Summer Stretch - Class Descriptions
Summer Stretch (June 30 - August 1)
American Literature
This course is designed as a general survey of the themes of American Literature, as well as an
introduction to academic approaches to argumentative writing and literary analysis. Our goal will be to
begin to define the “American” in American Literature by looking at how authors deal with issues of
community, identity and belonging in a national frame. In the course of this ongoing investigation,
students will learn to use critical reading skills, formal and reflective writing, and class discussion
to further their own individual lines of inquiry. Texts will include novels by Charles Chesnutt, F.
Scott Fitzgerald, and John Steinbeck, as well as a sampling of poetry, short stories, historical texts,
critical essays and cultural artifacts.
Qualifications: VERBAL
Argument and Debate
This class will explore the nature of arguments, the methods of debate, and the strategies of persuasion.
In preparation for debates, you will learn how to construct arguments, research controversial questions,
use evidence to support our positions, and persuade various audiences. Bring a critical mind and a
friendly attitude.
Qualifications: VERBAL
Biology
This is a fast-paced introductory course to the biological sciences, and covers a year’s worth of high
school Biology. The class includes topics from many areas in biology, including: chemistry, cell
biology, inheritance, biotechnology, evolution, diversity, plants, ecology, anatomy, and physiology and
behavior. Material will be presented through lecture, lab, hands-on activities, field studies, and
presentations by University researchers.
Qualifications: SCIENCE; 8th grade standing or higher
Chemistry
A reading-lecture-laboratory course covering the basic high school chemistry curriculum, providing
an understanding of why materials in our world would behave as they do. A research paper may be
required. $35 technology fee
Qualifications: SCIENCE; 8th grade standing or higher; completion of first year Algebra or
equivalent.
Citizen Journalism: News in the Internet Age
The most powerful journalists these days are citizens with internet access. Blog posts, cell-phones,
digital cameras, and other new technologies are profoundly changing the ways in which news is found,
gathered and reported. That's good. At the same time, in today's 24/7 media environment it's tougher
than ever to know what's true and what's an outright fabrication. That's bad. In this class, students
will learn about journalism in the internet age and will produce a newspaper or magazine - with stories,
photos, and other images, and many other aspects that are a part of today's journalism. $35
technology fee
Qualifications: VERBAL
Elements of Deduction - NEW CLASS ADDED!
This is an introductory course in symbolic logic. We will learn about different systems of logic.
These systems provide us with the tools to build and to take apart arguments, sentence by sentence,
with each sentence functioning similarly to the variables of a mathematical equation. Simply put, it’s
like math with words instead of numbers! The content of the course overlaps with that of Boolean
algebra, so students with some exposure to computer programming will be familiar with elements of
these systems. Students will work alone and in groups at solving difficult logic problems, constructing
a variety of proofs, proving theorems in logic and translating sentences of natural languages into
logical form. There will be periodic competitions in constructing difficult proofs. No background in
logic or math is required, but a critical mind and a willingness to work hard are necessary.
Qualifications: MATH
Essay Writing: Essentials
The essay is a form of writing that is incredibly adaptive, able to morph according to the writer's
needs. It can be a creative forum, an opportunity to express an opinion, or a platform through which to
explain a passion. Using sample essays from Richard Wright, George Orwell, and other influential writers,
as well as peer groups and independent exercises, we will will study the essence of the craft, practice
grammatical conventions and usage, and experiment with some of the most useful and asked-for essay
styles. The student will leave the class with a strong and varied portfolio.
Qualifications: VERBAL
Mathematics (Fast-Paced)
Classes offer one year of work in an appropriate course: Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Integrated 1,
Integrated 2, Integrated 3 or Precalculus. In order to best complete one academic year over the 5-week
period, the fast-paced mathematics class structure differs from the primary lecture-based system to
which most students are accustomed. Instead, a large part of each day will be spent doing small group
work, individual study and test taking. Self-motivation, strong independent learning and strong study
habits are essential for success in this highly accelerated and individually paced program.
Special Announcement! New Course Addition: Integrated II will be returning by popular demand!
Qualifications: Placement depends on a student's math background and school district requirements.
These classes are not recommended if your school cannot offer appropriate placement for Autumn 2008.
Teacher
recommendation form (PDF) and review of math background are required.
Physics: Rockets and Robots
This introductory physics course offers several hands-on activities with robots and pneumatic rockets.
Topics of exploration include velocity, acceleration, Newton's laws, projectile motion, momentum, work
and power. Students will apply what they learn about basic Newtonian Mechanics to robots. They will work
in small groups and build 3 small to medium size robots which will be used during in-class competitions.
This class will also include a short introduction to autonomous robot control using the constructed
robots. Robots will be controlled with two versions of the C language. Although hands-on experience is
integral to this class; the academic content is rigorous and requires significant amounts of work both
in and out of class. $35 technology fee
Qualifications: SCIENCE