YMCA of the Triangle

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FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Homeschool Class Descriptions

Class offerings:

Little Explores: Age 4

Explorers: Ages 5 - 7

Elementary: Ages 7 - 11

Middle School: Ages 11 - 15

All Ages

 

Little Explorers: Age 4

Two Day 4's Preschool Enrichment, 8:45 - 12:45 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
This 3-hour class is the perfect place for your four-year-old to prepare for their first day of Kindergarten! In this class, your student will participate in a variety of hand-on activities such as Letterland, story time, science, STEAM, art, movement, and play to prepare social-emotionally and academically for Kindergarten.

The instructional time for this class is from 9:15-12:15 with a 30-minute rides in period from 8:45 - 9:15 a.m. and a 30-minute rides out period from 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. 

Students will also have the opportunity to participate add on story hour from 12:45 - 1:45 p.m.

 

Explorers: Ages 5 - 7

As the number of Explorers in our program grows, we are making a change to the way students register for classes in this age group. To best meet their developmental needs, families must choose a cohort (A or B on M/W, C or D on Th) for their student. Students may still choose half-day or full-day programming, but will remain with their cohort for all classes that day. 

Seven-year-olds must choose to be either in the Explorers cohort or the Elementary cohort. They will not be able to switch between the two within one day.

Each Wonder Workshop class will include different topics of interest/themes. This should allow families to select their cohort based on the themes most relevant/interesting to their child. 

Explorers A

Game-Based Learning, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will work both individually and cooperatively, using many different types of hands-on games.  For younger students, this gives them the opportunity to build their teamwork and interpersonal skills, while also developing their problem-solving, critical thinking, creative thinking, logical reasoning, and basic STEM skills.

Wonder Workshop, noon - 1:45 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will engage in a variety of learning processes as they explore the world around them through theme-based units. This class will blend science and social studies topics with literacy skills, art, music, and movement. Topics explored in this session include Land, Ocean, Water, Sky & Space.

Explorers B

Wonder Workshop, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will engage in a variety of learning processes as they explore the world around them through theme-based units. This class will blend science and social studies topics with literacy skills, art, music, and movement. Topics explored in this session include Weather, Construction, Transportation & Energy.

Game-Based Learning, noon - 1:45 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will work both individually and cooperatively, using many different types of hands-on games.  For younger students, this gives them the opportunity to build their teamwork and interpersonal skills, while also developing their problem-solving, critical thinking, creative thinking, logical reasoning, and basic STEM skills.

Explorers C

Game-Based Learning, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
In this class, students will work both individually and cooperatively, using many different types of hands-on games.  For younger students, this gives them the opportunity to build their teamwork and interpersonal skills, while also developing their problem-solving, critical thinking, creative thinking, logical reasoning, and basic STEM skills.

Wonder Workshop, noon - 1:45 p.m.,  Thursday
In this class, students will engage in a variety of learning processes as they explore the world around them through theme-based units. This class will blend science and social studies topics with literacy skills, art, music, and movement. Topics explored in this session include Community, Family, Friendship & Caring for the Earth.

Explorers D

Building Brick Engineering, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
In this class, students will examine the foundational principles of engineering through fun building challenges. Students will work independently or collaboratively with others in the class. We will also examine real-life structures around our community as we look for examples of the principles we are exploring.

Art Fundamentals, noon - 1:45 p.m., Thursday
Students will be introduced to basic art techniques, which are the building blocks that will provide a solid foundation for future art lovers and artists. Children will explore the great world of art using oil pastels, clay, paper and paint. Students will be introduced to the seven elements of art and create projects to begin an understanding of how the elements are incorporated into art.
A specialty class fee applies.


Elementary: Ages 7 - 11

Math 4B, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday 
Our elementary math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for this course.
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum 4B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

Garden Science, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will explore biology through observation and hands-on learning in our Community Garden! Students will learn about what plants need to grow and thrive, as well as develop their understanding of life cycles and food webs within a garden ecosystem.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

U.S. Geography, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Students will take a trip across the United States learning lots of fun facts about each state. Class will focus on creating a journal of basic facts such as State Capitols, where they are on the map, flags, birds, flowers etc. We will take virtual tours making it an experience they will enjoy!
Required Supplies: 2-inch, three-ring binder, pencils, markers or colored pencils

Storytelling with Stop Motion Animation, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Storytelling is about more than just the written word. In this class we will experiment with telling stories through dialogue and action, utilizing moveable characters and technology. Students will learn the basics of creating a storyboard, elements of storytelling, character development, and the functionality of the free app Stop Motion Studio. No previous experience with Stop Motion animation is required. This course may be taken even if it has been taken previously. We will follow a workshop model where students are able to work at their own pace with support.
Required Supplies: Device with a camera, tripod, Stop Motion Studio app, Lego Minifigures/pieces to use in movie, storage box for leaving materials at school

Math 5B, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Our elementary math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for this course.
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum 5B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

Art Grade 4-  5, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Students will explore interests, will learn to see themselves as artists, will explore a variety of media, and will learn the fundamental skills and concepts related to art. Students' focus of study will be the elements of art. Children will explore the world of both two and three-dimensional media, such as pencil, colored pencil, acrylic paint and clay.
Required Supplies: Specialty class fee applies. 2-pocket folder with prongs, brown paper bag.

Beginner Spanish, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
This Spanish course is designed for beginners. We will cover the basics of conversation and vocabulary, as well as learning numbers, days of the week, and months of the year. Students will begin to develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
Required Supplies: Skills for Success Spanish Elementary Workbook

Building Brick Engineering, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will examine the foundational principles of engineering through fun building challenges. Students will work independently or collaboratively with others in the class. We will also examine famous architecture from around the world as we look for real life examples of the principles we are exploring.
Required Supplies: Medium-Sized (484-piece) Lego Set. This box will be labeled and stored at school and returned home at the end of the semester. 

SCI Level 3, Noon - 12:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
This class will utilize Level 3 of the curriculum Scientific Connections for Inquiry (SCI) to engage students in discussions and investigations that build their understanding of science and of the world. A full list of the content for this course can be found on the curriculum website. This curriculum was chosen for its focus on critical thinking and real-world connections. It also offers lots of opportunities for at-home learning to extend what students are doing in the classroom. Participating in this class in the Fall semester is not required to enrolling for the Spring.
Required Supplies: Student workbook, Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Art Grades 2 - 3, Noon - 12:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
Students will develop their basic art knowledge and further develop techniques in art. Children will explore the great world of art using oil pastels, clay, paper and paint. This unique learning experience places an emphasis on having fun while exploring creativity! Additionally, the students will develop an understanding of the seven elements of art.
Required Supplies: Specialty class fee applies. 2-pocket folder with prongs, brown paper bag.

Photography, Noon - 12:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
Learn the basics of photography while we work through photo challenges! This fun curriculum will guide us on scavenger hunts and staged photography opportunities creating unique challenges that will inspire the development of excellent photography skills while having fun!
Required Supplies: Any camera, an SLR is ideal but a phone camera can work as well, a way to print or share your best photos. Students need an email or account to a platform we select that can be used to share photos with the teacher/class.

Writer's Workshop Grade 4 - 5, Noon - 12:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class developing writers will expand on their prior knowledge about the writing process as they develop stories with elaborative detail, a clear main event, and suspense. Students will collaborate with peers as they develop their own creative ideas into fully “published” stories. Students should be able to read and write at grade 4 or grade 5 level to be successful in this course. Some writing outside of class may be required.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Math 3B, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
Our elementary math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for this course. 
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum 3B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

Theater, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
This is a performance-based course. The first few weeks will be focused on how to audition. We will then hold auditions, rehearse and perform a play. Props and set pieces will be created by the students in class.
Required Supplies: Spiral or composition notebook, 2-pockt folder

Motion and Simple Machines, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
A fun hands-on approach to exploring Newton's Laws of Motion! Topics highlighted are force and motion, speed and velocity, gravity, energy and motion, and simple machines.

Writer's Workshop Grades 2 - 3, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class developing writers will explore the writing process (planning, drafting, revising, editing, publishing) with peers as they develop their own creative ideas into fully “published” stories. Students should be able to read and write at grade 2 or grade 3 level to be successful in this course.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Yoga + Play, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
In this class, students learn basic mindfulness and yoga in a fun and engaging way and then have time for supervised free play with their peers. Using the Growga® research-based curriculum, students can feel equipped and empowered to use mindfulness in their day-to-day lives. Each month, we focus on a different social-emotional competency through the lens of mindfulness. Topics include emotional awareness, self-compassion, and community. Each class begins with a connection activity to learn more about our classmates and ourselves. We then practice a basic breathwork exercise, followed by yoga poses (we call this our Magical Mindful Adventure!), and follow with intentional games to reiterate what we have learned in a fun and exciting way. The yoga portion of the class concludes with a simple relaxing mindfulness practice and a challenge to apply the work outside of class. During the second hour, we will also explore mindful coloring, bring nature into our mindfulness practices, dive into other fun activities and make time for free play during our time together. Caregivers will receive a monthly email about the month’s focus as well as ideas to integrate mindfulness, as an entire family, at home.

Kid Art Lit Grades 1 - 4, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
Creating art inspired by picture books is an exciting, powerful, and meaningful experience for children. This art class incorporates children’s literature in a way that offers artists a deeper connection to stories and the characters that they meet. Learners can expect to listen to stories and then create art projects related to the story and/or the style of the illustrator. At times, students can expect to be engaged in some Reader’s Theater experiences which build fluency and reading confidence. This class is best suited for individuals in grades 1 - 4, or are able to read independently on grade level.
Required Supplies: A specialty class fees applies, 2-pocket folder with prongs

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
Students will plan and create projects resourcefully using everyday materials. We will look at nature and community, to learn how we can be helpful and be helped by the world all around us. We will organize mini science fairs, with student-led questions and discoveries. Students will create individually, and we will also work collaboratively.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Beginner Cooking, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
Creating art inspired by picture books is an exciting, powerful, and meaningful experience for children. This art class incorporates children’s literature in a way that offers artists a deeper connection to stories and the characters that they meet. Learners can expect to listen to stories and then create art projects related to the story and/or the style of the illustrator. At times, students can expect to be engaged in some Reader’s Theater experiences which build fluency and reading confidence. This class is best suited for individuals in grades 1 through 4, or who are able to read independently on grade level.
Required Supplies: A specialty class fee applies.

North Carolina History, noon - 1:55 p.m., Thursday
We will learn about the rich history of our state, its geography, people and cultures through time using maps, games, art, videos and period music.
Required Supplies: 1-inch binder, lined and unlined paper, binder dividers with tabs

Author Study, Kate DiCamillo Grades 3 - 5, noon - 1:55 p.m., Thursday
In this class, students will read, analyze, and discuss several books by author Kate DiCamillo. Students will explore literary elements such as plot, conflict, theme, and character development as they participate in small group and whole class discussions. Reading will take place outside of class, and class time will be reserved for analysis and discussion. This class is most appropriate for students in grades 4-6, regardless of reading level. Audiobooks may be used to support students who need or want to read with their ears, but all students should have a copy of the physical books to refer to in class as well.
Required Supplies: A copy of each of the following novels, Because of Winn Dixie, Tiger Rising, The Tale of Despereaux, The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane.

Illustrative Writing Grades 3 - 5, noon - 1:55 p.m., Thursday 
This literacy class will help encourage struggling writers to think outside the box collaboratively by using illustrations to help guide their writing. Students should be able to write at a basic level. Since this is a 2-hour class we will spend the first hour working with word games and spelling to help build writing skills. The second hour will be spent focusing on teacher-led writing and group writing practice. The goal of the class is to start with influenced examples of prompted writing with pictures and keywords and then slowly taking that away developing the writer's ability to creatively draw and write on their own!
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, sketchpad, individual dry-erase board with sentence lines on one side, thin-tip dry erase markers

Sewing by Hand, noon - 1:55 p.m., Thursday
In this class, we will learn hand-sewing skills and use them in a variety of student-led projects. We will start by learning how to use a needle and thread to create both practical and decorative stitches and then move on to experimenting with those techniques to create art and/or functional items. For each class meeting, there will be a technique or prompt to inspire their work, but students are always welcome to explore whatever sparks their interest. This class will be a good fit for students who enjoy directing their own projects and implementing their own ideas. Both new and returning students are welcome as students are able to work at their own pace and level.
Required Supplies: A specialty class fee applies

 

Upper School: Ages 11 - 16

Math 7B, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Our Middle Grades math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for enrollment in this course.
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum Level 7B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

SCI Level 5, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
This class will utilize Level 5 of the curriculum Scientific Connections for Inquiry (SCI) to engage students in discussions and investigations that build their understanding of science and of the world. A full list of the content for this course can be found on the curriculum website. This curriculum was chosen for its focus on critical thinking and real-world connections. It also offers lots of opportunities for at home learning to extend what students are doing in the classroom. Participating in this class in the Fall semester is not required to enroll for the Spring.
Required Supplies: Student workbook

Theater, 9 - 9:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
This is a performance-based course. The first few weeks will be focused on how to audition. We will then hold auditions, rehearse and perform a play. Props and set pieces will be created by the students in class.

Math 8B, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Our Middle Grades math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for enrollment in this course.
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum Level 8B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

U.S Geography, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
Students will create a journal documenting many fun facts about all of the states including the basics such as capitals, birds, and flags. More importantly, we will dig deeper and research together things that each state is known for including historical events, popular foods, parks, natural wonders, etc. We will take virtual tours as we learn about our wonderful country creating a connection to what we are studying at that time.
Required Supplies: A copy of the workbook, USA Journal, pencils, markers, colored pencils, 1-inch,three-ring binder, device with internet access for research and viewing class materials (recommended)

Garden Science, 10 - 10:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
In this class, students will explore biology through observation and hands-on learning in our Community Garden! Students will learn about what plants need to grow and thrive, as well as develop their understanding of interdependent relationships within ecosystems.

Math 6B, Noon - 12:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
Our Middle Grades math classes will be an ongoing collaboration between teacher and family. Classes on Monday and Wednesday will offer opportunities for teachers to model new concepts using manipulatives, hands on learning, and problem-solving approaches. Students will work together collaboratively and learn from each other during these sessions. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students will complete assigned independent work either on their own or with parent support. Parents will be responsible for overseeing the amount of practice and assessment that they feel is important for their individual student to complete in order to demonstrate mastery of each concept. These classes will require ongoing communication between the teacher and family, and we will utilize the app Class Dojo to make this easier. For more information about the Singapore Math Dimensions curriculum, you can visit their website, which provides extensive information about the contents of each level, the philosophy behind the curriculum, and what is included in the materials. We have chosen this curriculum because of its ease of use between home and school, its use of problem-solving approaches and critical thinking, and its integration of visual and hands-on activities that support student understanding. Enrollment in the first semester is not a prerequisite for enrollment in this course.
Required Supplies: Singapore Math Dimensions Curriculum Level 6B, student workbook, student textbook, teacher guide

Intro to Spanish, Noon - 12:55 a.m., Monday/Wednesday
This Spanish course is designed for middle school students. We will cover the basics of conversation and vocabulary, as well as learning verb tenses and basic grammar. Students will begin to develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Literature, Noon - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday 
We will explore short works in several of the following genres: biographies, mysteries, realistic fiction, humor, historical fiction, journals and diaries, lyric poetry, myths and legends. We'll learn about each genre, analyze the selections and compare and contrast their story elements, and ultimately try our hand at writing an original genre piece.
Required Supplies: 1-inch binder, 2-pocket folder

Expository Writing, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
During this writing class, the students will practice using a variety of writing skills. The goal is to help each student grow each week and add to their current skill level. The teacher will present mini-lessons on parts of speech, vocabulary, sentence structure, brainstorming, revising, paragraph writing, and expository essay writing. The teacher will model a skill, the students will practice together in class, then work on that skill at home for homework between class sessions. The goal is to not only improve but learn to enjoy the writing process. Students will need to purchase the book Essentials in Writing - Where Students learn to Write. The students will only use the sections of the book on parts of speech, sentence structure, expository paragraph writing, and expository essay writing.
Required Supplies: Essentials in Writing - Where Students Learn to Write

Art Grades 6 - 7, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
Learners will focus on the elements and principles of art and design. Exploration of the elements and principles will help to create the backbone of a student's art experience. Students will develop observation and technical skills in drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and various other art mediums.
Required Supplies: A specialty class fee applies, 2-pocket folder with prongs, 1 brown paper grocery bag

Biology, 1 - 1:55 p.m., Monday/Wednesday
This class is the second half of a year-long course, including discussion of biological topics and labs. Our study will continue with an investigation of body systems, ecology, classification, microscopy, scientific skills, famous scientists and more.
Required Supplies: REAL Science Odyssey Biology Level 2 Textbook, Student Workbook

Sewing By Hand, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
In this class, we will learn hand-sewing skills and use them in a variety of student-led projects. We will start by learning how to use a needle and thread to create both practical and decorative stitches and then move on to experimenting with those techniques to create art and/or functional items. For each class meeting, there will be a technique or prompt to inspire their work, but students are always welcome to explore whatever sparks their interest. This class will be a good fit for students who enjoy directing their own projects and implementing their own ideas. Basic materials will be provided, but students may need to bring in their own supplies for projects that require specialized and/or extensive materials. Both new and returning students are welcome as students are able to work at their own pace and level.
Required Supplies: A specialty class fee applies

Debate/Public Speaking, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
In this class, students will develop their confidence and persuasive argument skills as they examine multiple perspectives and learn the rules and procedures of debate. We will also examine real world examples of why and how debate rules and procedures are implemented.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder

Storytelling with Stop Motion Animation, 9 - 10:55 a.m., Thursday
Storytelling is about more than just the written word. In this class we will experiment with telling stories through dialogue and action, utilizing moveable characters and technology. Students will learn the basics of creating a storyboard, elements of storytelling, character development, and the functionality of the free app Stop Motion Studio. No previous experience with Stop Motion animation is required. This course may be taken even if it has been taken previously. We will follow a workshop model where students are able to work at their own pace with support.
Required Supplies: A device with a camera, tripod, Stop Motion Studio app, Lego Minifigures/pieces to use in movie, storage box for leaving materials at school

Building Brick Engineering, ages 7+, noon - 1:45 p.m., Thursday
In this class, students will examine the foundational principles of engineering through fun building challenges. Students will work independently or collaboratively with others in the class. We will also examine famous architecture from around the world as we look for real-life examples of the principles we are exploring.
Required Supplies: Medium-sized (484) piece Lego set, box will be labeled and stored at school but will be returned home at the end of the semester

Exploring Current Events, noon - 1:45 p.m., Thursday
In this class, students will examine the news through a critical thinking lens, examining multiple perspectives and learning how to tell facts from opinions, as well as how to determine if a source is credible.
Required Supplies: A device that can connect to the internet for research and viewing class materials

Teen Leadership Development, ages 13+, noon - 1:45 p.m.Thursday
Using our YMCA CILTS program as a model, our teen students will develop their leadership skills as they learn more about themselves, work together as a team, and serve their community through projects on and off our Y campus. This class is for students who are 13+.
Required Supplies: Spiral notebook, 2-pocket folder


Ages 7+

Discovery Labs, All Periods
Our Discovery Labs serve as spaces to inspire creativity, imagination, and collaboration (if desired). This is an ideal environment for students with lots of big ideas, who thrive when following their own curiosity outside of the structure of a traditional classroom. Additionally, quiet rooms for independent homeschool work or projects will also be available. Some materials will be provided, but students may also bring the materials they need for their projects. Current labs include an Art Studio, the Construction Zone - Legos and other building materials, an Animation Studio, a Break Room (Sensory/Movement/Board Games), The Library - Quiet reading, writing, or research, The STEM Lab (science, engineering, and math projects), The Den - puzzles, quiet activities, and the company of our rotating class bunny visitors. If students need support, our Discovery Labs teacher works with each individual student to develop a plan for their time each day, to help them stay engaged and learning within this flexible environment. Students may sign up for as many of these hours as they would like to attend and are not limited to one session per day