Core Academic Course Descriptions for Session 1, 2025-2026
ELA: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS for 6th-8th SYLLABUS HERE
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This two-day, full-year core course is divided into four sessions, accommodating a range of skills, and focuses on reading and composition. High-interest articles, essays, and book excerpts will be enjoyed, with time for discussion, evaluation, and writing. Scholastic SCOPE or similar materials will be used for analysis of current events (subscription included). Social studies/current event topics are often incorporated into lessons, with a range of activities to be expected (group presentations, reader’s theatre, etc.). The focus of Session 1 will be summary skills. Students should expect to complete at least two final draft essays. Basic conventions, mechanics, and editing will be practiced each week. Additional independent reading will be assigned, as well as extra writing practice as needed. Materials required: Spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, and pencil/pen. Independent reading and writing are required (2-3 hrs/week). Students will need to have an approved novel of choice for independent reading each week. At least 5 novels should be completed annually. The 9:00 class is recommended for students in 6th/7th grade. The 11:00 class is recommended for those at the 7th-8th level. It is also recommended that students enrolled in ELA take an ELA Study Session. The one-time course fee includes a subscription to Scholastic SCOPE Magazine. Instructor: Melanie Ware. Max: 12 per class
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ELA 2: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS/ LITERATURE SYLLABUS HERE
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This two-day, full-year course of study is a mix of 8th-level English Language Arts and 9th-level English Literature & Composition, aligning with many recommended curriculum standards for both grades. This course is prioritized for 8th graders who read/write proficiently (varied genre) at or above a 9th-grade level, desire a literature-heavy course, and have educator approval. This course will differ from the 6th-8th ELA in that writing lessons will focus on summary and literary response only (not creative or argumentative). The reading will be directed (not student-selected), with analysis of both contemporary and classic literature. The themes of our selected novels will help students analyze human behavior and power structures in societies, while making relevant connections to their world today. Over the year, students will complete at least four classic novels (selections may include novels by Bradbury, Golding, Orwell, Hinton, Buck, Lee, and/or Steinbeck), several classic short stories or poetry (selections may include writings by Maupassant, Hemingway, Whitman, Angelou, etc.), and or/relevant articles and/or speeches. Selections depend upon the pace of the group. All reading will be accompanied by in-class reflection, discussion, note-taking, critical analyses, and historical and cultural connections. At least two essays per session will be completed and assessed. Lessons in composition skills (summary and literary analysis) will be included. Text selections may vary depending on the students enrolled and will be included in the syllabus. Materials required: Spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, assigned reading, and pencil/pen. The course fee doesn’t include the cost of required novels (must be in hard copy). Independent reading and writing are required (2-3 hrs/week). Students will need to have an approved novel of choice for independent reading each week. At least 5 novels should be completed annually. It is also recommended that students take an ELA Study Session. Instructor: Jenni Buchanan. Max: 7
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FOUNDATIONS OF MATH SYLLABUS HERE
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This two-day, full-year course of study aligns with the recommended curriculum standards for 6th grade but is open to 6th–8th graders who need a solid foundation in middle school math skills. Students will learn and practice foundational skills, including basic algorithms of multiplication and division; relationships between fractions, decimals, and percentages; and all operations involving decimals and fractions. Word problems, games, and activities will be used to enhance understanding. Students will receive a consumable text,
Everyday Math, Book I, and a Student Reference Book (to be returned at the end of the year).
Materials required: Spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, and pencil
. Independent work is expected, 2 -3 hrs/week. Instructors: Laura Erlig and Rachel Ameche. Max: 12
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PRE-ALGEBRA SYLLABUS HERE
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This two-day, full-year course of study aligns with the recommended curriculum standards for 7th grade
but is open to 6th–8th graders who are ready for this level. Students will be provided instruction specifically targeting pre-algebra skills to build proficiency with key algebraic concepts, such as analyzing, using, and applying proportional relationships; rational numbers; algebraic expressions and linear equations; and appropriate geometric, probability, and statistics concepts. This course is designed to prepare students for Middle School Algebra. Students will use the Glencoe Pre-Algebra text (to be returned at the end of the year) and other supplementary materials. The format of lessons given is direct instruction, independent practice, problem solving, and project-based learning. Materials Required: One three-ring binder at least 1 inch to store all notes and homework, loose-leaf lined paper or graph paper, pencil & eraser, scientific calculator (TI-30 suggested). Pre-assessment is required for placement. Independent work is expected; 2-3 hrs./wk. Instructor: Rachel Ameche. Max: 11
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MS ALGEBRA SYLLABUS HERE
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This full-year course of study aligns with the recommended curriculum standards for 8th grade. Students will be provided instruction specifically targeting algebra skills to build proficiency with key algebraic concepts, such as analyzing, using, and applying rational numbers; algebraic expressions; linear equations and functions; and appropriate geometric, probability, and statistics concepts. This course is designed to prepare students for 9th-level Algebra 1. The format of lessons given is direct instruction, independent practice, problem solving, and project-based learning. Students will use the Glencoe Pre-Algebra text (to be returned at the end of the year) and other supplementary materials. In Session 1, we will cover linear equations, inequalities, functions, and graphing. Students will also review and practice foundational math skills.
Materials Required: One three-ring binder at least 1 inch to store all notes and homework, loose-leaf lined paper or graph paper, pencil & eraser, scientific calculator (TI-30 suggested). Pre-assessment is required for placement.
Independent work is expected; about 2-3 hrs./wk. Instructor: Laura Erlig. Max: 7
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REAL WORLD MATH I SYLLABUS HERE
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In Real World Math
, we’ll break down the essential skills people use every day—whether they’re cooking dinner, shopping smart, or planning a trip. This course is all about building confidence and making math practical and useful. You’ll develop real-life skills like converting between units, using fractions in recipes, and understanding rates and ratios. By the end of the course, you’ll feel much more confident using math in your everyday life. Light independent work may be assigned, up to 30 min./wk. Instructor: Rachel Ameche. Max: 8
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MAPPING THE WORLD SYLLABUS HERE
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This full-year course
will allow students to immerse themselves in world geography, starting at any level. By the end of the year (IF
attending all four sessions and completing all assignments and independent practice), students will be able to draw a map of the world by heart
, on an equirectangular grid, and (dependent on their starting point of knowledge) will include most of the world’s countries, major bodies of water, and major landforms. Like anything, the final product is determined by the time and effort put into this course, which begins in August! Lessons are taken from David Smith’s “Mapping the World by Heart” curriculum, a teacher-developed curriculum, video, and other resources. Each lesson will help students build understanding of various maps, regions, climates, GPS, the spatial relationships of countries and continents to one another, and regional/cultural and historical information about MANY countries. Session 1 will focus on major world regions and the Americas, with an independent country study project started. Materials needed each week include a spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, pencil/pen, and an atlas for personal use: National Geographic “Kids” Student World Atlas, Fifth Edition (2019). National Geographic Kids World Atlas, Seventh Edition (2025) may also be used, but the 5th edition (“student/kids”) is recommended as its maps align more easily with the ones we use in class, and it is geared toward middle/high school. Optional: personal set of sharpened colored pencils.
Independent work is expected, about 2 hrs./week, with several projects. Instructor Lori Peters. Max: 12
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VIEWPOINT I SYLLABUS HERE
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This course will look at a few historical events that have been met with controversy and a broad range of viewpoints, and analyze how they each have affected current events. For Session 1, we will discuss why learning about history is vital to our present society and do a deep dive exploring the cause and effect of different
scientific advancements or events. We will discuss motives and the positive and negative impacts, both temporary and lasting. Students will explore various viewpoints, ones they may agree with or not, to better understand the decisions and opinions of different groups of people at the time. Discussion is expected and encouraged! Topics in Session 1: the Space Race, Scopes Monkey Trial, and Coney Island Incubator Babies. Independent work may be expected, about 30 min/week on average. Instructor: Melanie Ware. Max: 10
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GLOBAL CITIZEN I SYLLABUS HERE
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Part 1 of 2. Students will explore the role of the United Nations (UN) in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From promoting peace and protecting human rights to fighting poverty, climate change, and disease, students will learn how the UN works with countries around the world to find solutions to global issues. Through simulations, debates, group projects, and more, we’ll work to gain a deeper understanding of how international cooperation works—and why it matters. Students will also have the opportunity to step into the role of diplomats as they research countries, participate in mock UN sessions, and practice problem-solving on a global scale.
In Sessions 3 and 4, this course will become U.S. Civics & Government. Independent work is expected, up to about 1 hr./week; the course will culminate with student presentations on a topic of their choice. Instructor: Jenni Buchanan. Max: 8
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AMERICAN HISTORY I SYLLABUS HERE
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Part 1 of 2. This course provides a general overview of the 8th-grade social studies standards. Students will learn about the founding of our country, from its Indigenous people and colonial settlement to the war for independence, and then the building of American society, culture, and economy. Through study of primary sources, debate, research & writing, as well as art & games, students will trace the development of American institutions, founded on English parliamentary traditions, particularly the shaping of the Constitution. They will continue by studying the challenges facing a growing nation—including Westward Expansion and the rise of industrialization—and the causes, course, and consequences of the American Civil War. The course will conclude with student presentations on chosen topics
. Independent work is expected, about 1 hr./week; the course will culminate with student presentations on a topic of their choice. Instructor: Jenni Buchanan. Max: 10
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ANCIENT JOURNEYS I SYLLABUS HERE
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Our societies today build on the knowledge and discoveries made by those who came before. In this class, we’ll go back in time to ancient Egypt, India, China, Rome, and more to learn about the cultures and scientific breakthroughs that form the foundations of our modern societies. Students will acquire a broad overview of ancient history, with opportunities for more in-depth study of culture and technologies. The lessons follow what is typically taught in 6th grade, but the course is open to 6th-8th graders (especially those who say they can’t remember what they learned in history class!). Each week, students will “visit” important early civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Egypt, Israel, China, India, Greece, and Rome– finding commonalities, differences, and connections. We will go in-depth into each civilization, with readings, discussion, art, science, games, and video to bring the learning to life. The course will culminate with student presentations on a specific subtopic from a civilization of their choice (from a topic list). Students’ reading level should be 6th grade or above.
Independent work is expected, about 1 hr./week; the course will culminate with student presentations on a topic of their choice. Instructor: Jenni Buchanan. Max: 8
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BIOLOGY: MARINE ZOOLOGY I SYLLABUS HERE
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Part 1 of 2. Study life science up close by examining the anatomy of several different marine animals—jellyfish, eels, anemones, sea-stars, and more! Some marine animals have systems similar to those of mammals, others are so different as to seem like they come from other planets! Students will explore the beauty of the oceans, learning about the diversity, similarities, and connectedness of all creatures. Classes include different STEAM activities, including art projects, investigations, and hands-on dissections. They will learn how to keep a lab notebook (a skill required in later high school science courses)
, as well as to use and care for dissection tools. The study of these fascinating marine animals will show the diverse range of beauty and biology found on our blue planet. In Sessions 3 and 4, we will focus on human anatomy. The lab fee includes the cost of specimens and tools. Independent work is expected, about 30 min./wk. Instructor: Jenni Buchanan. Max: 8
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LEGO PHYSICS I SYLLABUS HERE
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Who doesn’t love building with Legos? Students will explore, experiment, build, and create using Legos to understand scientific concepts of simple and powered machines. Students will build an understanding of how gears, pulleys, levers, axles, cams, wheels, motor power, and wind power work. They’ll explore each science concept by building an example, doing an experiment or test, building different working examples using builder plans in cooperative groups, and then creating ways to solve a problem with their invention. This class will have notes, hands-on STEAM work, reading, and a lot of problem-solving. The course will explore physical principles with Legos through Sessions 2 and 3, then transition to a course called Taking Things Apart in Session 4.
Instructors: Rachel Ameche with Jenni Buchanan assisting.
Max: 10. *
Parent permission is required to transport your child.
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HEALTH SCIENCE I SYLLABUS HERE
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Part 1 of 2. Students will embark on a journey to better understand their growing bodies and minds. We’ll explore the
why and how behind the choices that keep us strong, healthy, and resilient– covering everything from hygiene and fitness to mental health and substance use. In Session One, we’ll dig into the essentials: why sleep matters, how good food fuels our bodies, and the importance of personal hygiene. Expect fun discussions, real-life examples, and practical tips you can actually use. In Session Two, we’ll explore how our brains and emotions work, what happens when we get sick, and how to recognize and resist peer pressure around substances like drugs and alcohol. With a judgment-free, facts-first approach, this class empowers students to make informed, confident choices and to care for themselves with knowledge and compassion. Instructor: Rachel Ameche.
Max: 10
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ECO EXPLORERS SYLLABUS HERE
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Get ready to explore the wild and wonderful world of ecology! In this 4-session course, we’ll discover why birds sing, how bees dance (and pollinate), why flowers bloom, and what secrets the trees are hiding. With hands-on activities, outdoor adventures, and cool facts, you’ll never look at nature the same way again! In Session 1, we’ll focus on ornithology. Students will become bird scientists (ornithologists) as we take a closer look at the amazing ways birds survive, thrive, and evolve. Why do some birds sing, while others stay silent? Why are some bright and flashy, while others blend into the trees? We’ll learn how birds are classified, how they’ve adapted to their environments, and what they can teach us about ecosystems and evolution. From hawks to hummingbirds, this unit will help you see the world through the eyes (and wings) of birds! Recommended: a personal set of good binoculars, for in-class and at-home use. We hope to include some field trips! When requesting this course, please indicate if you can be a driver for field classes (as well as an adult chaperone). We need at least one parent committed before we determine if we can include field trips. Instructor: Rachel Ameche. Max: 8
Please note: Subsequent sessions will include a focus on pollination and bees, flowers and salves, and trees. The order of the topics has not yet been decided.
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NANOSCIENCE: SHAPES OF NATURE SYLLABUS HERE
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This
four-part molecular science series (nanoscience) is designed to engage middle school students in the joys of chemistry and biology. The course will review 5th – 8th-grade California chemistry and biology standards in a fun and interactive way that is bound to leave students with a lifelong appreciation of the sciences. The class will reveal insights and connections with real life as chemistry and biology are all around us and within us. Most students who take this class will look forward to high school science. This series of 32 molecular science classes includes the following sessions: Shapes of Nature, Chemistry “R” Us Part 1, Chemistry “R” Us Part 2, and the Biological World. The classes in this series are equal parts lectures, videos, hands-on experiments, and discussion.
Please note: a $100 annual course fee is due before the first session. Light work may be expected, such as reviewing handouts, up to 30 min./wk. Instructor: Dr. Steve Yoshinaga. Max: 12
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