Course Details & Descriptions
2D and 3D Pixel Art
Nichole Dye Burke McDade Course Fee: $10.00
Pixel art, as a form of creating a bigger picture out of small details, was born in the 1970s, when computers and digital art started to gain relevance and, as you can guess, it is based on pixels. For those familiar with the term, but unfamiliar with its graphic characteristics, a pixel is like a cell in a living organism - it is the most basic structural unit of an image. Design your own pattern, pixel by pixel, and bring them to life! Come join us making 2D and 3D pixel art using Perler Beads.
America the Beautiful: A National Parks Adventure
Jen Debenham Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Did you know that America has 63 national parks? And if you include monuments, battlefields, and military parks, that number jumps to 431! Come explore the beauty of America through her national parks. Through documentaries, class lectures, and our own research, we'll look into the history of the national parks: when, how, and why they were preserved. When you're finished with this class you'll have an epic bucket list of must see national parks!
*Multiple sections offered
America's Pastime: The History of Baseball in America
Kyle Henderson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
This course dives into the rich history of baseball in America, exploring its evolution from a 19th century pastime to a central part of American culture and identity. Students will trace the origins of the game, the development of Major League Baseball, and the sports impact on American society across different eras. Key themes will include the integration of baseball, the role of the sport in reflecting and shaping social and racial dynamics, the rise of iconic players, and the commercialization and globalization of the game. Key moments to be highlighted include, among others,: the Black Sox Scandal, Jackie Robinson's barrier-breaking career, baseball's response to wartime and civil rights movements, and the steroid era of late-20th century.
American Book Club
Caytlin Jones Course Fee: $15.00
An American Symposium Course
Are you ready to embark on a thrilling literary adventure? Dive into a world of captivating tales and vibrant conversations with the American Book Club, your ultimate destination for book lovers of all kinds! Enjoy a rich tapestry of genres and styles, ensuring there’s always something for everyone. Connect in cozy, small-group settings where every voice is heard and every opinion valued. Savor delectable treats as you chat about your latest literary finds – because great books and great snacks go hand in hand! 📖 Read. Discuss. Connect. 📖
American Comic Book Creation
Clay Maxwell Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Come use your creativity to develop characters, create a story, and draw an eye catching cover for your own comic book. In this course we learn about the history and importance behind superheroes and comic books in America. We then utilize Joseph Campbell's guide for storytelling to write and draw our own comics.
American Cryptids and Other Strange Phenomena
Burke McDade Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Have you ever wondered about bigfoot, skinwalkers, or the chupacabra? Cryptids are creatures found in cultures that some people believe exist or say they have seen, but that has never been proven to exist. This class will explore the fact, fiction, and folklore of American cryptids and other strange phenomena.
Family Game Night
Madyson McDade Course Fee: $5.00
If you like playing games and having fun this class is for you! We'll be looking at a variety of games people enjoyed throughout the history of America. From board games to playground games we'll do it all! We'll be doing board games that have been around forever like Chess and Monopoly, as well as more modern games like Sushi Go, Trekking the National Parks, and Wavelength. We'll also be experiencing classic American Game Shows like Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud, and more!
American Horse Power
Chance Morgan Course Fee: $10.00
An American Symposium Course
The Big 3 Revolution (Ford, GM, and Chrysler). Learn about the the progression of the American Auto Industry and impact that it has made globally.
American Musicals? No thanks.
Shannon Swanson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
This course is American musicals for those who think they don't like American musicals. In this class, we will be watching, discussing, diving, pausing, dissecting, and reflecting not only on the elements of the American musical, but recognizing their appeal and discovering how they reflect societal issues, history, and humanity. Whether you're in it for the music, the dancing, the signing, or appreciating some classic American film, this one is for you.
American Runway: Fashion History and Design
Ruby Johnson Course Fee: $6.00
An American Symposium Course
Do you care about fashion and all the latest trends? Do you have an eye for design? If so, join me as we explore fashion history and trends. In this class, students will be tasked with creating their own fashion portfolio with sketches fit for New York Fashion Week! No prior sketching experience required.
American Symbols
Dave Passmore Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Have you ever wondered what a picture or a symbol means or where it came form? Why it was important? What were those old guys thinking? This class will answer that question for many of the symbols of American history.
Ancient Greek History and Culture
John Martin Course Fee: $0.00
Have you ever heard of Plato, Aristotle, Socrates? We’re gonna talk about them, and a whole lot more. In this class we’ll explore the land of Ancient Greece from the earliest days of civilization all the way until Rome’s conquest of the region. This means we’ll talk about their founding myths, their greatest military victories and failures, and some of their great works of literature. If you have ever wanted to know about the real story behind the 300 Spartans or about the adventures of Alexander the Great, this is the class for you.
Archery
Kathryn Thompson Course Fee: $125.00
Learn to handle a compound bow and build your skill with a professional instructor. We'll be meeting up with Brian Humphries and his team of professional instructors who will teach us safety and technique in their archery store. Bus transportation will be provided. Transportation will be provided from the facility back to the school. Students will need a ride to the facility each day.
Art and Music History: From Columns and Castles to Sculptures and Symphonies
Meg Johnson Course Fee: $0.00
A journey through Ancient Greek temples and statues, Gothic castles and cathedrals, romantic Viking operas, dramatic political propaganda, paintings that changed history, and more. Covers ancient to Impressionist art and music.
Art, Writing, & Creative Activities with OPERA
Kathryn Thompson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Each day will feature a different Opera! We'll briefly learn about the composer and watch a few scenes. Then we'll do an activity that highlights an aspect of the opera. Art projects, dramatic scenes, creative writing, philosophical discussions, etc. Each day will be different and full of fun surprises and gorgeous music. (No singing required for this class -- just fun, creative spirits!)
ASL - American Sign Language
Jennifer Williams Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Learn to sign over 260 words! Practice signing with friends and in a group setting. Learn finger spelling, numbers, colors, and so much more!
Badminton
Chance Morgan Course Fee: $0.00
Badminton Basic Battle
Beginner Japanese
Harrison Stringham Course Fee: $0.00
Take a dive into the beautiful language of Japanese. We will go on the beginners journey into Japanese and learn their writing system and simple words and grammar. You’ll begin with the two main writing systems of Hiragana and Katakana and their uses. Following that, we will take a small step into basic grammar and vocabulary.
BeUTAHful Winter
Molly Jorgensen Course Fee: $0.00
Utah's beauties can be enjoyed all year round and without a lot of cost. We will not stray far from campus, but we will enjoy the spontaneous joy of being outside in the Winter in Utah. We will also experience the joys of Utah Winter destinations vicariously as we learn about options for short day trip adventures in Utah.
Beyond the Numbers: Radical Stories of Mathematics Through the Ages
Julean Stewart Course Fee: $0.00
From the invention of zero and discovery of pi (it's not just about circles) to the ending of World War II and America's visit to the moon, this course will explore how mathematicians shaped the course of humanity. We'll study the work of well known ancient mathematicians like Pythagoras and his theorem, as well as more modern number crunchers like Paul Erdös, who said, "a mathematician is a machine for turning coffee into theorems."
Blast from the Past: Epic Moments in America's Popular Culture
Madyson McDade Course Fee: $5.00
An American Symposium Course
Have you ever wondered what life would have been like as a teenager during the 1960s, 1980s, or even the 2000s? This course will offer the opportunity to study pop culture and trends (including popular fashion, music, movies, tv shows, dance, books, etc.!) of the major decades through the 20th century. Think Scooby-Doo, to the Goonies, and everything in-between! This class will also analyze the decades in terms of political and social movements that played a key role in the pop culture of the time. It's sure to be a groovy time!
Blues in America
Harrison McCamy Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
A study of blues origins and influence on music today.
Bowling
Allison Gow/ Caytlin Jones Course Fee: $50.00
Students will learn all aspects of bowling. We will be at Delton Bowling Lanes in Riverton. A bus will provide transportation to the facility, but students must arrange for pick up from the facility as this class is the last class of the day.
Building a House
Chance Morgan Course Fee: $0.00
General knowledge of how a house is constructed from beginning to final move in
Chess
Allison Gow Course Fee: $10.00
Students will learn the strategic ways to play chess
Ciphers and Spies that Saved America
Rebecca Allen Course Fee: $8.00
An American Symposium Course
Cryptic messages in invisible ink, code names, and intricate ciphers. Discover the secret art of cryptology and meet the men and women who changed history while living two lives; one normal and mundane, the other secret and perilous.
In this course, students will study cryptology and spycraft in America during the Revolutionary, Civil, and World wars. Students will analyze ciphers, codes and secrets messages.
Conversational French
Molly Jorgensen Course Fee: $0.00
Mais Oui! French will be more comfortable for you, with emphasis on pronunciation, key phrases and the delights of French culture all part of the experience.
Dance/Pom (Team Rehearsal)
Keeley Hartin Course Fee: $0.00
For current memebers of the Dance/Pom team for competition preparation.
Diamond Art
Jennifer Williams Course Fee: $16.00
Create your very own Spectacular & Brilliant masterpiece with Diamond Art. You will choose from a variety of different styles and themes your Diamond Art. Enjoy a relaxing class as you place sparkling pieces of colors on a coded canvas to create your unique pictures!
Disaster Preparedness
Dave Passmore Course Fee: $15.00
What are you going to do when the BIG EARTHQUAKE hits during school? How will you help yourself and your friends and classmates? This class is designed to answer those questions and give you basic skills and mindset to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.
Disney on Broadway
Brian Thames Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
A whole new world opened up for Broadway in 1994, as Disney began adapting many of its films for the stage. Be my guest in this fun class as we examine the many musicals Disney has taken to Broadway, from The Little Mermaid, Beauty & the Beast and Aladdin, to Newsies, The Lion King, Frozen, Mary Poppins, Freaky Friday, and more. See what stayed the same as in the movies, what changed, and how the magic continues! Be part of this world!
Doctor Who: A Cultural Phenomenon
Bethany Sowell Course Fee: $0.00
Buckle up for an adventure through time and space! Doctor Who is one of the longest-running television shows in history, and has impacted culture worldwide. Come explore how this show has managed to keep one principle character through the decades, and how it has captured the imaginations of generations. In this class will will explore not only the real-world history, but also the characters and lore, so come join the adventure!
Dr. Suess: American Storyteller
Andrea Thames Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Come along and bring a smile, 'cause anything Suess is worth your while!
We will be reading some of Dr. Suess' most popular books, learning about Dr. Suess (Theodor Seuss Geisel) himself, and discovering his writing and artistic styles.
Eating Our Way Through the Decades: American Food from 1900-2000
Nichole Dye Course Fee: $40.00
An American Symposium Course
Let’s eat our way through the decades! In this class, we will dive into how history has shaped what Americans eat. After we learn about what was going on each decade and what food was popular, we will make a dish commonly eaten during that time. Did you know Caesar Salad was commonly eaten in the 1920’s along with a pineapple upside down cake for dessert? Or that Sloppy Joes and cheesecake were big in the 1980’s? Try some dishes you may have never heard of and learn about the history of the U.S. What could be better?
Edgar Allen Poe- Scary Stories
Allison Gow Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
We will look at the writings of Poe and then write and record a scary story.
Flags of the United States / Flags of the World
Julean Stewart Course Fee: $3.00
An American Symposium Course
Which two nations "accidentally" have the same flag? Which three national flags and one state flag look different on their reverse side? Which country's flag and which state's flag are not rectangles? Why did Utah recently change its official state flag? Learn answers to these and other interesting questions through Vexillology: the study of flags.
Foods & Desserts of the American Revolution Period!
Jarom Swanson Course Fee: $15.00
An American Symposium Course
Learn about the cuisine of 18th century Colonial America! In this class we will be in the kitchen making dishes & desserts that were popular around the time our country was founded including popular dishes our founding fathers and soldiers ate while building this great country!
Game Theory and the American minds that shaped us.
Cory Swensen Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
In this course we will approach games and strategy from the mathematical stand point. We'll look at games that have been 'solved' so that perfect play ensures you will win. We'll learn how Game Theory is applied to a myriad of situations such as war and politics, and talk about the history of mathematicians that made this possible. We'll look at and play games with deep strategies to try to apply our new found knowledge.
Great British Baking Show - APA!
Jessica Freeman Course Fee: $20.00
In this class we will be watching episodes from the Great British Baking Show, tasting food from the show, and MAKING food from the show! We will have judges come in to taste your creations and star bakers will be chosen!
*Students will need to provide their own measuring cups/spoons, and bowl.
Guitar
Jessica Freeman & Harrison McCamy Course Fee: $0.00
In this course you will learn how to play guitar in different styles including classical and rock!
Hamilton: The Truth and Lies
Erik McGinnis Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
The hit hip hop and rap musical Hamilton comes to APA this Winterium! We will explore and discuss the themes and historical accuracies (and even bigger INACCURACIES) in Hamilton, discovering how close Lin Manuel Miranda actually stuck to the truth. Join us as we jump in to the world of Alexander Hamilton as we dive deep into the musical that changed the world.
Harry Potter and the Things We Learned at Hogwarts
Ruby Johnson Course Fee: $0.00
A magical adventure awaits you in this winterim class. Together we will explore the life lessons taught by some of the most beloved literary characters of all time. Through the books and movie clips to games and projects, we will explore a variety of topics including friendship, loyalty, bravery, and kindness.
Heist: The Most Famous Bank Robberies in History
Shane Lingo Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
In this class, you will learn about the most famous bank heists recorded in history. You will hear the stories of the world’s most famous bank robbers, the ones who got caught, and the ones who got away. Throughout this class, we will also explore questions such as: What is the largest heist in history? What tactics did they use? What challenges did they have to overcome? And how much money did they take?
History of American Science Fiction
John Martin Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
In this course we're going to look at the origin, development, and evolution of the science fiction genre in the U.S. We'll be focusing on the pivotal works of literature, TV, and film which have been produced in the U.S.: analyzing their cultural context, themes, how the genre has changed and evolved over time, and how the genre reflects changes in broader American culture.
How Irish Culture and History Have Influenced American Culture
Eithne O'Donoghue Course Fee: $20.00
An American Symposium Course
Are you curious about how the Irish helped shape American culture? Come join us for this American Symposium course and immerse yourself in all things Irish! In this engaging class, you'll explore the rich tapestry of Irish history, geography, culture, language, music, dance, food, sports, and much more. You'll have the chance to learn some basic Irish phrases, play the tin whistle, and indulge in delicious Irish treats. Don’t miss out on this unique experience that brings the vibrant spirit of Irish culture to life.
Intermediate Yoga
Ian Campbell Course Fee: $10.00
Want to improve your flexibility, strength, or concentration? This class combines traditional Indian breathing, meditation, physical postures, and mantras with the latest research in mobility training. We'll use blocks and straps to take stretching to the next level. If you want to put in the work to upgrade your performance in sports or dance, improve your posture, manage stress, and build lifelong skills, this is the class for you. Not for the faint of heart.
Introduction to the Holocaust
Jonah Kortsen Course Fee: $8.00
An American Symposium Course
In this course, students will learn about the major developments and attitudes that led to the Holocaust, Nazi Germany's strategy and efforts to rid Europe of its Jews, and consider modern day anti-semitism. One of the ways this will be achieved is by having students read Night by Elie Wiesel.
Kickboxercise
Brian Thames/Shannon Swanson Course Fee: $5.00
This class will be a very active exercise class, similar to Billy Blanks’ “Tae Bo” or Tony Horton’s “P90X”. Students will learn basic punching, kicking, and blocking techniques, as well as a number of combination moves. The class will also involve extended stretching and Yoga sessions. A large punching bag may be included in the class to allow for better practice. Students will be shadowboxing and working on the punching bag. There will be no physical contact between students.
Killing Lincoln
Dave Passmore Course Fee: $12.06
An American Symposium Course
What really happened before, during, and after the assassination of President Lincoln? The story will be told and answers given.
Lesser Known American History Heroes
Jarom Swanson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Throughout American History, there have been great contributions from Patriots that we are not very familiar with. In this class, we will learn about everyday normal citizens who seized the moment to do something great when the opportunity presented itself! You will leave this class with an even greater appreciation of our country and also how you can make your own contribution to this country as well!
Let's Draw Animals!
Andrea Thames Course Fee: $15.00
We will be drawing realistic animals using two different techniques, then making them come alive using artist-grade colored pencils. If you love animals and art, you will enjoy this class! Join us for some creative time this Winterim!
Life & Leadership Lessons from Walt Disney
Jarom Swanson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
We all know about his movies and amusement parks, but who really was the man who helped shape entertainment in America? In this course we will learn about Walt's leadership and events in his life which led to his building an entertainment empire including how he dealt with heartbreaking setbacks. By the end of this course, you too, will believe in yourself and know that dreams really can come true!
Little House on the Prairie
Meg Johnson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Read and discuss excerpts from the Little House on the Prairie series and do pioneer-related activities.
Little Women
Julean Stewart Course Fee: $5.00
An American Symposium Course
This course is for students who loved to play make-believe, whose siblings are their best friends, who enjoy story telling, historical fiction, or any movie directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Timothee Chalamet. Get to know the four sisters of the March family as they grow up during the American Civil War. Jo, the second oldest, is the narrator and aspiring writer who eventually learns that her best works are based on stories from her family's personal experiences. ($5 for purchase of book. Free if you can provide your own book)
Living Planet Aquarium: The Ins & Outs
Kathryn Thompson Course Fee: $55.00
The Living Planet Aquarium Education Managers are setting up a variety of sessions for us. Some sessions will be educational (about the marine/plant life or conservation) and other sessions will be volunteer-based, helping to keep the aquarium a fun, clean, and operational place for our community. ONLY 20 STUDENTS allowed for this special class.
4th period class = parents will pick up students at the Aquarium & we'll also need a couple parent volunteers to transport kids back to APA who have to wait a while for parents to pick up -- please contact Mrs. Thompson kthompson@apamaill.org if you're available to do that.
Moonshot: The Apollo Missions and the Winning of the Space Race
Craig Hollinger Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Come learn about one of the most exciting and daring times in American History--the quest to land and set foot on something besides the planet earth. The race to the Moon was more than just a scientific goal or technological advance--it was a unique commitment and gamble. From President Kennedy’s forward-thinking leadership and charisma, to astronauts that were part scientist, part explorer, and part dare-devil, Moonshot really was “one giant leap for mankind”.
Nations and Canons: America's Fight for Freedom!
Bridget Sullivan Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Experience the American Revolution firsthand! This class will explore the history of the Revolutionary War, culminating in a choose your own adventure-style game similar to Dungeons and Dragons, but set in 18th century America. As we learn about the thrills, risks, and hardships experienced by these brave soldiers, we'll also play historically-based characters that will need to survive and thrive in a D&D-like campaign spanning the battle of Bunker Hill to the battle of Valley Forge (1775-1778).
Neuroscience
Harrison McCamy Course Fee: $15.00
Introduction to neuroscience and the study of brain.
*HS students only. JH students may take course with persmission from Mr. McCammy. Must have his signature of approval on your scheduling form prior to scheduling your classes with administration.
Paper Engineering
Cheryl Cox Course Fee: $5.00
Unleash your creativity in Paper Engineering! In this hands-on course, students will design and test their own paper creations, from dragon paper airplanes to wind-turbines and bridges. The journey will culminate in the exciting challenge of designing and building a paper roller coaster! Join us for a fun exploration of engineering principles, creativity, and problem-solving as we transform simple paper into amazing structures!
•Multiple sections offered
Party Band
Alex Hales Course Fee: $3.00
Party band is as fun as it sounds. Fun music, stadium cheers, going feral while supporting classmates at basketball games!
Penmanship and Calligraphy
Ian Campbell Course Fee: $12.00
Want to improve your handwriting? Or write like the Queen of England (may she rest in peace)? Then this is the class for you! The goal: become an expert in the art of neatness. We will learn proper hand positioning, elegant lettering techniques, and various styles of casual and formal handwriting, focusing on both speed and aesthetics. This course is (obviously) handwriting-intensive.
Philosophy and Narnia: The Life and Works of C. S. Lewis
Meg Johnson Course Fee: $0.00
Read The Voyage of the Dawntreader and other works by C. S. Lewis and discuss the ideas behind them. Ideal for students who love intellectual discussion.
Physics of Flight--Building Rubber-band Powered Planes
Craig Hollinger Course Fee: $10.00
This class will focus on the physics and engineering associated with flight. Students will learn about the forces acting on planes, by building a rubber-band powered plane from balsa wood. Through trial and error, you will try and solve the same problems that aircraft engineers struggle with everyday--how to increase thrust and lift, while decreasing weight and drag. The class will be competing for the same prize--who can keep their plane in the air the longest.
Pickleball
Caytlin Jones Course Fee: $0.00
Come join to learn and play pickleball! Being a big version of ping-pong and a small version of tennis this sport is taking the nation by storm. Basic skills will be taught, as well as, advanced strategy. Playing the game everyday to eventually participate in a double elimination doubles tournament. Grab your friends and come sign up!
Stitched with Love: an Intermediate Crochet Course
Bridget Sullivan Course Fee: $40.00
Do you love the creation of fiber arts? Join us for a three-week deep dive into the art of crochet! We will learn a new stitch every day, such as puff stitch, moss stitch, star stitch, and more! Students will make squares of each unique stitch that will woven together making a throw blanket to take home.
*Prerequisite: Students must have previous crochet experience and should be able to chain stitch and single crochet stitch.
Strings Into Things
Bridget Sullivan Course Fee: $40.00
Learn how to turn cloth and thread into works of art by learning how to crochet, embroider, and cross stitch! We will learn basic crochet skills such as single stitch, half-double stitch, decrease stitch, and sewing together ends in order to create our own miniature stuffed animal. We will also learn how to do some basic embroidery stitches, such as the satin stitch, stem stitch, back stitch, chain stitch, and French knot in order to create beautiful embellishments on cloth with embroidery floss. Finally, we will learn how to cross stitch and outline a design with thread on Aida cloth. Students will take their finish projects home at the end of Winterim.
Swimming
Jennifer Williams Course Fee: TBD
Let’s stay physical this Winter by swimming! We will be swimming, diving and relay racing with your peers! A bus will provide transportation to the facility, but students must arrange for pick up from the facility as this class is the last class of the day.
The American Influence on Japan
Harrison Stringham Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
America has influenced many countries in this world, but in this class we will focus on their influence and interactions with Japan. The class will take you from an era where America helped to open the long closed borders of Japan, to how America was able to maintain and create a flourishing relationship with Japan, even after the events of World War II.
The Art of Journaling
Ruby Johnson Course Fee: $15.00
In a fast-paced world filled with constant distractions, the simple act of journaling offers a sanctuary for self-reflection, creative expression, and emotional well-being. This class invites students to delve into various types of journaling, including art, gratitude, goal-oriented, bullet journaling, and more. Each type provides a unique avenue for exploration and personal growth, allowing individuals to tailor their journaling practice to their needs and preferences. Beyond the different styles, the benefits of journaling are profound, encompassing improved mental health, stress relief, enhanced writing skills, effective goal setting, and better task prioritization.
The Birth of Hip-Hop in America: Origins, Culture, and Impact
Kyle Henderson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
This course explores the emergence of hip-hop as a cultural and artistic movement in the United States, focusing on its roots in the Bronx during the 1970s and its evolution into a global phenomenon. By examining historical, social, and political context of the time, students will trace the rise of hip-hop's core elements: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, and graffiti. Students will also examine the genres innovation in the shaping of sound, the role of technology, and the response to issues like poverty, racism, and urban decay.
The Birth of Hip-Hop in America: Origins, Culture, and Impact
Shannon Swanson Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
This course explores the emergence of hip-hop as a cultural and artistic movement in the United States, focusing on its roots in the Bronx during the 1970s and its evolution into a global phenomenon. By examining historical, social, and political context of the time, students will trace the rise of hip-hop's core elements: DJing, MCing, breakdancing, and graffiti. Students will also examine the genres innovation in the shaping of sound, the role of technology, and the response to issues like poverty, racism, and urban decay.
The Evolution of Fairy Tales
Rebecca Allen Course Fee: $0.00
Singing mice and glass slippers, curses broken with true love's kiss? Is this your idea of a fairy tale? How about cutting off toes to fit in a slipper or carrying around a dead girl in a box for fun? Some fairy tales started off a bit more gruesome and less magical, but over time they have been changed again and again. Imagine Cinderella as a cyborg, who has to save the Prince from a vicious alien queen or a girl who can spin the sun, moon and stars into dresses to fight a genie. Come learn the many ways fairy tales have changed with the passage of time.
The Hobbit Read-a-Long
Andrea Thames Course Fee: $10.00
Join Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf the wizard, and the thirteen dwarves of Thorin's Company as they embark on an epic journey through Middle Earth. Follow along as they fight at the Battle of the Five Armies and eventually defeat the terrifying dragon, Smaug, who has taken up residence in the dwarves' home, having claimed their vast treasure. Decide for yourself if Bilbo should have stayed in his "hole in the ground," or taken part in this life-changing adventure!
The Power of Film Scores
Cheryl Cox Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Explore the captivating world of film scores! Students will discover how legendary composers like John Williams and Hans Zimmer shape storytelling through music. We’ll examine the various uses of music in film, from establishing mood to developing character themes. By maintaining a Film Music Listening Journal, students will analyze iconic scores and their impact on film scenes. Whether you’re an orchestral music lover or a movie enthusiast, this class promises a thrilling journey into the art of film scoring!
Titanic: Spring Musical Rehearsal & History
Erik McGinnis Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
For students only who have auditioned and been cast in our Spring Musical: Titanic the Musical! This course will be a combination of rehearsals for the production, and a historical deep dive (or plunge!) into the historical events leading up to and including the voyage and sinking of the RMS Titanic. Students will be rehearsing for the show, as well as doing projects focused around specific passengers aboard the Titanic, and exploring how and why the wreckage occurred. Diving into the mysteries and unsolved questions which answers still remain 12,415 feet below the surface in the Atlantic Ocean.
To Buy or Not to Buy: The Psychology behind American Consumerism
Ian Campbell Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Have you ever bought something you later regretted? Learn why in this course on the psychology, strategy, and history of American consumerism (big word? Look it up!). We'll investigate what lies behind the fancy packaging and awesome Cyber Monday deals and explore topics such as supermarkets, TV ads, clickbait, and how they apply to American society. Being aware of American marketing techniques and history will give you the power to convince others to buy from you—and to avoid being tricked when others use the same techniques on you.
Twilight Zone: An American Classic
Clay Maxwell Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Come take a ride to another dimension. A journey into a wondrous land whose boundaries are that of imagination, the Twilight Zone. Learn about the man and the history behind one of the most iconic American television shows ever created. We will watch and analyze some of the most popular episodes of the original run.
USA Olympics Extravaganza
Shane Lingo and Kyle Henderson Course Fee: $0.00
Learn and participate in various olympic events, learn about the history of the Olympics and the United States involvement, develop new skills across various events, and participate in an olympic style competition where students will be grouped and compete as various teams for the gold medal.
Warfare in the Ancient World
Deven Salisbury Course Fee: $15.00
Wanna fight? From Achilles to Leonidas of Sparta to Julius Caesar, we're going to learn about them all. This course examines what warfare was like in each of the ages of Ancient Greece and Rome and gives students the opportunity to engage in experiential history. We will read portions of the "Iliad," Herodotus' "Histories," and Julius Caesar's "The Gallic Wars." We'll talk about gladiators in the Roman arena. We'll discuss battle strategy and train to become better strategic thinkers. At the end of it all, we'll make our own shields and learn how to march and fight the way the Greeks and Romans did.
Wind Ensemble and the American Sound
Alex Hales Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
Wind Ensemble+ takes on music from the great writers of American Music like Henry Fillmore, Phillip Sousa, Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, Leonard Bernstein, and more!
You're Being Supremely Judged
Deven Salisbury Course Fee: $0.00
An American Symposium Course
This course discusses the third branch of the United States' government, the Supreme Court, and how it functions and why it's so important. We will discuss how this branch operates, why it works the way it does, and some of the more famous and important cases it has decided on which impact our rights today.
Ballroom Team (competition prep)
H. Pugmire/S. Simpson Course Fee: $0.00
This course is for students currently enrolled in the Ballroom Team class.