Course Descriptions - One Spark Academy

Session 4 (2020-2021) Course Descriptions

Eight weeks, March 22- May 21 (No classes April 5 – 9)

Some courses descriptions will include a more detailed syllabus, available by March 19.

Core Academic Courses

English Language Arts (ELA) 6th-8th
Foundations of Math
Pre-Algebra
MS Algebra
Algebra 1
Mapping the World
Civics & Government
Body Talk 2
Environmental Science: The Olympic Peninsula Rainforest
Archaeology
Create a Planet

Enrichment Courses

Math at Your Level (MAYL)
Game Design
Build It Up, Break It Down
Food Fascination
Book Club
Starbound
Fine Art: Painting with the Masters
Math Escape Room
Science of Science Fiction
D & D Creative Writing
Seeds & Sprouts
Fitness Club
Hiking Club
Community Circle

Core Academic Course Descriptions for Session 4, 2020-2021

ELA: ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS for 6th-8th SYLLABUS HERE

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This two-day core course will focus on reading and composition and can accommodate a range of skills. 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 the analysis of current events (subscription included). Social studies/current event topics are often incorporated into lessons, with a range of activities to be expected (presentations, reader’s theatre, etc.). The focus in Session 4 will be narrative writing. Students should expect to complete at least two final draft essays and a short story. Basic conventions, mechanics and editing will be practiced each week. Additional independent reading will be assigned, as well as extra writing practice if needed. Materials needed: 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. This is a full-year course of study. Instructor: Melanie Ware. Max: 10 students per class.

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FOUNDATIONS OF MATH SYLLABUS HERE

This course is designed for students needing to solidify their foundational math skills beforePre-Algebra, typically 6th grade, but the course is open to any student 6th-8th in need of foundational skills in math. Using Everyday Math, participants will practice foundational skills including basic algorithms of multiplication and division. They will also explore relationships between fractions, decimals, and percentages, and perform all operations involving decimals and fractions. Word problems, games and activities will be used to enhance understanding. Materials required: spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, and a pencil. Independent work is expected, 2 -3 hrs/week. $25 lab fee for Everyday Math Text, volumes 1 and 2. This is a full-year course of study. Instructor: Laura Erlig. Max: 6 students.

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PRE-ALGEBRA SYLLABUS HERE

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 will align closely with 7th grade math standards and is designed to prepare students for Middle School Algebra. Format of lessons given are direct instruction, independent practice, problem solving, and project-based learning. Instruction may be that of a “flipped classroom”. Family may replace independent, “at home” work with textbook practice if required from their student’s charter school. Materials Required: 1 subject spiral bound notebook, loose leaf lined paper, pencil & eraser, scientific calculator (TI-30 suggested), ruler. Recommended: a high-quality tablet/stylus combo (suggested: Wacom Intuos). Pre-assessment is required for placement into class. Independent work is expected; 2-3 hrs./wk. This is a full-year course of study. Instructor: Lyra Porcasi. Max: 8 students per class.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL ALGEBRA SYLLABUS HERE

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 will align closely with the 8th grade math standards and is designed to prepare students for 9th level Algebra 1. Format of lessons given are direct instruction, independent practice, problem solving, and project-based learning. Instruction may be that of a “flipped classroom”. Family may replace independent, “at home” work with textbook practice if required from their student’s charter school. Materials Required: 1 subject spiral bound notebook, loose leaf lined paper, graph paper, pencil & eraser, scientific calculator (TI-30 suggested), and ruler. Recommended: a high-quality tablet/stylus combo (suggested: Wacom Intuos). Pre-assessment is required for placement into class. Independent work is expected; 2-3 hrs./wk. This is a full-year course of study. Instructor: Lyra Porcasi. Max: 8 students per class.

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ALGEBRA 1 SYLLABUS HERE

A high-school level class in the language and practice of math, aligned with the Common Core Standards for 9th grade Algebra. This class will prepare students to successfully demonstrate their mastery of elementary algebra skills on high school placement tests. Equally important, this class will prepare students to use algebra to understand and solve real-world problems in math, science, and life. REQUIRED MATERIALS: Glencoe Algebra 1 (2012 edition, ISBN: 9780076639236), a graphing calculator (TI-84 Plus), and a high-quality tablet/stylus combo (Wacom Intuos recommended. Independent work is expected; 2-3 hrs./wk. This is a full-year course of study. Instructor: Tim Handley. Max: 8 students

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MAPPING THE WORLD SYLLABUS HERE

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 from memory, on an equirectangular grid, and (dependent on his/her starting point of knowledge) will include most of the world’s 195 countries, major bodies of water, and major landforms. Like anything, the final product is determined by the time and effort put into it, which begins in September! Lessons are taken from David Smith’s “Mapping the World by Heart” curriculum, as well as video and other sources, and will include the understanding of various maps, regions, climate, GPS, the spatial relationships of countries and continents to one another, and regional/cultural and historical information about MANY countries. Materials needed each week include a spiral notebook, folder, assignment notebook, sketchbook (at least 8 x 11″) and a pencil/pen (optional: a personal set of sharpened colored pencils). It is recommended that each student has their own physical world atlas and know how to use it. Independent work is expected, about 2 hrs./week, and a culminating project in each session. This is a full-year course of study. (Recommended: National Geographic Student World Atlas, 2014 or newer) Instructor Lori Peters has taught this unit many times before, and former students claim was one of the most beneficial projects they ever had. Max: 7 students per class

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ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: The Olympic Peninsula SYLLABUS HER E

Get ready for an incredible adventure in learning. This program piloted last summer with OSA and now has been further developed to help students travel virtually to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, where OSA has taken a few AMAZING adventures. The eight-week program will combine two areas of study. First, students will get a “Sense of Place” in this incredible temperate rainforest. They’ll learn introductory information about Olympic National Park such as geography, ecosystems and human history, including the native tribes of the region. They’ll journey from the coastal tidepools and to the top of Mount Olympus and learn about the rain shadow effect that makes it possible for dramatically different ecosystems to flourish within a few miles of each other. Abiotic, biotic and cultural components (ABCs) of ecosystems are introduced with opportunities for students to identify ABCs in a variety of ecosystems. Students will design their own ecosystems influenced by factors such as elevation and proximity to water that impact the abiotic, biotic and cultural features of their ecosystem creation. After that, students will learn about one of the biggest dam removals in history by investigating how a river changes when it’s dammed. They’ll explore the ecology of the Elwha River and how it was transformed by the activism of the Lower Elwha Klallam people, helpful scientists and many BIG explosions. They will observe changes rippling through the Elwha’s ecosystem, find excitement in the story of one of the largest environmental restoration projects in human history and design an investigation based on their understanding of river processes. Independent work is expected, about 45 min/week on average. Instructor: NatureBridge coming to us live from the rainforest, and Tim Handley assisting. Max: 12

NOTE: Parents are required to sign off on a NatureBridge form for participation. This will be emailed to all participants.

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ARCHAEOLOGY SYLLABUS HERE

This course will introduce students to the science of archaeology and will enhance their skills related to critical and analytical thinking, multiculturalism, writing, mathematics, art, and more. Students will explore the archeological process, by developing note-taking skills, studying historical evidence, understanding science inquiry, and participating in hands-on experiences. Students will have a modified or simulated archeological dig and utilize their skills to interpret their findings. Independent work may be assigned, time varies. Instructor: Laura Erlig. Max: 7

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BODY TALK 2 SYLLABUS HERE

Body Talk might be one of the most important classes your children can take at One Spark Academy. Robin Lindsey has taught this course for OSA for the past ten years, but has also taught in other programs, working with students ages 6-18. Robin presents frank and factual information, and based on years of positive student reviews, her students appreciate and enjoy what they learn (yes, really!). Taught mostly as a gender-combined class, students will learn about the changes experienced during puberty in an age-appropriate, healthy, and safe environment. These include the physical, emotional and social changes experienced by teens and will include information on sexual health, pregnancy, birth control, sexually transmitted infections, and communication skills, including using social media safely. We will be using a Question Box each week to answer anonymous questions students may have about the topics we will be covering. Classes may be split by gender or age/maturity level, if and when needed. This class is for 8th grade students, or mature 7th with teacher approval. Typically, Body Talk 2 is preceded by Body Talk 1, but BT1 was not offered this year due to the need to offer this course in-person. Led by Robin Lindsey, with OSA Educator Melanie Ware and Former Board Member and Body Talk collaborator Jon Baker assisting, the curriculum uses a combination of OWL (Our Whole Lives, a secular sexuality education program) and FLASH (Family Life and Sexual Health out of Seattle). Robin makes herself available to parents to answer any questions they have. Independent work may be assigned, time varies. Instructor: Robin Lindsey, with Melanie Ware and Jon Baker assisting. Max: 9

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CIVICS & GOVERNMENT SYLLABUS HERE

Highly recommended for 8th graders, and especially those who just took Our American Story, but open to mature students in any grade. Using a program called iCivics* as well as related articles, videos, and discussion, this course will improve students’ civic knowledge, civic attitudes, and core literacy skills. Students will learn how our political systems work and will use that knowledge to address real-world issues. Students will grow more informed and curious about being engaged in government. They may step into the role of a Supreme Court or Federal judge, a member of Congress, a community activist, or even a President– and do the job they do. Students gain civic knowledge and skills in a learning experience that is both fun and challenging. . Independent work may be assigned, about 45 min/wk. Instructor: Melanie Ware. Max: 10

*About the program: When Justice Sandra Day O’Connor retired from the Supreme Court in 2006 after nearly 25 years on the bench, her exemplary career was already the embodiment of civic engagement and the American pioneer spirit. An aspiring cattle rancher as a child, Justice O’Connor went on to forge a legal career at a time when few women did, serve in all three branches of Arizona state government, and become the first woman to serve on the United States Supreme Court. Over the course of her career, Justice O’Connor grew concerned about a growing lack of understanding about our system of government and the disengagement that inevitably follows. She discovered that civic education had been disappearing from curricula across the country for decades. Where it was taught, it was often dry and uninspiring. So, in 2009, Justice O’Connor founded iCivics with the goal of transforming civic education for every student in America with innovative, truly engaging games and resources. Of all her accomplishments, Justice O’Connor considers iCivics to be her most important work and greatest legacy.

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CREATE A PLANET SYLLABUS HERE

This 90-minute class features small class size, individualized instruction, immediate feedback, and exploration of the human body. Students will be provided instruction specifically in the areas of cells and tissues, the eleven systems of the human body, and their organs and functions. These systems are: Integumentary, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, nervous, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, endocrine, and reproductive (both male and female). There is the opportunity for students to opt out of the reproductive system segment if requested by the parents on the first day of class. Special assignments will include artwork and/or hands-on models and manipulatives. The format of lessons given is direct instruction, diagrams, videos, and project-based learning. Please note: Tuesday’s class is 9 weeks, and Friday’s class is 8 weeks due to a holiday. Tuesday’s class includes one added “fun lesson” and doesn’t include a body system not covered in Friday’s class. Independent work may be assigned, about 30 min/week on average. Instructor: Lyra Porcasi. Max: 8

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Enrichment Course Descriptions for Session 4, 2020-2021

(MAYL) MATH AT YOUR LEVEL

Each 1.5 hour features small class size, individualized instruction, immediate feedback, and support with your homeschool math curriculum. A variety of levels are welcome in either class. If further practice is needed, students may be introduced to excellent math websites, including Khan Academy, which offers individualized lessons and immediate feedback. Dependent on homeschool curriculum, students will be offered small group or individual lessons from a variety of resources, such as Saxon. Materials needed: spiral notebook and independent math work. Laptop can be brought. Students MUST come to each class prepared with their assigned homeschool math materials. Instructor: Laura Erlig. Max: 5 per class.

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GAME DESIGN

Board games are a great way to connect with people in these distant times. But the perfect board game is hard to find. Rather than spending your time searching for that perfect game, join us, and create your own! Game design is a STEAM-y discipline that combines graphic art, problem solving, and playful exploration. We will begin the session with some creative design exercises, and then break into teams to build playable prototypes. REQUIRED MATERIALS: Computer or Chromebook, speedy enough to run Zoom and Google Docs at the same time without slowdown. Keyboard and mouse also required. Instructor: Tim Handley. Max: 8 students.

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BUILD IT UP, BREAK IT DOWN

Students will use applied geometry to solve real-life and imaginary problems by building models using a variety of materials. Some examples of projects include building with plastic building blocks, creating a bridge with toothpicks, and using household materials to create a design that will hold water or float in water. The final project is to create a model of the students’ own design.Because of the nature of this class, the time required outside of class will vary highly from student to student. The minimum required time will be one hour per week. Some students may spend far more time than that to create true masterpieces. Sample of materials needed: plastic building blocks, recycled boxes, scissors, tape or glue, popsicle sticks, toothpicks, aluminum foil, string, paints or markers. Material lists for each class will be sent out ahead of the class. Instructor: Candice Renaker. Max: 8

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ASTRONEER

The universe awaits. The Earth has been destroyed, but thousands of worlds remain. Will you pursue the epic evil that destroyed our home? Become an interstellar archaeologist, chasing ancient ruins and buried treasures? Colonize uncharted planets and expand the reach of civilization? Become a fearsome bounty hunter, or an alien zookeeper? We can build the future together, in Starbound. The universe awaits! Game Play on Fridays. REQUIRED MATERIALS: Modestly equipped Windows or Mac computer, and stable internet connection. Instructor: Tim Handley. Max: 7 students

Recommended hardware:

OS: Windows 10 or Mac OSX
Processor: 2.0 GHz or better
Memory: 4 GB RAM
If you have any questions about the compatibility of your hardware for this class, please email Tim Handley at Tim@onesparkacademy.com

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FOOD FASCINATION (Thursday)

The Adventure in OSA Cooking continues! Our focus in Session 4 will be a return to cooking together! Unfortunately, this cannot be done at Art Trek due to logistics, safety, and kitchen space. However, we are reserving the outdoor cooking areaat Conejo Community Park (the covered picnic area has metal prep counters, electricity, a sink and a BBQ), where Fitness Club has been held. We will be experimenting with the tools necessary to create a semi-transportable kitchen, something we plan to incorporate into our food program next year. On days where we expect inclement weather, we will arrange for a guest speaker to Zoom with us from home or present an online lesson ourselves; on other days our professional chef guests may join us at the park. During the course, students will master recipe-reading, use basic tools (like measuring cups and spoons), and learn specific cooking skills, including knife skills (under supervision). As this may be a transportation hassle for some families whose students are at Art Trek until 10:30, we will encourage families to arrange safe carpools (masks on, windows open) and we may be able to assist with that, as well. Instructors: Laura Erlig, Jerri Baker and Sue Eaton. Max: 9 students

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FINE ART: PAINTING WITH THE MASTERS

Students will learn about some of the world’s most famous classic artists, like Pablo Picasso, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Juan Miro, and more. To get an understanding about the different artists, their artwork and era, a slide show will be shown in the beginning of each session, so the students can learn about the artists’ history and see a variety of their artwork. Students will then create their own art piece, inspired by or reflective of the famous artists. We will work with acrylic paint. Instructor: Helle Rasmussen. Max: 10 students. Paints will be delivered to new students who didn’t receive them in Session 3, or if you are short on colors. $20 lab fee for new students.

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MATH ESCAPE ROOM SYLLABUS HERE

The Math Escape Room contains fun and challenging puzzles your group must solve before your time runs out! Clues are tricky, but you are not alone; you are paired with other students to combine your super skills. Students will work in cooperative groups to solve logic and number sense puzzles in order to move onto the next level. This class is designed to build math skills in a fun way with a social component. Everyone will work together to escape from the room! Instructor: Laura Erlig. Max: 8 students.

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SCIENCE OF SCIENCE FICTION SYLLABUS HERE

Have you ever wondered if any of the things you see in the movies could really happen? Could we really time travel? Would artificial intelligence take over the world? What can actually happen during and after an apocalypse? Do you think there might be ghosts, do we really exist, or are we just in a simulation, and is there truly such a thing as “time”? In this class, we’ll discuss all of those questions and more, taking the science fiction out of books and movies and putting it into real world facts. Independent work may be assigned, about 30 min./week. Instructor: Lyra Porcasi. Max: 8 students.

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D & D CREATIVE WRITNG

Back by request! Join us as we apply creative story writing, character exploration and storytelling through the vehicle of the ever-popular fantasy building tabletop role-playing game D&D. Each student will create their own character which will then embark upon a made-up adventure. Our teacher will be the Dungeon Master serving as the game’s referee and storyteller. Students will work as a group and do a weekly character writing journal and take turns updating the weekly story summary journal. Students will not only learn logic and problem solving, but this will be a creative adventure for all! Please note: The content can often be dark, but we will strive to avoid anything too dark or demonic. *This program will take place on Roll20.net in addition to Zoom. Fun and creative independent work is expected, about 30 min./week. Instructor: Cylan Brown of Shakespeare Kids, with Melanie Ware assisting. Max: 10 students.

About Cy: Not only does Cy have a professional theater background, but he has a degree in (and passion for) literature. Cy has been playing Dungeons & Dragons for almost 20 years. He’s an excellent Dungeon Master and is loved by kids and parents alike!

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BOOK CLUB

Students will engage in classroom discussion relating to a novel that we collectively decide upon before the first class. They will be expected to read about 50-100 pages a week and come prepared with questions and comments to share and explore with their classmates. Depending on the book, we may look at related topics like race relations, historical events or social justice issues in America or abroad! Independent reading/work is expected, time varies dependent on reading pace. Instructor: Melanie Ware. Max: 7

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SEEDS & SPROUTS SYLLABUS HERE

This class is held at the Las Flores Community Garden. Parents will need to drop off and either pick up. Students will be involved in what it means to have a plot in a community garden. Weekly reading and learning activities will continue at the classroom tables in the garden; previous books included Seedfolks and Tom’s Midnight Garden. Weekly gardening responsibilities will be integrated with the research topic of the week, scavenger hunts in the garden regarding different types of plants, guest speakers, art and craft activities related to garden. Lesson topics may include soil, compost, microclimates, annual vs perennial plants, seeds, vermicompost, seasonal plants, nutrition, and water. Instructor: Laura Erlig, with Jerri Baker assisting. Max: 10 students.

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FITNESS CLUB

The Fitness Club adventure continues at Conejo Community Center Park (Dover & Hendrix). Students will work on a variety of different styles of work outs, including, but not limited to running/interval running, obstacle courses, H.I.I.T (High Intensive Interval Training), strength training, circuit work, core work and stretching, basketball free-time (no contact), and a little bit of yoga thrown in. Dependent on the desires and flexibility of the group, park runs may be included. Fitness Club will be a low pressure, no judgement workout class; students will work out at their own pace. Sue looks forward to sharing her enthusiasm for fitness with the students! Instructor: Sue Eaton with Jerri Baker assisting. Max: 10 per class.

NOTE: Due to Covid-19, equipment cannot be shared. With ample spacing, students can work out without face coverings, but must wear them upon arrival and pick up, or when in close proximity to others. Yoga mats should be brought to each class.

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HIKING CLUB

Come join us as we hit some of the lesser known local trails and enjoy all that nature has to offer – views, vistas, flora and fauna. Water, sunscreen, hat, and face covering* required, and families welcome! Moderate hiking level, and weather will be taken into consideration. *Students must come with a face covering (mask or bandana) which can be removed once out on the trail, where social distancing can be maintained. Please note: Location for drop off will be emailed the Monday of each week to be ready for the hike ahead. Instructor: Sue Eaton and Jerri Baker. Max: 10

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COMMUNITY CIRCLE

This special time prior is for our group to come together to learn and practice critical interpersonal skills, such as empathy, listening, body language, and effective conversational abilities. That time is as important as ever during this time of upheaval. Each week, we will address a topic that will help our community grow in their relationships and their resilience. During Circle, we will also clarify and discuss expectations for a peaceful, proactive and positive learning environment. Finally, this time is set aside for an open forum discussion to share what matters to students, resolve any conflicts that may be brewing, or support peers in their needs. All members of our OSA community are asked to attend this important time for connection. Facilitated by Lori Peters, although other adults/students may lead at times.

Circle will be offered from 10:30-10:55, Wednesday and Friday. Tuesday and Thursday may be held on site before the year ends. We would like all students to attend at least one Circle per week, on a day that works within their schedules.

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