The Medina Homeschool offers a variety of elective courses at the Medina Activity Center. Please see the class schedule and course descriptions below.
Our on-site elective classes are available for Grades K-18 (some available K-12).
Note: F25 courses are fall 2025 courses. S26 are spring 2026 courses. F25/S26 are year-long courses.
This hands-on coding course introduces students to the world of programming through engaging projects and real-world problem-solving. Using beginner-friendly tools like Scratch, Python, or JavaScript, students will learn key coding concepts such as variables, loops, functions, and user interaction.
Throughout the course, students will build games, animations, and interactive applications, applying their knowledge to meaningful and creative projects. By the end, each student will develop and present their own final project, demonstrating their ability to write and debug code while expressing their creativity.
Grades: 3-12
Pre-requisite: None
NOTE: All students will be required to bring a laptop to this class.
This interactive course introduces young children to the fundamentals of healthy eating, basic cooking techniques, and food safety in a fun and engaging way. Each session includes a short nutrition lesson where students learn about balanced meals, food groups, and making healthy choices, followed by a hands-on cooking activity that reinforces these concepts through simple, age-appropriate recipes. The class wraps up with a fun game or activity to keep learning interactive and memorable. By the end of the course, students will develop practical kitchen skills, a greater understanding of nutrition, and a lifelong appreciation for wholesome foods.
Grades: K-12
This course provides students with essential computer skills, including typing, file management, internet safety, and the use of Microsoft Office and Google Workspace tools. Students will learn how to create, edit, and format documents, spreadsheets, and presentations while developing confidence in navigating digital environments.
Grades: K-2
Pre-requisite: None
NOTE: All students will be required to bring a laptop to this class.
This course introduces students to the geometric and arabesque design traditions found in historical and contemporary art. Students will explore the use of symmetry, tessellation, and nature-inspired motifs in various cultural contexts. Through hands-on projects, they will create intricate patterns, tile mosaics, and floral designs, learning how artists use mathematics and creativity to produce visually stunning compositions.
This course focuses on artistic techniques and design principles, making it an engaging study of patterns and composition.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course explores the history, culture, and contributions of Islamic civilization from its early beginnings to its global influence in art, science, and trade. Students will learn about key historical events, significant figures, and the rich traditions that shaped societies across the world. The course will take a historical approach to understanding Islamic civilizations and their contributions.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course helps students develop confidence and essential public speaking skills through engaging activities, structured lessons, and real-world practice. Grades 1-5 will focus on foundational communication skills, storytelling, and speaking in front of a group in a fun, low-pressure environment, while Grades 6-8 will follow the IEW (Institute for Excellence in Writing) Public Speaking Curriculum, which provides structured guidance on speech writing, delivery techniques, and persuasive communication. The course culminates in a final speech showcase where students present their best work.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This beginner-level course introduces students to essential survival and scouting skills adapted for a residential and urban setting. Students will develop confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while learning practical survival techniques such as basic first aid, navigation, shelter-building, and emergency preparedness. The course incorporates hands-on activities and challenges that make learning fun and engaging!
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This Arabic module is designed to introduce the students to basic Arabic language skills in a secular, non-religious context. The curriculum focuses on building speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities. Each class includes specific objectives, vocabulary, activities, video resources, daily Arabic letter practice, examples, and homework to reinforce learning.
Grades: K-12
Pre-requisites: None
This course introduces students to Classical Arabic by focusing on root words, morphology, and sentence structure in a secular and linguistic context. Students will explore the logic behind Arabic word formation, gain an appreciation for its rich historical and literary tradition, and develop fundamental reading and writing skills. Through interactive activities, storytelling, and text analysis, students will expand their vocabulary and gain the ability to recognize patterns in Arabic words.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course focuses on building fluency in spoken Arabic by practicing real-life conversations. Students will improve their pronunciation, sentence formation, and listening comprehension through role-playing, dialogues, and interactive exercises. The course covers daily conversations, polite expressions, and culturally appropriate communication in a fun and engaging way.
Grades: K-12
Pre-requisite: Students must know the Arabic alphabet, blending letters, and basic vocabulary. Not based on grade level but skill level.
This course follows the Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW) methodology, which builds strong writing skills through structured lessons, stylistic techniques, and incremental skill development. Grades 1-5 will focus on foundational writing skills using IEW’s "Structure and Style for Students" approach, emphasizing key word outlines, summarization, and basic stylistic techniques, while Grades 6-8 will advance these skills with more complex writing structures, varied sentence styles, and techniques for persuasive and narrative writing. By the end of the course, students will have a solid grasp of structured writing, improved vocabulary, and greater confidence in their ability to express ideas clearly and effectively.
Grades: 1-8
Pre-requisite: None
This beginner-level traditional & non-traditional aikido & Jiu-Jitsu course introduces students to the fundamentals and basics of Jiu-Jitsu with some aikido, as well as shaolin kung fu movements. Structured for students with no prior experience, the course emphasizes basic techniques, self-defense principles and techniques, and blocking and hand movement concepts in a safe and supportive environment. Students will develop physical fitness, discipline, and confidence while learning essential skills through hands-on practice and engaging repetition drills.
Grades: 1-8. The boys class will have a male instructor. The girls class will have a female instructor.
Pre-requisite: None
This three-hour kindergarten program provides a well-rounded foundation in language arts, math, and science through hands-on, play-based learning. In language arts, students develop early literacy skills through storytelling, phonics, and interactive activities that build vocabulary, reading readiness, and expressive language. Math lessons introduce counting, number recognition, patterns, and basic problem-solving through engaging games and hands-on exploration. Science encourages curiosity and observation as students explore the world around them through simple experiments, nature studies, and sensory activities. This program fosters a love for learning while building essential skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Note: If OVA-funded, you would register as a part-time student with OVA and this program will count as three separate courses. You may take an additional course with Medina to make full use of the 6 funded electives you receive as a part time kindergarten student.
Time: 1pm to 4pm on Mondays at MAC
This course takes a hands-on approach to robotics, focusing on mechanical design, coding, and problem-solving. Students will design, build, and program robots, incorporating 3D printing, sensors, and robotic arms. They will explore real-world applications and tackle engineering challenges, culminating in a student-designed robotics project.
Grades: 3-12
Pre-requisite: None
This STEM course introduces students to the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through hands-on, inquiry-based learning. The course encourages critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving as students explore real-world concepts and engage in fun, interactive projects. The course emphasizes exploration, experimentation, and collaboration, providing a solid foundation in the core principles of STEM while fostering curiosity and a love for learning.
Grades: K-2
Pre-requisite: None
This course introduces students to the art of Arabic calligraphy, exploring its history, techniques, and cultural significance. Students will learn how to write in various calligraphic styles using traditional tools such as reed pens and ink. Through guided practice, they will develop precision, creativity, and an appreciation for the beauty of Arabic script. The course will culminate in a final project showcasing their skills.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
Culinary Arts: Baking is a fun and engaging program designed to introduce young bakers to the world of baking. Throughout the course, students will explore various baking techniques, learn about different ingredients, and create a wide range of delicious treats, from cookies and cupcakes to breads and pastries. Each week, students will participate in hands-on activities that encourage creativity and teamwork while fostering essential kitchen skills. This course aims to inspire a love for baking while teaching the importance of nutrition, safety, and food presentation.
Grades: K-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of business, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy. Through hands-on activities and real-world applications, students will learn how businesses operate, explore money management skills, and develop their own business ideas. The course encourages creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork while fostering an entrepreneurial mindset.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of graphic design through hands-on creative projects, traditional and digital tools, and engaging activities. Young learners will explore colors, shapes, patterns, and basic layouts, while older students will dive deeper into color theory, typography, branding, and digital composition. Through projects such as posters, infographics, and advertisements, students will develop a strong foundation in design principles and visual communication.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course equips students with essential handyman skills to complete basic home repairs and maintenance tasks. Through interactive lessons, students will learn how to safely use tools, troubleshoot common issues, and develop problem-solving skills. This course builds confidence, responsibility, and self-sufficiency—skills they can carry into adulthood.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
This course introduces young learners to the architectural beauty of Middle Eastern and Andalusian designs, focusing on palaces, gardens, markets, and homes from these regions. Students will explore arches, domes, courtyards, intricate tilework, and water features used in famous historical buildings. Through hands-on projects, they will learn about building materials, design techniques, and architectural influences that shaped these masterpieces.
Grades: 1-12
Pre-requisite: None
Class Availability Disclaimer
Please note that classes will only be offered if the minimum required number of students enroll. If a class does not meet the enrollment threshold, it may be canceled, and families will be notified in advance. Thank you for your understanding and support.