarter 3 is 8 weeks long rather than 7 weeks long, and Semester 2 is 16 weeks long instead of 14 weeks.
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| Term | Start Date | Start Time | End Time | Day | Class Title | Grade Range | Open Spots | Price | Availability | Description | |||
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Mon | 3D Design & Printing Studio for Teens (Sem2) | 7th-12th | JR Bontrager | 12 |
$502.00 $451.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will learn to think like inventors and designers when creating 3D! 3D design is used not only for modeling and fabricating objects but is also at the heart of many cutting-edge technologies such as AR and VR, video game design, interactive exhibits, and more. 3D printing is used in nearly all industries and design fields today from art to animation, manufacturing to medicine, and engineering to entertainment. Students will practice the artistic design process with simple sketches before diving into the software. They will be encouraged to use reference material, whether photos, a model, or even by modifying existing, public domain 3D files. Students will use an iterative printing process in which they print their project, check it for design intent, functionality, or fit, make modifications, and print again. The class will learn how to save and convert between 3D solid object files (.stl) and object files (.obj) and work with metadata fields to protect the intellectual property of their designs. To demonstrate the range and capability of 3D-printed designs, favorite student projects include D & D miniatures, cosplay props, Minecraft-designed creations, and beloved characters such as anime, baby Yoda, and Pokemon creatures. Second semester, continuing students will progress to more complex assemblies including multiple parts and parts with hinges. Second semester, some students may wish to work with alternative filaments such as TPU (rubber), metal, or magnetized filament. Because of the studio format, new students can enroll second semester. The class instructor is a design engineer with 3D Herndon and expert in 3D technologies and other areas of design and invention. A typical class will be structured with 5-10 minutes of lecture or demonstration of a new design skill, followed by 40 minutes of design "studio" time where students can receive trouble-shooting support and design tips from the instructor and have dedicated work time, and 5-10 minutes of sharing time at the end of class. As a studio class, students will work on individual projects at their own pace. Prerequisites: None What to Bring: Students will need to bring a laptop to class for design work. Workload: Students should expect to spend 0-1+ hours per week outside of class. Assignments: Project criteria will be explained in class to students. Assessments: Informal, qualitative feedback will be given in class throughout the semester as the student works. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for 3D printing and filament. This provides the student with 800 g of printed product per semester. Students who are prolific designers and print often will be asked to pay an additional $5.00 per 100 g or fraction thereof. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Visual Arts, Technology, or Career Exploration for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Mon | 3D Design & Printing Studio for Tweens (Sem2) | 4th-6th | JR Bontrager | 12 |
$502.00 $451.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will learn to think like inventors and designers when creating 3D! 3D design is used not only for modeling and fabricating objects but is also at the heart of many cutting-edge technologies such as AR and VR, video game design, interactive exhibits, and more. 3D printing is used in nearly all industries and design fields today from art to animation, manufacturing to medicine, and engineering to entertainment. Students will practice the artistic design process with simple sketches before diving into the software. They will be encouraged to use reference material, whether photos, a model, or even by modifying existing, public domain 3D files. Students will use an iterative printing process in which they print their project, check it for design intent, functionality, or fit, make modifications, and print again. The class will learn how to save and convert between 3D solid object files (.stl) and object files (.obj) and work with metadata fields to protect the intellectual property of their designs. To demonstrate the range and capability of 3D-printed designs, favorite student projects include D & D miniatures, cosplay props, Minecraft-designed creations, and beloved characters such as anime, baby Yoda, and Pokemon creatures. Second semester, continuing students will progress to more complex assemblies including multiple parts and parts with hinges. Second semester, some students may wish to work with alternative filaments such as TPU (rubber), metal, or magnetized filament. Because of the studio format, new students can enroll second semester. The class instructor is a design engineer with 3D Herndon and expert in 3D technologies and other areas of design and invention. A typical class will be structured with 5-10 minutes of lecture or demonstration of a new design skill, followed by 40 minutes of design "studio" time where students can receive trouble-shooting support and design tips from the instructor and have dedicated work time, and 5-10 minutes of sharing time at the end of class. As a studio class, students will work on individual projects at their own pace. Topics in this Series: As an open studio for individual projects, students may continue from one semester to the next or enroll mid-year. Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for 3D printing and filament. This provides the student with 800 g of printed product per semester. Students who are prolific designers and print often will be asked to pay an additional $5.00 per 100 g or fraction thereof. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 11:00 am | 12:55 pm | Mon | 3D History: WWII- The Invasion of Fortress Europe, 1943-45 | 9th-12th | Taliesin Knol | 12 |
$452.00 $406.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Why read about key military battles on maps or in books when you can learn about them hands-on, in three dimensions, using historical miniature gaming? In 3D History, pivotal engagements come to life for new and experienced students, as they navigate a table-top terrain, deploy hundreds of miniature soldiers, ships, and tanks... all while playing a military strategy game. Each student will have the opportunity to fight a battle from both sides, allowing them to test various strategies, try multiple scenarios, predict different outcomes, and rewrite history- an effective way to gain a deeper understanding of what actually happened and why! When America entered the war in 1941, the Allied leaders agreed they had one priority: the destruction of Nazi Germany's ability to wage war and Hitler's nightmare regime. However, an army is not built overnight, and it took time to learn how to fight in the modern era. It was not enough to simply have the most tank or planes. An army had to be able to leverage them on the battlefield with proper coordination and up-to-date tactics. Learned in the bloody North Africa campaign, the US Army joined its allies to sweep across the Mediterranean into Italy. Their hope was to knock the birthplace of facism out of the war quickly and enter Germany to end the war in a fast, blitzkrieg style. This was not to be, as the Allies still had some lessons to learn, necessitating the most famous invasion in history, Operation Overlord, and the liberation of France by punching through the vaunted Atlantic Wall into Fortress Europe. This began the road to V-day in Europe for the Allied powers who reached the Soviet Union's Eastern Front in just under a year. In that year, the entire population of Germany was in the path of destruction as the Allies fought non-stop an increasingly desperate German army that was losing its dream of a thousand-year empire. Students will fight the last battles of the European theater on land, sea, and air using a wide range of miniature soldiers, vehicles, and ships. From the largest amphibious invasions in history to tank battles across France, Italy, and Germany, students will study the technical and strategic elements that led to the outcomes of the battle. They will attempt to recreate the Axis or Allied successes (or failures) in a miniature strategy game. Upon completing the semester, every student will understand the consequences of the war, the objectives of both sides, and how successful or realistic these objectives were. This will be supported with primary sources, newsreels from the time, propaganda material, and modern analysis. Note: This is a 1 hour, 55 minute class with a 10-minute break part way through. Topics in this Series: WWII- The Invasion of Fortress Europe 1943-45 Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 0-1 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: Period maps, photographs, and re-creations will be posted on a class Google Drive, and video links from YouTube will be e-mailed to parents and students for homework or supplemental investigation. Assessments: Will not be given. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in History for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 2:00 pm | 3:25 pm | Fri | Acrylic Painting: Open Studio (Q3) | 9th-12th | Pete Van Riper | 10 |
$248.00 $223.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will be introduced to painting with acrylics in a relaxed, informal studio setting under the guidance of a professional art instructor. Students will work on canvas boards and will learn elements of art, principles of design, and color theory in addition to methods in painting. Each week, the instructor will demonstrate a different technique in acrylic painting rather than a different subject. Techniques will include mixing and blending paints, wet and dry brush techniques, sponge techniques, glazing, washing, gradient relief, sgraffito, impasto, smudging, dot techniques, stippling, pouring, splattering, dabbing, underpainting, and detailing. The emphasis will be on methods and effects so that each student has a "toolbox" of techniques for working in acrylics. Students will have the freedom to mix and match the techniques that they have learned to create original pieces. In the open studio concepts, each student will have a different goal and unique project in-progress such as still life, floral, landscape, portrait, fantasy, abstract, or pop art. Student will complete two or three boards each quarter, depending on the level of detailing. This class is suitable for beginners who have never painted before, and for experienced art students who have worked in other mediums and are interested in exploring acrylic painting. Compass parents are welcome to register for this class to work alongside their teens, or to work on their own, while their teen is in another Compass class. Painting can provide a relaxing, needed break from rigorous academic classes and over-scheduled lives in a fun, supportive environment. Prerequisites: None Workload: Work outside of class is optional, however students who want to continue to practice their painting techniques might want to purchase a tabletop easel (approx. $10.00) and set of basic acrylic paints ($30.00+) for home use. Assessments: Individual feedback is given in class. Formal assessments will not be given. Lab/Supply Fee: A supply fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for up to 6 canvas boards and shared class supplies (paints, brushes, paper products, etc.). Students who paint more quickly need more than 6 boards can purchase additional ones from the instructor for $4.00/each. What to Wear: Students may wish to wear an apron, smock, or paint shirt when working with acrylic paints. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Fine Arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:50 am | Thu | Acting- Kids' Theater: Time Travel Tale | 3rd-5th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$160.00 $144.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids take to the stage as they collaboratively write and perform their very own play with unique characters and an original storyline. Will kids meet historical heroes, ancient animals, or explore the far-flung future in their time travel tale?Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and start to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the student actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with input from the students. The class will learn the practical aspects of acting, as they work on script read-through, blocking, costume/prop design, and planning the show. Students will develop their own "actor's toolkit" of voice, body, and imagination in this creative process! Actors will grow in confidence and communication skills in preparation for a final sharing with parents on the final day of the quarter. Once the script is fully developed with everyone's parts, about half-way through the quarter, it will be emailed to parents. Parents will be expected to help their children memorize their script/lines/cues and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. Note: Students who are emerging readers (not able to read at a 3rd/4th grade level) would be better suited to the Young Actor's Playhouse class, rather than this level. Topics in this Series: Back to the Future (Quarter 1), Secrets & Spies (Quarter 2),Times Travel Tale (Quarter 3), Freaky Friday (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Thu | Acting: Tween Scene: Superheroes- With Great Power Comes Ordinary Responsibilities | 6th-8th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$296.00 $266.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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For superheroes, saving the world is tough, but working at home is tougher. The audience will enjoy a behind-the-scenes look as Wonder Women wipes windowsills and Wolverine washes workout wear. Without victims to vindicate, you might see Spider Man sweeping cobwebs and Black Panther feeding his cat while The Flash fixes light bulbs, and Aquaman assembles a faucet. When crime curtails, you might have The Hulk hanging a hammock or Thor thatching thistles, while all the heroes hope for more action. This funny, fast-paced series of vignettes explores how the caped crusaders deal with life in street clothes. Students, along with their acting instructor, will cast, rehearse, and coordinate a class performance of this comedy. Students will be encouraged to design and assemble simple costumes, props, and backdrops from items at home. Student actors will be expected to learn their lines and participate fully. This class is best suited for students who are active listeners, are flexible and easily adapt, have a sense of humor, and can work in a collaborative group. Students need to be able to stay in sync with the flow of the class. This is not an "anything goes" or free-for-all class. The students will perform for family and friends at the end of the semester. Topics in this Series: Everyone Gets Abducted by Aiens (Semester 1) and Superheroes- with Great Powers Comes Ordinary Responsibilities (Semester 2). Supply Fee: A class fee of $40.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for a copy of the licensed script, performance royalty, and project materials. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Acting: Young Actor's Playhouse: Outrageous Outer Space | 1st-2nd | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$160.00 $144.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Acting is an adventure! Young actors work together to create and perform their very own play with unique characters and an original storyline. Will they travel to populated planets, strange solar systems, or gargantuan galaxies in their extraterrestrial adventures? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and to begin to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the young actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with input from the students. Young actors will explore skills such as sensory awareness, listening, stage movement, character development, emotional expression, and observation/concentration while learning to portray their original character. Young actors will learn aspects of acting by script read-through, blocking, costume/prop discussion, and planning the show. Through individual and group activities, young actors build confidence in preparation for a final sharing for parents. Students will work from a simple, written script, but emerging readers can be accommodated. Parents will be emailed the script after the 3rd or 4th class and will be expected to help their children memorize their lines and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. All actors must be at least age 6 to sign up for this class. Topics in this Series: Medieval Mix-Up (Quarter 1), Magical Monsters (Quarter 2), Outrageous Outer Space (Quarter 3), Under Sea Secrets (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Fri | Action Dance: Street Party | 9th-12th | Jeff Virchow | 12 |
$289.00 $260.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Social dancing does not have to be slow or stuffy! There is energy at the party with Action Dance! Students will learn Bachata (Dominican Republic), Line Dancing, and other traditional party dances. The class may also revisit fall 2022 Caribbean dances such as the Salsa (Mexican-Cuban), Merengue (Dominican Republic), and Cha-Cha (triple step Cuban) for review and to learn how to add "shine", meaning styling and flair. New students are welcome. Emphasis in the class will be on having fun and learning techniques to help dancers be comfortable and relaxed. Social dances encourage confidence, social presence, posture, and poise in teens. Social dancing is partner-based dance; consider signing up with a friend! Please note that in order to demonstrate some steps and forms, students may occasionally be invited to partner with their instructor. Topics in this Series: Action Dance: Social Scene (Semester 1), Action Dance: Street Party (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: None Assessments: Informal feedback will be given in class. Formal assessments or grades will not be given. What to Wear: Students should wear loose, comfortable clothing. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in fine arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 09 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue, Fri | Algebra I (Tue, Fri) | 7th-10th | David Chelf | 2 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
This is a complete course in high school Algebra I which will cover fundamental concepts in algebra and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. This course is designed to emphasize the study of algebraic problem-solving with the incorporation of real-world applications. Topics in Algebra I include number systems, linear systems, rational numbers, complex numbers, exponents, roots, radicals, quadratic equations, polynomials, factoring, absolute values, ratios, and proportions. In addition, the course will cover solving and graphing systems of functions, linear equations, and inequalities. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem-solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation in pre-algebra topics in order to take this class. In addition, students should be capable of copying the sample problems and solutions worked in class on the white board to his/her own notes as examples for completing homework. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-1.5 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 7-day cycle, with assignments posted on Thursdays and due the following Thursday. Students are advised to start homework once it is assigned (i.e., not wait until the night before it is due). Weekly homework assignments will be of a length that a student should be able to complete them in two or three at-home work sessions. Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of their work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: Student progress will be assessed by: (1) The instructor checking that weekly homework sets are attempted and complete and (2) detailed grading of periodic take-home tests. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. See the instructor's webpage for detailed homework and test policy, including late work and re-work. Textbook: Students should purchase the 2024 paperback reprint of: "Algebra I" by Paul A Foerster as sold by Veritas Press (https://store.veritaspress.com/foerster-algebra-i-student-text.html) Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Algebra I for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra |
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| Year long | Sep 08 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Mon, Thu | Algebra II | 8th-11th | David Chelf | 4 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
This is a complete course in high school Algebra II which will cover fundamental concepts and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. Topics in Algebra II include linear functions, systems of equations and inequalities, quadratic functions and complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational and irrational algebraic functions, and quadratic relations and systems. In addition, this course will cover higher degree functions with complex numbers, sequences and series, probability, data analysis, and trigonometric and circular functions. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation Algebra I in order to take this class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-1.5 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 7-day cycle, with assignments posted on Thursdays and due the following Thursday. Students are advised to start homework once it is assigned (i.e., not wait until the night before it is due). Weekly homework assignments will be of a length that a student should be able to complete them in two or three at-home work sessions. Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of their work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: Student progress will be assessed by: (1) The instructor checking that weekly homework sets are attempted and complete and (2) detailed grading of periodic take-home tests. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. See the instructor's webpage for detailed homework and test policy, including late work and re-work. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Algebra and Trigonometry: Functions and Applications- Prentice Hall Classics (ISBN-10 0131657100, ISBN-13 978-0131657106). A scientific calculator similar to the Casio fx-115ES PLUS is required for this class. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Algebra II for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Algebra I |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | All About Astronomy: Modern & Space-Based Searches | 5th-6th | Becca Sticha | 12 |
$170.00 $153.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Every single week there are gripping headlines heralding new developments and discoveries in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics, and space exploration: "NASA's Artemis II announced its crew. Space X Starship self-destructed. Europe's JUICE will go to Jupiter. James Webb Space Telescope finds oldest proto-galaxies. China, Russia, India, and South Korea are in a new space race to reach the moon. A total solar eclipse will be viewed in 2026." These are exciting fields to follow, and this is a thrilling time to learn about space science in Compass's "All About Astronomy" series. Third quarter, students will learn about modern space exploration and space-based observations. They will discover the differences among satellites, telescopes, probes, orbiters, landers, rovers, fly-bys, and crewed spacecraft and what each can tell us about space. The class will look at some missions that are underway such as: Mars Perseverance Rover (operational), Mars Ingenuity Helicopter (operational), Lucy asteroid fly-by (en route- 2023); Parker Solar Probe (en route- 2025); Mercury Planetary Orbiter (en route- 2025); ESA Solar Orbiter (en route- 2026); Dragonfly fly-by to Venus and Titan (planned for 2027); JUICE Jupiter Fly-by (en route- 2028) and the more than 40-year-old Voyager 1, 2, and New Horizons which have left solar system and are still transmitting. Students will examine images sent back to Earth from a variety of research craft to understand the value and limitations of each type. The class will learn about modern types of telescopes: reflecting, refracting, multi-mirrored and radio, and how spectroscopy is used to measure astronomical phenomena. Students will enhance their understanding of modern observations with in-class projects such as building a spectroscope and evaluating space images for a citizen-scientist initiative. Topics in this series include: Classical & Current Star-Gazing (Quarter 1); Mission to the Moon (Quarter 2); Modern & Space-Based Searches (Quarter 3); and Mission to Mars (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 1:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | American History: Civil War to Spanish-American War, 1812-1898 | 9th-12th | Dr. Albert Thompson | 12 |
$397.00 $357.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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In this class, students will engage with American History from a unique, thoughtful perspective, facilitated by college professor, Dr. Albert Thompson who is a "researcher, problem solver, and educator." Dr. Thompson is considered a historian of the state, culture, and conflict. He was homeschooled through high school and will guide high school students to use "historical data to advance solutions to contemporary problems." Second semester will cover American History from 1812 through the Civil War and concluding with the Spanish-American War in 1898. The class will examine 19th-century America's transformation from a New World backwater to Global Power. Using speeches, pamphlets, legislation, court rulings, and treaties, the students will develop critical reading skills to identify and evaluate the social, economic, and political forces that contributed to the rise of the United States of America from approximately 1812-1898. The course will highlight the following key events and figures: Andrew Jackson, Catharine Maria Sedgwick, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Susan B. Anthony, Harriet Tubman, Ida B Wells, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Abraham Lincoln, Edgar Allen Poe, Frederick Douglass, John D. Rockefeller; Westward Expansion, the Indian Wars, The Civil Wars, and Abolitionism, the Second Great Awakening, Industrialization, The New Immigrants, Reconstruction, Social Darwinism, New Imperialism and the Spanish American War. The class will uncover history that is often overlooked or downplayed. Professor Thompson encourages students to think deeply about history by introducing individuals and groups in a way that lets students put themselves in others' places. He covers the worldviews that were dominant at the time as a way to explain what motivated historical figures and decisions of the day. Conflicts will be closely examined since throughout history, war is a catalyst that causes economic and social conditions to change dramatically in the shortest period of time. Topics in this Series: First Settlement to First Crisis, 1607-1812 (Semester 1), Civil War to Spanish-American War 1812-1898 (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: Reading at grade level. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week on readings. Readings should be treated as pre-readings which students complete before class in order to engage in in-class discussion. Assignments: Reading assignments will be communicated weekly to students. This class will not have written assignments or projects. Assessments: The instructor will not give quizzes or provide assessments. Parents may elect to administer online quizzes that are available through the e-textbook website for purposes of assessing their own student's understanding of major themes. Textbook/Materials: The class will use The American Yawp, an open-source online textbook from Stanford University Press (www.americanyawp.com). Students may read chapters online or download a pdf. What to Bring: Paper or notebook; pen or pencil; assigned chapter. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in American history for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | American Sign Language (ASL) I | 8th-12th | Felipe Ramos | 3 |
$822.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Are you interested in learning a new language that is used right here in America? Are you intrigued by a modern language that has no written form? Do you want to find out why American Sign Language is much more closely linked to French Sign Language than British Sign Language? If so, American Sign Language (ASL) is a great language for you! In this class, students will learn the basic skills in production and comprehension of ASL while covering thematic units such as personal and family life, school, social life, and community. Each unit will include presentations and readings on Deaf culture and Deaf history. Students will learn fingerspelling and numbers, developing conversational ability, culturally appropriate behaviors, and fundamental ASL grammar. Class time will be dedicated to interactive ASL activities and face-to-face signing practice with the instructor and partners. ASL students will have a Deaf instructor. She regularly teaches all-hearing classes and is an excellent role model for students to meet and interact with a native speaker of ASL and to lean natural facial expressions, gestures, and body language used in Deaf communications. ASL students will have more confidence when they encounter Deaf instructors in college or greet speakers of ASL in social settings. Because the instructor is Deaf, students are not permitted to speak aloud in class. This approach improves visual attention and encourages immersion in the language. Students will be able to ask questions of the instructor by writing on individual white boards, but they will be encouraged to sign in order to communicate with the instructor. Lessons are facilitated with Power Point presentations, and a professional ASL interpreter will assist the class on the first day of class. Enrolled students are not expected to know any sign language prior to beginning ASL I. Hundreds of colleges and universities, including all public institutions of higher learning in Virginia, accept ASL as a distinct foreign language. This allows hearing and Deaf students to fulfill foreign language requirements for admission to college. Teens who have difficulty writing, spelling, or have challenging pronunciation in English, can be successful with ASL as a second or foreign language choice. Penn State University research demonstrated that the visual and kinesthetic elements of ASL helped to enhance the vocabulary, spelling, and reading skills in hearing students. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours each week outside of class on required vocabulary exercises, readings, and signing practice. Assignments: Homework assignments will be posted online in the Canvas digital classroom platform. There may be some brief written assignments, but for most homework assignments, students will be asked to post short videos of themselves signing. Students will need either a camera phone or webcam to complete these assignments. Assessments: The instructor will assign points using a class rubric for the parent's use in assigning a course grade. Course rubrics will evaluate students on their sign production, fingerspelling, ASL grammar, facial expressions including "above the nose" grammar (brows and body movement), and "below the nose" modifiers (lip expressions). Textbook/Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $30.00 payable to the online publisher for the digital access code for the interactive e-textbook, TRUE+WAY AS for 2 units. There could be an additional $15 due if the class progresses to a third unit in late Q3/early Q4. With their subscription, students may also accces a free searchable, bilingual ASL & English dictionary, called What's the Sign?
Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in World Languages for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Fri | American Sign Language (ASL) II | 9th-12th | Felipe Ramos | 3 |
$822.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Students of ASL will continue to improve their fluency in this 2nd year course. As students become more advanced signers, emphasis will be on focusing on the meaning of a conversation (whole) rather than individual signs (parts). In conversation, students will learn to confirm information by asking questions in context. Second year students will continue to build their vocabulary, apply ASL grammar, and will learn to make requests, ask for advice, give opinions, make comparisons and use superlatives, and narrate stories. Other skills covered in ASL II include expressing year, phone numbers, time, and currency in numbers, appearance, clothing, giving directions, locations, etc. Each unit will include presentations and readings on Deaf culture and Deaf history. Class time will be dedicated to interactive ASL activities and signing practice. ASL students will have a Deaf instructor. She regularly teaches all-hearing classes and is an excellent role model for students to meet and interact with a native speaker of ASL and to lean natural facial expressions, gestures, and body language used in Deaf communications. ASL students will have more confidence when they encounter Deaf instructors in college or greet speakers of ASL in social settings. Because the instructor is Deaf, students are not permitted to speak aloud in class. This approach improves visual attention and encourages immersion in the language. Students will be able to ask questions of the instructor by writing on individual white boards, but they will be encouraged to sign in order to communicate with the instructor. Lessons are facilitated with Power Point presentations, and a professional ASL interpreter will assist the class on the first day of class. Hundreds of colleges and universities, including all public institutions of higher learning in Virginia, accept ASL as a distinct foreign language. This allows hearing and Deaf students to fulfill foreign language requirements for admission to college. Teens who have difficulty writing, spelling, or have challenging pronunciation in English, can be successful with ASL as a second or foreign language choice. Penn State University research demonstrated that the visual and kinesthetic elements of ASL helped to enhance the vocabulary, spelling, and reading skills in hearing students. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours each week outside of class on required vocabulary exercises, readings, and signing practice. Assignments: Homework assignments will be posted online in the Canvas digital classroom platform. Through Canvas, students will be asked to post short videos of themselves signing as homework. Enrolled students will be asked to review ASL 1 vocabulary, grammar, and facial expressions. Assessments: The instructor will assign points using a class rubric for the parent's use in assigning a course grade. Course rubrics will evaluate students on their sign production, fingerspelling, ASL grammar, facial expressions including "above the nose" grammar (brows and body movement), and "below the nose" modifiers (lip expressions). Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in World Languages for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
2 | ||
| Year long | Sep 12 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | American Sign Language (ASL) III | 10th-12th | Felipe Ramos | 2 |
$822.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Students of ASL will continue to improve their fluency in this 3rd year course. As students become more advanced signers, emphasis will be on focusing on the meaning of a conversation (whole) and storytelling rather than individual signs (parts) or phrases. In conversation, students will learn to confirm information by asking questions in context. Third year students will continue to build their vocabulary, apply ASL grammar, and will learn to describe places, giving directions, giving opinions about others, discussing plans and goals, ask for advice, give opinions, make comparisons and use superlatives, and narrate stories. Other skills covered in ASL III include expressing year, phone numbers, time, and currency in numbers, giving directions, locations, etc. Each unit will include presentations and readings on Deaf culture and Deaf history. Class time will be dedicated to interactive ASL activities and signing practice. ASL students will have a Deaf instructor. She regularly teaches all-hearing classes and is an excellent role model for students to meet and interact with a native speaker of ASL and to lean natural facial expressions, gestures, and body language used in Deaf communications. ASL students will have more confidence when they encounter Deaf instructors in college or greet speakers of ASL in social settings. Because the instructor is Deaf, students are not permitted to speak aloud in class. This approach improves visual attention and encourages immersion in the language. Students will be able to ask questions of the instructor by writing on individual white boards, but they will be encouraged to sign in order to communicate with the instructor. Lessons are facilitated with Power Point presentations, and a professional ASL interpreter will assist the class on the first day of class. Hundreds of colleges and universities, including all public institutions of higher learning in Virginia, accept ASL as a distinct foreign language. This allows hearing and Deaf students to fulfill foreign language requirements for admission to college. Teens who have difficulty writing, spelling, or have challenging pronunciation in English, can be successful with ASL as a second or foreign language choice. Penn State University research demonstrated that the visual and kinesthetic elements of ASL helped to enhance the vocabulary, spelling, and reading skills in hearing students. Prerequisite: ASL II students who wish to enroll in ASL III must pass a proficiency exam and receive instructor approval. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours each week outside of class on required vocabulary exercises, readings, and signing practice. Assignments: Homework assignments will be posted online in the Canvas digital classroom platform. Through Canvas, students will be asked to post short videos of themselves signing as homework. Enrolled students will be asked to review ASL 1 and 2 vocabulary, grammar, and facial expressions. Assessments: The instructor will assign points using a class rubric for the parent's use in assigning a course grade. Course rubrics will evaluate students on their sign production, fingerspelling, ASL grammar, facial expressions including "above the nose" grammar (brows and body movement), and "below the nose" modifiers (lip expressions). Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in World Languages for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
2 | ||
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Art in Action: American Artist Spotlight (TUE) | 3rd-4th | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Elementary artists can get in on the action as they learn about a different artist or artistic style each week and create a representative piece using a wide range of artistic supplies such as tempura and water color paints, pastels, pencils, cray pas, oil pastel crayons, specialty papers, sculpting media, and embellishments. Third quarter, the class will meet American artists Robert Lobe, Andy Warhol, Grandma Moses, Keith Haring, Eric Carle, Martin Puryear, Faith Ringgold, and Frank Lloyd Wright. The class will overview the life and times of each artist and look at a sampling of their works to understand preferred subjects, style, techniques, and mediums. Then, the students will create a weekly project to represent the featured artist, such as Grandma Moses-inspired simple subject art; pop art like Keith Haring and Andy Warhol; and Frank Lloyd Wright's amazing stained glass designs. Topics in this Series: Picasso in Perspective (Quarter 1); Original Works of the Worlds Oceans (Quarter 2); American Artist Spotlight (Quarter 3); Destination Art (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Art in Action: American Artist Spotlight (WED) | 3rd-4th | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Elementary artists can get in on the action as they learn about a different artist or artistic style each week and create a representative piece using a wide range of artistic supplies such as tempura and water color paints, pastels, pencils, cray pas, oil pastel crayons, specialty papers, sculpting media, and embellishments. Third quarter, the class will meet American artists Robert Lobe, Andy Warhol, Grandma Moses, Keith Haring, Eric Carle, Martin Puryear, Faith Ringgold, and Frank Lloyd Wright. The class will overview the life and times of each artist and look at a sampling of their works to understand preferred subjects, style, techniques, and mediums. Then, the students will create a weekly project to represent the featured artist, such as Grandma Moses-inspired simple subject art; pop art like Keith Haring and Andy Warhol; and Frank Lloyd Wright's amazing stained glass designs. Topics in this Series: Picasso in Perspective (Quarter 1); Original Works of the Worlds Oceans (Quarter 2); American Artist Spotlight (Quarter 3); Destination Art (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue | Artist's Academy: The Artistry of Nature | 5th-6th | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Tween artists can get in on the action as they learn about a different artist or artistic style each week and create a representative piece using a wide range of artistic supplies such as tempura and water color paints, pastels, pencils, cray pas, oil pastel crayons, specialty papers, sculpting media, and embellishments. Third quarter, the class will find a fun and engaging way to explore nature and the natural world as artists. They will explore nature's textures, symmetry in nature, nature scenes and colors, animals and their tracks and natural materials. Project supplies will include Some of the multimedia supplies used this quarter will include specialty papers, paints, markers, art pencils, charcoal, oil pastels, Cray pas, tissue paper Topics in this Series: Stories in Strokes (Quarter 1), Around the World Art Adventure (Quarter 2), Artistry of Nature (Quarter 3) , Waves of Creativty (Q4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:50 am | Wed | Ballet Fun: Fairy Doll | PreK-2nd | Alchemy Dance | 10 |
$160.00 $144.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Young dancers will practice skills in musicality, balance, flexibility, and coordination as they learn to dance as a group. Each quarter, a different musical fairytale ballet will provide the inspiration and the music for the class. Dancers will become familiar with the story of the ballet and the orchestral music as they go through their own routine. The music, story, and characters will serve as an inspiration for creative movement. Third quarter, young dancers will learn the story of Fairy Doll, composed by Bayer, Tchaikovsky, Rubenstein, Drigo, and Lyadov and performed as a ballet since 1903. In class, dancers will learn to recognize, understand, and apply techniques from the Vaganova ballet method such as: 1st - 6th positions, marching and skipping, demi plie, grand plie, saute, bourree, grand jete, and tendu. Students will also develop their physical conditioning and learn teamwork. Dancers in this level must be minimum age 4 by the start of class. A demonstration of skills learned will be showcased for parents on the last class each quarter. Registration is for one morning class, however students who wish to further their skills are encouraged to sign up for both Monday and Wednesday morning lessons. Compass ballet students will have an opportunity to audition for the Alchemy Ballet Academy Winter Performance (including excerpts from The Nutcracker). Ballet students are expected to wear appropriate attire. Young ladies must wear a leotard with skirt (attached or detached), pink tights, and soft pink ballet shoes in canvas or leather. Young men must wear a slim-fitting white t-shirt, black shorts, white socks, and soft black ballet shoes in canvas or leather. Topics in this series include:Peter and the Wolf (Quarter 1), The Nutcracker (Quarter 2), Fairy Doll (Quarter 3), and Carnival of the Animals (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Battle Strategies & Dioramas: WWII Pacific Theater- Philippine Sea (TUE) | 6th-8th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
For America, WWII started and ended in the Pacific, but there was a long and difficult journey from the disaster at Pearl Harbor in 1941 to V-Day in Tokyo in 1945. Using an "Island Hopping" strategy, the US sought to isolate many Japanese strongholds leading to their home islands. The Imperial Japanese Navy launched a bold plan to stall the advance of the American battle fleet using their formerly unstoppable carrier force as bait. They attempted to trap American invasion transports between deadly battleships to buy more bargaining leverage at eventual peace talks. Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, and historical maps, students will each form a 10" X 14" shaped, foam diorama with landscape elements (islands, reefs, harbors, airfields, etc) to represent a battle from around the Philippine Sea in 1944. Students will each receive scale miniature naval ships to populate their scene. Once individual projects are constructed, students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate the larger battlefield terrain. Students will spend the remainder of the quarter learning about the tactics and outcomes of the military engagement while playing a table-top strategy game. Student strategists will use a simplified version of the Axis and Allies War at Sea gaming rule system for moving ships and equipment. Along with their classmates, students will see how this battle progressed and test different outcome scenarios that might have occurred with different battlefield choices. The instructor will use maps and visual presentations to explain the historical background and circumstances leading up to the specific battle. Course documents, such as period maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. Topics in this series include: Operation Torch/North Africa (Quarter 1), Battle of Stalingrad (Quarter 2), Iwo Jima (Quarter 3), and Philppine Sea (Quarter 4). There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Battle Strategies & Dioramas: WWII Pacific Theater- Philippine Sea (WED) | 6th-8th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
For America, WWII started and ended in the Pacific, but there was a long and difficult journey from the disaster at Pearl Harbor in 1941 to V-Day in Tokyo in 1945. Using an "Island Hopping" strategy, the US sought to isolate many Japanese strongholds leading to their home islands. The Imperial Japanese Navy launched a bold plan to stall the advance of the American battle fleet using their formerly unstoppable carrier force as bait. They attempted to trap American invasion transports between deadly battleships to buy more bargaining leverage at eventual peace talks. Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, and historical maps, students will each form a 10" X 14" shaped, foam diorama with landscape elements (islands, reefs, harbors, airfields, etc) to represent a battle from around the Philippine Sea in 1944. Students will each receive scale miniature naval ships to populate their scene. Once individual projects are constructed, students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate the larger battlefield terrain. Students will spend the remainder of the quarter learning about the tactics and outcomes of the military engagement while playing a table-top strategy game. Student strategists will use a simplified version of the Axis and Allies War at Sea gaming rule system for moving ships and equipment. Along with their classmates, students will see how this battle progressed and test different outcome scenarios that might have occurred with different battlefield choices. The instructor will use maps and visual presentations to explain the historical background and circumstances leading up to the specific battle. Course documents, such as period maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. Topics in this series include: Operation Torch/North Africa (Quarter 1), Battle of Stalingrad (Quarter 2), Iwo Jima (Quarter 3), and Philppine Sea (Quarter 4). There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Thu | Beginner 'Bots: Rush Hour! (Thu) | 2nd-3rd | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$212.00 $190.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Discover the world of robotics using kids' favorite, interlocking building bricks! Students will build and program a different whimsical, mechanized project each week using the WeDo 2.0 robotics system by LEGO Education. Third quarter, rush hour comes to Compass as students build and program automated vehicles like a dune buggy, Formula 1 race car, tow truck, tractor trailer, bus, and more. Their robots will be built using special-shaped LEGO components from the WeDo Educational set, motors, motion sensors, tilt sensors and a programmable, Bluetooth control unit ("brain"). Student will use classroom tablets to program the control units using an intuitive drag-and-drop coding modules. Prior experience with LEGO or coding is not required. All equipment is furnished. Topics in this Series: Animated Animals (Quarter 1), Jurassic Giants (Quarter 2); Rush Hour! (Quarter 3), and Creepy Crawlies (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue | Beginner 'Bots: Rush Hour! (Tue) | 2nd-3rd | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$212.00 $190.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Discover the world of robotics using kids' favorite, interlocking building bricks! Students will build and program a different whimsical, mechanized project each week using the WeDo 2.0 robotics system by LEGO Education. Third quarter, rush hour comes to Compass as students build and program automated vehicles like a dune buggy, Formula 1 race car, tow truck, tractor trailer, bus, and more. Their robots will be built using special-shaped LEGO components from the WeDo Educational set, motors, motion sensors, tilt sensors and a programmable, Bluetooth control unit ("brain"). Student will use classroom tablets to program the control units using an intuitive drag-and-drop coding modules. Prior experience with LEGO or coding is not required. All equipment is furnished. Topics in this Series: Animated Animals (Quarter 1), Jurassic Giants (Quarter 2); Rush Hour! (Quarter 3), and Creepy Crawlies (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Year long | Sep 12 | 9:30 am | 10:55 am | Fri | Biology- Lab (On-Level or Honors) | 9th-12th | Tia Murchie-Beyma | 0 |
$1166.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Full
|
This class will be taught in a Hybrid format with an online lecture on Mondays (10:00 am - 10:55 am) over a live, online platform and in-person lab and activities on Fridays (9:30 am - 10:55 am). Registration for the Lab section will automatically enroll the student in the Lecture section. This full-year lab science course introduces classic biology topics updated for the 21st century. Biology studies living things and their relationships from microscopic to massive, ancient to modern, arctic to tropic. Our survey includes: (1) cellular and molecular biology, (2) ecology, (3) genetics, (4) biology of organisms (with selected human health and anatomy topics), and (5) evolution and diversity. You will observe microscopic organisms and give monarch butterflies a health exam before tagging them for their 2,800 mile migration to Mexico. You will extract DNA, model its processes, and learn how scientists manipulate this magnificent molecule to make mice glow. You will observe animal behavior, test your heart rate, and practice identifying and debunking pseudo-science. By the end of the course, students will be able to explain the nature of science as a system of knowing; cite evidence for foundational theories of modern biology; explain basic biological processes and functions; describe structures and relationships in living systems; outline systems of information, energy, and resources; demonstrate valid experimental design; discern ethical standards; relate their values and scientific ideas to decision-making; and apply biology knowledge to their own health. Students are responsible for pre-reading and reviewing new material such as readings from the textbook and additional popular and scholarly sources, videos, and animations PRIOR to class meetings. In-person sessions focus on active discussion, clarification, exploration of content, review, modeling, and hands-on activities. Labs address not only technical skills and sequential operations, but also forming testable predictions, collecting data, applying math, drawing conclusions, and presenting findings. Hands-on dissection, always optional, is taught with preserved crayfish and fetal pigs. Sensitive issues: human reproduction is not taught separately, but mentioned as students learn about other, related topics such as sperm, eggs, stem cells, genetic disease, hormones, fetal development, breast-feeding, adolescence, and HIV. While there may be some debate-style discussion of topics such as GMO, abortion will not be debated. Birth control and sex education are not covered, but distinctions between gender and biological sex are discussed in detail in the genetics unit. Evolution is embedded in every topic, from molecular to ecological, inseparably from other content. It is addressed in a scientific context, not from a faith standpoint. Levels: The course provides a substantive, full-credit experience on either an Honors or On-Level track. All class members share core material and participate in the same labs. Honors has longer or additional readings, more analytical work, and more thorough and difficult assessments. Brief, required summer assignments are due in August for those who elect to take Honors. Students register online for the same course, but must indicate which level they wish to study via e-mail by August 15. Students may move down a level (from Honors to On-Level) at any time. Prerequisites: Students should be very strong, independent readers and able to understand graphs, tables, percentages, decimals, ratios, and averages. Workload: All students should expect to spend 4-6 hours outside of class reading and preparing homework. Homework includes term cards, brief written responses, weekly online quizzes, unit tests, occasional lab reports, and some creative assignments including sketching. Students will sometimes prepare short, in-class presentations, participate in group projects, run simulations, or conduct simple experiments at home. Assignments: All assignments will be posted on password-protected Canvas classroom management site. There, students access assignments; upload homework, take automated quizzes and tests; track grades; message instructor and classmates; and attend virtual conferences. Assessments: Completed homework, projects, quizzes, and tests receive points and narrative feedback. Parents can calculate a letter grade using the student's points earned divided by points available, in weighted categories that include assignments, reading quizzes, tests, and participation and presentations. Parents may view all scoring and comments at any time through the Canvas site. Textbook/Materials: Students must purchase or rent the textbook Biology Now: Third High School Edition (2022) published by WW Norton. A 360-day digital license directly from the publisher costs $53.00 HERE (ISBN: 978-0-393-54247-9) or $130 when bundled with a hardcover text (ISBN 978-0-393-54010-9). Used books may be available from 2022-23 students. Core textbook readings are supplemented by the instructor with updated information drawn from sources such as peer-reviewed science journals, popular science publications, and podcasts. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $130 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Supplies/Equipment: Students will need access to a computer/internet, compound microscope with 400X magnification and cool lighting, splash goggles, water-resistant/acid-resistant lab apron, kitchen or postal scale, 3-ring binder, approximately 400- 3"x5" index cards; and plain, lined, and graph paper. Some of these supplies are used at home. Weekly "Read Me First" web pages and class announcements on Canvas tell students what items to bring to class. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Lab Science for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
0 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Build It Better! Marble Mazes | 4th-5th | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$212.00 $190.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
LEGO Mindstorms components and motors are not just for building robots! These interconnecting pieces can be constructed into an infinite number of unique, mechanized machines- much like an erector set! First quarter, students will be challenged to develop a unique, individual segment of a maze that moves a ball from point A to point B, and each segment will link to a classmate's invention to keep the ball moving! They will be challenged to incorporate as many simple machines as possible into their maze. They will learn about levers, inclined planes, wheel and axle, wedges, screws, and pulleys while inventing. Can they move a ball through a maze with a ramp (inclined plane), a flipper (lever), or lowered bucket (pulley) without using their hands? Can they pass the ball to their neighbor without hitting the floor? This project is inspired by the LEGO Great Ball Contraption competition, which is similar to Rube Goldberg inventions. See http://greatballcontraption.com/ or You Tube videos for impressive examples of the Great Ball Contraption. Second quarter students will be challenged to build bigger, better, more complex contraptions with compound machines and more mechanization! Topics in this Series: Gadgets & Gizmos (Quarter 1); Widgets and Whatsits (Quarter 2): Marble Mazes (Quarter 3); and Crazy Contraptions (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 3:00 pm | 4:30 pm | Thu | BuildZone (THU, Q3) | 2nd-6th | Compass Staff | 8 |
$109.00 $98.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Enter the BuildZone and step into a world of endless possibilities, where over 10,000 building components are at your fingertips! From Keva Planks to K'Nex, Magnatiles to Marble Runs, Tubelox, Chaos Tower, and Pipe Builders-this is the ultimate mash-up of all things construction. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 3:00 pm | 4:30 pm | Tue | BuildZone (TUE, Q3) | 2nd-6th | Compass Staff | 8 |
$109.00 $98.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Enter the BuildZone and step into a world of endless possibilities, where over 10,000 building components are at your fingertips! From Keva Planks to K'Nex, Magnatiles to Marble Runs, Tubelox, Chaos Tower, and Pipe Builders-this is the ultimate mash-up of all things construction. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 2 | Nov 05 | 3:00 pm | 4:00 pm | Wed | BuildZone (WED, Q2) | 2nd-6th | Compass Staff | 6 | $93.00 |
Enter the BuildZone and step into a world of endless possibilities, where over 10,000 building components are at your fingertips! From Keva Planks to K'Nex, Magnatiles to Marble Runs, Tubelox, Chaos Tower, and Pipe Builders-this is the ultimate mash-up of all things construction. Here, you're the architect, the engineer, the mastermind. Stack it, snap it, connect it-then remix it! What happens when you combine pieces from totally different sets? You get taller towers, stronger structures, and mind-blowing mega builds! Build solo masterpieces or team up for cool collaborations. Every session is a chance to dream big, build bigger, and let your imagination break all the rules. This is a hands-on afternoon lab intended to provide opportunities for kids to socialize and tap into their creative energy in a relaxed club setting. This is a supervised session, but no formal curriculum or lessons are provided. All participants are expected to help pick up and to follow all Compass rules on indoor behavior including respecting materials, supplies, and furnishings. This is a 7 week class that begins on Wednesday 11/5 and has its last meeting on Wednesday 1/7. Prerequisites: None |
2 | ||
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 3:00 pm | 4:30 pm | Wed | BuildZone (WED, Q3) | 2nd-6th | Compass Staff | 8 |
$109.00 $98.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Enter the BuildZone and step into a world of endless possibilities, where over 10,000 building components are at your fingertips! From Keva Planks to K'Nex, Magnatiles to Marble Runs, Tubelox, Chaos Tower, and Pipe Builders-this is the ultimate mash-up of all things construction. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 3:00 pm | 4:00 pm | Wed | BuildZone (WED, Q3) | 2nd-6th | Compass Staff | 8 |
$109.00 $98.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Enter the BuildZone and step into a world of endless possibilities, where over 10,000 building components are at your fingertips! From Keva Planks to K'Nex, Magnatiles to Marble Runs, Tubelox, Chaos Tower, and Pipe Builders-this is the ultimate mash-up of all things construction. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | Chess for Teens: All-Level (Q3) | 8th-12th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 12 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Teens will enjoy the logic and challenge of the timeless strategy board game as they learn and play chess with classmates. This is a multi-level class open to Beginners, Advanced Beginners, or Intermediate Players. Instruction will be differentiated based on the make-up of the class, and teens will be placed in pairs or groups depending on experience. Each session will be with some time dedicated to a lesson and some time reserved for in-class matches that are monitored and supported by the coach. Beginners may play as a group against the instructor which is a low-pressure way to learn the game. Teens who are engrossed in their games may continue their play into Friday Teen Game Night. Learning and playing chess supports problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in logic/reasoning or and elective for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Chess- Advanced Beginner 3 (Thu) | 3rd-6th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 12 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Two armies. One battlefield. Infinite possibilities. Across a checkered board, two mighty monarchies prepare for battle. In this legendary clash of kings and queens, which side will triumph in a test of wit, patience, perseverance, and strategy? Students will explore the logic and thrill of the timeless game of chess under the expert guidance of Grandmaster Rashad Babaev. Whether you're a budding tactician or a curious beginner, prepare to sharpen your mind and rise to the challenge. In Advanced Beginning Chess, students will use the Explorers Level curriculum developed by Grandmaster Babaev for his GMChessPrep program. During Quarter 3, the focus will be on classic tactics, calculation, and pattern recognition. The class will be introduced to tactical themes and escapes including fork, pin, double attack with king, queen, and pawn, double check, and double checkmate. Students will learn classic mating patterns like Legall's Mate, Two Rooks on the 7th Rank, and Queen and Bishop Mate. Finally, students will practice tactical puzzles like Mate in 1, and Fork/Pin/Double Checkmate. The group will be introduced to computer play with limited pieces to boost creativity and problem solving strategies. Learning and playing chess promote problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Each class will be spent part on instruction and part on playing time in practice matches with classmates while the instructor gives tips and reminders. Compass chess students will be given access to GMChessPrep's online portal for virtual chess practice opportunities between classes. Also, students who are absent can request a make-up session during a regularly scheduled GMC online evening group class. Prerequisites: None |
1 | |
| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Chess- Advanced Beginner 3 (Wed) | 3rd-6th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 10 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Two armies. One battlefield. Infinite possibilities. Across a checkered board, two mighty monarchies prepare for battle. In this legendary clash of kings and queens, which side will triumph in a test of wit, patience, perseverance, and strategy? Students will explore the logic and thrill of the timeless game of chess under the expert guidance of Grandmaster Rashad Babaev. Whether you're a budding tactician or a curious beginner, prepare to sharpen your mind and rise to the challenge. In Advanced Beginning Chess, students will use the Explorers Level curriculum developed by Grandmaster Babaev for his GMChessPrep program. During Quarter 3, the focus will be on classic tactics, calculation, and pattern recognition. The class will be introduced to tactical themes and escapes including fork, pin, double attack with king, queen, and pawn, double check, and double checkmate. Students will learn classic mating patterns like Legall's Mate, Two Rooks on the 7th Rank, and Queen and Bishop Mate. Finally, students will practice tactical puzzles like Mate in 1, and Fork/Pin/Double Checkmate. The group will be introduced to computer play with limited pieces to boost creativity and problem solving strategies. Learning and playing chess promote problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Each class will be spent part on instruction and part on playing time in practice matches with classmates while the instructor gives tips and reminders. Compass chess students will be given access to GMChessPrep's online portal for virtual chess practice opportunities between classes. Also, students who are absent can request a make-up session during a regularly scheduled GMC online evening group class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Thu | Chess- Beginner 3 (Thu) | 2nd-5th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 12 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Two armies. One battlefield. Infinite possibilities. Across a checkered board, two mighty monarchies prepare for battle. In this legendary clash of kings and queens, which side will triumph in a test of wit, patience, perseverance, and strategy? Students will explore the logic and thrill of the timeless game of chess under the expert guidance of Grandmaster Rashad Babaev. Whether you're a budding tactician or a curious beginner, prepare to sharpen your mind and rise to the challenge. In Beginning Chess, students will use the Foundation Level curriculum developed by Grandmaster Babaev for his GMChessPrep program. During Quarter 3, the goal is to begin to understand checks, tactics, and board etiquette. Students will learn about check and three ways to escape- block, capture, and move. The class will learn the definitions, differences, and examples of checkmate and stalemate, and practice drills. They will also learn chess etiquette, game results (wins, draws), and chess notation. Learning and playing chess promote problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Each class will be spent part on instruction and part on playing time in practice matches with classmates while the instructor gives tips and reminders. Compass chess students will be given access to GMChessPrep's online portal for virtual chess practice opportunities between classes. Also, students who are absent can request a make-up session during a regularly scheduled GMC online evening group class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Chess- Beginner 3 (Wed) | 2nd-5th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 10 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Two armies. One battlefield. Infinite possibilities. Across a checkered board, two mighty monarchies prepare for battle. In this legendary clash of kings and queens, which side will triumph in a test of wit, patience, perseverance, and strategy? Students will explore the logic and thrill of the timeless game of chess under the expert guidance of Grandmaster Rashad Babaev. Whether you're a budding tactician or a curious beginner, prepare to sharpen your mind and rise to the challenge. In Beginning Chess, students will use the Foundation Level curriculum developed by Grandmaster Babaev for his GMChessPrep program. During Quarter 3, the goal is to begin to understand checks, tactics, and board etiquette. Students will learn about check and three ways to escape- block, capture, and move. The class will learn the definitions, differences, and examples of checkmate and stalemate, and practice drills. They will also learn chess etiquette, game results (wins, draws), and chess notation. Learning and playing chess promote problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Each class will be spent part on instruction and part on playing time in practice matches with classmates while the instructor gives tips and reminders. Compass chess students will be given access to GMChessPrep's online portal for virtual chess practice opportunities between classes. Also, students who are absent can request a make-up session during a regularly scheduled GMC online evening group class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Chess- Intermediate 3 | 4th-7th | Grandmaster Rashad Babaev | 10 |
$156.00 $140.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Two armies. One battlefield. Infinite possibilities. Across a checkered board, two mighty monarchies prepare for battle. In this legendary clash of kings and queens, which side will triumph in a test of wit, patience, perseverance, and strategy? Students will explore the logic and thrill of the timeless game of chess under the expert guidance of Grandmaster Rashad Babaev. Whether you're a budding tactician or a curious beginner, prepare to sharpen your mind and rise to the challenge. In Intermediate Chess, students will use the Strategists Level curriculum developed by Grandmaster Babaev for his GMChessPrep program. During Quarter 3, the focus will be on pattern recognition, short games, and positional awareness. The group will learn about tactical combinations such as discovered check & mate, a discovered attack, a Mate in Two, and winning a piece in a tactical gain. Students will learn 30 short games including, strong openings, early middle game attacks, defenses and blunders, and special tactics on f7 and diagonal h5-e8. Learning and playing chess promote problem solving, decision making, critical and creative thinking, general cognitive ability, scholastic skills, and mathematical achievement (Univ. of Minnesota). Experts suggest that the game of chess teaches analytical and disciplined thinking skills, while raising self-esteem, teaching motivation and determination, and sportsmanship (Kasparov Foundation). Each class will be spent part on instruction and part on playing time in practice matches with classmates while the instructor gives tips and reminders. Compass chess students will be given access to GMChessPrep's online portal for virtual chess practice opportunities between classes. Also, students who are absent can request a make-up session during a regularly scheduled GMC online evening group class Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Mon | Children's Beginner Band Q3 | 2nd-4th | Jessica Eastridge | 10 |
$219.00 $197.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Children will enjoy the camaraderie and cooperation of making music together with others in a beginning school band! They will be introduced to brass and woodwind instruments using child-sized plastic instruments from Nuvo. These instruments offer the same fingering, hand positions, embouchure (mouth position and blowing technique) and reeds as their full-sized metal and wood counterparts in a range of fun, lively colors. The Nuvo instruments are considered a "step up" from a traditional plastic recorder with silicone keys, accurate mouthpieces, and a 1.5 octave range in the 'C' key. Students will learn to read music and play as a group. The Children's Beginner Band will get students ready to join the Compass Homeschool Concert Band as 4th graders. Student may join the Children's Band at any quarter and may continue from one quarter to the next as the instructor continues to introduce new songs and skills. Compass owns a set of the Nuovo instruments. Students may "check out" the instruments for use during the quarter. Parents are asked to pay a refundable deposit to ensure the safe, undamaged return of the instruments at the end of the term. Deposits are: $30.00 for flute or clarinet; $110.00 for saxophone; or $130.00 for horn. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Colorful Canvas: Acrylic Painting for Kids | 4th-5th | Diane Wright Cobb | 10 |
$178.00 $160.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Kids will be introduced to acrylic painting in a small group class under the guidance of a professional painter and art teacher. The class will learn the theory of color mixing and the techniques of blending, building up color, creating gradients, and applying light washes. The class will learn how to select the right brush and how to use water to create different effects. Our new painters will practice using paint and brush strokes to create effects like light and shadow, dimension, and texture, and how to develop backgrounds, foregrounds, and detail work. Students will try techniques such as applying and removing paint, layering, stippling, and dabbing, along with wet and dry brush techniques. Students will complete several paintings on canvas boards. A variety of subjects, such as still life, animals, florals, landscapes, seascapes, fantasy, abstracts, or "mimic the masters" will be introduced to illustrate different painting techniques through in-class projects. There is an $15.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Watercolor Painting (Quarter 1), Tempera Painting (Quarter 2), Acrylic Painting (Quarter 3), and MultiMedia Painting (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Thu | Colorful Canvas: Acrylic Painting for Little Kids | 2nd-3rd | Diane Wright Cobb | 10 |
$178.00 $160.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Little kids will be introduced to acrylic painting in a small group class under the guidance of a professional painter and art teacher. The class will learn the theory of color mixing and the techniques of blending, building up color, creating gradients, and applying light washes. The class will learn how to select the right brush and how to use water to create different effects. Our new painters will practice using paint and brush strokes to create effects like light and shadow, dimension, and texture, and how to develop backgrounds, foregrounds, and detail work. Students will try techniques such as applying and removing paint, layering, stippling, and dabbing, along with wet and dry brush techniques. Students will complete several paintings on canvas boards. A variety of subjects, such as still life, animals, florals, landscapes, seascapes, fantasy, abstracts, or "mimic the masters" will be introduced to illustrate different painting techniques through in-class projects. There is an $15.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Watercolor Painting (Quarter 1), Tempera Painting (Quarter 2), Acrylic Painting (Quarter 3), and MultiMedia Painting (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | Colorful Canvas: Acrylic Painting for Tweens | 6th-8th | Diane Wright Cobb | 10 |
$178.00 $160.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Tweens will be introduced to acrylic painting in a small group class under the guidance of a professional painter and art teacher. The class will learn the theory of color mixing and the techniques of blending, building up color, creating gradients, and applying light washes. The class will learn how to select the right brush and how to use water to create different effects. Our new painters will practice using paint and brush strokes to create effects like light and shadow, dimension, and texture, and how to develop backgrounds, foregrounds, and detail work. Students will try techniques such as applying and removing paint, layering, stippling, and dabbing, along with wet and dry brush techniques. Students will complete several paintings on canvas boards. A variety of subjects, such as still life, animals, florals, landscapes, seascapes, fantasy, abstracts, or "mimic the masters" will be introduced to illustrate different painting techniques through in-class projects. There is an $15.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Watercolor Painting (Quarter 1), Tempera Painting (Quarter 2), Acrylic Painting (Quarter 3), and MultiMedia Painting (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 10:00 am | 12:55 pm | Mon | Compass Kindergarten- Language Arts (Sem 2) | K | Danielle Mercadal | 10 |
$714.00 $642.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Can your child sit in a circle for story time? Line up for lunch? Take turns talking? This one-day, 3-hour (half-day) program is a "taste" of kindergarten for 5- year-olds. Start your child's week off right with "Mornings with Miss M" at Compass Kindergarten. Children will work in a small group with an experienced early elementary educator for this dynamic, play-based program that offers regular interaction and socialization. This fun, activity-based program will create rhythm and routine in a homeschooled kindergartner's week and give them a sense of community and a peer group. Children will practice routines and transitions as they move through the morning. Each session will include some simple structure such as a daily arrival song/greeting, circle time, story, snack time, activity, lunch, active game, and closing/goodbyes. Through games and activities, they will also practice key childhood social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and entering play with others. Academic basics such as the ABCs, days of the week, colors, shapes, and number sense will be integrated into activities involving fairy tales, nature and art. The teacher will provide ideas for parents to work on at home with their child during the week. Compass Kindergarten is offered in three weekly sessions: Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. Registration is stand-alone for each day so parents can register for one, two, or all three. While each kindergarten class will give children the opportunities for learning and playing in a social environment along with classroom routines, each of the three days will focus on a particular area of study and discovery of how each is connected. On Mondays, the focus will be on Language Arts where students will be exposed to folktales, seasonal stories, and classic favorites while also practicing some foundational language arts skills. The stories read in class will be used as inspiration to connect aspects of literacy such as comprehension, comparing similar/different, recalling sequences, and predicting outcomes. The Alphabet Book will be used as as "spine" to spark discussions on capital and lower case letter forms, initial letter sounds, blends, vowel sounds, rhyming words, and other pre-phonics skills. The language arts-themed kindergarten session is intended to enhance and clarify literacy skills being introduced at home, but is not a comprehensive reading curriculum. Readiness: Students must be age five (5) by the start of the program or have the teacher's approval for younger. To be successful in this program, entering kindergartners must be able to do the following preschool-level skills: (1) be able to separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and listen to a story or stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be able to write and recognize his/her first name; (5) be able to hold and use crayons and scissors correctly; (6) be completely self sufficient in a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) Other Notes: Children should bring a bagged lunch and water bottle to each session. There is a $50.00 material fee for class consumables due payable to the teacher on the first day of class. Please note: This instructor only accepts cash payments. Parents can choose to drop children off for this program (different than Compass's school-year policies for 55 minute classes.) Registration for this program is by 14-week semester with priority registration for continuing students. Parents who are shopping around or applying to alternate kindergarten programs should review the Compass withdrawal policy. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 12:55 pm | Wed | Compass Kindergarten- Math Minds (Sem 2) | K | Danielle Mercadal | 10 |
$714.00 $642.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Can your child sit in a circle for story time? Line up for lunch? Take turns talking? This one-day, 3-hour (half-day) program is a "taste" of kindergarten for 5- year-olds. Start your child's week off right with "Mornings with Miss M" at Compass Kindergarten. Children will work in a small group with an experienced early elementary educator for this dynamic, play-based program that offers regular interaction and socialization. This fun, activity-based program will create rhythm and routine in a homeschooled kindergartner's week and give them a sense of community and a peer group. Children will practice routines and transitions as they move through the morning. Each session will include some simple structure such as a daily arrival song/greeting, circle time, story, snack time, activity, lunch, active game, and closing/goodbyes. Through games and activities, they will also practice key childhood social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and entering play with others. Academic basics such as the ABCs, days of the week, colors, shapes, and number sense will be integrated into activities involving fairy tales, nature and art. The teacher will provide ideas for parents to work on at home with their child during the week. Compass Kindergarten is offered in three weekly sessions: Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. Registration is stand-alone for each day so parents can register for one, two, or all three. While each kindergarten class will give children the opportunities for learning and playing in a social environment along with classroom routines, each of the three days will focus on a particular area of study and discovery of how each is connected. On Wednesdays, the focus will be on Math where students will be exposed to basic mathematical concepts such as adding, subtracting, skip counting, ordinal numbers, and time through stories and play. Readiness: Students must be age five (5) by the start of the program or have the teacher's approval for younger. To be successful in this program, entering kindergartners must be able to do the following preschool-level skills: (1) be able to separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and listen to a story or stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be able to write and recognize his/her first name; (5) be able to hold and use crayons and scissors correctly; (6) be completely self sufficient in a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) Other Notes: Children should bring a bagged lunch and water bottle to each session. There is a $50.00 material fee for class consumables due payable to the teacher on the first day of class. Please note: This instructor only accepts cash payments. Parents can choose to drop children off for this program (different than Compass's school-year policies for 55 minute classes.) Registration for this program is by 14-week semester with priority registration for continuing students. Parents who are shopping around or applying to alternate kindergarten programs should review the Compass withdrawal policy. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 10:00 am | 12:55 pm | Fri | Compass Kindergarten- Science Sparks (Sem 2) | K | Danielle Mercadal | 10 |
$714.00 $642.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Can your child sit in a circle for story time? Line up for lunch? Take turns talking? This one-day, 3-hour (half-day) program is a "taste" of kindergarten for 5- year-olds. Start your child's week off right with "Mornings with Miss M" at Compass Kindergarten. Children will work in a small group with an experienced early elementary educator for this dynamic, play-based program that offers regular interaction and socialization. This fun, activity-based program will create rhythm and routine in a homeschooled kindergartner's week and give them a sense of community and a peer group. Children will practice routines and transitions as they move through the morning. Each session will include some simple structure such as a daily arrival song/greeting, circle time, story, snack time, activity, lunch, active game, and closing/goodbyes. Through games and activities, they will also practice key childhood social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and entering play with others. Academic basics such as the ABCs, days of the week, colors, shapes, and number sense will be integrated into activities involving fairy tales, nature and art. The teacher will provide ideas for parents to work on at home with their child during the week. Compass Kindergarten is offered in three weekly sessions: Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. Registration is stand-alone for each day so parents can register for one, two, or all three. While each kindergarten class will give children the opportunities for learning and playing in a social environment along with classroom routines, each of the three days will focus on a particular area of study and discovery of how each is connected. On Fridays, the focus will be on science and exploration of the natural world through stories, crafts, and observations both inside and outside the classroom. Themes include seasons, weather, local animals, and the five senses. As a bonus, Compass kindergarten students assist in carring for the Compass lab animals (1 gecko, 3 bearded dragnons, 1 fire-bellied toad, and 1 rat.) Readiness: Students must be age five (5) by the start of the program or have the teacher's approval for younger. To be successful in this program, entering kindergartners must be able to do the following preschool-level skills: (1) be able to separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and listen to a story or stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be able to write and recognize his/her first name; (5) be able to hold and use crayons and scissors correctly; (6) be completely self sufficient in a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) Other Notes: Children should bring a bagged lunch and water bottle to each session. There is a $50.00 material fee for class consumables due payable to the teacher on the first day of class. Please note: This instructor only accepts cash payments. Parents can choose to drop children off for this program (different than Compass's school-year policies for 55 minute classes.) Registration for this program is by 14-week semester with priority registration for continuing students. Parents who are shopping around or applying to alternate kindergarten programs should review the Compass withdrawal policy. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Thu | Cooking for Kids: Winter Warm-Ups (Thu) | 3rd-5th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Kids will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Cooking for Kids: Winter Warm-Ups (Tue) | 3rd-5th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Kids will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Cooking for Little Kids: Winter Warm-Ups (Thu) | 1st-3rd | Mylene Nyman | 6 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Children will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. (2) Children must be minimum age 6 for this class and be able to listen to and follow instructions. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Cooking for Little Kids: Winter Warm-Ups (Tue) | 1st-3rd | Mylene Nyman | 6 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Children will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. (2) Children must be minimum age 6 for this class and be able to listen to and follow instructions. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Mon | Cooking for Teens: Winter Warm-Ups | 9th-12th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Teens will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable via Zelle to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Cooking for Tweens: Winter Warm-Ups (Thu) | 6th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Tweens will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Cooking for Tweens: Winter Warm-Ups (Tue) | 6th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Tweens will enjoy making delicious recipes and family favorites that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include: -Walnut and Roasted Pepper Spread Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Fall Fare with Flair (Quarter 1), Festive Fall Flavors (Quarter 2), Winter Warm-Ups (Quarter 3), Savory Spring Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 8 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Cooking: Chef's Special- Say Cheese! | 3rd-5th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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A chef is a skilled artist in the kitchen, crafting culinary masterpieces that range from delicate hors d'oeuvres and brawny barbecues to succulent salads and decadent desserts. A "Chef's Special" features limited-edition menu items or seasonal delights - and in this class, the Chef's Special is a workshop-style series serving up 7 - 8 fun, delicious, and creatively themed niche dishes. This quarter's Chef's Specials feature Cheese!
Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Food Truck Favorites (Quarter 1), Chocolate Candy Making(Quarter 2), TBD (Quarter 3), Virginia Springtime Specialties (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor via Zelle on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue | Cooking: Copy Cat Favorites- Mock Munchies (Q3) | 3rd-5th | Mylene Nyman | 8 | $211.00 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Save money and make it yourself! Did you know you can recreate your favorite meals and snack foods-just like the ones you find at the grocery store, restaurants, or even vending machines? Copycat Cooking lets you enjoy the taste and fun of store-bought favorites right at home. Best of all, making these delicious dishes yourself means you can skip the preservatives, additives, and other ingredients you'd rather avoid. This quarter, Compass chefs will make:
Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics.
Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Cooking: Copy Cat Favorites- Restautant Rewinds (Q3) | 6th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Save money and make it yourself! Did you know you can recreate your favorite meals and snack foods-just like the ones you find at the grocery store, restaurants, or even vending machines? Copycat Cooking lets you enjoy the taste and fun of store-bought favorites right at home. Best of all, making these delicious dishes yourself means you can skip the preservatives, additives, and other ingredients you'd rather avoid. This quarter, Compass chefs will make:
Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Cooking: Global Gourmet for Kids- Japanese | 3rd-5th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Compass cooks will enjoy a culinary tour of the world with Global Gourmet classes! Menus feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients seasoned and prepared to represent regional flavors and traditional dishes from the featured country. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. The Compass chefs' gastronomy adventures will include: -Chilled Soba Cucumber Cup Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Mexican (Quarter 1), Italian (Quarter 2), Japanese (Quarter 3), French (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Bring: None- Disposable aprons and take-home containers provided. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements: For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Cooking: Global Gourmet for Tweens- Japanese | 6th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Compass cooks will enjoy a culinary tour of the world with Global Gourmet classes! Menus feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients seasoned and prepared to represent regional flavors and traditional dishes from the featured country. Recipes are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. The Compass chefs' gastronomy adventures will include: -Chilled Soba Cucumber Cup Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. These engaging cooking classes will get students excited about helping in the kitchen, experimenting, and trying new foods. Students will be exposed to healthy ingredients they may not regularly eat. They will learn important kitchen skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary and terms are introduced each week, with no-pressure verbal review of those words the following week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Mexican (Quarter 1), Italian (Quarter 2), Japanese (Quarter 3), French (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Bring: None- Disposable aprons and take-home containers provided. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements: For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Thu | Cooking: Kitchen Ninja Knife Skills | 5th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids will gain confidence and competency in the kitchen when they learn to correctly cut with knives. No ninja tricks here! Students will learn parts of the knife, knife safety, and proper grips including the "claw." They will practice the basic cuts: baton, julienne, dive, chiffonade, randelles, dice, and brunoise. Students will practice their cuts on potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, radishes, asparagus, and more. They will bring home their beautifully cut work as a tray of crudites (cut veggies) and mashed potatoes. All knives provided. Knife gloves and finger guards will be available. Notes: (1) Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor via Zelle on or before the first day of class. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements:For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Mon | Cooking: Sweet Shop- Choco Loco | 9th-12th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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The tantalizing aroma of cookies in the oven. A mouth-watering burst of mint. The silky feel of melted chocolate. The sticky sweet of fresh-made caramel. A subtle hint of lemon. Student bakers will enjoy these delicious sensations- and more- as they explore the world of baking homemade desserts. Sweet Shop treats are scrumptious, fun, and simple to make. Each week they will prepare a fresh, handmade dessert or sweet such as: pies, cakes, cookies, tarts, trifles, mousses, puddings, candies, fudge, brittle, or chocolate. The class will include some icing, decorating, and garnishing techniques for completed desserts. This quarter, the Compass bakers' culinary adventures will include: -Chocolate Banana Cake Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. This engaging sweets class will get students excited about helping in the kitchen and entertaining. They will learn important baking skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary is introduced each week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Piece of Cake (Quarter 1); Easy as Pie (Quarter 2), Choco Loco (Quarter 3), and Tea Time Treats (Quarter 4). Assessments: Qualitative Feedback will be given in class. Formal grades/assessment will not be given. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class. What to Bring: None- Disposable aprons and take-home containers provided. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements: For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Cover-to-Cover: Mystery & Detective (Middle School Book Group) | 7th-8th | Dr. Anne Taranto | 10 |
$178.00 $160.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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In Cover-to-Cover, middle school-aged students will read renowned classics and award-winning young adult literature. This book discussion group will examine a different theme each quarter to introduce students to literary analysis. Students will read, examine, and compare two full-length novels that share similar themes through facilitated discussions and extension activities which encourage students to make personal connections to what is read. The group will evaluate themes, characters, setting, and writing style. Third quarter, students will examine the genre of the dystopian novel with The Hound of Baskervilles (by Arthur Conan Doyle) and Murder on the Orient Express (by Agatha Christie). Assigned chapters are expected to be read at home, either as read-aloud, individual silent reading, or listening to the unabridged audiobook. Students should come to class prepared to discuss the reading. Classroom discussions will emphasize the use of textual evidence when explaining thoughts and opinions. Students will be assigned creative, short assignments to enhance and demonstrate their understanding of each novel such as quote explications, thematic questions, or imagining a conversation between characters from different books. Topics in this Series: Adventure (Quarter 1); Fantasy (Quarter 2); Dystopian (Quarter 3); and Mystery & Detective (Quarter 4). Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and because they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $14.50 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class. What to Bring: Students should bring the current novel, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking pages. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Creative Chronicles: Once Upon a. . .Magic Kingdom | 2nd-4th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$157.00 $141.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Children are full of stories and bubbling over with big ideas! In this class, students will learn how to capture their creative vision into a simple story that they will write and illustrate. Third quarter, our storytellers will they will spin the tale of their own, unique Magic Kingdom. Will their journey include wizards or warlocks, castles or caves, spells, dragons.. or something else? Students will learn how to build a Story Arc through guided, weekly activities. They will discover the key elements to composing a story such as crafting characters, posing a problem, advancing the action, constructing the climax, and writing the resolution- through brainstorming questions like, "Who is in your story?", "Where does this take place?", "What does that look like?" and "What happened after ____?" Emerging writers or readers are welcome and will receive support, if needed, to get their own words written down. Psst- don't tell your child, but this class helps lay the foundation in language arts for more advanced creative writing and composition. Topics in this Series: Once Upon a...Secret Room (Quarter 1), Shipwreck (Quarter 2), Magic Kingdom (Quarter 3), Winding Path (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 3:00 pm | 3:55 pm | Thu | Creative Journaling Club (Q3) | 5th-8th | Sheila Anwari | 10 |
$138.00 $124.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Don't write poetry? Think you can't draw? Maybe not, but you may still want a creative way to record your thoughts, feelings, dreams, and ideas! Journaling is an ongoing process of discovery and exploration that allows one to be conscious of and connect with his/her own thoughts, emotions and ideas. It is a form of expression that supports both academic and personal growth. Creative journaling is not writing daily "Dear Diary" style entries on dated pages. Instead, students will explore various journaling methods, blending self-expression and self-discovery to guide them in learning new ways to problem-solve, achieve goals, and process emotions. Students will work with several writing techniques and a range of art media to develop a personal journal throughout the quarter and will have the opportunity to expand on it in subsequent quarters. Techniques such as freeform writing, black-out poetry, stream-of-consciousness writing, and creative list making will be explored, in addition to experimenting with a wide variety of layered techniques and mixed media with collage, photography, cardstock, book pages, art markers, stencils, tempera sticks, acrylic, paints, washi tape, and stickers. Weekly prompts will cover a range of topics such as gratitude, compassion, ambitions, choices, fear, self-care, and self-esteem as they relate to the students' personal lives and current events. Conversation around the prompts will complement the students' work in their individual journals. Topics in this Series: Journal work is done in an open studio environment that allows students to join in any quarter throughout the year. Lab/Supply Fee: A supply fee of $35.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Fee covers art journal for student to use in class and shared class supplies (paints, inks, brushes, markers, collage materials, glue, washi tape, etc.) What to Wear: Students may wish to have an apron or old shirt to wear when working with paints. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 1:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | Criminology: Cold Case Files | 9th-12th | Tayler Shreve | 10 |
$624.00 $561.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will delve into the world of crime scene investigators (CSIs) as seen each week on Cold Justice, Unsolved Mysteries, and the Forensic Files television series! Students will be introduced to the mystery of unsolved cases. The class will identify the roadblocks and pitfalls that prevented cases from being solved and justice being served. They will critique where forensic science failed or could have been used more effectively to close a case. Second semester, students will walk through the timelines of cases in the criminal justice system, starting with the crimes, moving through the collections of evidence, forensic testing, taking the cases to trial, receiving the verdicts, and sentencing if found guilty. How does this process change when a case 'goes cold?' How long can evidence sit in storage? How long can a witness's memory last? How long can victims wait for justice? The class will evaluate pairs of similar cases: one that was solved and one that remains unsolved. The class will take cues from the solved case, brainstorm, and formulate recommendations or different approaches that could be applied to the unsolved case using information they have learned about forensic investigation. Students will complete in-class forensic labs related to the cases they are examining. This course is taught by a PhD candidate and professor of Criminology, Tayler Shreve. It is an introduction to criminology for teens who are interested in becoming practitioners or professionals in the vast criminal justice system or those who enjoy true crime books, blogs, or movies. Rating/Advisory: For sensitive students, please note that in the examination of actual crimes, violence such as assault and murder will be discussed. References may be made to illicit substances and weapons used in the commission of crimes. Course content will be filtered to be age-appropriate for high school students in the instructor's judgement. For example, real crime scene photos may be shown with evidentiary details, but not victims or body parts. Students may read autopsy reports, but they will not be shown autopsy photos, and cases of rape will be referred to as sexual assault with no intimate details. Topics in this Series: Fundamentals of Forensic Science (Semester 1) and Cold Case Files (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester will receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: There are assignments both in and out of the classroom. Students have the ability to submit assignments based on their learning style(s): written assignments, presentations, spoken recordings (podcast, TedTalk, etc.). Assessments: Students will receive feedback on all assignments. There are no exams in this course, however points will be assigned for completed assignments, participation, and attendance. Textbook/Materials: Articles and case studies will be posted by the instructor as downloadable pdfs. Lab/Supply Fee: A lab fee of $50.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. This teacher accepts payments via Zelle @ (941)224-9944 Non-Meeting Days: In addition to the scheduled days-off on the published Compass schedule, this is a 12-week class with two additional days off to be announced. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in humanities or career exploration for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Fri | Crush College Entrance Exams: SAT Strategies | 10th-12th | Sarah Fraser | 12 |
$389.00 $350.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Whether the PSAT or SAT college admissions tests are right around the corner or down the road, this class will teach you how to tackle the tests, decode the questions, and boost your scores. While SAT test scores are not automatic ticket into the college of your choice, higher scores will get your application in the to-be-considered pile where admissions staff will take a closer look at all the other amazing things you have done. This class will help you feel prepared to face the new, online PSAT/SAT admissions tests and take away some of the worry and mystery that surround these assessments. Each week, students will spend time on strategies for math and English portions of the tests. Students will learn about test designs and the types and difficulty levels of reading, grammar, and math questions. The class will learn how to approach multiple choice questions, how to read passages for comprehension, and what to do when you don t know an answer. This class is not a crash course that preps you for one test sitting, but rather teaches you lasting techniques to get you ready for whenever you decide to take a standardized test. The instructor will lay out a study plan for test-ready students and be able to offer tips on many aspects of the college admissions process. When the class wraps up, students and parents will understand the process of PSAT/SAT testing and feel prepared for the personal challenge of the test experience. Prerequisites: For this class, students should be reading and have comprehension at or above grade level and have completed Algebra I. While geometry is included on the tests, completion of geometry is not assumed. Geometry formulas are provided within the tests, and the instructor will teach how to find and apply those formulas. Workload: Students should expect to spend one hour per week on homework for this class. Assignments: Prior to the start of class, each student should have taken a scored, practice PSAT/SAT exam (found on the College Board website). All other assignments will be made in class and e-mailed to parents/students. Assessments: Students will take a variety of in-class and at-home time, practice test sections. The instructor will not provide additional assessments beyond the practice tests. Textbook: Students should purchase eitherThe Official SAT Study Guide, Second Edition, published by the College Board (ISBN: 978-1457316845), APril 29, 2025. What to Bring: Students should bring their test book, notebook/paper, and a TI-83 or equivalent calculator to class to practice math questions that permit the use of a calculator. Phone calculators cannot be used. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) elective credit purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | CSI: Forensic Investigations | 7th-8th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$389.00 $350.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will delve into the world of crime scene investigators (CSIs) as seen each week on Law and Order, NCIS, and the CSI television series! Students will be introduced to the field which combines knowledge of biology, chemistry, and physics! Second semester, students will put their skills to the test to perform forensic investigations. They will learn how to conduct toxicology tests and analyze blood samples to determine blood type. The class will discover how to perform DNA analysis using gel electrophoresis. Students will examine skeletal remains and use them to determine height, gender and continent of origin and peform a mock autopsy on a fetal pig. They will hone their investigavtive skills by examining ballistics, testing for gunshot residue, and using insect life cycles to determine time of death.
Students will use equipment similar to CSI analysts and FBI detectives such as microscopes and chromatography and combine those techniques along with logic, deductive reasoning, and the scientific method to solve mock crimes and CSI mysteries. Students will take notes and record their findings in science journals/notebooks. Notes: For sensitive students, please note that while actual crime scene details and graphic photographs will not be shown to students, the nature of forensic science will suggest and reference crime scenarios and death. There is a $50.00 lab fee due payable to the instructor before or on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: CSI Forensic Science Lab (Semester 1), Comparative Anatomy Dissection Lab (Semester 2). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Decoding DNA and Genetics | 7th-8th | Dr. Michele Forsythe | 12 |
$404.00 $363.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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How genetically similar are an orangutan and a gorilla? How can two siblings have different eye color? How tall will you grow? Answers to these questions and thousands more can be found in a study of genetics and the instruction-carrying molecules, DNA. In this class, students will survey the structure and function of DNA, genes and chromosomes to understand how organisms generate everything from this simple code. They will discover how cells 'silence' or modulate the expression of certain genes. The class will learn how gene expression vectors used for making biopharmaceuticals and discuss how organisms can be modified for use in agriculture, commonly called GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Students will follow in the footsteps of some of Mendel's ground-breaking heredity research and use Punnett squares to predict the inheritance of traits. They will learn about incomplete dominance, co-dominance, sex-linked disorders, and epigenetics to predict disease in offspring such as the pedigree of hemophilia in Europe's royal families. Students will examine mitotic and meiotic cell division under the microscope and use manipulatives to illustrate the complexities of chromosome movement during cell division. The class will understand what aneuploidy is and several diseases associated with it and then use karyotyping to diagnose patients. They will learn about the maternal inheritance of mitochondrial DNA (mDNA) and the endosymbiont theory. Students will use restriction enzymes and gel electrophoresis while participating to complete a DNA fingerprinting lab. Topics in this Series: BioChemistry Basics (Semester 1), Decoding DNA and Genetics (semester 2). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $30.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Decorative Arts Studio: Fiber Arts Fun (12PM) | 4th-8th | Shona D\'Cruz | 10 | $215.00 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Student artists will enjoy working hands-on, in 3-dimensions with a variety of sculpting and crafting materials to create original Decorative Arts. Assembling decorative items is multi-sensory, and students enjoy the tactile experience of shaping, stacking, forming, flattening, and layering a selection of materials to create unique, personal projects. Decorative art engages a different artistic skillset than coloring, drawing, and writing, and encourages creativity to represent objects in three dimensions. In this studio environment, students will create original hand-made pieces using a range of artistic techniques and a myriad of materials to choose from. Third quarter, students will work with a variety of fibers and textiles to create unique, 3-dimensional projects. From fuzzy chenille to fluffy cotton and scratchy jute to scrumptious viscose, students will enjoy the tactile experience of looping, lashing, layering, weaving or knotting assorted textures in fabrics and fibers. Students may also work with burlap, felt, leather, muslin, wool, yarn, or string. Example past projects include a string sculpture, a knotted flannel scarf, a wall hanging, and wool felting projects. Students may sew embellishments such as buttons on their finished projects, but this is not a sewing class. A supply fee of $30.00 per student is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Sculpture Skills (Quarter 1), Marvelous Mosaics (Quarter 2), Fiber Arts Fun (Quarter 3), and Upcycled Sculpture (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Decorative Arts Studio: Fiber Arts Fun (1PM) | 4th-8th | Shona D\'Cruz | 10 | $215.00 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Student artists will enjoy working hands-on, in 3-dimensions with a variety of sculpting and crafting materials to create original Decorative Arts. Assembling decorative items is multi-sensory, and students enjoy the tactile experience of shaping, stacking, forming, flattening, and layering a selection of materials to create unique, personal projects. Decorative art engages a different artistic skillset than coloring, drawing, and writing, and encourages creativity to represent objects in three dimensions. In this studio environment, students will create original hand-made pieces using a range of artistic techniques and a myriad of materials to choose from. Third quarter, students will work with a variety of fibers and textiles to create unique, 3-dimensional projects. From fuzzy chenille to fluffy cotton and scratchy jute to scrumptious viscose, students will enjoy the tactile experience of looping, lashing, layering, weaving or knotting assorted textures in fabrics and fibers. Students may also work with burlap, felt, leather, muslin, wool, yarn, or string. Example past projects include a string sculpture, a knotted flannel scarf, a wall hanging, and wool felting projects. Students may sew embellishments such as buttons on their finished projects, but this is not a sewing class. A supply fee of $30.00 per student is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Sculpture Skills (Quarter 1), Marvelous Mosaics (Quarter 2), Fiber Arts Fun (Quarter 3), and Upcycled Sculpture (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 2 | Nov 05 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Demystifying Music Theory | 3rd-8th | To Be Announced | 6 | $219.00 |
Dive into the fundamentals of music theory in a fun and interactive way! This course is your gateway to understanding how music works- from reading notes on a staff to playing rhythms, scales, and chords with confidence. Whether you're just starting out or brushing up on the basics, you'll explore essential topics like staves, clefs, pitch and rhythmic values, time signatures, and more. Designed to match Grades 1 - 3 of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music theory exams, this course provides a solid foundation for musicians at all levels. The instructor will demonstrate hands-on activities to reinforce each concept and may use simple quizzes to help you track your progress. The class will begin by unpacking the elements of Western music notation- learning how to read notes, understanding rhythm, and recognizing basic chord structures like triads. The class will also become familiar with common performance directions you'll see in written music. Using your instrument, you'll bring theory to life by practicing scales, arpeggios, and rhythmic patterns. Even if you think you know the basics, this course offers a structured way to revisit and strengthen your understanding. This class is essential for beginning, intermediate, and advanced students of any instrument including those in the Homeschool Concert Band, Homeschool String Ensemble, taking private lessons, self-taught, or interested in songwriting, composing, or music production. This is a 7-week class that begins on November 5 and will meet during the make-up week on January 7. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Detective Drama: The Case of the Captured Commissioner | 4th-6th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Calling crooked criminals who commit creepy crimes! Convening colorful characters who corroborate clues and constables who collaborate to crack the case! Connect with a kooky cast in Detective Drama. Using materials from a commercial mystery role playing game (RPG), students will be guided through the facts of a fictitious case. Student sleuths will be follow clue cards, eclectic evidence, and phony forensics to uncover a crime. Emphasis will be on critical thinking, problem solving skills, and improvisation through the portrayal of unique characters involved in the crime. Students will be encouraged to develop a strong, compelling character, an original costume, a backstory, and of course, an alibi. Third quarter, Expert Elizabeth Wells was in a sleepy slumber when she was startled with a riddle-filled ring of her phone. The mysterious voice on the other end ominously opined, "A criminal always returns to the scene of the crime," before hanging up. She was still shaken by the sinister summons, when a sharp, sudden knock at the door sent her heart racing. It was Detective Cook, delivering distressing details: Mr. Davis, the clever commissioner of the power plant, had disappears after a dubious discussion. Now, it's up to you and Detective Wells to track the troubling truth, unmask the villain, and unravel the mysterious motives behind this mysterious missing man. Stay sharp, stay focused, and solve the case! In this workshop, students will experiment with acting and improvisation and working as a team. This class is best suited for students who are active listeners, are flexible and easily adapt, have a sense of humor, and enjoy working in a collaborative group. Students need to be able to stay in sync with the flow of the class. This is not an "anything goes" or free-for-all class. Because of the age of the students in this class, only capers such as burglaries or kidnappings will be portrayed instead of murders. Topics in this Series: Mystery of the Missing Millionaie (Quarter 1), Puzzling Paranormal Pursuits (Quarter 2), The Case of the Captured Commissioner (Quarter 3), and The Disappearance of Dr. McBride (Quarter 4). There is a class supply fee of $20.00 due payable to the instructor on the first day for the class RPG materials, printing, props, and investigation folders. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Mon | Digital Studio: Python Programming | 6th-8th | Ethan Hay | 10 |
$391.00 $351.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Do you want to learn the world's fastest growing programming language that is used by Google, NASA, YouTube and the CIA? Python is a versatile, easy-to-learn beginner-level programming language and gateway to foundational concepts in computer science. Students will learn how to code apps and games as they practice the computer science design cycle of writing code, executing the code, interpreting the results, revising the code syntax based on the output. The class will cover the fundamental building blocks of programming including: variables, mathematical operators, logical operators, and boolean arithmetic. They will also learn about data types, built-in functions, conditional statements, for- loops, defining functions, function stacks, interpreting error messages, exception handling, and add-on libraries. At each step, the class will create basic programs and fun, interactive content. Topics in this Series: Python Programming (Semester 1), JavaScript Programming (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: Algebra I, recommended Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: Will be given in class. Assessments: Will not be given. Lab/Supply Fee: The class tuition includes a student technology fee that covers the rental of classroom laptops and all software and licenses installed on the laptops. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Technology or Career Elective for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Drawing for Fun: Fantastical Figures | 5th-6th | Pete Van Riper | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Anyone can learn to draw! A professional artist will teach kids how to draw a variety of projects by breaking down complex forms and figures into simple shapes and giving them dimensions through shading, shadow, and textures. Projects will focus on fantasy and fictional subjects which are a great choice to keep beginning artists from becoming frustrated when their work does not look "the real thing." Third quarter, students will develop their drawing skills on projects featuring fantasy figures. Kids will enjoy projects with dragons, ogres, ghouls, aliens or elves where they can practice drawing techniques without the pressure of trying to replicate real life. The class will learn to draw simple costumes and props around their character to convey setting without drawing elaborate landscapes, and they will learn how to express thoughts and conversation through dialogue bubbles. This is not a "follow-the-leader" or copy/mimic art class, but rather a supportive environment where students are encouraged to create their own fantasy characters and scenarios. They will receive individual coaching and feedback to develop the characters that they dream up rather than trying to replicate well-known existing characters like DC, Marvel, Disney, or Looney Tunes. Young artists having fun playing off each other's ideas to draw outrageous imaginary characters and worlds. The instructor will often use prompts to get the ideas flowing and to encourage collaboration. The instructor has a class rule that illustrations must be rated "G" with no violence (guns, knives, blood/gore) and will often suggest alternatives such as battle with unexpected objects like baguettes or bananas! Students' practice illustrations and draft renderings will be drawn with regular #2 pencil in sketchbooks, but they are welcome to add color to their work with colored pencils or markers, if desired. There is a $15.00 material fee payable to the instructor on the first day for a sketchbook and shared classroom art supplies. Topics in this Series include: Comic Art and Characters (Quarter 1); Comics with a Cast of Characters (Quarter 2), Fantastical Figures (Quarter 3), and Playful Portraits (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | Drawing Studio: Creating Narrative | 9th-12th | Pete Van Riper | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will draw in a relaxed, informal studio setting, where they will learn the fundamentals of drawing along with the elements of art and principles of design. Most drawing projects are "student's own" where each artist selects their own subject to incorporate demonstrated techniques such as representing light and dark, creating texture and patterns, and shading to show dimension. Third quarter, students will learn "create narrative" and tell a story with their drawing through subject, placement, and composition. Over the course, students should progress to draw more carefully and more accurately and to represent more refined details in their drawings. The instructor will demonstrate various techniques by developing a sample drawing. Students may elect to follow the class sample or may apply the drawing skills to an entirely unique drawing. This class is suitable for beginners who have never drawn before and for intermediate art students who have worked with other media and are interested in exploring drawing. Drawing can provide a relaxing, needed break from rigorous academic classes and over-scheduled lives in a fun, supportive environment. Topics in this Series: Everyday Objects (Quarter 1), Portraits and Creative Caricatures (Quarter 2), Creating Narrative (Quarter 3), and Imitating Illustration Styles (Quarter 4). Workload: Work outside of class is optional for those who wish to practice their drawing techniques. Assessments: Individual feedback is given in class. Formal assessments will not be given. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $18.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for a sketchbook, a pencil box with pencils of varying hardness, and an eraser. Returning drawing students do not need to pay a supply fee and are expected to replace their drawing supplies as needed, with similar or better quality. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Fine Arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:50 pm | Thu | Dynamic Dioramas: Biome Builders- Arid (The Desert)- MASKED | 4th-7th | Taliesin Knol | 6 |
$286.00 $257.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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The best way to understand a biome is to build (a model) one! A biome is a large zone on Earth characterized by its climate, soil, vegetation, and organisms with special adaptations for the unique environment. In modeling biomes, students will learn how they are different than similar ecological concepts like habitats and ecosystems. Students will discover how human activities, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, are transforming biomes. Arid Biomes, or deserts, are found across the globe and are characterized by their scant precipitation (less than 20 inches per year) and dry conditions. Vegetation and wildlife in these areas have special adaptations for surviving with little water and few nutrients. Deserts cover about 20% of the Earth's surface and can be very hot or very cold. Students will concentrate on the hot, arid biomes found in sub-tropical areas. Each student will create an individual diorama. Students will craft and hand-shape their scene on a 10 x 14 inch foam board using artistic, model-making techniques. They will customize their dioramas with landforms, dunes, plant life, and paint. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with miniature figures and combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to create a larger terrain. Students will then compete in a zoology-based survival strategy game. Each student will create one board and receive a set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Tropics (The Rainforest)- Quarter 1; Tundra (The Arctic)- Quarter 2; Arid (The Desert)- Quarter 3; and Grasslands (The Savanna)- Quarter 4. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Dynamic Dioramas: Biome Builders- Arid (The Desert)- Tue | 3rd-5th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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The best way to understand a biome is to build (a model) one! A biome is a large zone on Earth characterized by its climate, soil, vegetation, and organisms with special adaptations for the unique environment. In modeling biomes, students will learn how they are different than similar ecological concepts like habitats and ecosystems. Students will discover how human activities, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, are transforming biomes. Arid Biomes, or deserts, are found across the globe and are characterized by their scant precipitation (less than 20 inches per year) and dry conditions. Vegetation and wildlife in these areas have special adaptations for surviving with little water and few nutrients. Deserts cover about 20% of the Earth's surface and can be very hot or very cold. Students will concentrate on the hot, arid biomes found in sub-tropical areas. Each student will create an individual diorama. Students will craft and hand-shape their scene on a 10 x 14 inch foam board using artistic, model-making techniques. They will customize their dioramas with landforms, dunes, plant life, and paint. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with miniature figures and combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to create a larger terrain. Students will then compete in a zoology-based survival strategy game. Each student will create one board and receive a set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Tropics (The Rainforest)- Quarter 1; Tundra (The Arctic)- Quarter 2; Arid (The Desert)- Quarter 3; and Grasslands (The Savanna)- Quarter 4. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Dynamic Dioramas: Biome Builders- Arid (The Desert)- Wed | 3rd-5th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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The best way to understand a biome is to build (a model) one! A biome is a large zone on Earth characterized by its climate, soil, vegetation, and organisms with special adaptations for the unique environment. In modeling biomes, students will learn how they are different than similar ecological concepts like habitats and ecosystems. Students will discover how human activities, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, are transforming biomes. Arid Biomes, or deserts, are found across the globe and are characterized by their scant precipitation (less than 20 inches per year) and dry conditions. Vegetation and wildlife in these areas have special adaptations for surviving with little water and few nutrients. Deserts cover about 20% of the Earth's surface and can be very hot or very cold. Students will concentrate on the hot, arid biomes found in sub-tropical areas. Each student will create an individual diorama. Students will craft and hand-shape their scene on a 10 x 14 inch foam board using artistic, model-making techniques. They will customize their dioramas with landforms, dunes, plant life, and paint. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with miniature figures and combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to create a larger terrain. Students will then compete in a zoology-based survival strategy game. Each student will create one board and receive a set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this series include: Tropics (The Rainforest)- Quarter 1; Tundra (The Arctic)- Quarter 2; Arid (The Desert)- Quarter 3; and Grasslands (The Savanna)- Quarter 4. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Dynamic Dioramas: History & Culture- Ancient Greece, The Trojan War | 3rd-5th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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The Trojan War is famously recounted in Homer's Epic, the Iliad. However, the Iliad was written in the 8th century BCE, making it one of, if not the oldest written stories in Western culture. The actual history however, remained lost for almost two thousand years since the time of the bronze age collapse, until the famed city was rediscovered in the 1800s by several archaeologists and excavated. This class will focus on the historical sites, modeling as accurately as possible the Bronze Age civilization and methods of architecture and warfare, to recreate the mythical ten-year siege of Troy, as ancient Greek heroes would have experienced it. Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, paint, and miniatures, each student will craft a 10 X 16 diorama. In class, they will view historical maps, artistic renderings, and/or photographs to understand the topography and development of this time and place in history. Students will customize their dioramas with landforms, landscape elements, waterways, and structures to represent a scene from this period. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with 1:72 scale miniature figures. Students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate a larger terrain and then compete in a history-based role-playing game which will reinforce lessons about the culture, economy, and/or warfare of the time. Each student will have at least one board and set of miniatures to take home with them.Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, paint, and miniatures, each student will craft a 10 X 16 diorama. In class, they will view historical maps, artistic renderings, and/or photographs to understand the topography and development of this time and place in history. Students will customize their dioramas with landforms, landscape elements, waterways, and structures to represent a scene from this period. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with 1:72 scale miniature figures. Students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate a larger terrain and then compete in a history-based role-playing game which will reinforce lessons about the culture, economy, and/or warfare of the time. Each student will have at least one board and set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this year's series include: Ancient Egypt (Quarter 1), Mesopotamia (Quarter 2), Ancient Greece (Quarter 3), Roman Empire (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 2:00 pm | 3:55 pm | Fri | Economic Empires: Corporations, Capitalists & Consumers- a Market Simulation RPG (20th Century) | 9th-12th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$452.00 $406.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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In this class, students will model the complex and interconnected economies of post-Industrial Revolution in the early twentieth century. The class will use a custom role-playing game (RPG) to simulate multiple, interconnected industrial economies and global supply chains. Each student will begin the semester as the Head-of-State of a world power. They will make decisions within the framework of their historically accurate government type, such as the absolute monarchy of Tsarist Russia or a republic like France, but in true role-playing fashion, they will create characters and build their "backstories" for these heads of state. Students will practice managing labor forces and forging commercial and military alliances with classmates to secure resources and economic prosperity for their nations. They will learn to balance the role of government in directing resources during war and peace to keep their populations safe, fed, and happy using the game resources available to them. Using the lessons taught in class, students will navigate their interconnected business world, learning to either cooperate with or destroy their rivals. Using their carefully documented ledgers, the class will learn to manage key business elements, from keeping their labor force happy enough not to strike, forging deals and making partnerships, and of course, influencing government policy to their benefit. The end of the semester should make clear how each business is interdependent on another, the benefits of cooperation or forceful acquisition. What role does a good (or bad) government play in encouraging and safeguarding investment and for whose benefit? Above all, it should stress the importance of keeping orderly records, making safe vs highly rewarding investments, and how to successfully manage working relationships. By recreating the circumstances of the early 20th century growth in factories and consumerism, and navigating them in the role playing game, students should understand the how and why of the history they have played. Topics in this Series: Tycoons, Titans & Tyrants- Late 19th century (Semester 1), Corporations, Capitalists & Consumers- Early 20th century (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: None Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: Course documents including period plans, photographs and recreations will be made available through a class Google Drive link emailed to parents (and students who provide their email address), as well as a class reading list of articles/excerpts and YouTube playlist for any videos watched in class or assigned as homework. Assessments: Informal assessments will be given at the instructor's discretion, but assignments will not be scored or graded. Each student's financial success in the game will be an indicator of their learning and participation for purposes of assigning a grade. Parents will also be given shared access to their student's business plan with instructor and ledger, with instructor comments at the conclusion of class. Textbook/Materials: None What to Bring: Paper or notebook, pen or pencil Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in History, Economics, or Business for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Electricity is Elementary! Simple Circuits | 1st-2nd | Dr. Michele Forsythe | 10 |
$202.00 $181.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids are curious about electricity- the magic that powers the toys, games, and electronics they love. In this class, kids will experiment with aspects of electricity- conductors, batteries, and circuits- to take the mystery out of electricity and inspire future engineers. Discover basic electrical engineering using batteries and circuits with a variety of components. Through class discussions and hands-on experiments, students will learn about parallel and series circuits and experiment with resistance using Snap Circuits kits. Students will learn how to wire and power lights, a fan motor, and a speaker. On the final day of class, each student will design, build, and share their own, unique circuit project. Topics in this Series: Battery Blast (Quarter 1); Cool Conductors (Quarter 2); Simple Circuits (Quarter 3); and Super Circuits (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 2 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Engineering Exploratorium: Propel & Power Lab | 3rd-4th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Exploratorium is a lab-based class that focuses on the "E" in STEM- Engineering! Each lesson integrates hands-on building with science, math, and technology. Students will learn about concepts like forces, energy, friction, and electricity while applying skills like measurement, budgeting, geometry and data collection. Working in teams, they’ll follow the engineering design process to brainstorm, build, and refine solutions to real-world challenges. Third quarter, engineers will Learn about: xxxx. Students will tackle simulated challenges that span a variety of engineering disciplines- civil engineering, structural engineering, and mechanical engineering. Student engineers will work together to solve problems and brainstorm options given a variety pf project materials. For each project, students will be challenged to adjust their designs, make modifications, re-design to optimize their creations, and retest performance. Basic building, measuring, and data collection will be used to challenge all minds in engineering! Third quarter, students will build rockets, gliders, a wind-powered car, parachutes, a solar-powered rover, and squirt-gun powered boats as they test velocity, simple machines, buoyancy, surface tension, gravity, and air resistance. They will be introduced to the four forces of flight, alternative energy, Newton's 3rd law, and Bernouilis principle. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Standout Structures (Quarter 1); Marvelous Machines (Quarter 2); Propel & Power (Quarter 3); and Extreme Entertainment (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue, Fri | English: American Literature with Writing (Sem 2) | 12th | Dr. Anne Taranto | 10 |
$751.00 $675.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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This full-credit English course is designed to prepare students for college level academic writing. It will deepen student's critical reading and textual analysis skills by asking students to think critically about the "American Dream" and what it means to be an American by reading texts that engage with these topics from the 18th century to today. In this course, students will read and respond in writing to both fiction and non-fiction texts, and our analytical method will focus on rhetorical context (subject, purpose and audience). Spring Semester will feature Their Eyes Were Watching God (Zora Neale Hurston), The Things They Carried (Tim O'Brien), and a selection of other short fiction and poetry. Writing Lab: An essential component of this course will be an in-class Writing Lab. Students in this class should have mastered the basics of academic writing, such as constructing a thesis statement that makes an argument and organizing their thoughts through effective topic sentences and transition statements. This class will deepen students' textual analysis skills with a focus on developing rhetorical analysis, the study of how a text makes meaning. Over the course of the year, students will develop familiarity with a variety of writing styles and forms including rhetorical analysis, literary analysis, critical response, close reading, opinion essay, and personal essay. Students should bring a laptop to class one day per week for in-class writing. Prerequisites: Students taking this class should have mastered the foundations of Introduction to Genre and British Literature (or similar English courses), are expected to take an active role in discussion and complete all writing assignments. Topics in this Series: American Literature, Part I (Semester 1) and American Literature, Part II (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: All assignments will be posted in a Google Classroom management site. Students will need their own gmail accounts to access Google Classroom. Assessments: Students' written assignments will be graded using a rubric and assigned points that the homeschool parent can use when assigning an overall class grade. Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $44.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for the class pack of books and handouts. What to Bring: Students should bring the current literature, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking passages/pages. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a half-credit (one semester) or full credit (both semesters) in English for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: British Literature |
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| Semester | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue, Fri | English: British Literature with Writing (Sem 2) | 11th | Dr. Anne Taranto | 10 |
$751.00 $675.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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This full-credit high school English class will focus on developing critical reading and writing skills through the study of a range of canonical and post-colonial genres and texts written in English. Through exposure to a variety of voices across time periods and geographical regions, students will investigate major themes, such as the importance of language as a locus of power, the continuity of human nature, and the role of the imagination. Spring semester will introduce students to post-colonial texts and genres featuring Vindication of the Rights of Woman (Mary Wollstonecraft), Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen), Frankenstein (Mary Shelley), and Paradise Lost (John Milton). Writing Lab: An essential component of this course will be an in-class Writing Lab. Students will write two or three critical response papers and a full-scale literary analysis essay each term. Students will continue to hone the components of academic writing, including how to construct a thesis statement that makes an argument, how to support their ideas effectively with textual evidence, how to organize an argument logically, and how to cite sources in MLA format. Students should bring a laptop to class one day per week for in-class writing. Topics in this Series: British Literature, Part I (Semester 1) and British Literature, Part II (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: Students should be able to read at grade level and have completed Introduction to Genre or equivalent high school level writing class. Students are expected to take an active role in discussion and complete all writing assignments. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: All assignments will be posted in a Google Classroom management site. Students will need their own gmail accounts to access Google Classroom. Assessments: Students' written assignments will be graded using a rubric and assigned points that the homeschool parent can use when assigning an overall class grade. Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $22.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for the class pack of books and handouts. What to Bring: Students should bring the current literature, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking passages/pages. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a half-credit (one semester) or full credit (both semesters) in English for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Literary Genres or equivalent |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | English: Intro to Literary Genres with Writing- The Play | 9th | Dr. Anne Taranto | 10 |
$242.00 $217.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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In this introductory high school English workshop, students will be introduced to the concepts of literary genres and analytical writing. Each quarter, the class will examine one select work or genre. Students will learn to recognize figurative language, tone, subtext and diction, identify symbolism and imagery, and develop an awareness of narrative perspective and of the social-historical contexts in which these works were created. Third quarter will feature The Play Romeo and Juliet Folger Edition by Shakespeare. Composition: Students will also learn the fundamental components of academic writing, including how to construct a thesis statement that makes an argument, how to support their ideas effectively with textual evidence, how to organize an argument logically, and how to cite sources in MLA format. Some class periods will be dedicated Writing Lab session in which students write in-class in order to get on-the-spot support and feedback from the teacher. Students should bring laptops to these class sessions. Topics in this Series: The Novel (Quarter 1), Poetry (Quarter 2), The Play (Quarter 3), and The Epic (Quarter 4). Students who continue from one quarter to the next will receive priority registration. Prerequisites: Students should be able to read at grade level, and it is recommended that students have had a middle school writing class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: All assignments will be posted in a Google Classroom management site. Students will need their own gmail accounts to access Google Classroom. Assessments: Students' written assignments will be graded using a rubric and assigned points that the homeschool parent can use when assigning an overall class grade. Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $8.50 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for the select novel. What to Bring: Students should bring the current novel, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking passages/pages. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a partial credit in English for purposes of a high school transcript. (Full credit if all 4 quarters are taken.) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue | Experimental Methods & Design: Environmental Science | 7th-8th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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In this class, middle school students will learn to work as independent investigators using the scientific method. Students will observe the systems under investigation, choose a pattern or trend that interests them, and then develop a testable hypothesis. Students will learn how to: design a scientific experiment for either a laboratory or field setting, choose appropriate controls, minimize investigator bias, correctly perform measurements and to record and analyze data. Third quarter, students will investigate an aspect of environmental science such as water quality, air pollution, contaminants affecting native species, or man-made materials affecting the indoor environment. Depending on thier area of focus, students may use microscopes, spectrometers, or other equipment and learn to keep science journals/notebooks. Students will learn how to locate peer-reviewed scientific literature to research their subject. By the end of the quarter, students will have completed their independent investigations, summarized the results in a poster, and will present their data to the class. Each quarter will focus on a different aspect of science. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Animal Behavior (Quarter 1), Chemistry (Quarter 2), Environmental Science (Quarter 3), and Microbiology & Human Behavior (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Experimenting with Electricity: Simple Circuits | 3rd-4th | Dr. Michele Forsythe | 10 |
$202.00 $181.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will learn how to think like electrical engineers as they learn about conductors, batteries, and circuits to understand how electricity powers the things they use every day. Discover basic electrical engineering using batteries and circuits with a variety of components. Through class discussions and hands-on experiments, students will learn about parallel and series circuits and experiment with resistance using Snap Circuits kits. Students will learn how to wire and power lights, a fan motor, and a speaker. On the final day of class, each student will design, build, and share their own, unique circuit project. Topics in this Series: Battery Blast (Quarter 1); Cool Conductors (Quarter 2); Simple Circuits (Quarter 3); and Super Circuits (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Extra, Extra! Non Fiction News-Writing (Q3) | 6th-12th | Shea Megale | 12 |
$199.00 $179.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Be part of a team! Join the Compass Collaborative newspaper staff. The staff is a mixed-age team with students from 6th to 12th grade. Students will learn about journalism and develop writing skills. They will craft effective articles, conduct interviews, and write reviews. Each quarter, writing assignments and responsibilities will be divided based on individual interests. Students will each contribute at least 2-3 items to the Collaborative edition each quarter including articles of their chosing (book critiques, movie reviews, field trip recommendations, short fiction, poetry, comics, jokes, tc) and assigned articles about happenings at Compass. While research and data collection will occur outside of class, a portion of staff meetings will be dedicated to writing and editing. The newspaper advisor will use these sessions to demonstrate what constitutes 'good' writing. All staff members will practice editing skills to improve grammar, punctuation, and overall clarity and accuracy in their writing. Students will be informally paired for peer review and feedback on their writing. All students register for the same class, and roles and responsibilities will be reviewed and delegated during the first meetings. Students should expect to work on assignments outside of class and will be expected to bring a laptop, notebook, and pen/pencil to each class meeting. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Fencing for Beginners & Advanced Beginners (Q3) | 5th-8th | Fencing Sports Academy | 12 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Fencing is the clashing of steel and competitive spirit combined with the battle of the wits. Apply the rules of Olympic fencing, and you have a physically and mentally challenging game of strategy, often called, "physical chess." In Beginning Fencing, students will learn the rules of the sport as well as footwork, attacks, parries, responses, and how to judge matches. Beginning students will use the epee, a thin, lightweight sword with broad hand guard and will wear a wireless electronic scoring sensor over layers of protective gear. Returning students will work with both the epee and foil. The physical benefits of fencing are an increase in agility, balance and coordination. Fencing also provides mental benefits such as improved focus, strategy and confidence. Fencing is safety-oriented with blunt tip weapons, chest protectors, chest/sleeve pads, fencing jacket, gloves, and face mask. Students may enroll any quarter. All equipment is provided by the instructor. Students are asked to wear full length, comfortable athletic pants such as running pants or sweatpants (no jeans, no shorts, no dresses or skirts), and low-heeled athletic shoes. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Fencing for Young Beginners (Q3) | 2nd-4th | Fencing Sports Academy | 12 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Fencing is the clashing of steel and competitive spirit combined with the battle of the wits. Apply the rules of Olympic fencing, and you have a physically and mentally challenging game of strategy, often called, "physical chess." In Beginning Fencing, students will learn the rules of the sport as well as footwork, attacks, parries, responses, and how to judge matches. Beginning students will use the epee, a thin, lightweight sword with broad hand guard and will wear a wireless electronic scoring sensor over layers of protective gear. Returning students will work with both the epee and foil. The physical benefits of fencing are an increase in agility, balance and coordination. Fencing also provides mental benefits such as improved focus, strategy and confidence. Fencing is safety-oriented with blunt tip weapons, chest protectors, chest/sleeve pads, fencing jacket, gloves, and face mask. Students may enroll any quarter. All equipment is provided by the instructor. Students are asked to wear full length, comfortable athletic pants such as running pants or sweatpants (no jeans, no shorts, no dresses or skirts), and low-heeled athletic shoes. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 12:30 pm | 1:55 pm | Mon | Filmmaking: Script to Screen (Sem 2) | 9th-12th | Shea Megale | 12 |
$599.00 $539.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Lights! Camera! Action! Students will learn about the art of making films. Discussions, activities, and projects will be facilitated by local award-winning filmmaker and author Shea C. Megale. Club members will be introduced to topics such as evaluating what makes a good story when told through visual medium, script-writing, acting, and casting. The class will learn about the roles on a film set such as DP (director of photography), gaffer, grip, director, and more. Teens will be introduced to types of equipment and cameras, and will learn how to optimize the capabilities of their smart phone video cameras and use editing software. The group will learn about the composition of a good shot and the types of shots (close-up, wide, tracking, etc.) as well as simple lighting using available sources and reflectors. The pace, scope, and direction of the class will be adapted to the interests of enrolled students, but the group will work towards filming and editing short scenes and a short film individually or with a small group as the year progresses. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | French Foundations: Autour de la Ville (Around Town) | 5th-6th | Edwige Pinover | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Bonjour! French Foundations is an introductory class for middle school-aged students. The class will be taught in a predominantly immersion environment. Limited cues in English will be used to prompt students or explain difficult concepts. French language instruction will be presented in a natural learning sequence beginning with nouns (such as colors, numbers, clothing, foods, animals, days/dates, etc), adjectives, greetings, and simple phrases. Students will learn beginning grammatical constructions such as noun-verb agreement, noun-adjective agreement, adjective placement, and the rules of regular verb conjugation. Students will be encouraged to speak aloud and converse with classmates, but also to learn to sound out, spell, and read beginning, written French. Aspects of Francophone culture such as holidays, foods, and traditions will be incorporated in the classes. Each quarter introduces new themes and new vocabulary in French, so continuing students can continue to build their language basics. However, themes and units are non-sequential, so students may enroll in this level in any quarter. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in sounds, vocabulary, grammar, and usage while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Students should be at grade level in their reading. Fluency should not be expected at this level. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | French Fundamentals: Part II | 7th-8th | Edwige Pinover | 10 |
$382.00 $343.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Bonjour and get ready for a full year French Fundamentals! French Fundamentals is a year-long class whis covers that same content and uses the same textbook as high school French I. This level is for middle school-aged students who have taken at least two quarters of French Foundations with the instructor, but who are not yet ready to age up and attend Friday high school classes. The expectation is that middle school-aged Fundamentals students will be ready for high school French II the following school year. Registraton for Fundamentsals is by semester. The corresponding French I description follows: Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | French II | 9th-12th | Edwige Pinover | 1 |
$716.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Bonjour and welcome to the second year of high school French. This is a conversation-focused program in which students will build their vocabulary quickly and learn essential grammar skills in French. Students will cover the broad themes and vocabular for: my family and my friends, celebrations, shopping, high school, a typical day, and the good old days. The class will begin with a review of adjective-noun agreement, negations, and regular -er, ir-, and -re verbs. They will review and continue to expand their list of irregular verbs such as avoir (to have) and etre (to be). Students will be introduced to the passe compose and Imparfait (imperfect) tenses, and they will learn how to use negations, direct and indirect pronouns, and reflexive verbs with present, past, and imperfect tenses. They will practice comparative and superlative statements, and will continue to have brief cultural lessons integrated in their units. Class will be conducted primarily in French and will focus on listening and speaking skills, asking and answering questions, and correct use of grammar. At home, students will be responsible for memorizing vocabulary and grammar, completing homework assignments, and watching both grammar instruction and language immersion videos. Prerequisite: French I Workload: Students should expect to spend 30-45 minutes per day, 4 days per week on homework outside of class. Assignments: Are sent by e-mail to parents and students. Students must have access to a computer and internet service for computer-based videos and practice tools that are assigned as homework and are essential to success in the class. Assessments: Quizzes, tests, and individual performance reviews will be given to all students at regular intervals to provide parents with sufficient feedback to assign a grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Bien Dit! Level II: Student Edition Level 1 2018 edition (ISBN-13 978-0544861343) Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Foreign Language for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: French I |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | French with Friends: Autour de la Ville (Around Town) | 2nd-4th | Edwige Pinover | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Salut! French with Friends is an introductory French class for elementary-aged students. The class will be taught in a predominantly immersion environment. Limited cues in English will be used to prompt students or explain difficult concepts. French language instruction will be presented in a natural learning sequence beginning with nouns (such as colors, numbers, clothing, foods, animals, family members, days/dates, etc), adjectives, beginning verbs, greetings, and simple phrases. Songs, games, stories, and hands-on activities will be used in class to review vocabulary and phrases. Emphasis will be on conversation, but students will be encouraged to learn to spell and sound out written French. Aspects of Francophone culture such as holidays, foods, and traditions will be incorporated in the classes. Each quarter introduces new themes and new vocabulary in French, so continuing students can continue to build their language basics. However, themes and units are non-sequential, so students may enroll in this level in any quarter. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in sounds, vocabulary, and simple phrases while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Fluency should not be expected at this level. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Fun Fit (PE) for Little Kids- Brown (TUE) | 1st-2nd | Iman Castaneda | 10 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Fun Fit PE encourages young elementary schoolers to move and play during the day! Kids will enjoy games such as flag tag, tug-of-war, soft dodge ball, relays, and silly obstacle courses with challenges such as crab crawl, log roll, or bunny hop. Activities will engage hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills and improve accuracy, endurance, speed, agility, and flexibility. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Thu | Fun Fit (PE) for Little Kids- Brown (TUE) | 1st-2nd | Iman Castaneda | 8 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Fun Fit PE encourages young elementary schoolers to move and play during the day! Kids will enjoy games such as flag tag, tug-of-war, soft dodge ball, relays, and silly obstacle courses with challenges such as crab crawl, log roll, or bunny hop. Activities will engage hand-eye coordination, gross motor skills and improve accuracy, endurance, speed, agility, and flexibility. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE) for Kids: Brown (THU) | 3rd-5th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get kids up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in FUNctional Fitness at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE) for Kids: Brown (TUE) | 3rd-5th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get tweens up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in FUNctional Fitness at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE) for Tweens: Brown (TUE 12PM) | 6th-8th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get tweens up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in FUNctional Fitness at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE) for Tweens: Brown (TUE 2PM) | 6th-8th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get tweens up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in FUNctional Fitness at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 09 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue, Fri | Geometry | 8th-11th | David Chelf | 5 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
This is a complete course in high school Geometry which will cover fundamental concepts and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. Students will learn deductive reasoning, and logic by completing geometric proofs. Topics in geometry include: lines, angles, congruence, concurrence, inequalities, parallel lines, quadrilaterals, transformations, area, similarity, right triangles, circles, regular polygons, and geometric solids. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation in Algebra I in order to take this class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-1.5 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 7-day cycle, with assignments posted on Thursdays and due the following Thursday. Students are advised to start homework once it is assigned (i.e., not wait until the night before it is due). Weekly homework assignments will be of a length that a student should be able to complete them in two or three at-home work sessions. Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of their work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: Student progress will be assessed by: (1) The instructor checking that weekly homework sets are attempted and complete and (2) detailed grading of periodic take-home tests. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. See the instructor's webpage for detailed homework and test policy, including late work and re-work. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Geometry: Seeing, Doing, Understanding, 3rd edition (ISBN-10 0716743612, ISBN-13 978-0716743613) A calculator is not needed for this course. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Geometry for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Algebra I |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Get to Know Government: Three's Company (The 3 Branches) | 6th-8th | Shea Megale | 12 |
$199.00 $179.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Why does tiny Delaware get two Senators, just like giant California? Why doesn't Washington DC have a voting member of Congress? Can the President make laws? When can the Supreme Court change a state law? What is the Cabinet? Find out the answers to these questions and much more in Get to Know Government! Using an inquiry-based approach, middle school students will be given leading questions to investigate aspects of the three branches of our federal government. Find out what the Constitution says about each branch; discover who is elected, who is appointed, what powers and responsibility each has, and what those "checks and balances" are all about! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Globetrotters Kids' Geography: Ireland & Japan | 2nd-4th | Danielle Mercadal | 10 |
$147.00 $132.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Discover geography and diverse cultures in this interactive, imaginary tour of the world. Each quarter, students will take a classroom journey to two distinct nations. They will locate the highlighted countries on the world map and complete a map project before buckling in for a fictional flight to the featured locales. Once they have "arrived" in the country, they will begin with an introduction to home and school life by meeting a child through a story or video. Students will learn to recognize similarities and appreciate differences when they compare that child's home, clothing, food, town, daily activities, and school to their own. In subsequent weeks, our Globe Trotters will learn about the culture and traditions of the country through songs, games, projects, and activities that highlight elements like folktales, customs, celebrations, distinct features, language, points of interest, or native species. Third quarter, students will journey to the island nations of Ireland and Japan. Sample Irish culture through stone rings and Claddagh rings; shamrocks, tin whistles, and Celtic art. Hear stories of mythological selkies, and learn Irish dancing to fast-paced Celtic music. Japan is known for Mt. Fuji, bullet trains, cherry blossoms, and snow monkeys. The class will hear tales of Momotar? the folktale peach boy. Example projects from these countries may include: origami designs, Irish finger-knotting, and drum making. Students will be excited by geography and culture when approached through this engaging, multi-disciplinary exploration of diverse countries of the globe! Topics in this Series include Indonesia and Morocco (Quarter 1), Sweden and Mexico (Quarter 2), Ireland and Japan (Quarter 4), Peru and India (Quarter 4)A supply fee of $15.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Please note: This instructor only accepts cash payments. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Guitar for Beginners II | 5th-8th | Ney Mello | 8 |
$397.00 $357.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Students will continue to learn the fundamentals of playing the guitar. In this class, students will continue to learn basic melodies, chords, and strumming patterns for familiar songs from a variety of genres such as, "Sweet Jane" (by The Velvet Underground), "House of the Rising Sun," (by Eric Burdon and The Animals) and "Willow" (by Taylor Swift) chosen by the instructor and students. Students are encouraged to bring in music they are interested in learning. New chords and new songs will be added each week as students also learn to read music and basic music theory. Students will also learn how to hold, tune, and care for their guitars. Each student will need a least a beginner level acoustic guitar. Students should be able to read at grade level for this class and should plan to practice at home several times each week. Students should expect to spend 20-30 minutes per day most days practicing chords and melodies from class. There is a materials fee of $10.00 payable to the Compass on the first day of class for a tablature notebook for any student who does not have one from a prior class. New students who wish to enroll 2nd semester should have at least 12-15 hours of prior instruction in order to match the pace of the enrolled students. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | Guitar for Teen Beginners II | 9th-12th | Ney Mello | 8 |
$397.00 $357.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Teens will continue to learn the fundamentals of playing the guitar. In this class, students will continue to learn basic melodies, chords, and strumming patterns for familiar songs from a variety of genres such as, "Sweet Jane" (by The Velvet Underground), "House of the Rising Sun," (by Eric Burdon and The Animals) and "Willow" (by Taylor Swift) chosen by the instructor and students. Students are encouraged to bring in music they are interested in learning. New chords and new songs will be added each week as students also learn to read music and basic music theory. Students will also learn how to hold, tune, and care for their guitars. Each student will need a least a beginner level acoustic guitar. Students should be able to read at grade level for this class and should plan to practice at home several times each week. Adults are permitted to enroll in this class. Prerequisite: New students who wish to enroll 2nd semester should have at least 12-15 hours of prior instruction in order to match the pace of the enrolled students. Topics in this Series: Guitar for Teen Beginners I (Semester 1), Guitar for Teen Beginners II (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 20-30 minutes per day, most days practicing chords and melodies from class. Assignments: New material will be introduced in class. Assessments: Will not be given. Lab/Supply Fee: If the student needs a new or replacement tablature notebook, there is a materials fee of $10.00 payable to the Compass . What to Bring: Students should purchase or rent an acoustic guitar. In addition, picks, an electric tuner or tuner app installed on a phone, and pen/pencil. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in fine arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Harry Potter Handicrafts: Guest Prof. Snape & Slughorn | 5th-8th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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You've dreamed about going to Hogwarts, and now is your chance to experience a year of magical classes! In this maker class, students will create projects inspired by their core classes at Hogwarts (Charms, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Herbology, Potions, and Transfiguration) and a Hogwarts guest professor. Students learn to work with a variety of materials and learn a broad range of crafting skills such as hand-sewing, painting, papercrafting (including precision cutting, folding, and stenciling) sculpting, and wireworking to create magical pieces inspired by the World of Harry Potter. Welcome to the third term at Hogwarts! This term we welcome Professor Snape to instruct us on making a useful cauldron, and Professor Slughorn who will teach us to concoct Amortensia just in time for Valentine's Day. Of course, you'll also make crafts related to your core classes, including Bowtruckles (Care of Magical Creatures), Patronuses (Defense Against the Dark Arts), and more! This is a great class for Harry Potter fans who love the magical world, even for those who have not read all of the books or watched all of the movies. Projects and class discussions are geared to not reveal significant series spoilers. Note: A few classes may include a Harry Potter-inspired food creation or personal care product. The ingredients will be identified in advance, and students with food or ingredient allergies or dietary restrictions will need to check before handling/consuming. Substitute ingredients cannot be provided for those with food allergies or restrictions. Note: Project themes or materials are subject to change due to availability or sourcing at the time of the class. Topics in this Series: Guest Prof. Dumbledore (Quarter 1); Guest Prof. Sprout (Quarter 2); Guest Profs. Snape & Slughorn (Quarter 3), and Guest Profs. Hagrid & Hooch (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $40.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. What to Bring: Students should bring good scissors for cutting paper/fabric, a ruler, and a low temp, mini hot glue gun to class each week. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 11:30 pm | 12:55 pm | Mon | Homeschool Concert Band: Advanced Beginner (Sem 2) | 5th-8th | Jessica Eastridge | 12 |
$361.00 $324.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Enjoy the camaraderie and cooperation of making music with others in a school band! Join the first homeschool concert band in the region at Compass. This section is for continuing beginner and advanced beginner musicians of brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments* Percussion students will continue their skills on the snare drum and mallet instruments (such as glockenspiel and xylophone). Continuing and advanced beginner woodwinds students will play the flute or clarinet or alto saxophone. Continuing and advanced beginner brass will play the trumpet, trombone, euphonium, French horn, or tuba. All band students will practice audiation skills and will play both cooperatively in the full band group and in break-out groups for differentiated instruction by part, by instrument, or by proficiency. Students in Concert Band will meet together to continue to develop their skills on their selected instruments. To be considered for this section, students must have the following competencies on their chosen percussion, woodwind, or brass instrument: --Minimum of 4 months of playing experience (or semester 1); Students will need to rent or purchase an instrument and accessories for the band. See the linked list by instrument. Furthermore, students are expected to practice their instrument and pieces throughout the week. 15-30 minutes most days is recommended. For NEW students, there is a $33.00 supply fee due payable to Compass on/before the start of class for the "Do It! Play (a Band Instrument)" book and workbook and the sheet music songs used for the group band performance. RETURNING students will have a supply fee of $9.00 for sheet music. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 10 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Integrated Middle School Science (12pm) | 7th-8th | Manal Hussein | 4 |
$630.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
This year-long, hands-on science course is a survey of key concepts in the fields of Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth Science which will give 7th and 8th grade students the fundamentals they need to tackle high school-level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Environmental Science. Topics covered in this course will not only provide a foundation for higher level science, but will also boost the student's confidence and fluency in discussing scientific issues, applying scientific terminology, and using scientific equipment. Content covered in this course will also enable a teen to become a more educated reader and consumer of scientific news and information. General life science themes include life cycles, food webs, scientific classification, cell structure, and human body systems. Topics in chemistry include states of matter, atomic structure, elements and the Periodic Table, and chemical reactions and solutions. Themes in physics include motion, position, speed and acceleration, weight (mass), gravity, friction, buoyancy and density, and electricity and magnetism. The earth science unit will cover the rock cycle, minerals, rocks, fossils, weathering and erosion. In this class, students will learn about the principles of scientific investigations and engineering practices, the Scientific Method, and preparation of formal lab reports. They will practice taking measurements, recording data, converting units of measure, and related mathematical concepts such as significant figures, International System of Units, scientific notation, graphs, and data analysis. Students will learn how to provide evidence to support explanations and solutions for their investigations. This class is appropriate for a tween or teen who has had limited middle school level science and who wants to prepare for high school science. In general, a topic will be discussed one week and then the corresponding lab or activity will be performed in class the following week. Microscope work will be used in some life science labs. For a more robust introduction to life and lab sciences, students may want to concurrently register for the Dissection Lab class and/or the Bio Chem Learning Labs program. Meeting Dates: This is a 29-week course witht the week off to be announced. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class on reading and homework assignments. Assignments: All class announcements and assignments will be communicated via a Google Classroom. Assessments: Informal, qualitative and constructive feedback will be given on submitted assignments. A quantitative score/grade will not be provided. Textbook: Students should purchase Everything You Need to Ace Science in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide by Workman Publishing (ISBN # 978-0761160953) Materials: Students should bring the following supplies to each class: colored pencils, glue stick, pens or pencils to write with, and a ruler. In addition, a laptop computer will be needed some weeks in class for data collection and some weeks at home for online quizlets. Lab/Supply Fee: A lab fee of $100.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Credit: This course is not recommended as a high school credit. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 10 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Integrated Middle School Science (1pm) | 7th-8th | Manal Hussein | 0 |
$630.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Full
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This year-long, hands-on science course is a survey of key concepts in the fields of Life Science, Physical Science, and Earth Science which will give 7th and 8th grade students the fundamentals they need to tackle high school-level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Environmental Science. Topics covered in this course will not only provide a foundation for higher level science, but will also boost the student's confidence and fluency in discussing scientific issues, applying scientific terminology, and using scientific equipment. Content covered in this course will also enable a teen to become a more educated reader and consumer of scientific news and information. General life science themes include life cycles, food webs, scientific classification, cell structure, and human body systems. Topics in chemistry include states of matter, atomic structure, elements and the Periodic Table, and chemical reactions and solutions. Themes in physics include motion, position, speed and acceleration, weight (mass), gravity, friction, buoyancy and density, and electricity and magnetism. The earth science unit will cover the rock cycle, minerals, rocks, fossils, weathering and erosion. In this class, students will learn about the principles of scientific investigations and engineering practices, the Scientific Method, and preparation of formal lab reports. They will practice taking measurements, recording data, converting units of measure, and related mathematical concepts such as significant figures, International System of Units, scientific notation, graphs, and data analysis. Students will learn how to provide evidence to support explanations and solutions for their investigations. This class is appropriate for a tween or teen who has had limited middle school level science and who wants to prepare for high school science. In general, a topic will be discussed one week and then the corresponding lab or activity will be performed in class the following week. Microscope work will be used in some life science labs. For a more robust introduction to life and lab sciences, students may want to concurrently register for the Dissection Lab class and/or the Bio Chem Learning Labs program. Meeting Dates: This is a 29-week course witht the week off to be announced. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class on reading and homework assignments. Assignments: All class announcements and assignments will be communicated via a Google Classroom. Assessments: Informal, qualitative and constructive feedback will be given on submitted assignments. A quantitative score/grade will not be provided. Textbook: Students should purchase Everything You Need to Ace Science in One Big Fat Notebook: The Complete Middle School Study Guide by Workman Publishing (ISBN # 978-0761160953) Materials: Students should bring the following supplies to each class: colored pencils, glue stick, pens or pencils to write with, and a ruler. In addition, a laptop computer will be needed some weeks in class for data collection and some weeks at home for online quizlets. Lab/Supply Fee: A lab fee of $100.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Credit: This course is not recommended as a high school credit. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 10 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Interdisciplinary Science: Foundations in Biology, Chemistry & Physics- Lab | 9th-10th | Manal Hussein | 3 |
$1059.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
**This class will be taught in a Hybrid format with an online lecture on Mondays (10:00 am - 10:55 am) over a live, online platform and in-person lab and activities on Wednesdays (11:00 am - 11:55 am). Registration for the Lab section will automatically enroll the student in the Lecture section.** Why do Mentos candies in Coke make a fizzy mess? How do skateboarders survive spins on a half-pipe? What causes some lithium-ion batteries to burst into flames? Answers to these questions can be found in the study of high school science! Interdisciplinary Science is a year-long, introductory high school science course which examines the living and non-living worlds. This survey course introduces key concepts from Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, which will lay the foundation for students to pursue more rigorous, year-long high school science courses in each discipline. This course also serves as a science survey, or overview, for students who will not be pursuing a STEM field or advanced education. Students will learn about the principles of scientific investigations and engineering practices, the Scientific Method, and the basic format of a lab report. They will practice taking measurements, recording data, converting units of measure, and related mathematical concepts such as International System of Units, scientific notation, graphs, and data analysis. Students will learn how to provide evidence to support explanations and solutions for their investigations. Topics in biology will include molecular, cellular, classification, organisms, populations, and ecosystems. Students will explore the relationships between living things and their environments. The chemistry units will cover the composition of matter, atomic structure and periodic table, and chemical bonds and reactions, while the survey of physics will include forces and motions; conservation of energy, thermal energy, electricity and magnetism; and wave phenomena, characteristics, behavior, including electromagnetic and sound waves. Meeting Dates: This is a 29-week course with the week off to be announced. Format: This is a hybrid course with the lecture taught synchronously online on Mondays and hands-on experiments done in a lab on Wednesdays. Prerequisites: Students should have completed 8th grade math or a course in Pre-Algebra prior to taking Interdisciplinary Science. They should be familiar with ratios, rates, proportions, decimals, percents, exponents, and solving one-variable equations. Class Expectations: For both in-person and virtual class meetings, students are expected to come prepared, have class materials, and be ready to participate in class discussions and activities. During virtual lectures (Mondays), students are expected to be seated at a desk or table and have their cameras on. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class on reading and homework assignments. Assignments: All class announcements and assignments will be communicated via Google Classroom. Assessments: Informal, qualitative and constructive feedback will be given on submitted assignments. A quantitative score/grade will not be provided. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent Physical Science - Interactive Science by Pearson / Savvas Publishing (ISBN # 978-0133209266) and Biology For Dummies (ISBN # 978-1119345374 ) Materials: Students should bring the following supplies to each class: Five Star spiral graph ruled notebook, scientific calculator, colored pencils, glue stick, pens or pencils to write with, and a ruler. Students will be asked to bring a laptop to class on some days. Lab/Supply Fee: A lab fee of $100.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Lab Science for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | Jiu Jitsu Fit Tweens- Brown (THU) | 6th-8th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Jiu-Jitsu Fit is a fun, interactive, physical fitness program for tweens incorporating the Brazilian self-defense martial art of Jiu-Jitsu. Students will follow a well-rounded physical fitness program that incorporates moves and strategies of Jiu-Jitsu to increase strength, flexibility, conditioning, endurance, coordination, balance, and fun! Students will practice techniques for resolving conflicts, dealing with bullies, projecting confidence, and developing stranger awareness in the games and exercises they complete in class. Jiu-Jitsu Fit helps tweens stay active, builds self-esteem, and encourages teamwork. Jiu-Jitsu uses grappling and ground work in addition to standing self-defense positions. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in Jiu Jitsu Fit at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. Some partner work may be co-ed. Students will work on mats in socks or bare feet and should come to class wearing loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants and bring a refillable water bottle. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Junior Art Studio: Whimsical Winter Works (TUE) | K-2nd | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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This class is a multi-media art sampler for our youngest artists! Each week students will learn a few fun facts about a type of art or artist, view sample works, and then will create a project in the style of the artist using a wide variety of materials and representative colors, patterns, textures, and embellishments. Young artists will have the opportunity to work with a different media each week such as tempera paint, various papers, color pencils, markers, tissue paper, translucent tracing paper, cray pas, oil pastels, charcoals, and watercolors. Junior Artists will study and create art that showcases winter with projects such as aerial view snowman, winter trees snow painting, polar bear art process, newspaper winter landscape, and fold, and print winter reflection. They will examine samples from artist who worked in similar material themes or styles. Topics in this Series: Kings and Queens- Kids' Medieval Art (Quarter 1); Artists & their Animals (Quarter 2); Whimsical Winter Works (Quarter 3); Scenic Seascapes (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Junior Art Studio: Whimsical Winter Works (WED-11AM) | K-2nd | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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This class is a multi-media art sampler for our youngest artists! Each week students will learn a few fun facts about a type of art or artist, view sample works, and then will create a project in the style of the artist using a wide variety of materials and representative colors, patterns, textures, and embellishments. Young artists will have the opportunity to work with a different media each week such as tempera paint, various papers, color pencils, markers, tissue paper, translucent tracing paper, cray pas, oil pastels, charcoals, and watercolors. Junior Artists will study and create art that showcases winter with projects such as aerial view snowman, winter trees snow painting, polar bear art process, newspaper winter landscape, and fold, and print winter reflection. They will examine samples from artist who worked in similar material themes or styles. Topics in this Series: Kings and Queens- Kids' Medieval Art (Quarter 1); Artists & their Animals (Quarter 2); Whimsical Winter Works (Quarter 3); Scenic Seascapes (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Junior Art Studio: Whimsical Winter Works (WED-12PM) | K-2nd | Kerry Diederich | 10 |
$165.00 $148.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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This class is a multi-media art sampler for our youngest artists! Each week students will learn a few fun facts about a type of art or artist, view sample works, and then will create a project in the style of the artist using a wide variety of materials and representative colors, patterns, textures, and embellishments. Young artists will have the opportunity to work with a different media each week such as tempera paint, various papers, color pencils, markers, tissue paper, translucent tracing paper, cray pas, oil pastels, charcoals, and watercolors. Junior Artists will study and create art that showcases winter with projects such as aerial view snowman, winter trees snow painting, polar bear art process, newspaper winter landscape, and fold, and print winter reflection. They will examine samples from artist who worked in similar material themes or styles. Topics in this Series: Kings and Queens- Kids' Medieval Art (Quarter 1); Artists & their Animals (Quarter 2); Whimsical Winter Works (Quarter 3); Scenic Seascapes (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:30 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Junior Engineering with LEGO: Monster Machines (Tue) | K-2nd | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$204.00 $183.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will use LEGO to design and build simple engineering projects out of everyone's favorite building toy! In this 90-minute class, students will explore concepts and vocabulary in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, aerospace engineering, and architecture while playing with their creations. Third quarter, junior engineers will tackle Monster Machines, building conveyor belts, elevators, catapults, tunnel-boring diggers, and a ferris wheel. Each class begins with 10-minutes of free build from tubs of LEGO components followed by a short discussion and demonstration of the day's project and concepts. Students build individually or in groups. Instructors will provide individual assistance, facilitate challenges, performance testing, competitions, and modifications to projects. Some projects may have been introduced in prior year's sessions, but each new build is unique, and student's building skills and understanding will have grown. Students must be minimum age 5 and able to separate from their parents for this class. Topics in this Series: Super Structures (Quarter 1); Awesome Automobiles (Quarter 2); Monster Machines (Quarter 3); Colossal Construction (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 11:25 am | Wed | Junior Engineering with LEGO: Monster Machines (Wed) | K-2nd | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$204.00 $183.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will use LEGO to design and build simple engineering projects out of everyone's favorite building toy! In this 90-minute class, students will explore concepts and vocabulary in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, aerospace engineering, and architecture while playing with their creations. Third quarter, junior engineers will tackle Monster Machines, building conveyor belts, elevators, catapults, tunnel-boring diggers, and a ferris wheel. Each class begins with 10-minutes of free build from tubs of LEGO components followed by a short discussion and demonstration of the day's project and concepts. Students build individually or in groups. Instructors will provide individual assistance, facilitate challenges, performance testing, competitions, and modifications to projects. Some projects may have been introduced in prior year's sessions, but each new build is unique, and student's building skills and understanding will have grown. Students must be minimum age 5 and able to separate from their parents for this class. Topics in this Series: Super Structures (Quarter 1); Awesome Automobiles (Quarter 2); Monster Machines (Quarter 3); Colossal Construction (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:50 pm | Wed | Junior Gymnastics: Vault Ventures | K-3rd | Winter Hartman | 10 |
$182.00 $163.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Tumble, turn, twist, and twirl! Junior Gymnastics is a beginner-level class designed to support the development of motor skills in children while introducing beginning athleticism through gymnastics. This class incorporates fundamental movements like hopping, skipping, jumping, and balancing while building strength, flexibility and coordination. Gymnastics encourages children to explore their body's movement through play and exercise. Each session will include warm-up activities, cool-down exercises, and fun play with props like parachutes, while each quarter has a different gymnastics focus. Third quarter "Vault Ventures" introduces power and momentum with jumps from a low vault platform and stacks of mats. All work will be done on padded floor mats and portable equipment on loan from the instructor's gymnastics school. Students should wear workout attire, but preferably not lose or floppy clothing. Students with long hair are asked to tie their hair back. Students will play and exercise in socks, so they should not come in sandals, crocs, or slides. Topics in this series include: Floor Fun (Quarter 1), Beam Basics (Quarter 2), Vault Ventures (Quarter 3), and Rhythmic Routines (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Kids' Biochemistry Lab: Manipulating Macromolecules | 5th-6th | Dr. Michele Forsythe | 12 |
$202.00 $181.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids can learn some basics of biochemistry when they can touch it and test it! Students will explore key macromolecules such as lipids, fats, carbohydrates, and protein. They will perform a 'mystery lab', in which they use standard chemistry assays to identify unknown samples of macromolecules. Students will discover the functions of these macromolecules including, structure, energy storage and intracellular/ intercellular communication. Students will use hands-on experiments probe the factors that affect protein structure and conduct assays to examine their effect on the protein's function. The class will learn how their body builds important polymers, required for life, using dehydration synthesis. Students will discuss how living organisms harvest energy by using hydrolysis reactions when metabolizing food and how they store energy in the chemical bonds of sugar or fat. Topics in this Series: Kids' Chemistry Lab: Atoms & Molecules (Quarter 1); Kids' Chemistry Lab: Properties of Matter (Quarter 2); Kids' BioChemistry Lab: Manipulating Molecules (Quarter 3); and Kids' BioChemistry Lab: Discovering DNA (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Kids' Confection Kitchen: Choco Loco | 5th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Toffee. Taffy. Truffles... End the day on a sweet note! Kids will enjoy making and eating delicious confections. Each week they will prepare a fresh, handmade dessert or sweet such as: pies, cakes, cookies, tarts, trifles, mousses, puddings, candies, fudge, brittle, or chocolates. The class will include some icing, decorating, and garnishing techniques for completed desserts. This quarter, the Compass bakers' culinary adventures will include: -Chocolate Banana Cake Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. This engaging sweets class will get students excited about helping in the kitchen and entertaining. They will learn important baking skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary is introduced each week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Piece of Cake (Quarter 1); Easy as Pie (Quarter 2), Choco Loco (Quarter 3), and Paddington's Pasteries (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. What to Bring: None- Disposable aprons and take-home containers provided. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements: For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | Kids' Confection Kitchen: Choco Loco | 5th-8th | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$211.00 $189.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Toffee. Taffy. Truffles... End the day on a sweet note! Kids will enjoy making and eating delicious confections. Each week they will prepare a fresh, handmade dessert or sweet such as: pies, cakes, cookies, tarts, trifles, mousses, puddings, candies, fudge, brittle, or chocolates. The class will include some icing, decorating, and garnishing techniques for completed desserts. This quarter, the Compass bakers' culinary adventures will include: -Chocolate Banana Cake Students will be eating what they make each week and bringing home the recipes and leftovers. This engaging sweets class will get students excited about helping in the kitchen and entertaining. They will learn important baking skills such as safety, sanitation, measuring, knife skills, and other tricks of the trade. Culinary vocabulary is introduced each week. Notes: Students with allergies to food ingredients or dietary restrictions cannot be accommodated in this class. Recipes may contain nuts, dairy, wheat, gluten, and eggs. All food supplies will be conventional, mass market ingredients. Specialty food preparations/certifications such as halal, kosher, and organic will not be used due to cost and sourcing logistics. Topics in this Series: Piece of Cake (Quarter 1); Easy as Pie (Quarter 2), Choco Loco (Quarter 3), and Paddington's Pasteries (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $45.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. What to Bring: None- Disposable aprons and take-home containers provided. What to Wear: Students should wear clean clothes and have long hair tied back, braided, or secured under a bandana (male and female). Cooking Class Requirements: For more information and FAQs, see the Compass Cooking Classes webpage. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Kids' Theater: Acting- Kids' Theater: Super Duper New Superheroes | 3rd-5th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$160.00 $144.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids take to the stage as they collaboratively write and perform their very own play with unique characters and an original storyline.Will their superheroes have super speed or stupendous strength? What happens when these characters collide with vicious villains? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and start to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the student actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with input from the students. The class will learn the practical aspects of acting, as they work on script read-through, blocking, costume/prop design, and planning the show. Students will develop their own "actor's toolkit" of voice, body, and imagination in this creative process! Actors will grow in confidence and communication skills in preparation for a final sharing with parents on the final day of the quarter. Once the script is fully developed with everyone's parts, about half-way through the quarter, it will be emailed to parents. Parents will be expected to help their children memorize their script/lines/cues and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. Note: Students who are emerging readers (not able to read at a 3rd/4th grade level) would be better suited to the Young Actor's Playhouse class, rather than this level. Topics in this Series: The Craziest Dream Ever (Quarter 1), Mix Up on Mars (Quarter 2), Super DUper New Superheroes (Quarter 3), Twisted Treasure Tale (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Krav Maga Self Defense for Kids- Yellow Stripe (Wed) | 5th-8th | Nick Masi | 12 |
$155.00 $139.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Krav Maga is the Israeli martial art which teaches self defense and fitness. Students of Krav Maga are taught a series of strategies to assess and respond to common situations, such as facing a bully. Kids are always taught first and foremost to get away, to get help, and to try to deescalate the situation. When that fails, students practice a technique that includes a warning strike followed by escape, and finally, they learn how to stand up for themselves and how to counterattack if a situation escalates and becomes threatening. Kids are empowered and gain confidence when they rehearse how to handle real-life situations. Exercises and in-class practice incorporate balance, coordination, energy, and other key elements of fitness along with life skills such as confidence, teamwork, respect, discipline, and respect. Students may enroll in Krav Maga at any time, and everyone will begin as a white belt. Each quarter, students will practice the full range of skills, but there will be two "featured" moves that a student can earn a belt stripe for being able to demonstrate. Featured moves will include a combative strike and a defensive escape technique. No one stripe is a prerequisite for any other color, and color stripes can be earned in any order. Third quarter, students will have the chance to earn a Yellow Stripe. Featured moves include: cover defense and wrist locks (red stripe); straight punch defense and bear hugs (orange stripe); head movement defense and front 2-handed choke (yellow stripe); round kick defense and back 2-handed choke (green stripe); front kick defense and guillotine choke (blue stripe); clinch defense and rear choke (purple stripe); ground striking defense and head lock defense (brown stripe); and 360 defense and full Nelson (black stripe). Students will be able to test for belt promotions to move through the ranks of white belt, yellow belt, orange belt, etc. On average, it is estimated that a student will be ready for a belt test after four quarters/four color stripes. Belt testing will be by coach approval. Topics in this Series: Red Stripe (1st Quarter), Orange Stripe (2nd Quarter), Yellow Stripe (3rd Quarter) and Green Stripe (4th Quarter). Assessments: Belt testing for promotion will be by coach recommendation, but on average will take 4 quarters. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $6.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class- for new students only- for a white belt to collect the colored stripes! A belt test fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor when a student is ready to test for promotion. What to Bring: Refillable water bottle. What to Wear: Participants should wear their belt along with shorts, leggings, or loose, comfortable athletic pants, and comfortable athletic shoes or sneakers. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Fri | Krav Maga Self Defense for Teens- Yellow Stripe (Wed) | 9th-12th | Nick Masi | 12 |
$155.00 $139.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Krav Maga is the Israeli martial art which teaches self defense and fitness. Students of Krav Maga are taught a series of strategies to assess and respond to common situations, such as facing a bully. Teens are always taught first and foremost to get away, to get help, and to try to deescalate the situation. When that fails, students practice a technique that includes a warning strike followed by escape, and finally, they learn how to stand up for themselves and how to counterattack if a situation escalates and becomes threatening. Teens are empowered and gain confidence when they rehearse how to handle real-life situations. Exercises and in-class practice incorporate balance, coordination, energy, and other key elements of fitness along with life skills such as confidence, teamwork, respect, discipline, and respect. Students may enroll in Krav Maga at any time, and everyone will begin as a white belt. Each quarter, students will practice the full range of skills, but there will be two "featured" moves that a student can earn a belt stripe for being able to demonstrate. Featured moves will include a combative strike and a defensive escape technique. No one stripe is a prerequisite for any other color, and color stripes can be earned in any order. Third quarter, students will have the chance to earn a Yellow Stripe. Featured moves include: cover defense and wrist locks (red stripe); straight punch defense and bear hugs (orange stripe); head movement defense and front 2-handed choke (yellow stripe); round kick defense and back 2-handed choke (green stripe); front kick defense and guillotine choke (blue stripe); clinch defense and rear choke (purple stripe); ground striking defense and head lock defense (brown stripe); and 360 defense and full Nelson (black stripe). Students will be able to test for belt promotions to move through the ranks of white belt, yellow belt, orange belt, etc. On average, it is estimated that a student will be ready for a belt test after four quarters/four color stripes. Belt testing will be by coach approval. Topics in this Series: Red Stripe (1st Quarter), Orange Stripe (2nd Quarter), Yellow Stripe (3rd Quarter) and Green Stripe (4th Quarter). Assessments: Belt testing for promotion will be by coach recommendation, but on average will take 4 quarters. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $6.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class- for new students only- for a white belt to collect the colored stripes! A belt test fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor when a student is ready to test for promotion. What to Bring: Refillable water bottle. What to Wear: Participants should wear their belt along with shorts, leggings, or loose, comfortable athletic pants, and comfortable athletic shoes or sneakers. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Fri | Learn to Sew: Beginner & Advanced Beginner | 8th-12th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$356.00 $320.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Learn to sew to create one-of-a kind articles of clothing, home decor, crafts, or handmade items for your side business like Etsy or Ebay. Sewing can be a relaxing hobby, a profitable side gig, and a practical money-saving life skill. Don't settle for store-bought when you can learn to sew the custom creations you envision! Second semester, Beginner students will learn the basics of hand sewing. Skills that will be introduced this semester include: quilter's knot, stitches (basting, running, backstitch, whip, ladder), tying a knot, and anchoring a knot. Students will learn to identify and use sewing tools such as fabric scissors, straight pins, thimbles, seam ripper, and various needles. Advanced Beginner students (those continuing from first semester or those with prior experience), will learn how to read and cut our a sewing pattern, how to take body measurements and match to pattern measurements, and how to select the best fabric for a pattern. Advanced Beginner students will learn how to finish pieces by selecting and attaching closures (buttons, button holes, grommets, zippers, & hook and eyes); gathering and pleating, using binding and bias tape, and attaching pockets and waistbands. Students will also begin with getting-to-know their sewing machines including different components, attachments, and functions, along with care, use, and maintenance of their machines. They will learn Identify parts of sewing machine; how to fill a bobbin and thread the machine; types of machine needles and how to change a needle, and how to control speeds. Students will practice machine stitches (straight, zig-zag, backstitch) and adjusting the length and width, learn about seam allowance, and sewing corners and curves. Students will begin with simple stitching exercises, and their first project will be sewing a pin cushion that they will use throughout the year. As part of learning to sew, students will learn about different types of fabrics, what each is best used for, and how to identify grain lines, bias, and selvedge. The class will discover how garments are assembled by deconstructing an article of clothing from its seams. Students will learn how to read a sewing pattern and take measurements The group will learn about hems and elastic along with closures and how/where to use them. Second semester's Beginner project will be sewing a custom pair of pajama pants, while the Advanced Beginner project will be a small block quilt. Topics in this Series: Learn to Sew: Beginner (Semester 1), Learn to Sew: Beginner and Advanced Beginner (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: First semester- None. Second semester- No prerequisites for someone to enroll as a beginner. Intermediate students should have taken first semester or have equivalent skills. Workload: Students who practice at home will find that their sewing skills are refined and perfected more quickly. Students should expect to spend 1-2 hours per week outside of class practicing the sewing skill/step covered in class. Assignments: Projects will be given out in class and will also be communicated via Google Classroom. Assessments: Informal qualitative feedback will be given in class throughout the semester. A quantitative score/grade will not be provided. Textbook: None Equipment/Fabric: Students must bring to class each week: -A portable sewing machine with bobbins. If you are purchasing a new sewing machine for the class, a Singer Heavy Duty Sewing Machine, 4400 series, model is recommended. These can be purchased from Amazon or Michaels for $160-$180. Students who are bringing a pre-owed or loaned sewing machine are expected to have the machine professionally serviced before the start of class. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $50.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for a project box, including a sewing kit (with 1 pack of sewing machine needles, thread, and hand sewing essentials), and other materials used in class. What to Bring: Instructor-furnished sewing kit, sewing machine, bobbins, owner's manual, extension cord, fabric, and images/sample photos, swatches, and other assigned materials. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Fine Arts or Career Education for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 10:00 am | 11:55 am | Mon | LEGO Robotics Training Team (Sem 2) | 4th-6th | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$585.00 $526.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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LEGO Robotics Training Team is a semester-long "boot camp" and training ground for future FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competitors. The Training Team allows Compass students to work through a complete FLL challenge to ensure that they understand the project and enjoy the process before joining a competition team. Training Team students are sub-divided into smaller teams that compete against each other in building and coding challenges at a more relaxed pace than FLL competition teams which may require 6-10+ hours per week. Compass Training Team members will complete a full FLL challenge from a previous year. They will learn 21st century skills in robotics and programming while enjoying the camaraderie of working as a team to solve challenges. Kids will gain confidence and build skills in leadership and communication. The Training Team members will compete in-house against each other, but will not participate in a regional competition in 2025-26. FIRST LEGO League (FLL) is an accessible, guided, beginners' robotics program that encourages teamwork, discovery, innovation, and problem-solving. The FLL competition is comprised of three components: the Robot Game, an Innovation Project, and Core Values. The Robot Game is an annual theme-based challenge that encourages kids to think of technology solutions to real-world problems. Teams design and program an autonomous robot that scores points on a themed table-top playing field. Past challenges have been inspired by environment, transportation, accessibility, and exploration. FLL team members engage in brainstorming, research, design, and coding while practicing the engineering design process of building, testing, re-building, re-testing, etc. Students will work with LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robotics components and use drag-and-drop coding blocks to program their robots on laptop computers. No robotics or programming experience is necessary to join the Training Team, but it is beneficial if students have experience building with LEGO Technics components (beams, gears, and axel pins rather than bricks with studs). FLL members have fun with friends, encourage and support each other, and learn the art of gracious competition. In addition to the robot challenge, FLL team members compete in short, on-the-spot challenge problems in the Innovation Project phase of the competitions. FLL is also known for its philosophies of "professionalism" and "cooperation" which are expressed in the organization's Core Values of discovery, innovation, impact, inclusion, teamwork, and fun. Teams are also judged on how well they promote and exhibit these core values. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Little Learners Preschool (THU, Sem2) | PK(3.5)-PK(4) | Louisa Worrell | 8 |
$548.00 $493.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Can your little one settle for story time? Share, smile, and socialize during play? Follow fun, familiar directions? This one-morning, 2-hour program is a "taste" of preschool for homeschooled youngsters. Young children will learn and play in a small group with an experienced child developmental specialist/preschool educator for this dynamic program that offers regular interaction and socialization. Your little one will enjoy being with same-aged peers, building independence, and tackling new skills for a few hours each week. Little Learners Lab will introduce foundational concepts needed for future learning such as pre-reading skills (such as letter recognition); pre-writing skills (such as tracing or highlighting); and pre-math skills (such as colors, patterns). This play-based and language-based program will feature circle time, seasonal themes, songs, and stories. Games and free play time will allow young children to practice key childhood social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and entering play with others. Activities that incorporate multi-modalities and strengthen fine motor skills will be introduced. A mid-morning break consisting of a small snack (such as goldfish crackers, teddy grahams, animal crackers) and water will be furnished at each session. The teacher will also provide ideas for parents to work on at home with their child during the week. Tuesday and Thursday. Registration is stand-alone for each day so parents can register for one or both sessions. Readiness Students must be age 3-1/2 (42 months) by the start of the session (no exceptions). To be successful in this program, entering preschoolers must be able to do the following: (1) separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and listen to a story or stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be able to voice needs or requests; and (5) be completely potty trained and able to use a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) with minimal oversight of a classroom aide. Other Notes: Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Little Learners Preschool (TUE, Sem 2) | PK(3.5)-PK(4) | Louisa Worrell | 8 |
$548.00 $493.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Can your little one settle for story time? Share, smile, and socialize during play? Follow fun, familiar directions? This one-morning, 2-hour program is a "taste" of preschool for homeschooled youngsters. Young children will learn and play in a small group with an experienced child developmental specialist/preschool educator for this dynamic program that offers regular interaction and socialization. Your little one will enjoy being with same-aged peers, building independence, and tackling new skills for a few hours each week. Little Learners Lab will introduce foundational concepts needed for future learning such as pre-reading skills (such as letter recognition); pre-writing skills (such as tracing or highlighting); and pre-math skills (such as colors, patterns). This play-based and language-based program will feature circle time, seasonal themes, songs, and stories. Games and free play time will allow young children to practice key childhood social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and entering play with others. Activities that incorporate multi-modalities and strengthen fine motor skills will be introduced. A mid-morning break consisting of a small snack (such as goldfish crackers, teddy grahams, animal crackers) and water will be furnished at each session. The teacher will also provide ideas for parents to work on at home with their child during the week. Little Learners Lab Preschool is offered in two weekly sessions: Tuesday and Thursday. Registration is stand-alone for each day so parents can register for one or both sessions. As a learning lab, Compass may invite 1-3 high school students, ages 13+, to serve as classroom aides and learn about early childhood education/development. Readiness Students must be age 3-1/2 (42 months) by the start of the session (no exceptions). To be successful in this program, entering preschoolers must be able to do the following: (1) separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and listen to a story or stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be able to voice needs or requests; and (5) be completely potty trained and able to use a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) with minimal oversight of a classroom aide. Other Notes: Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 3:00 pm | 3:55 pm | Tue | Magical Creatures' Quest: A Middle School Role Playing Club (Q3) | 6th-8th | Judith Harmon | 12 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Embark on a magical afternoon journey with "Magical Creatures' Quest: A Familiar Problem!" This enchanting club is for middle school students who adore whimsical tales, creative adventures, and the magic of tabletop role-playing games. During each club meeting, the group will weave a captivating story where each participant takes on the role of a magical animal on a quest to reunite with its owner. Are you more like a daring dragon, mysterious mermaid, playful Pegasus, or a fearless fairy? Each meeting presents a new chapter, filled with challenges, mysteries, and opportunities for magical mischief. Tweens will unleash their creativity and collaborate with others to shape the adventure, solve puzzles, and make decisions to advance the story. The club is facilitated by an experienced Game Master who will guide students through the art of role-playing. Tweens will connect and form friendships with other middle schoolers who share a love of magical stories and imaginative play- in person! Previous role-playing experience is not required, but this club serves as a great introduction for tweens and teens who might be interested in embarking on Dungeons and Dragons. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | Manipulating Math: Geometry Games | 3rd-4th | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$170.00 $153.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Without geometry, life might be POINTless! Shapes are everywhere! We will sort them into categories and answer questions like, "Is a square always a rectangle?" Design a hidden picture puzzle to share with your friends, learn about edges and vertices by building 3-D solids, use cubes to fill containers and explore volume, discover Pi for yourself by measuring circles, create Cartesian art by using a coordinate grid and ordered pairs, and more! Each week, master a new concept with hands-on, real world math! Topics will include angles, polygons, triangles, circles, three dimensional solids and more. Students will practice problem solving skills, reasoning, and basic math in this class. Topics in this Series: Measurement Madness (Quarter 1); Fun with Fractions (Quarter 2); Geometry Games (Quarter 3); and Simple Statistics (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Marine Biology: Open Ocean Habitats | 5th-6th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Earth is an ocean planet! Life began in the oceans, and they are the linchpin of the biological, chemical, and physical processes that allow our planet to support life. This class will give students a basic understanding of the chemistry, physics and biology of earth's oceans. We'll also learn how oceans are informing our search for life on other planets. The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning with demonstrations or experiments in each class session. During the third quarter, students will continue to examine the amazing variety of marine habitats around the world. We'll explore marine habitats that are found in the open ocean (or limnetic zones) including near surface and deep water biomes, abyssal plains, deep trenches, hydrothermal vents, and polar waters. The geographic distribution, food webs, important primary producers and consumers, representative species, and notable species interactions for each biome will be discussed and compared to other marine and terrestrial biomes. Over the course of the quarter, students will assemble a "ship's log" of our virtual expedition which will include a map of the ocean biomes of the earth, with detailed sections on each biome we investigate. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Oceanography (Quarter 1); Coastal Biomes (Quarter 2); Open Water Habitats (Quarter 3); and Marine Animal Close-Up (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | Mastering Microsoft Office: Excel (Certificate Program) | 9th-12th | Tayler Shreve | 10 |
$325.00 $292.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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You might have gone through high school using beginner-level Google tools like Docs, Sheets, and Slides, but to prepare for college and career, it might be time to learn Microsoft Office 365. While Google Workspace applications are generally liked for their ease of collaboration and cloud-based accessibility, Microsoft Office 365 tools are preferred in many majors and industries for their advanced features, refinement, and computing power. Any high school student who plans to pursue a college major in business, science, engineering, or other data-driven field should learn Microsoft Office, and anyone wishing to enter the job market or enhance their resume with recognized credentials as a Certified Microsoft Office Specialist should take this class. Furthermore, any student bound for college or the work world who is not proficient in these computer applications can take this class to catch up on 21st century skills. Second semester, students will work through official Microsoft study materials to become certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) in Excel. Working in Excel will help as student create and manage worksheets and workbooks that can become professional-looking budgets, financial statements, sales invoices, data logs, and performance charts. Specific skills covered in the Excel Associate curriculum include: creating cells and ranges; creating tables; applying formulas and functions; creating charts and objects; creating and editing a workbook with multiple sheets; and using a graphic element to represent data visually. An additional benefit of this course may be earned college credit. The American Council on Education (ACE) has recommended that MOS certifications in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint be considered as computer application in higher education institutions. 1800 accredited ACE-member, degree-granting colleges, universities, and other education-related organizations may award college credit to students who earned these certifications. Prerequisite: Basic keyboarding skills. Levels: Students who take this course on-level can earn MOS certifications. Students who take both semesters of this course will additionally qualify as a Microsoft Office Specialist: Associate level for earning at least three certifications. Students who wish to pursue a more rigorous curriculum and designate this as an "honors" level course on their transcript can self-study for the Microsoft Office Specialist: Expert level which requires two additional exams passed at the Expert level (and additional testing fees of $200.) Equipment: Students should bring a laptop to class which has a local copy of Microsoft Office 2019 installed or a current subscription and access to Microsoft Office 365. Course Materials: Students will work from the official Microsoft Office Specialist study guides that will be provided in class and is included in the course tuition Assessment: Students will take computer-based exams for each application: The MO-110: Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 Apps)and the MO-310: Microsoft PowerPoint (Microsoft 365 Apps) first semester and the MO-210: Microsoft Excel (Microsoft 365 Apps) second semester. Testing Fees: A fee of $100 per exam is required to take the Microsoft Office Specialist exams. Non-Meeting Days: In addition to the scheduled days-off on the published Compass schedule, this class will have two other days off with the actual dates to be announced. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Career Exploration or Technology for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 1:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Mon | Medical Mission: Crisis Care (On-Level EMR, Honors EMT) | 9th-12th | Marybeth Henry | 10 |
$699.00 $629.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Physician. Physical Therapist. Phlebotomist. Paramedic. Did you know that the Healthcare Industry makes up more than 18% of the US economy and employs 20 million workers in the US? Chances are that several Compass teens will work in this field. This course is designed to give students an overview of the healthcare field and a foot in the door to begin work as an Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) or Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). Second semester will introduce the Crisis Care that every EMR/EMT must know when they encounter a medical mystery: triage, testing, and treating a patient. Students will learn what to do in the event of illness, anaphylaxis, seizures, stroke, and cardiac or respiratory distress. Every class will include practical, hands-on skills training and labs such as taking vital signs, testing blood glucose levels, administering medications, or using an automatic external defibrillator (AED). Students will identify the role of an EMR/EMT during a mental health crisis and how to help deescalate a confrontation. Throughout the course, the class will learn medical terminology and aspects of human anatomy related to Crisis Care. They will use critical thinking skills to reason through problems they might encounter during emergencies. Finally, they will discover how HIPPA, privacy, consent, and legal issues play in the EMR/EMT's role and how these emergency responders interface with law enforcement, hospitals, and other specialties in the community. Schedule: This is a 14-week semester instead of 16 weeks. The two dates off will be announced based on instructor's professional calendar. Topics in this Series: Emergency Essentials (Semester 1), Crisis Care (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisite: Students must have completed a workshop in CPR prior to taking this course and will be asked to provide a copy of their certification. An option is the Compass 2-day. 6-hour First Aid/CPR training on June 10 and 11. Alternatively, this Instructor can conduct an outside CPR workshop for $80.00 per student. Levels/Certification: Students under age 16 may enroll in this class, but they must be age 16 by October 1 in order to sit for the EMR or EMT exam in the spring of 2025. Students must take both semesters to prepare for an exam. This class will be taught at two levels concurrently: On-Level which prepares students for the EMR exam and Honors which prepares students for the EMT exam. Both levels meet together for all classes and perform the same in-class activities and labs. Those on the Honors track will have additional readings for EMT preparation. Students may also enroll in this class for one semester as an elective (i.e. non-exam track). They may also take the class for knowledge and experience with no obligation to take the exam. Students who wish to take this at the Honors level and continue the EMT track must have a class average of 80% at the end of the first semester to be approved for Honors level second semester. Students who have less than an 80% average may continue the second semester course at the on-level, or EMR, track. Students on the Honors EMT track may need additional review or test prep sessions with the instructor prior to the exam. Workload: On-level (EMR) students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class on reading assignments and chapter questions. Honors (EMT) students should expect to spend 5-6 hours each week outside of class on reading assignments, chapter questions, and review. Assignments: Students will be assigned 1-2 chapters each week to read at home each week so class time can be dedicated to the practice of hands-on skills. Assessments: The instructor will give short quizzes to ensure that students are keeping up with their reading, which is necessary to prepare for the exam. In addition, students will be "signed off" and approved on hands-on skills throughout the course. The National Registry Exam will be administered in May 2025. Textbook/Materials: Students should purchase or rent Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured Essentials Package 12th Edition by AAOS (ISBN # 978-1284227222) Supplies: Students should purchase the following items and bring to class each week:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010G2I3PU/?coliid=I18ZZZ79D6Z0EF&colid=1BQJV62J905ZD&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it&th=1 Lab/Supply Fee: A supply fee of $30.00 is due payable to the instructor for consumable and in-class supplies and equipment. What to Bring: Students should bring their textbook, notebook/paper, pen or pencil, and medical kit to class each week. What to Wear: Students should wear comfortable clothing that would allow them to participate in occasional demonstrations on the floor. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Science, Health, Elective, or Career Exploration for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Mega Maps: Age of Discovery- Africa & India | 3rd-5th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Mega Maps is an interactive examination of the Age of Discovery, a period from the 15th to the 17th century in Europe. Against the backdrop of a giant, classroom-sized map, students will follow the European explorers who embarked on voyages of discovery, mapped new territories, established trade routes, and encountered new cultures and peoples. Students will engage in an inquiry-based investigation of the prominent explorers, learning about their finds and failures to gain an understanding of world history and geography, region-by-region. The class will cooperatively create the mega map adding features and details week by week as their understanding of the region expands. All students will contribute to coloring countries, depicting demarcations, rendering rivers, sketching seas, mapping mountains, delineating deserts, situating cities, crafting clay contours, and fashioning famous landmarks. The custom mega map will serve as a giant game board for in-class simulations, scavenger hunts, strategy games, and more. Third quarter, the class will follow explorers like Battuta, Henry the Navigator, da Gama, Dias, Livingstone, and Burton to Africa. There, these explorers led expeditions to areas now known as North Africa, the West African Coast, East Africa, Tanzania, Somalia, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Kenya, Madagascar, the Cape of Good Hope and the Nile. Students will trace the voyages and expeditions of these explorers on the mega map to understand the establishment of colonies, the exchange of goods and ideas between continents, and the intermingling of diverse cultures. There is a $15.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on/before the start of class. Topics in this Series: South & Central America (Quarter 1); North America & the Caribbean (Quarter 2); Africa (Quarter 3), and Asia (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 2:00 pm | 3:25 pm | Mon | Mindful Mosaics Open Studio (Q3) | 6th-Adult | Mylene Nyman | 8 |
$235.00 $211.50 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Mindful Mosaics is run as a studio art class where students create unique compositions and work at their own pace under the guidance of an experienced mosaic artist. Each quarter, students are taught new design, cutting, layout, and finishing techniques and are introduced to new mosaic materials which they can incorporate into inspired, original pieces. The instructor can suggest possible themes for projects based on the featured materials, but most students work on individual projects that reflect their own interests, hobbies, or decor. Students who are new to mosaics will complete a quick checkerboard project (complete with wooden checkers) to teach pattern, layout, and lines before starting an individual projects. For each project, students will choose from a variety of substrates- rectangular, square, shaped, or circular backboards (typically first-year students), or special forms or 3D objects (experienced students). Each project will expand a student's understanding of color, pattern, rhythm, texture, and spacing as they complete rich, dimensioned compositions. Students will be able to incorporate other glass, ceramic, and porcelain tiles into their projects and may select feature elements such as beautiful glass gems, millefiori, sliced stone, metallic ornaments, mirrored bits, or shells, to serve as focal points in their mosaic piece. The mosaic can be monochromatic, complimentary, or contrasting colors. A broad pallet of colors is always available, and new colors are added each quarter to reflect the season. Students will develop a skillset for mosaic artistry over multiple quarters or years. As each student demonstrates mastery of basic skills, safety, and artistic expression, that student will be taught advanced techniques, materials, tools, composition, and color theory. A typical progression in mosaics is: (1) Whole tiles in symmetric design on a flat, rectangular substrate with emphasis on proper spacing and adhesion; (2) Tile cut with nippers in themed design and individual color choices on a flat wood substrate; (3) Sheet glass cut with pistol grip, breaking, and/or running pliers with emphasis on composition, color, and design on a flat or curved substrate; (4) Progress to 3D substrate and advanced adhesives; (5) Learn porcelain and ceramic cutting, special adhesives, and advanced design. Note:There is no prerequisite for this class. The number of projects completed each quarter depends on the student's work speed and attendance in class. Compass parents are welcome to register for the class to work alongside their teens, or to work on their own, while their teen is in another Compass class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 0-1 hours per week outside of class. Assessments: will not be given. Materials Fees: All material fees are due payable to the instructor on or before the first day of class by cash, check or electronic payment. Materials used vary depending on a student's experience with mosaic. Advanced Material Fee: $60.00 for a selection of Advanced Materials including: All Beginner Materials plus, iridized glass, cathedral sheet glass, opaque sheet glass, color fusion, millefiori, Van Gogh glass, natural stone and minerals, special effects glass, water glass, colored mirror, illumination glass, china plates, rhinestone, ball chain Additional Fee: There may be additional fees for premium materials such as tesserae (by request and consultation with instructor), mother of pearl, 24 kt gold tiles (market rate), or specially cut substrates. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Fine Arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Mon | Mission Possible: Global Solutions 2040 | 9th-12th | Shea Megale | 12 |
$398.00 $358.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Ready to rule the world? Step into the shoes of global leaders in this fast-paced, hands-on class where you call the shots. Students will take charge of fictional nations, making tough calls that affect their citizens and reshape the world. Will you spark peace or stir up conflict? That's up to you. Through dynamic roleplay and strategic challenges, you'll sharpen your skills in negotiation, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving. One day you might be brokering alliances; the next, navigating a crisis. Working within a leadership team, you will decide when to collaborate, when to clash, and how to compromise when the unexpected strikes. This course will examine international relations theories and power dynamics played out among real-life countries and institutions. It will also look at peace treaties, peace negotiation, and ethics to reach global solutions. Students will be assigned readings from political science, global affairs, leadership, and ethics to fuel their decisions and debates. Rooted in real-world scenario planning, this simulation-based course pushes you to think big, act smart, and tackle global dilemmas from all angles. No two semesters are ever the same. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Modeling the Great Conquests: Julius Caesar in Britain | 6th-8th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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At the twilight of the Roman Republic, any man who hoped to rule could only do so with the support of the mob of common Romans. The best way to earn that support? Bribe them with treasure, stolen in conquest! That is exactly how great Romans earned their power, and there were few greater than Gaius Julius Caesar, the man who would break The Republic, and set it on a course for Empire. Fresh from his victories in Gaul and Germania and still badly in need of money and glory, Caesar set his sights on Britannia, to conquer what would become the last frontier of the Roman Empire. Caesar s veteran legions would battle hoards of screaming barbarians, planting the roots of Roman civilization that linger today, and watering those roots with the blood of his enemies! Students will engage in a hands-on 3D battle strategy game using the military dioramas that they make! Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, paint, and miniatures, each student will craft a 10 X 16 diorama. In class, they will view historical maps, artistic renderings, and/or photographs to understand the topography and development of this time and place in history. Students will customize their dioramas with landforms, landscape elements, waterways, and structures to represent a scene from this period. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with 1:72 scale miniature figures. Students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate a larger battlefield. Students will spend the remainder of the quarter learning about the tactics and outcomes of this conquest while playing a table-top strategy game. Student strategists will use a simplified version of the Fire and Fury historical war gaming rule system for moving troops and equipment. Along with their classmates, students will see how this battle progressed and test different outcome scenarios that might have occurred with different battlefield choices. Each student will have at least one board and set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this year's series include: Alexander the Great (Quarter 1); Hannibal (Quarter 2); Julius Caesar in Britain (Quarter 3); and Attila the Hun (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Morning Mystery: Teen Idol Awards Treachery | 6th-8th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Who doesn't love a good "Whodunnit" mystery? In this workshop, tween actors will work together to bring a cast of characters to life through creative adaptations and interpretive improvisation. Using materials from a commercial murder mystery role playing game (RPG), students will assume the personas of outrageous and offbeat characters. As the drama unfolds in rounds guided by clue cards, eclectic evidence, and fictitious forensics, a victim, a motive, and eventually the guilty party will be revealed. This year, at the Top Teen Idol awards, the top talents will gather in the tiny town of Anonville. Some will be celebrated, some will perform, and others will simply strut the scarlet carpet for the press. One male and female star will be selected and celebrated as the Top Teen Idol of the year. The anticipation is amplified this year, as the fame factor of the attendees has never been higher- the competition is cutthroat! Eccentric egos and ravenous reputations will soon arrive at this glittering gala of glitz and glamour. Let's hope everything goes smoothly, with no scandalous slip-ups. You've received your ticket to the show, and this is where your story starts. Student actors will be guided through the development of a strong, compelling character, complete with unique ways of speaking, gesturing, and moving, an original costume, a backstory, and of course, an alibi. In this workshop, students benefit from experimenting with acting and improvisation and working as a team. This class is best suited for students who are active listeners, are flexible and easily adapt, have a sense of humor, and enjoy working in a collaborative group. Students need to be able to stay in sync with the flow of the class. This is not an "anything goes" or free-for-all class. Supply Fee: A class fee of $25.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for a script and costs related to props and performance license fee. Topics in this Series: Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Music Makers: Movement & Melodies (Q3) | K-2nd | Kathy Preisinger | 12 |
$181.00 $162.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Music Makers explores many facets of the musical experience- singing, moving, dancing, listening, and playing instruments. The class will explore musical stories, famous composers, and different genres of music while playing a variety of percussion instruments (drums, sticks, triangles, woodblocks and more!). Students will learn to play a beginning pitched instrument on glockenspiels (a small barred instrument like the xylophone). Using an Orff-based approach, students will learn to read and write beginning musical notation and learn musical terminology all in the context of fun and play. Music Makers classes provide a fun, pressure-free environment to experience music and movement with the goal of general musicianship and excellent preparation for further, individual instrument lessons if desired. Music Makers helps every child acquire the essential building blocks for a future of musical learning! Students may join Music Makers at any quarter, and they may return again and again since new music, themes, and skills are constantly introduced. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 10:00 am | 2:55 pm | Fri | Natural Leaders: Winter | 6th-8th | Natural Leaders | 10 |
$622.00 $559.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Natural Leaders is an outdoor education and leadership program. Each week, the group will venture into the woods surrounding Lake Fairfax for an authentic, immersive adventure featuring hiking, outdoor skills, leadership, and camaraderie. At each meeting, students take turns in different roles that are key to the group's success, safety, and fun such as: coordinator (plan out the group's schedule for the day); navigator (following the map, practice orienteering); naturalist (investigate and present a lesson about local plants, animals or ecology); skills coaches (research, practice, and demonstrate a skill to others, such as knot tying or whittling); game master (plan and teach an group game or challenge); and safety officer (present on a safety or first aid topic) They will also learn survival skills such as fire-building, outdoor edibles, building shelters, use of knives, and safety/first aid. The student-led portions of the program promote group cohesion, cooperation, and friendship, while students benefit from the positive peer pressure to come prepared for their weekly roles and responsibilities. Tweens and teens will also become more confident and comfortable as leaders and outdoor adventurers as their self-reliance skills grow. Natural Leaders is supervised by an experienced Natural Leaders mentor, trained and supported in providing a positive experience and managing safety. They typically have a passion for sharing nature with kids, and may have a background in a range of skills such as wilderness first aid, survival skills, tracking, primitive skills, and experience in hiking, camping, rock climbing, water sports, etc. Natural Leaders meets weekly rain, snow, or shine, in all temperatures. Students should always dress is layers for the forecasted weather conditions. Registered students will receive more detailed instructions about what to wear, what to bring, and where to meet prior to the start of the program. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Number Ninjas: Learning Logic | 1st-2nd | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$170.00 $153.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Does your child learn best by hands-on activities, crafts, games, and stories? Number Ninjas is based on the belief that children need to work with mathematics in a concrete, physical, and tangible way in order to learn fundamental concepts. Young students will love learning numerical concepts in this interactive, exploration-based class where work with numbers feels like a game. Third quarter, students will play games, complete puzzles, and examine riddles as an introduction to logic, critical thinking, and reasoning skills. This class covers many of the 1st and 2nd grade Standards of Learning for math. Weekly update e-mails to parents will include suggestions for practice at home and extension activities. Topics in the Series: Patterns & Properties (Quarter 1), Money Math (Quarter 2), Learning Logic (Quarter 3), and Math in Nature (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:50 am | Tue | Outdoor Science: Adventurers- Winter (Tue) | K-2nd | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$159.00 $143.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Step outdoors and into nature’s living laboratory! This outdoor science class immerses students in real-world field study where the woods, streams, and wetlands become the classroom. Each week, explorers will practice the methods of natural scientists as they investigate ecology, geology, zoology (local wildlife), botany (plants), ornithology (birds), mycology (fungi), and entomology (insects), in our own suburban ecosystem. Students will observe natural systems in action as they examine life cycles, the water cycle, and the local watershed; explore suburban wetlands; and uncover the balance between producers, consumers, and decomposers, as well as predator–prey relationships and food webs. Seasonal cycles will guide discoveries as young naturalists watch habitats transform and learn how plants and animals adapt throughout the year. Each week, students will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon with a senior naturalist and outdoor educator. This program offers a refreshing break from sit-down, indoor, and screen-based learning—encouraging movement, fresh air, curiosity, and hands-on discovery. Students will learn to stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn things over, and peek beneath the surface to uncover nature’s hidden wonders. A portion of every session will focus on developing confidence and comfort in the outdoors. Emphasis will be placed on safe, respectful, and responsible exploration, environmental stewardship, and appreciating what we find in nature. Students will also enjoy nature-based games that reinforce teamwork and exploration skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:50 am | Wed | Outdoor Science: Adventurers- Winter (Wed) | K-2nd | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$159.00 $143.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Step outdoors and into nature’s living laboratory! This outdoor science class immerses students in real-world field study where the woods, streams, and wetlands become the classroom. Each week, explorers will practice the methods of natural scientists as they investigate ecology, geology, zoology (local wildlife), botany (plants), ornithology (birds), mycology (fungi), and entomology (insects), in our own suburban ecosystem. Students will observe natural systems in action as they examine life cycles, the water cycle, and the local watershed; explore suburban wetlands; and uncover the balance between producers, consumers, and decomposers, as well as predator–prey relationships and food webs. Seasonal cycles will guide discoveries as young naturalists watch habitats transform and learn how plants and animals adapt throughout the year. Each week, students will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon with a senior naturalist and outdoor educator. This program offers a refreshing break from sit-down, indoor, and screen-based learning—encouraging movement, fresh air, curiosity, and hands-on discovery. Students will learn to stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn things over, and peek beneath the surface to uncover nature’s hidden wonders. A portion of every session will focus on developing confidence and comfort in the outdoors. Emphasis will be placed on safe, respectful, and responsible exploration, environmental stewardship, and appreciating what we find in nature. Students will also enjoy nature-based games that reinforce teamwork and exploration skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:50 pm | Tue | Outdoor Science: Pathfinders- Winter (Tue) | 3rd-5th | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$159.00 $143.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Step outdoors and into nature’s living laboratory! This outdoor science class immerses students in real-world field study where the woods, streams, and wetlands become the classroom. Each week, explorers will practice the methods of natural scientists as they investigate ecology, geology, zoology (local wildlife), botany (plants), ornithology (birds), mycology (fungi), and entomology (insects), in our own suburban ecosystem. Students will observe natural systems in action as they examine life cycles, the water cycle, and the local watershed; explore suburban wetlands; and uncover the balance between producers, consumers, and decomposers, as well as predator–prey relationships and food webs. Seasonal cycles will guide discoveries as young naturalists watch habitats transform and learn how plants and animals adapt throughout the year. Each week, students will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon with a senior naturalist and outdoor educator. This program offers a refreshing break from sit-down, indoor, and screen-based learning—encouraging movement, fresh air, curiosity, and hands-on discovery. Students will learn to stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn things over, and peek beneath the surface to uncover nature’s hidden wonders. A portion of every session will focus on developing confidence and comfort in the outdoors. Emphasis will be placed on safe, respectful, and responsible exploration, environmental stewardship, and appreciating what we find in nature. Students will also enjoy nature-based games that reinforce teamwork and exploration skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:50 pm | Wed | Outdoor Science: Pathfinders- Winter (Wed) | 3rd-5th | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$159.00 $143.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Step outdoors and into nature’s living laboratory! This outdoor science class immerses students in real-world field study where the woods, streams, and wetlands become the classroom. Each week, explorers will practice the methods of natural scientists as they investigate ecology, geology, zoology (local wildlife), botany (plants), ornithology (birds), mycology (fungi), and entomology (insects), in our own suburban ecosystem. Students will observe natural systems in action as they examine life cycles, the water cycle, and the local watershed; explore suburban wetlands; and uncover the balance between producers, consumers, and decomposers, as well as predator–prey relationships and food webs. Seasonal cycles will guide discoveries as young naturalists watch habitats transform and learn how plants and animals adapt throughout the year. Each week, students will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon with a senior naturalist and outdoor educator. This program offers a refreshing break from sit-down, indoor, and screen-based learning—encouraging movement, fresh air, curiosity, and hands-on discovery. Students will learn to stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn things over, and peek beneath the surface to uncover nature’s hidden wonders. A portion of every session will focus on developing confidence and comfort in the outdoors. Emphasis will be placed on safe, respectful, and responsible exploration, environmental stewardship, and appreciating what we find in nature. Students will also enjoy nature-based games that reinforce teamwork and exploration skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 2:50 pm | Tue | Outdoor Survival Skills: Winter (Tue) | 5th-8th | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$319.00 $287.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Venture outdoors each week to explore the woods with a senior naturalist and mentor while learning valuable survival skills. Students will learn how to construct a temporary shelter, make cordage, craft a bow and arrow, identify edible plants, track animals, and purify water. The group will learn knife safety and skills like whittling a spoon and spatula; how to use maps and compass (orienteering), and basic first aid. Students will practice animal and plant identification and will catch and identify macro-invertebrates to determine stream health (outdoor temperatures permitting.) Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things you encounter outdoors, safe exploration of the woods, how to be a good steward of nature, and what to do if you ever became lost or injured in the woods. Skills will be reintroduced and adapted each each quarter because the available plants, animals, materials, and water sources change with each season. Students will have a blast, develop greater self-confidence, and build a strong connection to nature and to the real world! Explorations in the woods is for enrolled students only, and tag-along parents and siblings cannot be accommodated. For information on where the class meets, what to wear, and inclement weather, see the webpage for Compass's Nature Quest program. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 2:50 pm | Wed | Outdoor Survival Skills: Winter (Wed) | 5th-8th | Sevim Kalyoncu | 8 |
$319.00 $287.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Venture outdoors each week to explore the woods with a senior naturalist and mentor while learning valuable survival skills. Students will learn how to construct a temporary shelter, make cordage, craft a bow and arrow, identify edible plants, track animals, and purify water. The group will learn knife safety and skills like whittling a spoon and spatula; how to use maps and compass (orienteering), and basic first aid. Students will practice animal and plant identification and will catch and identify macro-invertebrates to determine stream health (outdoor temperatures permitting.) Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things you encounter outdoors, safe exploration of the woods, how to be a good steward of nature, and what to do if you ever became lost or injured in the woods. Skills will be reintroduced and adapted each each quarter because the available plants, animals, materials, and water sources change with each season. Students will have a blast, develop greater self-confidence, and build a strong connection to nature and to the real world! Explorations in the woods is for enrolled students only, and tag-along parents and siblings cannot be accommodated. For information on where the class meets, what to wear, and inclement weather, see the webpage for Compass's Nature Quest program. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Past Places: History & Geography through Games- Ancient Rome (11am) | 6th-8th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Learn history and geography through hands-on, interactive play rather than by studying flat, dull maps! Many great games feature play on map-based boards that can be used as teaching tools. Visual and kinesthetic learners will remember where Mongolia and Madagascar are when they have amassed miniature armies there! The instructor will use board games from his personal collection as teaching tools. In addition, he creates custom boards to use with modified game rules and playing pieces. Third quarter, students will learn about The Roman Empire using the games Successors and Conquest of the Empire. The class will also learn about the extent of the empire which was one of the largest in history, with contiguous territories throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The Roman Empire reached Hadrian's wall in northern England, Euphrates in Syria, the Nile River Valley in Egypt, and the plains of north Africa, completely encircling the Mediterranean Sea. The game continues week-to-week with students reviewing the geography as they set the game back up. For each era and conflict, students learn which countries were engaged and where they were located, capitals and key cities, shared borders and boundaries, and prominent geographic features and waterways. They gain an understanding of why countries were at war and how those events influenced history and the modern map. There is a $15.00 supply fee due to the instructor on the first day of class for custom-printed maps and shared class materials. Topics in this Series include: Ancient Civilizations/ Bronze Age (1st Quarter); Ancient Greece (2nd Quarter); Ancient Rome (3rd Quarter); and Medieval Times (4th Quarter). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Thu | Past Places: History & Geography through Games- Ancient Rome (12 pm) | 6th-8th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Learn history and geography through hands-on, interactive play rather than by studying flat, dull maps! Many great games feature play on map-based boards that can be used as teaching tools. Visual and kinesthetic learners will remember where Mongolia and Madagascar are when they have amassed miniature armies there! The instructor will use board games from his personal collection as teaching tools. In addition, he creates custom boards to use with modified game rules and playing pieces. Third quarter, students will learn about The Roman Empire using the games Successors and Conquest of the Empire. The class will also learn about the extent of the empire which was one of the largest in history, with contiguous territories throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The Roman Empire reached Hadrian's wall in northern England, Euphrates in Syria, the Nile River Valley in Egypt, and the plains of north Africa, completely encircling the Mediterranean Sea. The game continues week-to-week with students reviewing the geography as they set the game back up. For each era and conflict, students learn which countries were engaged and where they were located, capitals and key cities, shared borders and boundaries, and prominent geographic features and waterways. They gain an understanding of why countries were at war and how those events influenced history and the modern map. There is a $15.00 supply fee due to the instructor on the first day of class for custom-printed maps and shared class materials. Topics in this Series include: Ancient Civilizations/ Bronze Age (1st Quarter); Ancient Greece (2nd Quarter); Ancient Rome (3rd Quarter); and Medieval Times (4th Quarter). Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 10 | 9:30 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Physics- Lab (On-Level or Honors) | 11th-12th | Manal Hussein | 2 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
**This class will be taught in a Hybrid format with an online lecture on Mondays (9:00 am - 9:55 am) over a live, online platform** and in-person lab and activities on Wednesdays (9:30 am - 10:55 am). Registration for the Lab section will automatically enroll the student in the Lecture section.
This is a full-year, lab-based course that covers traditional concepts in physics. Physics is a college-preparatory course that encourages students to engage in scientific inquiry, investigations, and experimentation so they develop a conceptual understanding and basic scientific skills. Physics will help students understand phenomena in the physical world such as the forces on a roller coaster, wave action at the beach, speakers for their music, batteries in electric cars, and the electronics that power their favorite devices.
Students will develop an in-depth conceptual and analytical understanding of principles such as Newton's laws of motion, work and energy, momentum, circular motion, thermodynamics, sound, properties of light, electric fields and energy, and magnetism. This course will use algebra- and trigonometry- based mathematical models to introduce the fundamental concepts that describe mechanics. The course is designed to emphasize scientific thinking and reasoning, problem solving, and experimentation.
Meeting Dates: This is a 29-week course witht the week off to be announced.
Prerequisites/Corequisites: Students should have completed Algebra I, Geometry, and basic, right-angle trigonometry before taking this course. Students should be concurrently enrolled in Algebra II or PreCalculus when taking this course. For those students who have not covered trigonometry or other key Algebra II topics prior to encountering them in this course, the instructor will recommend resources and videos for independent review or instruction. Students are encouraged to buy the textbook over the summer to work through the Math Review section before September. The emphasis in this course is teaching/learning physic concepts, not teaching or re-teaching mathematical concepts.
Class Expectations: For both in-person and virtual class meetings, students are expected to come prepared, have class materials, and be ready to participate in class discussions and activities. During virtual lectures (Mondays), students are expected to be seated at a desk or table and have their cameras on.
Workload: Students should expect to spend 4 - 6 hours of independent study/homework every week consisting of pre-reading chapters, taking detailed notes on concepts before class, completing problem-solving activities, analyzing data, and writing formal lab reports.
Assignments: All assignments and announcements will be posted on Google classroom management site. There, students access assignments; upload lab reports, message instructor and classmates; and attend virtual conferences. Parents can view the course instructions and materials via their students' accounts.
Assessments: Quizzes, tests, and lab reports will be assigned throughout the course. A detailed answer key will be provided for students to review and correct their own work. Submitted assignments will be checked on Google Classroom to monitor completion and general understanding, but no grades will be assigned by the instructor. Homework will be marked as complete or incomplete. Parents may calculate a letter grade by comparing the total points earned to the total points available, using the provided answer keys.
Textbook/Materials: Students should purchase or rent Physics by James S. Walker (2014 ed.) (ISBN #9780131371156.)
Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $100.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
Supplies/Equipment: Students will need access to a computer with working camera, internet, a graphing calculator, a ruler, writing supplies, colored pens for graphs, highlighters, plain, lined, and graph paper, a 1-inch three ring binder, and a Five Star, 8.5" X 11" Quadrille-Ruled Notebook.
Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component full credit in laboratory science for purposes of a high school transcript.
Prerequisites: Concurrent Algebra II or higher |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | Political Science through Current Events (Sem 2) | 9th-12th | Dr. Albert Thompson | 12 |
$422.00 $379.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Seventy-seven percent of Americans ages 18 - 34 do not recognize either senator from their home state and 53 percent of millennials cannot name even one US Supreme Court justice. Yet there are celebrities from Hollywood, the NFL, and the music industry who have a recognition rate of 98%. Why are so many young Americans disconnected and disinterested in politics, government, economics, and most current events? One reason may be because these subjects seem dull and dated. They require looking backward and may appear devoid of things teens care about. Yet, an understanding of these issues is what is needed to ensure engaged, informed citizens who understand our country's policies and politics. This course will examine the top stories and news of the day and put them in the context of our political institutions and free enterprise system. The class will select topics and trends from the news and evaluate what is "really" behind them. Migrants gathering along our southern border: Can a president change our immigration policy? Mounting student loan burden: Can Congress erase the debt? Governors failing their states: What is a recall? This class will help students understand current events and contemporary controversies by connecting them to the building blocks of political science: American history, government, politics, and economics. This class will employ a Socratic method of teaching. Students should be active, engaged contributors, who come to class prepared to participate in weekly discussions. Each class meeting will be approximately 2/3 discussion of current topics and 1/3 discussion/lecture on connecting the issue to relevant principles in political science and public policy. Students will be assigned weekly readings or short news videos/documentaries which will provide background and context on the issues they are discussing. Prerequisites: None Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class on homework. Assignments: Assignments will consist of reading newspapers or magazine articles, viewing newsclips, and replying to online prompts. PDF articles and assigned links will be posted in the class Canvas portal. Assessments: Points will be awarded for the class participation and online responses to class discussion and prompts.Parents can assign a grade based on the number of points earned as compared to the number of points available. Textbook/Materials: Students will be given a code to access a classroom account for the Washington Post, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal where they will read current topics. In addition, students will each select an online, independent newspaper from a secondary market to follow. Lab/Supply Fee: The fee for classroom subscriptions is included. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as partial credit in American Government for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 09 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue, Thu | Pre-Algebra | 7th-9th | Jennifer Hallworth | 4 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
This is a complete course in Pre-Algebra that will provide an introduction to basic algebra concepts and a review of arithmetic algorithms with an emphasis on problem solving. The major topics covered in this course are Numbers and Operations, Expressions and Properties, Equations and Inequalities, Functional Relationships and Ratios, Percent and Proportions. Students will learn to use formulas to solve a variety of math problems encompassing geometry, measurement probability, and statistics. Students will also be applying their learning to real life scenarios to solve problems. Prerequisites: Students must be fluent in the four basic operations- addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. They will need to show proficiency and have a thorough command of basic computation. In addition, a basic, introductory understanding and ability to work with fractions and decimals is required to solve equations and simplify expressions. If you are unsure about your child's readiness for this class, the instructor will recommend one or more practice platforms and/or assessments to confirm placement. Workload: Students should expect to spend 3-4 hours per week outside of class to complete practice problems, homework, and assessments. Assignments: All assignments will be posted on password-protected Canvas classroom management site. There, students access assignments, upload homework, link to quizzes and tests, track grades, and message the instructor and classmates. Assessments: All chapter tests will be taken outside of class with parental oversight to maximize in-class instructional time. Points will be assigned for completed homework, quizzes, and tests. A letter grade will not be assigned, but parents can use total points earned versus total points offered to assign a grade for purposes of a homeschool transcript. Parents can view total points earned at any time through the Canvas site. See the instructor's webpage for detailed homework and test policy, including late work and re-work. Textbook: The selected textbook is available free online, and a link will be posted on Canvas. Students who prefer a hard copy textbook may purchase or rent McDougall Littell's Pre-Algebra (ISBN #978-0618250035). As an alternative, for any student who struggles with reading, the textbook can be purchased as an audio CD (ISBN #978-0618478828). What to Bring: TI-34 calculator Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Mathematics for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 09 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue, Thu | Preparation for Pre-Algebra | 6th-8th | Jennifer Hallworth | 0 |
$1169.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Full
|
Preparation for Pre-Algebra is a year-long curriculum that will teach the fundamentals a student must master before embarking pre-algebra, algebra, and beyond. The class will review arithmetic skills, operations, and number theory. Key topics include fractions, rates, ratios, decimals, and percentages. Students will learn the computational operations of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals. They will learn what decimals stand for, how they relate to fractions, and how to convert between the two. They will discover how rates and ratios are also fractions. Students will learn how to work with negative numbers including strategies for completing all four common operations with negative numbers. The class will also cover exponents and orders of magnitude to make sense of really small and really big numbers and common operations. This class will also emphasize real world applications of the mathematical concepts through word problems so students become comfortable switching between prose (written descriptions) and mathematical representation (numbers, symbols) of real world examples such as money, mileage, weights, percentages, and scientific measures. Prerequisites: This course can be considered a pre-pre-algebra class that will teach the core concepts typically covered in later elementary school/early middle school after a general arithmetic curriculum and before pre-algebra. While different curriculums and student pacing will vary, this class would be appropriate for a student who has successfully covered long division, multiplication of multiple digit numbers, and an introduction to simple fractions and who has complete mastery of multiplication facts, skills often aligned with 5th grade mathematics. Workload: Students should expect to spend 3-4 hours per week outside of class to complete practice problems, homework, and assessments. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address to be set up users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by: checking that weekly homework sets are complete; spot-checking the full solution 1-2 select problems in class each week, and giving quarterly take-home tests. Points will also be awarded for class participation. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: Students should rent of purchase the class text: EP Math 5/6 Workbook (ISBN# 979-8643323693). Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 09 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue, Fri | Probability & Statistics (On-Level or Honors) | 10th-12th | David Chelf | 2 |
$1299.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million. 77% of teens ages 12-17 have cell phones. One out of every two youth voters cast a ballot in 2020. From election polls to stock market data and weather reports to medical test results, statistics and probability are all around us. They are quoted in the podcasts we listen to, the news we watch, and the textbooks and articles we read. Statistics and probability are used in almost every field of study and career for forecasting, decision making, and tracking progress. In 2021-22, the government will release a tsunami of 2020 census statistics about our country's population. (Coincidentally, the odds of a tsunami hitting the east coast- less than the Powerball win.) But statistics and probability are also often misused, misquoted or incorrectly applied, so having a solid understanding of what these numbers represent will help make teens informed consumers and decision-makers. This course will explore the collection and analysis of data, inferences and conclusions, and the use of this information. Themes include relationships between variables, gathering data, interpreting categorical versus quantitative data. The class will also cover sample surveys, experiments, and observational studies and evaluate randomness and probability. Finally, students will learn about making inferences, justifying conclusions, and using probability to make decisions. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation in Algebra I and Geometry in order to take this class. It is an ideal class for a student who needs an additional credit in high school math, but who may not wish to pursue more advanced mathematics courses such as Algebra II and Pre-Calculus. Levels: The course provides a substantive, full-credit experience on either an Honors or On-Level track. All class members share core material and participate in the same class lectures. Honors students will receive additional, more challenging problems. Students register online for the same course but must indicate which level they wish to follow by the first day of class. Students may move down a level (from Honors to On-Level) at any time. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-1.5 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 7-day cycle, with assignments posted on Thursdays and due the following Thursday. Students are advised to start homework once it is assigned (i.e., not wait until the night before it is due). Weekly homework assignments will be of a length that a student should be able to complete them in two or three at-home work sessions. Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of their work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: Student progress will be assessed by: (1) The instructor checking that weekly homework sets are attempted and complete and (2) detailed grading of periodic take-home tests. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. See the instructor's webpage for detailed homework and test policy, including late work and re-work. Textbook: The required textbook for this class is "Stats In Your World" 1st edition by David E. Bock (ISBN-13: 978-0131384897). Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Probability & Statistics for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: Algebra I |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Thu | Reading Rangers (Q3) | 1st-2nd | Danielle Mercadal | 8 |
$184.00 $165.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Reading Rangers is a supplemental reading class for beginning readers. The class is whole language inspired with phonics and decoding games, partner reading, and vocabulary lists for home. The group will explore habits of curious readers through the examination of renowned children's picture story books from authors such as Leo Lionni, Robert McCloskey, Eric Carle, AA Milne, Michael Bond, Janell Cannon, Mem Fox, Hans Christian Andersen, Aesop, the Brothers Grimm, and others. Other books will also be selected based on the interests and level of the enrolled children. The class will discuss characters, setting, sequence of events, and predict outcomes. Children may repeat this class each quarter as new books will be introduced each session, and stories will not be repeated. Note: This class is designed for students to enjoy a fun, new dimension of reading with peers and a teacher, but this will not take the place of a comprehensive language arts curriculum and daily reading practice. Reading/Skills Readiness: Students should be able to read Level 1 books such as Frog & Toad and Little Bear. (In other words, students in this group should have progressed beyond Bob-type books.) Students should be able to read the following sight words: all, am, are, at, ate, be, black, brown, but, came, day, did, do, eat, four, get, go, good, have, he, in, into, is, like, must, new, no, now, on, our, out, please, pretty, ran, ride, saw, say, she, so, soon, that, the, there, they, this, to, too, under, want, was, well, went, what, white, who, will, with, yes. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Thu | Robot Fab Lab: Tomb Explorer (Thu) | 5th-6th | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$212.00 $190.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Design, build, and program an explorer robot to navigate newly discovered, unmapped ancient tomb. Each week, students will improve their robots though the addition of new sensors and components and will program their devices to navigate a maze and collect treasure. Students will use the brand new LEGO Education Spike Prime robotics sets. They will build with motors, wheels/axles, gears, levers, and special components. Students will have to install touch, sound, color, and infrared sensors while also learning to program sequences and commands that use input/output devices for controlled movements and precise turns. Using the drag-and-drop Spike Prime coding menu, students will learn to program their robots while experimenting with key concepts such as fixed values, variables, loops, and logic constructs. Topics in this Series: Lunar Lander (Quarter 1); Battle Bots (Quarter 2); Tomb Explorer (Quarter 3), and Soccer Bot Showdown (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 3:00 pm | 3:55 pm | Thu | Robot Fab Lab: Tomb Explorer (Thu) MASKED | 4th-7th | Becca Sticha | 8 |
$286.00 $257.40 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Design, build, and program an explorer robot to navigate newly discovered, unmapped ancient tomb. Each week, students will improve their robots though the addition of new sensors and components and will program their devices to navigate a maze and collect treasure. Students will use the LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3 robotics sets. They will build with motors, wheels/axles, gears, levers, and special components. Students will have to install touch, sound, color, and infrared sensors while also learning to program sequences and commands that use input/output devices for controlled movements and precise turns. Using the drag-and-drop EV3 coding menu, students will learn to program their robots while experimenting with key concepts such as fixed values, variables, loops, and logic constructs. This course integrates science, engineering and computational thinking while introducing physical constraints, units of measurement, and coordinate systems. But, don't worry, this is a beginning robotics class. Prior experience is not expected, but returning students are welcome. Each student will build his/her own robotic project, so students can progress and customize at their own pace. In general, in this class, students will spend two weeks assembling, three weeks programming, and two weeks testing and re-designing their projects. Topics in this Series: Lunar Lander (Quarter 1); Battle Bots (Quarter 2); Tomb Explorer (Quarter 3), and Soccer Bot Showdown (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Robot Fab Lab: Tomb Explorer (Tue) | 5th-6th | Becca Sticha | 10 |
$212.00 $190.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Design, build, and program an explorer robot to navigate newly discovered, unmapped ancient tomb. Each week, students will improve their robots though the addition of new sensors and components and will program their devices to navigate a maze and collect treasure. Students will use the brand new LEGO Education Spike Prime robotics sets. They will build with motors, wheels/axles, gears, levers, and special components. Students will have to install touch, sound, color, and infrared sensors while also learning to program sequences and commands that use input/output devices for controlled movements and precise turns. Using the drag-and-drop Spike Prime coding menu, students will learn to program their robots while experimenting with key concepts such as fixed values, variables, loops, and logic constructs. Topics in this Series: Lunar Lander (Quarter 1); Battle Bots (Quarter 2); Tomb Explorer (Quarter 3), and Soccer Bot Showdown (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 2:00 pm | 3:55 pm | Mon | Roleplayers' Realm D&D Club (Q3) | 8th-12th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$239.00 $215.10 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Step into a world of imagination, strategy, and storytelling! In this club, teens will work together to create characters, explore fantasy worlds, and go on epic adventures using the popular tabletop roleplaying game, Dungeons & Dragons. Through creative problem-solving, teamwork, and storytelling, members will learn the basics of the game while building friendships and having fun. No experience is needed-just a sense of adventure! All games and scenarios will be moderated and facilitated by an experienced Compass instructor and Dungeon Master. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Thu | Science Kids: Chemistry Sampler (10AM) | 1st-2nd | Osk Huneycutt | 10 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Science Kids is a lab-based science sampler program where our youngest scientists will be exposed to the concepts, acquire scientific vocabulary, and learn hands-on skills to needed to be comfortable with more advanced science classes as they get older. Your first or second grader will come home with an understanding of concepts like phases of matter, melting point, buoyancy, and life cycles. Most importantly, young students will gain confidence discussing science concepts and working with science equipment. Labs will teach students how to use a thermometer, take linear measurements, weigh items on a scale, peer into a microscope, record elapsed time, and make scientific sketches, for example. Each quarter will reinforce principles and lab skills around a central, unifying theme. In Chemistry sampler students will learn about acids and bases, melting point, physical properties, solutions, polymers, and simple reactions that give off heat, gas, etc. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Living World (Quarter 1), Physics Fun (Quarter 2), Chemistry Sampler (Quarter 3), and Earth/Space (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | Science Kids: Chemistry Sampler (2PM) | 1st-2nd | Osk Huneycutt | 10 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Science Kids is a lab-based science sampler program where our youngest scientists will be exposed to the concepts, acquire scientific vocabulary, and learn hands-on skills to needed to be comfortable with more advanced science classes as they get older. Your first or second grader will come home with an understanding of concepts like phases of matter, melting point, buoyancy, and life cycles. Most importantly, young students will gain confidence discussing science concepts and working with science equipment. Labs will teach students how to use a thermometer, take linear measurements, weigh items on a scale, peer into a microscope, record elapsed time, and make scientific sketches, for example. Each quarter will reinforce principles and lab skills around a central, unifying theme. In Chemistry sampler students will learn about acids and bases, melting point, physical properties, solutions, polymers, and simple reactions that give off heat, gas, etc. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Living World (Quarter 1), Physics Fun (Quarter 2), Chemistry Sampler (Quarter 3), and Earth/Space (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Thu | Science Synergy: Chemistry Connections (THU) | 5th-6th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Science Synergy is a multi-disciplinary exploration that helps students discover the connections between scientific fields, emphasizing the interrelated nature of modern science. It offers a hands-on approach to the natural and physical sciences while integrating key concepts from biology, physics, chemistry, geology, and astronomy. Students will build a strong foundation in scientific understanding while applying critical thinking and scientific inquiry needed to succeed in middle and high school sciences. Each quarter centers around a unifying theme that reinforces essential principles and lab skills. In Chemistry Connections, students will delve into the properties of matter, focusing on elements, compounds, and chemical reactions. Through hands-on activities and guided inquiry, students will gain a practical understanding of atomic structure and the periodic table. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Biology Basics (Quarter 1),Physics Fundamentals (Quarter 2), Chemistry Connections (Quarter 3), and Environmental Explorer (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Science Synergy: Chemistry Connections (TUE) | 5th-6th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Science Synergy is a multi-disciplinary exploration that helps students discover the connections between scientific fields, emphasizing the interrelated nature of modern science. It offers a hands-on approach to the natural and physical sciences while integrating key concepts from biology, physics, chemistry, geology, and astronomy. Students will build a strong foundation in scientific understanding while applying critical thinking and scientific inquiry needed to succeed in middle and high school sciences. Each quarter centers around a unifying theme that reinforces essential principles and lab skills. In Chemistry Connections, students will delve into the properties of matter, focusing on elements, compounds, and chemical reactions. Through hands-on activities and guided inquiry, students will gain a practical understanding of atomic structure and the periodic table. A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Biology Basics (Quarter 1),Physics Fundamentals (Quarter 2), Chemistry Connections (Quarter 3), and Environmental Explorer (Quarter 4) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Scientist for a Day: Chemist, Medical Scientist | 3rd-4th | Osk Huneycutt | 12 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Find out what different scientists do! This class allows young scientists to explore different careers in the sciences and shows them that science is fun, approachable, and that anyone can do it! Students will use real scientific equipment and learn actual science terminology to investigate questions in different fields. Try out SCUBA gear as a marine biologist, learn the basics for studying DNA, perform experiments in chemistry, and try your hand at operating an ROV (remote operated vehicle). The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning with demonstrations or experiments in each class session. Third quarter, we will learn some basics of chemistry and medical science. Students will learn about pH, make their own acid-base indicator solution, make thermochromic (color-changing) putty and learn the physics behind its color-change. They will intersperse their chemistry experiments with studies of medical science. The class will review the basics of how human bodies work and how to keep ourselves healthy. The group will discuss our circulatory, respiratory and immune systems and learn how germs make us sick. Students will take samples from our classroom and other locations and culture them to see what bacteria we're able to grow. After that (sometimes alarming) experiment, we'll learn proper hand-washing techniques and test our effectiveness with the same UV glow lotion hospitals use in their infection control programs. Look out germs! A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Paleontologist, Geologist (Quarter 1); Physicist, Astronomer (Quarter 2) Chemist & Medical Scientist (Quarter 3); Biologist, Entomologist (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Mon | Self Defense & Personal Safety- Brown | 9th-Adult | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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"Empowered!" is how recent students of coach Iman Castenada described their self defense seminars. Teens and adults feel confident, capable, and in-control when they have the physical and mental tools to evade and escape uncomfortable or even dangerous situations. Self defense and personal safety are essential life skills for any teen or adult who is out in the community and interacting with others. This class emphasizes situational awareness and making safe choices. Students will work in pairs and small groups to act out mock scenarios, rehearse strategies, and practice defensive moves and strikes. Topics will cover a range of situations from assessing the safety of a new place; conscientiously carrying out daily activities (like carrying a purse or backback, walking/jogging alone, parking a car, taking public transportation, and traveling), de-escalating a bully, disarming an agressor, escaping an attacker, and if necessary, fighting back to save your life. This workshop is taught by Iman Casteneda, Compass's homeschool PE and Jiu Jitsu Fit instructor. She earned a black belt in Jiu Jitsu under Royce Gracie, a particularly grueling program that took her more than 10 years to prepare for. She is also personal trainer, Cross-Fit instructor, Muy Thai practitioner, former MMA (mixed martial arts) competitor, former EMT, and survivor of assault. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Students may enroll in Self Defense and Personal Safety at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. Self-Defense and Personal Safety continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to learn additional skills and build the reflexes, recall, and reactions to use when needed. No two sessions are the same! Note: This is a co-ed class. Students must be minimum age 13. Compass adults are welcome to register. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Sew Fun: Good Night, Sleep Tight | 3rd-5th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Kids will learn the basics of hand sewing and discover it is "sew fun" to create items that can play with and use every day. Third quarter, Sew Fun students will be ready for nighttime with cozy crafts that they have sewed for themselves: slippers, a sleep mask, a pillow, and a wall hanging from fleece and felt. Kids will learn practical sewing skills such as pinning and placement, a running stitch, attaching a button, scissor skills, stuffing, and working with simple patterns. The group will be working with both pre-cut felt and fabric components and uncut fabric that they will cut, stitch, finish and personalize with buttons and embellishments. Since students may work at different rates, some projects may not be completed in class and will be sent home to finish sewing with the newly learned skills. Students should be at age/grade level for fine motor skills for this class. A material fee of $40.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Note: Project themes or materials are subject to change due to availability or sourcing at the time of the class. Topics in this series include: Build-A-Bear (Quarter 1), Cozy Quilts (Quarter 2), Good Night, Sleep Tight (Quarter 3), and On-the-Go (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Sew Simple: Polar Pals | 1st-2nd | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$148.00 $133.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Little kids will learn the basics of hand sewing and discover it is "sew simple" to create fun things they can play with and use every day. Third quarter, Sew Simple students will sew puffy felt Polar Pals such as a perky penguin, a silly seal, and a playful polar bear. Kids will learn practical sewing skills such as pinning and placement, a running stitch, attaching a button, scissor skills, and stuffing. The group will be working with pre-cut felt components from kits that will be enhanced with buttons and accessories. Since students may work at different rates, some projects may not be completed in class and will be sent home to finish sewing with the newly learned skills. Students should be at age/grade level for fine motor skills for this class and should be a minimum of age 6. A material fee of $35.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Note: Project themes or materials are subject to change due to availability or sourcing at the time of the class. Topics in this series include: Sew a Story (Quarter 1), Monster Mash-Up (Quarter 2), Polar Pals (Quarter 3), and Fairytale Fun (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Tue | Spanish Amigos- Mi Ciudad (My Town) | 2nd-3rd | Ruth Jeantet | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Buenos dias! Spanish Amigos (Friends) is a fun, play-based, Spanish immersion class for young students. Much like learning their native language, students will be exposed to the sounds, vocabulary, and phrases in Spanish through songs, games, stories, interactive and hands-on activities. Limited cues in English will be used to prompt students in the first few weeks. The teacher will bring toys and objects each week to give kids tangible, hands-on examples of the vocabulary being introduced. Each quarter introduces new themes and new vocabulary in Spanish, so children can continue to build their language basics. However, themes and units are non-sequential, so students may enroll in this level in any quarter. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in sounds, vocabulary, and simple phrases while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Instruction will be predominantly verbal, but key vocabulary words may be written down for students to begin a sense of spelling. A limited amount of writing, spelling, and reading will be expected to emphasize new vocabulary and complete workbook/handout exercises, but note-taking from the board will not be required. Fluency should not be expected at this level. Recommendations/Workload: Students should be at grade level for reading in English. Some homework will be assigned. Textbook: Students will be working from Viva el Espanol- System A (ISBN #978-0076029525) from McGraw-Hill. Compass will pre-purchased copies of this book to ensure everyone has a copy for $41.00 Students will only need to purchase this book the first quarter they are enrolled. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Spanish Exploradores- Mi Ciudad (My Town) | 4th-5th | Ruth Jeantet | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Buenas tardes! Spanish Exploradores (Explorers) is a fun, immersive introductory Spanish class for older elementary students. Much like learning their native language, students will be exposed to the sounds, vocabulary, and phrases in Spanish through songs, games, stories, and hands-on activities. Limited cues in English will be used to prompt students in the first few weeks. The teacher will bring objects each week to give students tangible, hands-on examples of the vocabulary being introduced. In this level, students will be encouraged to begin to combine adjectives with nouns and nouns with verbs. Each quarter introduces new themes and new vocabulary in Spanish, so children can continue to build their language basics. However, themes and units are non-sequential, so students may enroll in this level in any quarter. While the theme might be the same as that of a younger level of instruction, more vocabulary will be introduced at the older level. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in sounds, vocabulary, and simple phrases while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Students will be expected to take notes, write new words, and complete activities with new vocabulary and short readings. Fluency should not be expected at this level. Recommendations/Workload: Students should be at grade level for reading in English and should be able to copy words from the board. Some homework will be assigned. Textbook: Students will be working from Viva el Espanol- System B (ISBN #978-0076029648) from McGraw-Hill. Compass will pre-purchased copies of this book to ensure everyone has a copy for $42.80. Students will only need to purchase this book the first quarter they are enrolled. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Wed | Spanish Para Estudiantes- Mi Ciudad (My Town) | 6th-8th | Ruth Jeantet | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Buenas tardes! Spanish Para Estudiantes is an immersive introductory Spanish class for middle school students. In a natural learning progression, students will be exposed to vocabulary and phrases in Spanish through in-class activities, interactive games, role playing, and conversations. Limited cues in English will be used to prompt students in the first few weeks. This is a conversation-focused class where students are encouraged to speak in class. Vocabulary and phrases will be introduced in thematic units such as weather, time, members of the family, clothing, food, places in town, hobbies and sports, holidays, etc. As students learn new vocabulary, they will be encouraged to begin to combine adjectives with nouns and nouns with verbs in short phrases, often in mock conversations with classmates. Grammar will be introduced as it comes up in conversation and in phrases. Students will be exposed to pronouns, noun-verb agreement, adjective-noun agreement, familar vs. formal, ordinal and cardinal numbers, comparisons and superlatives, and more. They will learn present tense regular and irregular verbs as well as command and question structures and infinitive phrases. Recommendations/Workload: Students should be at grade level for reading in English. Students are expected to take notes in class, and homework will be assigned. Textbook: Students will be working from 5th edition "Spanish is Fun- Lively Lessons for Beginners"(ISBN 978-1634199285) from Amsco. Compass will pre-purchased copies of this book to ensure everyone has a copy for $34.00. Students will only need to purchase this book the first quarter they are enrolled. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Tue | Spanish Para Pequenos (Little Ones)- TUE Q3 | PK-1st | Ruth Jeantet | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Hola! Spanish Para Pequenos (Spanish for Little Ones) is a fun, play-based, Spanish immersion class for young children. Following the native language-learning process, children will be exposed to the sounds, letters, and high-frequency words in Spanish through songs, games, stories, puppets, and other interactive activities. The teacher will provide all necessary toys and objects to give young children tangible, and hands-on ways to apply new concepts in practical real-life situations. The instructor uses some Montessori-style activities that create a high-energy, playful environment, engaging tactile and kinesthetic learners alike while appealing to children's natural curiosities. The vocabulary and language structures presented in each session follow a new letter of the alphabet each week that will include greetings, simple phrases, foods, colors, numbers, animals, common action verbs, calendar phrases, articles of clothing and seasonal topics. Vocabulary will be repeated and reviewed often to aid in the retention of the language, and will primarily develop listening and speaking skills. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in phonics and essential vocabulary words while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Who knows, your child might just come home singing their new favorite Spanish nursery rhyme! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Wed | Spanish Para Pequenos (Little Ones)- WED Q3 | PK-1st | Ruth Jeantet | 10 |
$191.00 $171.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Hola! Spanish Para Pequenos (Spanish for Little Ones) is a fun, play-based, Spanish immersion class for young children. Following the native language-learning process, children will be exposed to the sounds, letters, and high-frequency words in Spanish through songs, games, stories, puppets, and other interactive activities. The teacher will provide all necessary toys and objects to give young children tangible, and hands-on ways to apply new concepts in practical real-life situations. The instructor uses some Montessori-style activities that create a high-energy, playful environment, engaging tactile and kinesthetic learners alike while appealing to children's natural curiosities. The vocabulary and language structures presented in each session follow a new letter of the alphabet each week that will include greetings, simple phrases, foods, colors, numbers, animals, common action verbs, calendar phrases, articles of clothing and seasonal topics. Vocabulary will be repeated and reviewed often to aid in the retention of the language, and will primarily develop listening and speaking skills. The goal of this introductory course is to lay foundations in phonics and essential vocabulary words while having fun and building confidence in a foreign language. Who knows, your child might just come home singing their new favorite Spanish nursery rhyme! Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Wed | Starting with Strings: Beginning Violin II | 2nd-6th | x | 8 |
$444.00 $399.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Continue to learn to play the violin! Students will learn more advanced skills such as shifting on the violin and playing vibrato. Students will learn to play violin repertoires and practice additional scales. The class will be taught to play in unison from a songbook of arranged works. At the end of the semester, the class will be able to play several short pieces and will perform for the parents. Music education enhances teamwork and cooperative learning and provides children with a path for self-expression. Scientific research has shown that music lessons not only improve organizational skills and executive functioning but that they also develop self-confidence. Semester 1, Beginner Violin I students will have priority registration to enroll in Beginner Violin II to continue their musical education. Other students may enroll in the second semester if they have had prior instruction equal to the first semester, or if they are willing to schedule and pay for individual lessons with this instructor to cover 1st semester skills prior to or around the start of the class. Those wishing to enroll in 2nd semester course without the Compass 1st semester class will be asked to play for the instructor in order to demonstrate skill level and establish placement. Class Expectations: A student violin can be purchased or rented from most music stores (Foxes Music Company in Falls Church is recommended). The student should be professionally measured and fitted for the violin by the music store or a string luthier. Students should also have a shoulder rest fitted to their violin. Students will be asked to bring their violin, bow, shoulder rest, case, small notebook, Suzuki music book, and pencil to every class. In order to fully benefit from the in-class instruction, daily, at-home practice is expected. Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $17.50 payable to Compass on the first day for the Suzuki violin book 1. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 10:05 am | 10:45 am | Thu | Swimming: Beginners/ Adv. Beginners (Thu Q3) | 1st-3rd | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. During the first lesson, students will be observed and determined to be Beginner or Advanced Beginner level, and the class will be divided accordingly among two instructors. Beginners level is for students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills such as water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Advanced Beginners level will review all skills in beginner-level class and add YMCA Level 2 skills such as stamina, swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, rotary breathing, becoming comfortable in deep water, and stroke introduction to include: front crawl, backstroke, and elementary breaststroke. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 11:05 am | 11:45 am | Thu | Swimming: Beginners/ Adv. Beginners (Thu Q3) | 4th-6th | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. During the first lesson, students will be observed and determined to be Beginner or Advanced Beginner level, and the class will be divided accordingly among two instructors. Beginners level is for students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills such as water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Advanced Beginners level will review all skills in beginner-level class and add YMCA Level 2 skills such as stamina, swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, rotary breathing, becoming comfortable in deep water, and stroke introduction to include: front crawl, backstroke, and elementary breaststroke. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:05 am | 10:45 am | Tue | Swimming: Beginners/ Adv. Beginners (Tue Q3) | 1st-3rd | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. During the first lesson, students will be observed and determined to be Beginner or Advanced Beginner level, and the class will be divided accordingly among two instructors. Beginners level is for students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills such as water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Advanced Beginners level will review all skills in beginner-level class and add YMCA Level 2 skills such as stamina, swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, rotary breathing, becoming comfortable in deep water, and stroke introduction to include: front crawl, backstroke, and elementary breaststroke. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:05 am | 11:45 am | Tue | Swimming: Beginners/ Adv. Beginners (Tue Q3) | 4th-6th | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. During the first lesson, students will be observed and determined to be Beginner or Advanced Beginner level, and the class will be divided accordingly among two instructors. Beginners level is for students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills such as water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Advanced Beginners level will review all skills in beginner-level class and add YMCA Level 2 skills such as stamina, swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, rotary breathing, becoming comfortable in deep water, and stroke introduction to include: front crawl, backstroke, and elementary breaststroke. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 12:05 pm | 12:45 pm | Thu | Swimming: Intermediate (Thu Q3) | 2nd-6th | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. Intermediate level is for students who are proficient in Advanced Beginner level skills such as swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, and becoming comfortable in deep water. Intermediate swimmers will cover Levels 3 of the YMCA program including elementary breaststroke, backstroke, front crawl with rotary breathing all at 25 yards, with work towards Level 4 skills including stamina and increasing all swimming to 50 yards or more, plus breast stroke, elementary butterfly stroke and kick, elementary dives, and turns. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 12:05 pm | 12:45 pm | Tue | Swimming: Intermediate (Tue Q3) | 2nd-6th | YMCA Swimming Staff | 5 |
$120.00 $108.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
|
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. Intermediate level is for students who are proficient in Advanced Beginner level skills such as swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, and becoming comfortable in deep water. Intermediate swimmers will cover Levels 3 of the YMCA program including elementary breaststroke, backstroke, front crawl with rotary breathing all at 25 yards, with work towards Level 4 skills including stamina and increasing all swimming to 50 yards or more, plus breast stroke, elementary butterfly stroke and kick, elementary dives, and turns. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 16 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Fri | Teen Stage: Immersive Improv | 9th-12th | Jeff Virchow | 12 |
$331.00 $297.90 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Snappy comebacks, one-liners, sarcasm, exaggeration, irony...and teenagers. These things just go together! Improv gives kids an outlet for fun, creative stories and spontaneous humor. Teens who find amusement in the unexpected and humor in the unpredictable will enjoy improvisational acting! Second semester, actors will continue to hone their "short game", or short form improv skills. Class activities will teach students how to do edits, perfect their scene work, create characters, escalate emotions, elevate relationships, and use object work to create a more involved stories. They learn about timing, transitions, and how to connect scenes and travel through the improv story with recurring characters, patterns, and common themes to portray a hilarious or witty situation. Class exercises will help students improve listening stills and build the collective, group imagination. Improvisation is the art of entertaining with connected, unpredictable twists and turns often seen from the great comedians and best live entertainers. Improv students will improve their ability to think on-their-feet, play off each other, and react with spontaneous wit, sarcasm, and irony. Actors' creative thinking and communication skills will be strengthened as they work "outside-of-the-box" and learn to read their audience. Improv can be for everyone! No previous experience is needed. Beginners are welcome, and experienced students will further develop their improv skills. If you have taken this class before, go ahead and take it again because no two classes are ever alike. This class is best suited for students who are active listeners, flexible, and easily adapt, have a sense of humor, and can work collaboratively in a group. Students need to be able to stay in sync with the flow of the class. This is not an "anything goes" or free-for-all class. Topics in this Series: Innovative Improv (Semester 1), Immersive Improv (Semester 2. Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 0-1 hour per week outside of class. Assignments: If any, will be sent to parents and students by e-mail. Assessments: Informal, qualitative feedback will be given in class throughout the semester. A quantitative score/grade will not be provided. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in Fine Arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Fri | Teen Weight Training- Brown (FRI) | 9th-Adult | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Teen weight training is an introduction to strength training in a small group class under the guidance of a seasoned, experienced coach. The primary lifts covered in class will be: back squat, bench press, deadlift, and strict press which are all compound moves that employ multiple muscle groups. These lifts are also "functional" meaning they engage the core and train muscles to work cooperatively in daily activities such as picking up a box or hoisting a parcel to a high shelf. Emphasis will be on correct form, posture, and safety. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 16 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Fri | Total Training: Teen PE- Brown (FRI) | 9th-12th | Iman Castaneda | 12 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Total Training is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get teens moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. Total Training focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. The physical challenges of Total Training will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Teens may enroll in Total Training at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. Total Training continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 12 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Mon | Total Training: Teen PE- Brown (MON) | 9th-12th | Iman Castaneda | 10 |
$187.00 $168.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Total Training is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get teens moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. Total Training focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. The physical challenges of Total Training will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. The color name in the class title refers to the collectable token students will earn each quarter they take the class. Collect all 8! Teens may enroll in Total Training at any time, regardless of the color name No one color is a prerequisite for any other color, and tokens can be earned in any order. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. Total Training continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Tweens Acting Out: Whodunnit? | 6th-8th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$160.00 $144.00 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Tweens take over as they collectively brainstorm and collaboratively write own play. Find out what happens when tweens "act out" the unique characters and an original storyline they created. Mysterious murders and curious crimes. Did the wily witness spot the suspect, and will the diligent detective crack the case? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and to begin to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with the students' input. The class will learn the practical aspects of acting, as they work on script read-through, blocking, costume/prop design, and planning the show. Students will develop their own "actor's toolkit" of voice, body, and imagination in this creative process! Actors will grow in confidence and communication skills in preparation for a final sharing with parents on the final day of the quarter. Once the script is fully developed with everyone's parts, about half-way through the quarter, it will be emailed to parents. Parents will be expected to help their children memorize their script/lines/cues and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. Topics in this Series: Can't Believe it Came to Life (Quarter 1), Technology Takeover (Quarter 2), Whodunnit? (Quarter 3) and Vanished in a Video Game (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Ukulele for Beginners II | 3rd-6th | Ney Mello | 8 |
$397.00 $357.30 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Did you know that the ukulele is not just a miniature guitar? It is a member of the Portuguese lute family, but its sound was popularized in Hawaiian music. Ukulele's fun, compact size also appeals to kids and is a great "first" stringed instrument! In this class, kids will continue to build their skills on ukulele. Students will learn expansion of chords, to include minor chords, 7th chords, sharps, and flats. They will begin to play individual notes and chords on each piece that they learn and will learn self-accompaniment. Sample songs taught at this level include "You Are My Sunshine", "Michael Row the Boat Ashore", "Octopus' Garden", "Rainbow Connection", and "All My Loving". Each student should purchase or rent a good quality ukulele for the class. Ukulele for Beginner I students will have priority registration to enroll in Beginner 2 level to continue their musical education. Other students may enroll in the second semester if they have had prior instruction equal to the first semester, or if they are willing to schedule and pay for individual lessons with this instructor to cover 1st semester skills prior to the start of the class. Music Book: The instructor will select a music book for the class and ask parents to purchase the book individually (estimated $10.00 - 15.00) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Wed | Ultimate Magic Academy: Perplexing Purple Wand | 3rd-6th | Mike Hummer | 14 |
$268.00 $241.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Curious coins, baffling balls, confounding cards, and puzzling papers! Students will learn tricks of the trade from a professional magician using the Discover Magic curriculum! This class will present tricks from the Purple Wand curriculum. Each week, kids will learn how to perform a unique magic trick, and students will practice and perfect the illusion in class so they can come home and mystify their friends and family. Students will unlock the secrets to eight special magic tricks: Heads-Up, Bermuda Papers, Mind Trip, Baffling Bandana, Acrobatic Jacks, Magic IOU, IncrediBall and Presto Print. and others. For each trick, students will receive a custom magic prop and full color instructions, and at the end of each class, every magician will take home a Top Secret file folder with additional tricks they can practice. Student magicians will be given a secret password each week to gain access to an additional magic trick on the Discover Magic website (parents will need to work the magic to set up the child's online account.) Along with the actual magic, students will discuss a life skill each week that is essential to a good magician (and student) such as public speaking, presentation skills, practicing, being prepared, and reading your audience. Magicians who complete the class will receive a certificate and magic wand. Topics in this Series: Groovy Green Wand (Quarter 1), Baffling Blue Wand (Quarter 2); Perplxing Purple Wand (Quarter 3) and Bewildering Black Wand (Quarter 4) Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $50.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 12 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Mon | War Room: Military Intelligence- Directing the Downfall | 9th-12th | Taliesin Knol | 10 |
$382.00 $343.80 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Perhaps you have heard that "knowing is half the battle." This class will realize that as we examine the roles of military intelligence and espionage in conflicts. A fundamental goal of military intelligence is to fight smarter, not harder, on the battlefield. For context and inspiration, the class will examine the history of the real spies of WWII, their methods, failures, and successes. This second semester picks up in 1944, after campaigns in Africa in 1942 and Axis losses in Italy. From here our goal is to identify the site of Axis counter offensiveor the Allied invasion of Fortress Europe, determine their strength and direct appropriate defensive resources. From there, we must take the fight to the enemy's homeland, all while frustrating any potential Axis spies attempts to infiltrate the class! The continuing mission, should students choose to accept it, is to use actual enigma codes and a modified tabletop RPG (role playing game) system to simulate missions, write encoded messages, and attempt to crack the enemy's defense plan as the Soviet Union moves into Germany to end the Nazi Threat. While Compass's 3D History classes will simulate the battles in the field, this class will assume the supporting role by attempting to infiltrate German lines with field agents. War Room students in the "headquarters" will direct both their field agents and the missions of the frontline troops in 3D History. The decisions of War Room students on Monday will affect the play of 3D History students on Friday, and outcomes of the 3D History role play on Friday will dictate the work of the War Room the following Monday. While co-registration in both classes is not required, some students may want to dual register in order to see both the tactical and strategic aspects of a major engagement and how military intelligence affects the outcomes. This course is recommended for teens who have a passion for military history or an interest in a future career in intelligence. Topics in this Series: Brains That Broke the Blitzkreig (Semester 1) and Directing the Downfall (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 0-1 hour per week outside of class. Assignments: Course documents including period maps, photographs and recreations will be made available through a class Google Drive link Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 15 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Thu | We Wannabe Writers (Q3) | 1st-2nd | Danielle Mercadal | 8 |
$184.00 $165.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Wannabe Writers is a beginning writing class for first graders. Students will use creative journaling and illustrations to respond to simple writing prompts. The class will explore the use of various punctuation for simple sentences and will use new vocabulary words to express an idea. Each week, students will share their completed writing and drawings with their classmates. For this level, students must be able to read a Level 1 reader independently and possess the readiness skills outlined below. Children may repeat this class each quarter as new prompts and writing techniques will be introduced each session, and assignments will not be repeated. Note: This class is designed for students to enjoy a fun, new dimension of writing with peers and a teacher, but this will not take the place of a comprehensive language arts curriculum and regular writing practice. Writing Readiness: Enrolling students must be able to (1) recognize, spell and write his/her first and last name; (2) recognize and write all upper case and lower case letters and know the corresponding sounds; (3) spell and pronounce simple blends, (4) recognize the following sight words: all, am, are, at, ate, be, black, brown, but, came, day, did, do, eat, four, get, go, good, have, he, in, into, is, like, must, new, no, now, on, our, out, please, pretty, ran, ride, saw, say, she, so, soon, that, the, there, they, this, to, too, under, want, was, well, went, what, white, who, will, with, yes; (5) spell and write all 2-letter sight words unaided; (6) be familiar with simple sentence structure; and (7) hold and use a pencil correctly. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Tue | Wee Writers (Q3) | K-1st | Danielle Mercadal | 6 |
$184.00 $165.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Wee Writers is a simple journaling class for emergent kindergarten writers ages 5 and 6. Beginning writers will use basic sight words and phonetics while writing about feelings and experiences. Students will learn basic sentence structure with noun-verb construction, initial capital letter, and ending punctuation. Beginning sentences such as, "I lik cak." or "I drnk wtr." would be typical of emergent writers. Students will illustrate their journal entries and have opportunities to share and discuss their writing with peers. Children may repeat this class each quarter as new writing activities will be introduced each session. Note: This class is designed for students to enjoy a fun, new dimension of writing with peers and a teacher, but this will not take the place of a comprehensive language arts curriculum and regular writing practice. Writing Readiness Enrolling students must be able to (1) recognize and write his/her first name; (2) recognize and write each letter of the alphabet and know the corresponding sounds; and (3) hold and use crayons and scissors correctly. Social Readiness: Students must be age five (5) by the start of the class. To be successful in this program, kindergartners must be able to do the following preschool-level skills: (1) be able to separate from parents with little discomfort; (2) be able to sit and stay on a task for 10 minutes; (3) be able to follow simple, age-appropriate directions from the teacher or another adult; (4) be completely self-sufficient in a public restroom (wiping, flushing, washing hands, etc.) Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Who Wants to Be a Scientist? Chemist, Medical Scientist | 1st-2nd | Osk Huneycutt | 10 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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There are so many ways to do science! This class allows our youngest scientists to explore different careers in the sciences and shows them that science is fun, approachable, and that anyone can do it! Students will use real scientific equipment and learn actual science terminology to investigate questions in different fields. Try out SCUBA gear as a marine biologist, learn the basics for studying DNA, perform experiments in chemistry, and try your hand at operating an ROV (remote operated vehicle). The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning with demonstrations or experiments in each class session. Third quarter, we will learn some basics of chemistry and medical science. Students will learn about pH, make their own acid-base indicator solution, make thermochromic (color-changing) putty and learn the physics behind its color-change. They will intersperse their chemistry experiments with studies of medical science. The class will review the basics of how human bodies work and how to keep ourselves healthy. The group will discuss our circulatory, respiratory and immune systems and learn how germs make us sick. Students will take samples from our classroom and other locations and culture them to see what bacteria we're able to grow. After that (sometimes alarming) experiment, we'll learn proper hand-washing techniques and test our effectiveness with the same UV glow lotion hospitals use in their infection control programs. Look out germs! A lab fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this Series: Paleontologist, Geologist (Quarter 1); Physicist, Astronomer (Quarter 2) Chemist & Medical Scientist (Quarter 3); Biologist, Entomologist (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 26 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Fri | Worldbuilding: Post Apocalyptic Worlds | 8th-12th | Judith Harmon | 10 |
$303.00 $272.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Students will become immersed in the imaginary worlds they construct in this unique course that encompasses elements of fiction writing, sociology, and anthropology. Worldbuilding is the foundation of speculative fiction, such as sci-fi and fantasy, role-playing games, videos, comics, and other visual media. Countless examples of Worldbuilding exist in the movies and books we consume every day such as Tolkien's Middle Earth, the many elaborate settlements of the Star Wars franchise, and the popular RPG, Dungeons and Dragons. In this course, students will develop a fictional locale. Will it be a small village in a known place, a new planet, or an original universe? Students will be guided through an interactive, iterative process of "top-down" design of their unique world, determining broad characteristics first then then elaborating with increasing detail. Builders will make coherent and integrated decisions on geography, climate, ecology, flora, fauna, inhabitants, races, history, social customs, language, religion, origin story, powers/magic, legal system, currency, and technology. The class will read excerpts and watch clips of well-known fictional works which will provide strong examples of each of the elements. First semester, the class will create post-apocalyptic worlds and answer the questions of "what happened?" and "who remained" after a wide-spread disaster that threatened the very heart of civilization. Students, along with their instructor, will develop an in-class world as an example. They will use the lessons and exercises reviewed in class to further develop their individual world project. Students will be expected to keep a notebook of decisions and details as they progress through designing the elements of their world. Students will have the option to purchase a discounted student subscription to World Anvil, a web-based subscription service which allows students to create maps, timelines, and other tools to organize their made-up world. Each student will be expected to make a PowerPoint presentation at the end of the semester which addresses each of the built-world elements. Topics in this Series: Post Apocalyptic Worlds (Semester 1), Mythological Worlds (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester will receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: None Workload: Students should expect to spend 2 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: Will be posted in a Google Classroom and consist of weekly responses to prompts Assessments: The instructor will assign points for a final semester presentation and completed "Creative Sparks" which are written responses to weekly prompts. Parents may use the student's earned points versus total possible points to calculate a grade for the purposes of a homeschool transcript. Textbook/Materials: Students have the option of purchasing a discounted subscription to World Anvil (worldanvil.com) for approximately $35.00. Lab/Supply Fee: Included Non-Meeting Days: None. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in language arts for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Semester | Jan 13 | 1:00 pm | 1:55 pm | Tue | Writers @ Work (Sem2) | 7th-8th | Shannon McClain | 10 |
$334.00 $300.60 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Writers @ Work is a fundamental writing class that will prepare seventh and eighth grade students for high school level composition. Writing is not only a critical skill for high school and beyond, it gives teens a voice! In this class, teens will gain confidence, increase writing fluency, and learn how to incorporate writing into schoolwork and hobbies. The objective of this class is for each student to progress and improve his/her own writing. This class does not have a fixed curriculum trying to achieve the same outcome and same skillset for each child, because each student comes to class with different writing experience and varying needs. Instead, through personalized feedback from the instructor and peer feedback exercises, student writers will improve their writing skills from where they started. Students will always be encouraged to write about what interests them, but prompts will also be offered. They will write for a few minutes in class each week and will be expected to write short assignments at home and submit their work to the instructor for feedback. Students will receive individual feedback to work on aspects of their writing such as organizing thoughts, defining a purpose and audience for the paper, formulating a topic sentence or main idea, developing supporting details, using correct sentence structure (for example, initial capitalization and end punctuation). The instructor will model the steps of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. Writing tips will be introduced throughout the year pulling from both a "toolbox" of grammar rules (i.e. sentence structure, complex and compound sentences, independent and dependent clauses, parts of speech, agreement, tense, use of dialogue and quotation marks, correct use of punctuation) and stylistic techniques (i.e., using metaphors, adding details, and building tension). Examples and exercises will be presented from a variety of styles and genres. Writers @ Work is offered both semesters under the same class name, but students may take it each semester to continue to improve their writing skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 14 | 12:00 pm | 12:55 pm | Wed | Writers' Workshop: Time Travel- Historical Fiction | 6th-8th | Karen Hickman | 10 |
$193.00 $173.70 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Are you a fan of the Middle Ages? Do you like reading all about someone famous or an event in World War II? Perhaps there's a monarch or an event in history that you are curious about. The use of historical elements to generate a good tale in another time is a popular genre of writing. Students will use their imaginations to create characters and place them in a true setting and events. The class will read about a few historical events, learn how to plan basic research, select references, locate primary sources, organize research notes, and ultimately select the most compelling details to integrate in their historical fictional writing. To develop a sense of audience, students will work on story ideas, review drafts and in-progress writing with their peers and incorporate peer feedback as they develop their stories. An anthology of stories will be published at the end of the quarter. The Writers Workshop gives middle school students in grades 6-7 the skills they need for writing, reading, listening, and speaking that come from practicing by putting pen to paper. In class, students will share drafts and in-progress works to receive peer feedback and promote revising and editing skills. Each quarter, students will review samples of literature and write about popular themes using the story elements of that theme. Imagination and creativity come easily to most young writers, but acquiring technical skills is also important. Each quarter, students will focus on specific skills in addition to specific genres as part of their "Writer's Tool Kit." These skills include: grammar basis such as parts and kinds of sentences, plurals, possessives, punctuation; learning how to use a dictionary and a thesaurus; and advanced middle/high school skills like summarizing, outlining, note taking, writing a book report, or citing sources. Homework: Students are expected to write in a journal for a minimum of four minutes per day and respond to prompts that are sent home on an assignment bookmark. They will also be asked to read short assignments such as a chapter or excerpt in preparation for class discussions. Topics in this Series: Creating Children's Books (Quarter 1); Time Travel- Fantasy & Science Fiction (Quarter 2); Time Travel- Historical Fiction (Quarter 3); and Reading Classics, Writing New Endings (Quarter 4). Prerequisites: None |
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| Qtr 3 | Jan 13 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Tue | Writing Well (Q3) | 5th-6th | Shannon McClain | 10 |
$178.00 $160.20 by 12/13 |
Opens 11/20 6:00am
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Writing is not only a critical skill for school and life, it gives kids a voice! In this class, fifth and sixth graders will gain confidence, increase writing fluency, and learn how to incorporate writing into everyday work and play. The objective of this class is for each student to progress and improve his/her own writing. This class does not have a fixed curriculum trying to achieve the same outcome and same skillset for each child, because each student comes to class with different writing experience and varying needs. Instead, through personalized feedback from the instructor and peer feedback exercises, student writers will improve their writing skills from where they started. Students will learn the steps of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. Key skills practiced at this level include organizing one's thoughts, defining a purpose and audience for the paper, formulating a topic sentence or main idea, developing supporting details, using correct sentence structure (for example, initial capitalization and end punctuation). Students will always be encouraged to write about what interests them. They will write for a few minutes in class each week and will be expected to write short assignments at home and submit their work to the instructor for feedback. Each week, the instructor will share brief lessons on grammar (such as correct capitalization, agreement, tenses, parts of speech, use of adjectives/adverbs), and/or style (for example, using metaphors, adding details, building tension). Examples and exercises will be presented from a variety of styles and genres with the instructor using models from fiction, poetry, and non-fiction. Students should be on or near grade level for reading. Writing Well is offered each quarter under the same class name, but students may take it each quarter to continue to improve their writing skills. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 2:00 pm | 2:55 pm | Fri | French I | 8th-12th | Edwige Pinover | 3 |
$716.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Bonjour and get ready for a full year of beginner level high school French! This is a conversation-focused program in which students will build their vocabulary quickly and learn essential grammar skills in French. Vocabulary will include numbers, time, dates, seasons, school, free time activities/hobbies, likes/dislikes, personal descriptions, family relationships, emotions, food/restaurants, and places/locations in town. There will be a strong emphasis on competency using regular and irregular present tense verbs and common grammar concepts such as articles, pronouns, adjectives, and comparative phrases. Class will be conducted primarily in French and will focus on listening and speaking skills, asking and answering questions, and correct use of grammar. At home, students will be responsible for memorizing vocabulary and grammar, completing homework assignments, and watching both grammar instruction and language immersion videos. Workload: Students should expect to spend 30-45 minutes per day, 4 days per week on homework outside of class. Assignments: Are sent by e-mail to parents and students. Students must have access to a computer and internet service for computer-based videos and practice tools that are assigned as homework and are essential to success in the class. Assessments: Quizzes, tests, and individual performance reviews will be given to all students at regular intervals to provide parents with sufficient feedback to assign a grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Bien Dit!: Student Edition Level 1 2013 (French Edition) (ISBN-13 978-0547871790) Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Foreign Language for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: None |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 11:00 am | 11:55 am | Fri | French III | 10th-12th | Edwige Pinover | 3 |
$789.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Bonjour et bienvenue dans notre classe de francais 3 ! Welcome to the third year of high school French. This is a conversation-focused program in which students will build more vocabulary and will be able to communicate using more and more complex sentences. The class will continue using the present tense, the future proche (a future), the passe recent (recent past), the passe-compose and imparfait (two forms of past tense) and will learn the future and the conditional forms of verb. Vocabulary will include school activities, professions, the theme of fairy tales, nature and environment, and the media. At this point in learning French, students should be using all of the vocabulary they know to become better listeners, more fluent speakers, and stronger writers. Class will be conducted primarily in French and will focus on listening and speaking skills, asking and answering questions, and correct use of grammar. At home, students will be responsible for memorizing vocabulary and grammar, completing homework assignments, and watching both grammar instruction and language immersion videos. Prerequisites: French II Workload: Students should expect to spend 30-45 minutes per day, 4 days per week on homework outside of class. Assignments: Are sent by e-mail to parents and students. Students must have access to a computer and internet service for computer-based videos and practice tools that are assigned as homework and are essential to success in the class. Assessments: Quizzes, tests, and individual performance reviews will be given to all students at regular intervals to provide parents with sufficient feedback to assign a grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Bien Dit!: Student Edition Level 3, 2013 edition (ISBN-13: 978-0547871691) Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Foreign Language for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: French II |
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| Year long | Sep 12 | 10:00 am | 10:55 am | Fri | French IV | 11th-12th | Edwige Pinover | 3 |
$789.00
Full course fee. Contact for mid-term enrollment / prorated pricing. |
Bonjour et bienvenue dans notre classe de Francais 4 ! Welcome to the fourth year of high school French. This is a conversation-focused program in which students will communicate among each other about different topics. The class will naturally continue using the present tenses, the future tenses, the past tenses, and the conditional tense. At this point in learning French, students should be able to communicate fluently about various topics using their knowledge. Students will also develop new vocabulary and new grammar points via the use of different readings. Class will be conducted primarily in French and will focus on listening and speaking skills. At home, students will be responsible for memorizing vocabulary and grammar, completing homework assignments, and watching both grammar instruction and language immersion videos. Prerequisites: French III Workload: Students should expect to spend 30-45 minutes per day, 4 days per week on homework outside of class. Assignments: Are sent by e-mail to parents and students. Students must have access to a computer and internet service for computer-based videos and practice tools that are assigned as homework and are essential to success in the class. Assessments: Quizzes, tests, and individual performance reviews will be given to all students at regular intervals to provide parents with sufficient feedback to assign a grade. Textbook:Each semester, students will read a novel in French that will be selected by the instructor. Students will be asked to reimburse her for the cost of the novel, approximately $10.00-$15.00 Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a full credit in Foreign Language for purposes of a high school transcript. Prerequisites: French III |
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