Class Descriptions
GS/SC Co-op runs on "Parent Power." We are blessed with
amazing parents and grandparents that teach fun filled and
exciting elective classes every year at Good Shepherd Catholic
Church in Alexandria, Virginia. Thank You to our
wonderful volunteers.
Below is an overview of our Course Offerings for next year 2013-2014. Enjoy! |
Coure Desciptions 2013-2014
Available Here |
Course Descriptions - School Year
2014-2015
Catholicism
The purpose of this course is to give students a general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures. Through their study they will come to encounter the living Word of God, Jesus Christ. In the course they will learn about the Bible, authored by God through Inspiration, and its value to people throughout the world.
Choir
Music instruction continues to be cited as a profoundly positive element of educating young students. As St. Augustine said, “He who sings prays twice.” To establish a fundamental base, this class will incorporate these instructional objectives conducive to music education: Performance and Production, Cultural Context and Music Theory, and Analysis and Critique.
Constitutional Law/Criminal Justice
This course examines law (with emphasis on the US Constitution), and how law guides our government and affects our everyday life. It examines the Presidency, Congress, the Judiciary, criminal law, court case studies, foreign policy, National Defense, state and local government, and the principles of citizenship. This class will provide a practical understanding of law and the legal system that will be of use to students in their everyday lives. It will also promote awareness of current issues and controversies relating to law and the legal system. Students will learn to think critically and use their Catholic moral teachings to make political decisions.
Geography - Mapping the World
We are called to teach the importance of geography and the environment in the lives of the entire world's people. This course works to improve the student's knowledge of both the physical and cultural world. The study of the human and environmental interactions of any group of people can help us to better understand them and to evaluate with our students the scriptural and global responsibility to be stewards, caretakers of the earth.
Healthy Snacks
Students in preschool and kindergarten will recognize the dignity and self-worth of the human person as a child of God. They will learn about nutrition and begin to understand how their snack decisions can impact their health. Students begin to relate choices with consequences. They will learn proper nutrition and how to prepare simple healthy snacks.
Improvisation
This class allows students to take initiative and demonstrate Christian leadership. It offers in depth instruction on how to present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others. It will teach students flexibility and promote a confident and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others. Improvisation helps students develop logical thinking and organizational skills, establish correct and effective voice habits, develop respect for listening as a medium of learning and help to eliminate fear of a speech situation. Students will develop skills in writing speeches for a variety of purposes: informative, persuasive, entertainment, special occasions, group communication, readers’ theatre, and debate.
Knights of the Round Table/Boys Class
The Knights of the Round Table teaches the concept of Knighthood based on virtue. Boys will have a great time participating in this all boy class and growing in their faith. They will build a suit of armor - the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the breastplate of righteousness. Throughout the class they will listen to stories of knights and learn how to model good behavior based on these examples.
Language Arts
The language arts program is the foundation of academic instruction in the Catholic elementary school. Retaining our Catholic identity is critical in the selection of reading and writing materials that we utilize with the students. The reading/language arts program incorporates the receptive language arts: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Languages: Introduction to French
In our global society, students’ knowledge of world languages is crucial for communicating and realizing the Kingdom of God on earth. This class will introduce a unique approach to getting kids started in French that is as fun as it is easy. There will be loads of fun games, activities, and songs that let them learn about the French culture and use its language into their everyday life.
Languages: Introduction to Spanish
In our global society, students’ knowledge of world languages is crucial for communicating and realizing the Kingdom of God on earth. This class will introduce a unique approach to getting kids started in Spanish that is as fun as it is easy. There will be loads of fun games, activities, and songs that let them learn about the Spanish culture and use its language into their everyday life.
Little House on the Prairie - Learning with Ingalls Wilder
Students will explore God’s creations and reinforce good family values through one of their favorite authors, Laura Ingalls Wilder. They will practice listening, speaking, writing, and reading, while increasing their vocabulary and demonstrating a comprehension of literature. Students will see how many gifts God has given them based on the daily life of the Ingalls.
Math - Famous Mathematicians
Mathematics is recognized as a great example of the expansion of God’s gift of the human mind for the betterment of all mankind. In today’s global society, we are challenged to fully understand and expand mathematical accomplishments to assure a peaceful, productive and more equitable world. Everyday lives are increasingly mathematical and technological. This class will help students understand and apply quantitative skills and solving real-life problems.
This class will famous mathematicians like Einstein, Newton, Descrate, Pythagoras, Pascal, Euclid, Archimedes.
Math – Math Puzzles and Games
Mathematics is recognized as a great example of the expansion of God’s gift of the human mind for the betterment of all mankind. In today’s global society, we are challenged to fully understand and expand mathematical accomplishments to assure a peaceful, productive and more equitable world. Everyday lives are increasingly mathematical and technological. This class will work on reinforcing and memorizing math facts, and solving real-life problems, and developing a love of mathematics.
Music - Choir
Music instruction continues to be cited as a profoundly positive element of educating young students. As St. Augustine said, “He who sings prays twice.” To establish a fundamental base, this class will incorporate these instructional objectives conducive to music education: performance and production, cultural context and music theory, and analysis and critique.
NASA Engineering & Building
Advancements in our rapidly changing world necessitate the acquisition of technological skills to enable students to function in the 21st Century. As lifelong learners and followers of Jesus, students should strive to become citizens who are capable of making significant contributions to our global society. Children will learn the basics of space and NASA exploration.
Playful Learning for Tots
God grants us the intellect to know, to care for, and to protect the body that houses His image. For students, this is learned when schools promote and model lifetime wellness by teaching health concepts and physical fitness activities. Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle need to be everyday priorities. Young children are very active and enjoy learning and mastering new ways to move and be active.
Quilting - Simple Hand Sewing
Each of us has the capacity for thinking and living artistically. Pope John Paul II, in his 1999 letter to the artists stated that “the arts draw our children closer to God.” God has endowed each of us with talents and gifts which God expects us to develop and use to the best of our ability. Through quilting and hand sewing we become active participants in continuing God’s creation in ourselves and in our society.
Science of the Elements
God has planted within human nature the desire to know and understand, to learn and explore and to seek the answers to the questions of the world around us. Science is an area of the curriculum where that desire can be fostered by allowing students to explore and discover the wonders of their world. Students will gain a better understanding of the role science plays in our lives. In this science course students will focus on general chemistry, elements, and geology.
Science of Simple Machines
God has planted within human nature the desire to know and understand, to learn and explore and to seek the answers to the questions of the world around us. Science is an area of the curriculum where that desire can be fostered by allowing students to explore and discover the wonders of their world As lifelong learners and followers of Jesus, students should strive to become citizens who are capable of making significant contributions to our global society. In this case students will learn the basics of building and the science of simple machines to advance their technology interests and skills.
Self Defense for Ladies
Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle need to be everyday priorities. Young children are very active and enjoy learning and mastering new ways to move and be active. In Self Defense for Ladies, students will be taught to properly defend themselves to promote personal safety.
World Languages - Spanish/French
The teaching of world languages provides a variety of benefits. Languages teach listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture with emphasis on communication. These classes will expose students to the beauty and richness of other languages and civilizations and strengthen their cognitive thinking skills. They will also reinforce English grammar. Study of a world language creates citizens who will learn to accept, understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures.
Writing - IEW Creative
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. In this class, students will use creative writing to transformed from reluctant writers to competent, confident communicators.
Writing - IEW Basics
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. In this case, students will be introduced to the basis of IEW through the book “All Things Fun and Fascinating” and will create a book of short stories based on their in-class work.
Writing – Yearbook & Journalism
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. This class will cover a variety of journalism aspects including: researching, reporting, interviewing, writing, taking photos and developing and editing the yearbook.
Course Descriptions - School Year 2013 - 2014
Art - Art & Poetry (Grades - Open)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
The course will present a basic introduction to poetry. A wide variety of poets will be included such as; Longfellow, Tennyson, Robert Frost, E.B. Browning, Robert Lewis, Stevenson, Emily Dickinson and The Books of Psalms. The class format will include reading poets, listening to classical music, and simple art projects.
Art - Art History (Grades 3-5)
Instructor: Jarilyn Van Atten
This course will have dynamic art projects for fun and learning. Class is designed to delight and challenge the children. We will study different famous artists and apply what we learned. This course will include printmaking techniques, tessellations, watercolors, calligraphic lines, organic form sculptures, and value collages. We will explore the elements of texture, color, shape, line, form, and value, and principles such as balance (formal, informal and radial,) unity, contrast, movement, distortion, emphasis, pattern and rhythm.
Art – Drawing (Grades – Open)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
This class will be an imaginative, informative class will help students to draw with ease. We will work with contour drawing techniques and learn the basic elements of shapes (lines, dots, circles) and see how to combine them to make familiar forms. They will find out how to produce the illusion of volume with shading techniques.
Art – Dynamic Art (Grades - Open)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
This course will have dynamic art projects for fun and learning. Class is designed to delight and challenge the children. The children will learn to use many different art media. A resource for this class will be “Dynamic Art Projects for Children” by Denise M. Logan and “Art Is Fundamental: Teaching the Elements and Principles of Art in Elementary School” by Eileen S. Prince. This course will include printmaking techniques, tessellations, watercolors, calligraphic lines, organic form sculptures, and value collages. The detailed lessons—developed and tested in class—build on one another in a logical progression and explore the elements of texture, color, shape, line, form, and value, and principles such as balance (formal, informal and radial,) unity, contrast, movement, distortion, emphasis, pattern and rhythm. Each project represents an interdisciplinary approach that improves general vocabulary and supports science, math, social studies, and language arts.
Art – Recyclable Art (Grades – Open)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will make art pieces out of recycled materials. Just about anything we thinks as trash can be transformed into an art project good enough to give as a gift or to keep and treasure for yourself. Come see how to make art out of paper, plastic, metal and cloth we usually consign to the recycling bin or the garbage can. Just about everything around us holds artistic possibilities.
Catholicism – Father Barron DVDs & Bible Study (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
The class will be based on Father Barron’s Catholicism DVDs. Students will watch 30 minutes of the video then use the Study Program to discuss the topics raised. Here is more on the DVDs series. This is a “presentation of what Catholics believe and why, so all can come to a deeper understanding of the Catholic Faith. This engaging and interesting formational program uses the art, architecture, literature, music and all the treasures of the Catholic tradition to illuminate the timeless teachings of the Church.”
Character Enrichment Class: The Big, the Bad, the Beautiful (Grades 4-8)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will utilize therapeutic games for self- awareness. The students will play one game each class to learn about themselves, build self-awareness, self-confidence and finally, character. We will work with conflict resolution and anti-bullying games. Students will learn to use games and problems to build character, trust, and leadership with their classmates. Students will work on effective team building skills and conflict resolution while performing physical, mental, and relationship challenges. This will be a fun game-based class to teach “life’s lessons.”
Criminal Justice and the Courts in America (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
Step into American’s criminal justice system! The instructor has over 26 years in the federal criminal justice system. This class will explore what is like to be a detective, a prosecutor, a defense attorney, a judge and more. We will look at our criminal justice system from a realistic viewpoint. Students will gain an understanding of what it is like to work in and be part of the American criminal justice system. We will understand each person’s important role developing a case and bring it through the court process. The class will explore the pivotal role the criminal courts and the importance and impact it plays on a society as a whole.
Environmental (Grades 1-3, 4-6)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
Students will learn how nature works, how they interact with it, and how they can use various scientific principles based on how nature has sustained life on the earth. The class will include food and water production, alternative energy sources, endangered species, land-use issues and much more.
Etiquette (Grades 3rd & Up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Good manners for eating (formally) at someone’s house, proper posture, etc. We will discuss clever and insightful ways to respond to a myriad of situations where thoughtfulness counts. We will also learn tips for communicating in the digital world.
Geography – All Fifty States (Grades 3-6)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
In this class, students will learn all fifty states and fun facts and trivia about the history, geography and landmarks. From California to Washington all the way to Maine and Florida, this class has it all. We will have fun puzzles, mazes, and games as we take go on an unforgettable journey across the USA.
Great Philosophers (Grades 4th and up)
Instructor: Anita Madhava
This class will give students the opportunity to become acquainted with the classical philosophers throughout history. We will review the important philosophers in western civilizations including Plato, Descartes, Spinoza, Kant, Hegel, Dewey, Sartre and many others.
Healthy Habits (Grades 3rd and Up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
A (re)view of the health component to life. We will cover basic physiology and biomechanics, dealing with sickness, good diet, proper posture, basic first aid, etc.
History – American History WWII to Present (Grades 8th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
The class will summarize and place in perspective key events and people from World War II through the course of the twentieth century, and concluding with today’s post 9/11 crisis. Student will learn the central themes and events that shared American history during this period. The class will include lecture, discussion, and period documentaries.
History – Colonial History (1600-1790) (Grades 4th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
With hands on projects and activities from the days of colonial America, this class will be fun and exciting. Spend some time living in Virginia colonial times. Along the way, we will see how to play games, make toys and crafts, and perform lots of interesting and challenging everyday activities. Churn some butter, whip up a batch of tasty maple cream treats, write with a quill pen you make yourself, learn how to dip candles and play popular games like Jackstraws, Crack the Egg and Sheep Over the Fence. This class will be filled with interesting historical information and fun facts about growing up in days gone by.
Human Anatomy and Physiology (Grades 1-3)
Instructor: Anita Madhava
Students will come to understand the meanings of the terms in anatomy and physiology. Get to know the boy’s anatomical structures, and gain insight into how the structures and systems function in sickness and health. We will review case studies and current references.
I Dare You (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
Are you ready for a dare? The goal of this course is to (1) challenged to be “your own self, at your best, all the time" and (2) think about those around them—at home, in their community, and abroad. The class is basis on the book by the same title. We will bring alive the culture, history, and traditions of different people groups—from the frozen Arctic to the hottest desert, on the highest mountains, and in crowded cities. Take the challenge and lay a foundation that your student can build on for the rest of his/her life.
IEW Journal & Creative Writing (Grade 1-3)
Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales
Instructor: Terri Hood
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)
The course is offered to elementary student and given by an IEW Certified Instructor. Using Maria Gerber's Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales, students will work in groups to retell and rewrite stories. They will learn about key word outlines and compose original writings based on classic tales. “This resource infuses the acclaimed Teaching Writing: Structure and Style method with classic children's literature. Characters and adventures will capture your students' imaginations and provide rich writing content. Students learn how to take notes, summarize narrative stories, summarize references, write from pictures and compose their own fables, myths and fairy tales.”
IEW Journalism Basics (Grade 7th grade and up)
In this class, students will help plan the yearbook. They will use IEW's, Journalism Basics and "discover what it takes to be a journalist...Junior high and high school students will learn how to communicate current events to a wide audience...While writing articles for the yearbook, they will learn the principles of journalism such as conducting interviews and writing news, features, and opinion pieces. With self-directed instruction and hands-on assignments, journalism students will be able to better understand world views.
IEW Poetry and Grammar (Grade 4-8)
Instructor: Terri Hood
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)
The course is offered to elementary students and given by an IEW Certified Instructor. Using Matt Whitling's The Grammar of Poetry, students will compose poetry using key word outlines and classic elements of literature. “This text focuses on teaching the fundamentals of poetry: figurative language, meter, rhyme, etc. by means of imitation and review." Students will learn about different types of poems, how to read poetry, take notes, and compose their own poems.
Inventors & Inventions (Grade 4th and Up)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
We will learn about various inventors throughout history then recreate their inventions during class time.
Knitting Basics (Grades Open)
Instructor: Terri Hood
This easy, beginner class, student are given step-by-step instructions to begin knitting. They will learn the fundamentals: knitting tools, finger-knitting, and basic stitches such as knit, purl , mattress, overcast, embroidery, and stockinette. We will emphasize fun in every step of the learning process. Best of all, the students will get to keep and use whatever they make: bookmark, bracelets, or a coin purse.
Language Arts (Grades K–2)
Instructor: Catherine Vanlandingham
Thematic language based activity with simple art crafts. Language instruction for children can be enriched when we use thematic units that focus on content rich information, engage students in activities in which they think and have fun. We will provide opportunities for student to use language in fun and new ways.
Logic and Rhetoric – Debate Team (Grades 9th and up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
This course will be an introduction (or review) of classic logic and rhetoric. We will develop debate teams and discuss classical debate models. We will work on movement and speaking in order to learn the art of public presentation.
Music - Story of the Orchestra (Grades PreK - 1)
Instructor: Marilyn O’Leary
This course will use “Story of the Orchestra” by Robert Levine. The course will guide students through a delightful musical journey. It will be divided into two major parts: composers from Vivaldi to Bernstein and their associated musical periods, and the instruments of the orchestra. The class will have interesting and humorous information about the men, their music, and corresponding historical events. We will play musical selections for students to listen to at specific times during the course. These selections are short enough to keep young listeners' attention. This course will be a fun way to travel through the world of music.
Music Appreciation (Grades Open)
Instructor: Marilyn O’Leary
Musical skills training will be emphasized, including phonation, diction, respiration, expression, and music reading. Ensemble members will prepare for concerts at the SCA Festival. Some work may be required outside of class.
Math - Montessori Math (Grades K-2)
Instructor: Catherine Vanlandingham
This course will be offered for lower elementary children. We will use pattern blocks, create pictures, make tessellations with post-it pads, and explore basic math concepts.
Math - Advanced Math - Mathematicians are People Too (Level 1 Grades 5-8 and Level 2 Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Mrs. Carol Dinan
This class will be based on the book by the same title. We will cover Volume One this year. Here is the write up from the book. “Volume One focuses on moments of mathematical discovery experienced by Thales, Pythagoras, Hypanthia, Galileo, Pascal, and others. “ Some basic knowledge of Algebra is useful, but not required. Come with us and we take a ride through history.
Myths and Legends (Grades 3-5)
Instructor: Mary Montenquin
The class will retell the stories central to every culture that have been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years. We will include well-known tales of the Ancient Greeks which lead to the phrase such as “Achilles’ heel.” Using Greek mythology and Roman mythology, students will discover the stories behind some of our most famous lore. Find out that even the “boogie man” has it origins in ancient stories. Students will learn to see these stories in the cultures that created them and pull fact from fiction.
Playful Learning for Tots (Nursery)
Supervisory Mom: Catherine Bloch
This will be free play for children in the nursery and around the church grounds. The children will have story time, puzzles, drawing, felt sewing, blocks building, and pretend play during these class periods.
Science – History of Science (Grades 7th and up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Science is a tree about which many know only the fruit. This class will explore the unknown and /or misunderstood roots of various theorems and theories in math and science throughout history.
Science – Contemporary Science (Grades 4-6)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Explore the “goings on” in modern day scientific research and development. 2000 A.D. onwards. We will look at famous scientist and have lively classroom discussion.
Science – Laboratory Science (Grades 3rd and up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Slice, dice, and spice up your lab skills with hands-on exploration! We’ll dissect as many creatures as we can get our hands on (fish, squid, cow eye, eggs, sea urchin, grasshopper, starfish, lobster, octopus, frog, earthworm, sheep organs . . .). We will also cover proper research techniques, execute experiments, and design our own.
Sewing Class (Grades 4-6)
Instructor: Lixandra Rosario
We’ll start with hand sewing techniques, move on to machine sewing, pattern selection, fabric cutting and steps required in the construction process. We’ll talk about what’s quality workmanship is, the logic of dressing, options to embellish simple projects. We’ll complete at least three projects (tote, pillowcase, apron, skirt). We need sewing machines. I have two full-size machines and I’m getting at least three small ones we can use in class.
“Snack Attack” Cooking (Grades Up to 2nd)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This course will focus on the fundamentals of cooking with lots of fun and delicious treats as a reward. Young cooks will learn to use measuring cups, cutting tools, peelers, and much more.
Tin Cups & Tinder: A Catholic Boy’s Little Book of Fire, Fun & Food (Grades Open - Boys)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
This class will use the book by the same title by Alice Cantrell. Here is the basis of the class. “. . . to casually introduce a few domestic survival skills to our boys using useful recipes and projects all lightly seasoned with the rich flavors of our Faith. It is not meant to be a home economics text, but a first taste of what fun adventures cooking and (very) basic stitching can be. It is my hope that this book will spark an interest in these things, and as they get older, our boys might be more inclined to further develop these skills.”
Weather Systems (Grades 1-3)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will focus on weather and storm systems. Where do we get weather systems? Do we know when it is going to rain? Come and explore with hands on experiments and fun projects to will get everyone looking up.
CLUB TIME
Shakespeare (Grades 3rd and Up)
Director: Kim Wood
This club will study and perform Shakespeare’s plays. Members will look at voice, speech, movement and poise. There will be attention to theatre history, historical content of the play, costume and set design. The class will also visit the Shakespearean Theater.
Odyssey of the Mind (Grades – Primary, Div. 1, Div. II and Div. III)
Coaches: Mary Montequin
Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program sponsored by NASA. It provides team members with creative problem-solving opportunities from kindergarten through college. Thousands of teams from throughout the world participate in the program. For more information go to www.odysseyofthemind.com.
Speech and Debate Team
Coaches: Renee Fornshill
Club members will learn tools and strategies necessary for students to excel at classical debate. We will use smart tips and simple tricks to make debate interesting and fun. The student will learn what it takes to win a classical debate: develop solid arguments and counter the other team’s points. We will cover parliamentary, cross-examination, and forum styles of debate.
Film Club
Leader: Catherine Vanlandingham
Come relax and watching an afternoon film. We will ask the group for suggestions (family-friendly, faith orientated movies are always welcome). Popcorn and snacks might be in our future. Come join the film club.
Sewing Club
Leader: Lixandra Rosario
Catholicism
The purpose of this course is to give students a general knowledge and appreciation of the Sacred Scriptures. Through their study they will come to encounter the living Word of God, Jesus Christ. In the course they will learn about the Bible, authored by God through Inspiration, and its value to people throughout the world.
Choir
Music instruction continues to be cited as a profoundly positive element of educating young students. As St. Augustine said, “He who sings prays twice.” To establish a fundamental base, this class will incorporate these instructional objectives conducive to music education: Performance and Production, Cultural Context and Music Theory, and Analysis and Critique.
Constitutional Law/Criminal Justice
This course examines law (with emphasis on the US Constitution), and how law guides our government and affects our everyday life. It examines the Presidency, Congress, the Judiciary, criminal law, court case studies, foreign policy, National Defense, state and local government, and the principles of citizenship. This class will provide a practical understanding of law and the legal system that will be of use to students in their everyday lives. It will also promote awareness of current issues and controversies relating to law and the legal system. Students will learn to think critically and use their Catholic moral teachings to make political decisions.
Geography - Mapping the World
We are called to teach the importance of geography and the environment in the lives of the entire world's people. This course works to improve the student's knowledge of both the physical and cultural world. The study of the human and environmental interactions of any group of people can help us to better understand them and to evaluate with our students the scriptural and global responsibility to be stewards, caretakers of the earth.
Healthy Snacks
Students in preschool and kindergarten will recognize the dignity and self-worth of the human person as a child of God. They will learn about nutrition and begin to understand how their snack decisions can impact their health. Students begin to relate choices with consequences. They will learn proper nutrition and how to prepare simple healthy snacks.
Improvisation
This class allows students to take initiative and demonstrate Christian leadership. It offers in depth instruction on how to present information and ideas clearly and honestly and with sensitivity to others. It will teach students flexibility and promote a confident and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others. Improvisation helps students develop logical thinking and organizational skills, establish correct and effective voice habits, develop respect for listening as a medium of learning and help to eliminate fear of a speech situation. Students will develop skills in writing speeches for a variety of purposes: informative, persuasive, entertainment, special occasions, group communication, readers’ theatre, and debate.
Knights of the Round Table/Boys Class
The Knights of the Round Table teaches the concept of Knighthood based on virtue. Boys will have a great time participating in this all boy class and growing in their faith. They will build a suit of armor - the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the breastplate of righteousness. Throughout the class they will listen to stories of knights and learn how to model good behavior based on these examples.
Language Arts
The language arts program is the foundation of academic instruction in the Catholic elementary school. Retaining our Catholic identity is critical in the selection of reading and writing materials that we utilize with the students. The reading/language arts program incorporates the receptive language arts: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Languages: Introduction to French
In our global society, students’ knowledge of world languages is crucial for communicating and realizing the Kingdom of God on earth. This class will introduce a unique approach to getting kids started in French that is as fun as it is easy. There will be loads of fun games, activities, and songs that let them learn about the French culture and use its language into their everyday life.
Languages: Introduction to Spanish
In our global society, students’ knowledge of world languages is crucial for communicating and realizing the Kingdom of God on earth. This class will introduce a unique approach to getting kids started in Spanish that is as fun as it is easy. There will be loads of fun games, activities, and songs that let them learn about the Spanish culture and use its language into their everyday life.
Little House on the Prairie - Learning with Ingalls Wilder
Students will explore God’s creations and reinforce good family values through one of their favorite authors, Laura Ingalls Wilder. They will practice listening, speaking, writing, and reading, while increasing their vocabulary and demonstrating a comprehension of literature. Students will see how many gifts God has given them based on the daily life of the Ingalls.
Math - Famous Mathematicians
Mathematics is recognized as a great example of the expansion of God’s gift of the human mind for the betterment of all mankind. In today’s global society, we are challenged to fully understand and expand mathematical accomplishments to assure a peaceful, productive and more equitable world. Everyday lives are increasingly mathematical and technological. This class will help students understand and apply quantitative skills and solving real-life problems.
This class will famous mathematicians like Einstein, Newton, Descrate, Pythagoras, Pascal, Euclid, Archimedes.
Math – Math Puzzles and Games
Mathematics is recognized as a great example of the expansion of God’s gift of the human mind for the betterment of all mankind. In today’s global society, we are challenged to fully understand and expand mathematical accomplishments to assure a peaceful, productive and more equitable world. Everyday lives are increasingly mathematical and technological. This class will work on reinforcing and memorizing math facts, and solving real-life problems, and developing a love of mathematics.
Music - Choir
Music instruction continues to be cited as a profoundly positive element of educating young students. As St. Augustine said, “He who sings prays twice.” To establish a fundamental base, this class will incorporate these instructional objectives conducive to music education: performance and production, cultural context and music theory, and analysis and critique.
NASA Engineering & Building
Advancements in our rapidly changing world necessitate the acquisition of technological skills to enable students to function in the 21st Century. As lifelong learners and followers of Jesus, students should strive to become citizens who are capable of making significant contributions to our global society. Children will learn the basics of space and NASA exploration.
Playful Learning for Tots
God grants us the intellect to know, to care for, and to protect the body that houses His image. For students, this is learned when schools promote and model lifetime wellness by teaching health concepts and physical fitness activities. Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle need to be everyday priorities. Young children are very active and enjoy learning and mastering new ways to move and be active.
Quilting - Simple Hand Sewing
Each of us has the capacity for thinking and living artistically. Pope John Paul II, in his 1999 letter to the artists stated that “the arts draw our children closer to God.” God has endowed each of us with talents and gifts which God expects us to develop and use to the best of our ability. Through quilting and hand sewing we become active participants in continuing God’s creation in ourselves and in our society.
Science of the Elements
God has planted within human nature the desire to know and understand, to learn and explore and to seek the answers to the questions of the world around us. Science is an area of the curriculum where that desire can be fostered by allowing students to explore and discover the wonders of their world. Students will gain a better understanding of the role science plays in our lives. In this science course students will focus on general chemistry, elements, and geology.
Science of Simple Machines
God has planted within human nature the desire to know and understand, to learn and explore and to seek the answers to the questions of the world around us. Science is an area of the curriculum where that desire can be fostered by allowing students to explore and discover the wonders of their world As lifelong learners and followers of Jesus, students should strive to become citizens who are capable of making significant contributions to our global society. In this case students will learn the basics of building and the science of simple machines to advance their technology interests and skills.
Self Defense for Ladies
Physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle need to be everyday priorities. Young children are very active and enjoy learning and mastering new ways to move and be active. In Self Defense for Ladies, students will be taught to properly defend themselves to promote personal safety.
World Languages - Spanish/French
The teaching of world languages provides a variety of benefits. Languages teach listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture with emphasis on communication. These classes will expose students to the beauty and richness of other languages and civilizations and strengthen their cognitive thinking skills. They will also reinforce English grammar. Study of a world language creates citizens who will learn to accept, understand and appreciate the diversity of cultures.
Writing - IEW Creative
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. In this class, students will use creative writing to transformed from reluctant writers to competent, confident communicators.
Writing - IEW Basics
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. In this case, students will be introduced to the basis of IEW through the book “All Things Fun and Fascinating” and will create a book of short stories based on their in-class work.
Writing – Yearbook & Journalism
Like the Daughters of St. Paul, it is in communication that we seek to become holy and to help others become holy. In order to do this, children must hone the skills needed to communicate confidently and effectively. Through the process of learning to write well, students learn how to think clearly and to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. Writing successfully equips students of all ages and levels of ability. Writing not only builds oral communication skills, but it also improves critical thinking. This class will cover a variety of journalism aspects including: researching, reporting, interviewing, writing, taking photos and developing and editing the yearbook.
Course Descriptions - School Year 2013 - 2014
Art - Art & Poetry (Grades - Open)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
The course will present a basic introduction to poetry. A wide variety of poets will be included such as; Longfellow, Tennyson, Robert Frost, E.B. Browning, Robert Lewis, Stevenson, Emily Dickinson and The Books of Psalms. The class format will include reading poets, listening to classical music, and simple art projects.
Art - Art History (Grades 3-5)
Instructor: Jarilyn Van Atten
This course will have dynamic art projects for fun and learning. Class is designed to delight and challenge the children. We will study different famous artists and apply what we learned. This course will include printmaking techniques, tessellations, watercolors, calligraphic lines, organic form sculptures, and value collages. We will explore the elements of texture, color, shape, line, form, and value, and principles such as balance (formal, informal and radial,) unity, contrast, movement, distortion, emphasis, pattern and rhythm.
Art – Drawing (Grades – Open)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
This class will be an imaginative, informative class will help students to draw with ease. We will work with contour drawing techniques and learn the basic elements of shapes (lines, dots, circles) and see how to combine them to make familiar forms. They will find out how to produce the illusion of volume with shading techniques.
Art – Dynamic Art (Grades - Open)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
This course will have dynamic art projects for fun and learning. Class is designed to delight and challenge the children. The children will learn to use many different art media. A resource for this class will be “Dynamic Art Projects for Children” by Denise M. Logan and “Art Is Fundamental: Teaching the Elements and Principles of Art in Elementary School” by Eileen S. Prince. This course will include printmaking techniques, tessellations, watercolors, calligraphic lines, organic form sculptures, and value collages. The detailed lessons—developed and tested in class—build on one another in a logical progression and explore the elements of texture, color, shape, line, form, and value, and principles such as balance (formal, informal and radial,) unity, contrast, movement, distortion, emphasis, pattern and rhythm. Each project represents an interdisciplinary approach that improves general vocabulary and supports science, math, social studies, and language arts.
Art – Recyclable Art (Grades – Open)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will make art pieces out of recycled materials. Just about anything we thinks as trash can be transformed into an art project good enough to give as a gift or to keep and treasure for yourself. Come see how to make art out of paper, plastic, metal and cloth we usually consign to the recycling bin or the garbage can. Just about everything around us holds artistic possibilities.
Catholicism – Father Barron DVDs & Bible Study (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
The class will be based on Father Barron’s Catholicism DVDs. Students will watch 30 minutes of the video then use the Study Program to discuss the topics raised. Here is more on the DVDs series. This is a “presentation of what Catholics believe and why, so all can come to a deeper understanding of the Catholic Faith. This engaging and interesting formational program uses the art, architecture, literature, music and all the treasures of the Catholic tradition to illuminate the timeless teachings of the Church.”
Character Enrichment Class: The Big, the Bad, the Beautiful (Grades 4-8)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will utilize therapeutic games for self- awareness. The students will play one game each class to learn about themselves, build self-awareness, self-confidence and finally, character. We will work with conflict resolution and anti-bullying games. Students will learn to use games and problems to build character, trust, and leadership with their classmates. Students will work on effective team building skills and conflict resolution while performing physical, mental, and relationship challenges. This will be a fun game-based class to teach “life’s lessons.”
Criminal Justice and the Courts in America (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
Step into American’s criminal justice system! The instructor has over 26 years in the federal criminal justice system. This class will explore what is like to be a detective, a prosecutor, a defense attorney, a judge and more. We will look at our criminal justice system from a realistic viewpoint. Students will gain an understanding of what it is like to work in and be part of the American criminal justice system. We will understand each person’s important role developing a case and bring it through the court process. The class will explore the pivotal role the criminal courts and the importance and impact it plays on a society as a whole.
Environmental (Grades 1-3, 4-6)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
Students will learn how nature works, how they interact with it, and how they can use various scientific principles based on how nature has sustained life on the earth. The class will include food and water production, alternative energy sources, endangered species, land-use issues and much more.
Etiquette (Grades 3rd & Up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Good manners for eating (formally) at someone’s house, proper posture, etc. We will discuss clever and insightful ways to respond to a myriad of situations where thoughtfulness counts. We will also learn tips for communicating in the digital world.
Geography – All Fifty States (Grades 3-6)
Instructor: Colleen Betker
In this class, students will learn all fifty states and fun facts and trivia about the history, geography and landmarks. From California to Washington all the way to Maine and Florida, this class has it all. We will have fun puzzles, mazes, and games as we take go on an unforgettable journey across the USA.
Great Philosophers (Grades 4th and up)
Instructor: Anita Madhava
This class will give students the opportunity to become acquainted with the classical philosophers throughout history. We will review the important philosophers in western civilizations including Plato, Descartes, Spinoza, Kant, Hegel, Dewey, Sartre and many others.
Healthy Habits (Grades 3rd and Up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
A (re)view of the health component to life. We will cover basic physiology and biomechanics, dealing with sickness, good diet, proper posture, basic first aid, etc.
History – American History WWII to Present (Grades 8th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
The class will summarize and place in perspective key events and people from World War II through the course of the twentieth century, and concluding with today’s post 9/11 crisis. Student will learn the central themes and events that shared American history during this period. The class will include lecture, discussion, and period documentaries.
History – Colonial History (1600-1790) (Grades 4th and Up)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
With hands on projects and activities from the days of colonial America, this class will be fun and exciting. Spend some time living in Virginia colonial times. Along the way, we will see how to play games, make toys and crafts, and perform lots of interesting and challenging everyday activities. Churn some butter, whip up a batch of tasty maple cream treats, write with a quill pen you make yourself, learn how to dip candles and play popular games like Jackstraws, Crack the Egg and Sheep Over the Fence. This class will be filled with interesting historical information and fun facts about growing up in days gone by.
Human Anatomy and Physiology (Grades 1-3)
Instructor: Anita Madhava
Students will come to understand the meanings of the terms in anatomy and physiology. Get to know the boy’s anatomical structures, and gain insight into how the structures and systems function in sickness and health. We will review case studies and current references.
I Dare You (Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
Are you ready for a dare? The goal of this course is to (1) challenged to be “your own self, at your best, all the time" and (2) think about those around them—at home, in their community, and abroad. The class is basis on the book by the same title. We will bring alive the culture, history, and traditions of different people groups—from the frozen Arctic to the hottest desert, on the highest mountains, and in crowded cities. Take the challenge and lay a foundation that your student can build on for the rest of his/her life.
IEW Journal & Creative Writing (Grade 1-3)
Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales
Instructor: Terri Hood
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)
The course is offered to elementary student and given by an IEW Certified Instructor. Using Maria Gerber's Fables, Myths, and Fairy Tales, students will work in groups to retell and rewrite stories. They will learn about key word outlines and compose original writings based on classic tales. “This resource infuses the acclaimed Teaching Writing: Structure and Style method with classic children's literature. Characters and adventures will capture your students' imaginations and provide rich writing content. Students learn how to take notes, summarize narrative stories, summarize references, write from pictures and compose their own fables, myths and fairy tales.”
IEW Journalism Basics (Grade 7th grade and up)
In this class, students will help plan the yearbook. They will use IEW's, Journalism Basics and "discover what it takes to be a journalist...Junior high and high school students will learn how to communicate current events to a wide audience...While writing articles for the yearbook, they will learn the principles of journalism such as conducting interviews and writing news, features, and opinion pieces. With self-directed instruction and hands-on assignments, journalism students will be able to better understand world views.
IEW Poetry and Grammar (Grade 4-8)
Instructor: Terri Hood
Institute for Excellence in Writing (IEW)
The course is offered to elementary students and given by an IEW Certified Instructor. Using Matt Whitling's The Grammar of Poetry, students will compose poetry using key word outlines and classic elements of literature. “This text focuses on teaching the fundamentals of poetry: figurative language, meter, rhyme, etc. by means of imitation and review." Students will learn about different types of poems, how to read poetry, take notes, and compose their own poems.
Inventors & Inventions (Grade 4th and Up)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
We will learn about various inventors throughout history then recreate their inventions during class time.
Knitting Basics (Grades Open)
Instructor: Terri Hood
This easy, beginner class, student are given step-by-step instructions to begin knitting. They will learn the fundamentals: knitting tools, finger-knitting, and basic stitches such as knit, purl , mattress, overcast, embroidery, and stockinette. We will emphasize fun in every step of the learning process. Best of all, the students will get to keep and use whatever they make: bookmark, bracelets, or a coin purse.
Language Arts (Grades K–2)
Instructor: Catherine Vanlandingham
Thematic language based activity with simple art crafts. Language instruction for children can be enriched when we use thematic units that focus on content rich information, engage students in activities in which they think and have fun. We will provide opportunities for student to use language in fun and new ways.
Logic and Rhetoric – Debate Team (Grades 9th and up)
Instructor: Renee Fornshill
This course will be an introduction (or review) of classic logic and rhetoric. We will develop debate teams and discuss classical debate models. We will work on movement and speaking in order to learn the art of public presentation.
Music - Story of the Orchestra (Grades PreK - 1)
Instructor: Marilyn O’Leary
This course will use “Story of the Orchestra” by Robert Levine. The course will guide students through a delightful musical journey. It will be divided into two major parts: composers from Vivaldi to Bernstein and their associated musical periods, and the instruments of the orchestra. The class will have interesting and humorous information about the men, their music, and corresponding historical events. We will play musical selections for students to listen to at specific times during the course. These selections are short enough to keep young listeners' attention. This course will be a fun way to travel through the world of music.
Music Appreciation (Grades Open)
Instructor: Marilyn O’Leary
Musical skills training will be emphasized, including phonation, diction, respiration, expression, and music reading. Ensemble members will prepare for concerts at the SCA Festival. Some work may be required outside of class.
Math - Montessori Math (Grades K-2)
Instructor: Catherine Vanlandingham
This course will be offered for lower elementary children. We will use pattern blocks, create pictures, make tessellations with post-it pads, and explore basic math concepts.
Math - Advanced Math - Mathematicians are People Too (Level 1 Grades 5-8 and Level 2 Grades 7th and Up)
Instructor: Mrs. Carol Dinan
This class will be based on the book by the same title. We will cover Volume One this year. Here is the write up from the book. “Volume One focuses on moments of mathematical discovery experienced by Thales, Pythagoras, Hypanthia, Galileo, Pascal, and others. “ Some basic knowledge of Algebra is useful, but not required. Come with us and we take a ride through history.
Myths and Legends (Grades 3-5)
Instructor: Mary Montenquin
The class will retell the stories central to every culture that have been passed down from generation to generation for thousands of years. We will include well-known tales of the Ancient Greeks which lead to the phrase such as “Achilles’ heel.” Using Greek mythology and Roman mythology, students will discover the stories behind some of our most famous lore. Find out that even the “boogie man” has it origins in ancient stories. Students will learn to see these stories in the cultures that created them and pull fact from fiction.
Playful Learning for Tots (Nursery)
Supervisory Mom: Catherine Bloch
This will be free play for children in the nursery and around the church grounds. The children will have story time, puzzles, drawing, felt sewing, blocks building, and pretend play during these class periods.
Science – History of Science (Grades 7th and up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Science is a tree about which many know only the fruit. This class will explore the unknown and /or misunderstood roots of various theorems and theories in math and science throughout history.
Science – Contemporary Science (Grades 4-6)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Explore the “goings on” in modern day scientific research and development. 2000 A.D. onwards. We will look at famous scientist and have lively classroom discussion.
Science – Laboratory Science (Grades 3rd and up)
Instructor: Priscilla Rosario
Slice, dice, and spice up your lab skills with hands-on exploration! We’ll dissect as many creatures as we can get our hands on (fish, squid, cow eye, eggs, sea urchin, grasshopper, starfish, lobster, octopus, frog, earthworm, sheep organs . . .). We will also cover proper research techniques, execute experiments, and design our own.
Sewing Class (Grades 4-6)
Instructor: Lixandra Rosario
We’ll start with hand sewing techniques, move on to machine sewing, pattern selection, fabric cutting and steps required in the construction process. We’ll talk about what’s quality workmanship is, the logic of dressing, options to embellish simple projects. We’ll complete at least three projects (tote, pillowcase, apron, skirt). We need sewing machines. I have two full-size machines and I’m getting at least three small ones we can use in class.
“Snack Attack” Cooking (Grades Up to 2nd)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This course will focus on the fundamentals of cooking with lots of fun and delicious treats as a reward. Young cooks will learn to use measuring cups, cutting tools, peelers, and much more.
Tin Cups & Tinder: A Catholic Boy’s Little Book of Fire, Fun & Food (Grades Open - Boys)
Instructor: Kevin Fornshill
This class will use the book by the same title by Alice Cantrell. Here is the basis of the class. “. . . to casually introduce a few domestic survival skills to our boys using useful recipes and projects all lightly seasoned with the rich flavors of our Faith. It is not meant to be a home economics text, but a first taste of what fun adventures cooking and (very) basic stitching can be. It is my hope that this book will spark an interest in these things, and as they get older, our boys might be more inclined to further develop these skills.”
Weather Systems (Grades 1-3)
Instructor: Mary Montequin
This class will focus on weather and storm systems. Where do we get weather systems? Do we know when it is going to rain? Come and explore with hands on experiments and fun projects to will get everyone looking up.
CLUB TIME
Shakespeare (Grades 3rd and Up)
Director: Kim Wood
This club will study and perform Shakespeare’s plays. Members will look at voice, speech, movement and poise. There will be attention to theatre history, historical content of the play, costume and set design. The class will also visit the Shakespearean Theater.
Odyssey of the Mind (Grades – Primary, Div. 1, Div. II and Div. III)
Coaches: Mary Montequin
Odyssey of the Mind is an international educational program sponsored by NASA. It provides team members with creative problem-solving opportunities from kindergarten through college. Thousands of teams from throughout the world participate in the program. For more information go to www.odysseyofthemind.com.
Speech and Debate Team
Coaches: Renee Fornshill
Club members will learn tools and strategies necessary for students to excel at classical debate. We will use smart tips and simple tricks to make debate interesting and fun. The student will learn what it takes to win a classical debate: develop solid arguments and counter the other team’s points. We will cover parliamentary, cross-examination, and forum styles of debate.
Film Club
Leader: Catherine Vanlandingham
Come relax and watching an afternoon film. We will ask the group for suggestions (family-friendly, faith orientated movies are always welcome). Popcorn and snacks might be in our future. Come join the film club.
Sewing Club
Leader: Lixandra Rosario