Fall 2024 Thursdays
3rd-5th Grade Course Descriptions
9:15-10:30 Jewish Community Center
NEW! Cosmic Explorers: Journey Through The Solar System
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 9:15-10:30
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $220
Course Overview
Welcome, young astronomers! In “Cosmic Explorers,” we’ll embark on an awe-inspiring voyage through our solar system. From the fiery sun to the icy reaches of Pluto, we’ll unravel celestial mysteries, ignite curiosity, and foster a deep sense of wonder. Buckle up, stargazers—it’s time to explore!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 9:15-10:30
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $220
Course Overview
Welcome, young astronomers! In “Cosmic Explorers,” we’ll embark on an awe-inspiring voyage through our solar system. From the fiery sun to the icy reaches of Pluto, we’ll unravel celestial mysteries, ignite curiosity, and foster a deep sense of wonder. Buckle up, stargazers—it’s time to explore!
Course Highlights:
- Sun and Stars: Understand the heart of our system—the Sun.
- Meet the planets! From Mercury (the speedster) to Neptune (the mysterious blue giant), we’ll tour each world.
- Dwarf Planets and Moons: Discover Pluto, Eris, and their moon companions.
- Asteroids and Comets: Investigate these cosmic wanderers.
- Hands-On Activities: Build a scale model of the solar system and simulate orbits.
- Stellar Stories: Hear myths and legends related to constellations.
- Celestial Art: Paint nebulae and craft cosmic collages.
- Starry Verses: Write space-inspired poems and haikus.
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Zoology: A Study Of The Animal Kingdom
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 9:15-10:30
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
Did you know some animals can fly without wings? Welcome to the captivating world of animals! In this vibrant course, young explorers learn about the diverse animal kingdom. From tiny insects to majestic mammals, we’ll investigate the mysteries of animals on Earth. This engaging class is a place where curiosity thrives!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 9:15-10:30
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
Did you know some animals can fly without wings? Welcome to the captivating world of animals! In this vibrant course, young explorers learn about the diverse animal kingdom. From tiny insects to majestic mammals, we’ll investigate the mysteries of animals on Earth. This engaging class is a place where curiosity thrives!
Course Highlights:
- Assemble an interactive notebook to record learning about vertebrates and invertebrates and all the major animal classes
- Learn content and vocabulary through lively class games and videos
- Create a Powerpoint slide show presentation
- Make a poster collage or 3D model of your choice of one of the animal classes
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
10:30-11:25 Jewish Community Center
NEW! Math Foundations: Building A Stronger Base
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 10:30-11:25
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $190
Course Overview:
In this comprehensive math reinforcement class, students will strengthen their foundational math skills. Whether your student is looking to build confidence or enhance their understanding, this course covers essential topics to set your child on the path to mathematical success. We’ll dive deep into the fundamental building blocks of math from numbers to operations.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class. 10 minutes of practice and review
Instructor: Ally Contreras
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 10:30-11:25
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $190
Course Overview:
In this comprehensive math reinforcement class, students will strengthen their foundational math skills. Whether your student is looking to build confidence or enhance their understanding, this course covers essential topics to set your child on the path to mathematical success. We’ll dive deep into the fundamental building blocks of math from numbers to operations.
Course Highlights:
- Number Sense: Develop a deep understanding of numbers and their relationships.
- Number Place Value through the Millions: Master place value concepts up to one million.
- Reading and Writing Large Numbers: Learn effective techniques for reading and writing large numbers.
- Rounding Numbers to Tens, Hundreds, and Thousands: Explore rounding strategies for tens, hundreds, and thousands.
- Distributive Property: Understand the distributive property and its applications.
- Addition & Subtraction: with regrouping
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class. 10 minutes of practice and review
Instructor: Ally Contreras
NEW! Math Foundations: Double Digit Multiplication and More!
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 10:30-11:25
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $225
Course Overview:
Let’s build a solid foundation in double-digit multiplication! In this six-week course, we delve into essential concepts that form the foundation of understanding multiplication. This course will empower your student with the tools needed to navigate this mathematical terrain confidently.
*Please note: Double-digit multiplication is not introduced in third grade. If your child has mastered multiplication or is nearing multiplication this class would be a good fit.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class and any extra assigned work.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 10:30-11:25
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $225
Course Overview:
Let’s build a solid foundation in double-digit multiplication! In this six-week course, we delve into essential concepts that form the foundation of understanding multiplication. This course will empower your student with the tools needed to navigate this mathematical terrain confidently.
*Please note: Double-digit multiplication is not introduced in third grade. If your child has mastered multiplication or is nearing multiplication this class would be a good fit.
Course Highlights:
- Strengthen Skills: Dive deep into double-dight multiplication foundational concepts.
- Build Confidence and Have Fun: Math doesn’t have to be dull. Let’s infuse joy into our learning journey.
- Multiplication vocabulary review
- Review multiplication fact practice
- Multiplying one number by up to four digits
- Multiplying two digits by two digits
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class and any extra assigned work.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
11:30-12:15 Jewish Community Center
NEW! Let’s Get Started: Foundations in Grammar
Thursday: 11:30-12:15
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $155
Course Overview
In this engaging course, young learners will explore the foundations of grammar, discover parts of speech, and embark on exciting language adventures. From sentence structure to punctuation, students will gain confidence in their language abilities while having a blast!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Light homework, mainly complete work not finished in class
Instructor: Coming Soon!
Thursday: 11:30-12:15
5 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 10 (No Class Oct 3)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $155
Course Overview
In this engaging course, young learners will explore the foundations of grammar, discover parts of speech, and embark on exciting language adventures. From sentence structure to punctuation, students will gain confidence in their language abilities while having a blast!
Course Highlights:
- Explore nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and more!
- Master these of periods, question marks, exclamation points, and basic commas.
- Gain confidence with capitalization rules for proper nouns.
- Understand commas in letters and addresses
Outside Classwork: Light homework, mainly complete work not finished in class
Instructor: Coming Soon!
NEW! Reading Comprehension and Fluency
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 11:30-12:15
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $200
Course Overview
This course aims to enhance students' reading comprehension and fluency through engaging activities and practice, helping them become confident and expressive readers both orally and silently.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Minimal to none
Instructor: Coming Soon!
3rd-5th Grade
Thursday: 11:30-12:15
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $200
Course Overview
This course aims to enhance students' reading comprehension and fluency through engaging activities and practice, helping them become confident and expressive readers both orally and silently.
Course Highlights:
- Practice reading with appropriate expression and pacing.
- Learn to pause appropriately within sentences and at the ends of paragraphs.
- Understand how tone and emphasis contribute to expressive reading.
- Provide opportunities for students to read and reread various texts.
- Encourage independent reading, partner reading, and choral reading.
- Introduce new or challenging vocabulary words before independent reading.
- Recognize that fluency requires strong language comprehension skills.
Outside Classwork: Minimal to none
Instructor: Coming Soon!
4th-8th Grade Course Descriptions
9:00-9:55 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
New! Writing Skills: Descriptive and Paragraph Writing
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the world of words! Join us as we weave sentences, sculpt ideas, and create paragraphs that resonate. In this course, students hone their writing skills, one paragraph at a time. Whether they are a budding author or simply want to express yourself more effectively, we’ll guide your student through the art of constructing solid, detailed paragraphs. Get ready to wield your pen with purpose!
Course Highlights:
Streamlined Approach
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the world of words! Join us as we weave sentences, sculpt ideas, and create paragraphs that resonate. In this course, students hone their writing skills, one paragraph at a time. Whether they are a budding author or simply want to express yourself more effectively, we’ll guide your student through the art of constructing solid, detailed paragraphs. Get ready to wield your pen with purpose!
Course Highlights:
Streamlined Approach
- Master the essentials of paragraph construction.
- Focus on organization, clarity, and format.
- Gradually build your writing toolkit through mini-lessons and engaging activities.
- Explore a variety of writing formats.
- Keep the focus on the paragraph itself, not just the topic.
- Receive individualized feedback to enhance your skills.
- Revision and Editing Skills:
- Polish your prose through revising and editing.
- Learn to refine your work for maximum impact.
- Note: All assignments are required to be typed in order to make the revision process easier.
- Writing and revising paragraphs
- Spending approximately 60-90 minutes per week (depending on ability level).
NEW! Writer’s Workshop: Opinion Writing
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the Writer’s Workshop! In this class, we’ll dive into the art of expressing opinions through well-crafted writing. Whether your student is passionate about a topic or curious to explore different viewpoints, opinion pieces provide a platform for thoughtful expression. Over six weeks, we’ll guide your student through the writing process—from brainstorming to publishing—focusing on opinion compositions. Get ready to sharpen your skills and find your voice!
Course Highlights:
Pre-requisite: Students should be able to independently write an 8-sentence paragraph. All assignments are required to be typed in order to make the revision process easier.
Outside Classwork:
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the Writer’s Workshop! In this class, we’ll dive into the art of expressing opinions through well-crafted writing. Whether your student is passionate about a topic or curious to explore different viewpoints, opinion pieces provide a platform for thoughtful expression. Over six weeks, we’ll guide your student through the writing process—from brainstorming to publishing—focusing on opinion compositions. Get ready to sharpen your skills and find your voice!
Course Highlights:
- Understand the structure of opinion essays.
- Connect opinions with well-reasoned arguments.
- Craft strong conclusions that leave an impact.
- Practice close editing skills.
- Revise and polish your work for clarity and coherence
Pre-requisite: Students should be able to independently write an 8-sentence paragraph. All assignments are required to be typed in order to make the revision process easier.
Outside Classwork:
- Writing and revising paragraphs.
- Spending approximately 60 to 90 minutes per week (depending on skill level).
10:00-11:10 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! The First Civilization- Mesopotamia
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 10:00-11:10
6 Weeks: 6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Ignite your child’s passion for ancient history by having them step back in time to learn about the ancient region of Mesopotamia. In this dynamic six-week course, we’ll explore how Mesopotamians mastered the art of irrigating their fertile lands, establishing the groundwork of feeding a civilization that flourished for two-thirds of humanity’s existence on Earth. Through engaging discussions, students will uncover the secrets of the world’s first complex urban societies, meet dynastic rulers, and journey to the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. By the end of the class, students will understand how Mesopotamia’s innovations continue to shape civilization today.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Students complete any outstanding in-class projects and read short reading assignments.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
4th-7th Grade
Thursday: 10:00-11:10
6 Weeks: 6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Ignite your child’s passion for ancient history by having them step back in time to learn about the ancient region of Mesopotamia. In this dynamic six-week course, we’ll explore how Mesopotamians mastered the art of irrigating their fertile lands, establishing the groundwork of feeding a civilization that flourished for two-thirds of humanity’s existence on Earth. Through engaging discussions, students will uncover the secrets of the world’s first complex urban societies, meet dynastic rulers, and journey to the banks of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. By the end of the class, students will understand how Mesopotamia’s innovations continue to shape civilization today.
Course Highlights:
- Mesopotamia Geography and Civilization
- Daily Life and Social Structure
- Mesopotamian Achievements
Outside Classwork: Students complete any outstanding in-class projects and read short reading assignments.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
NEW! Unveiling Ancient Egypt- Secrets Of The Nile
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 10:00-11:10
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Explore the wonders of ancient Egypt, from mesmerizing pyramids to enigmatic rituals, and unlock the secrets of one of history's most intriguing civilizations.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Finish any class work, assigned reading or work on projects.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 10:00-11:10
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Explore the wonders of ancient Egypt, from mesmerizing pyramids to enigmatic rituals, and unlock the secrets of one of history's most intriguing civilizations.
Course Highlights:
- Pyramids and Temples: Explore architectural marvels that still stand as a testament to ancient engineering.
- Rulers and Dynasties: Meet the pharaohs who ruled with divine authority.
- Scientific Contributions: From medicine to astronomy, delve into the scientific achievements of ancient Egypt.
- The Rosetta Stone: Decipher the key to unlocking forgotten languages and lost knowledge.
- Egyptian Writing and Art: Explore hieroglyphics, papyrus scrolls, and the artistry of the Nile civilization.
Outside Classwork: Finish any class work, assigned reading or work on projects.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
11:15-12:30 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Literature- The Golden Goblet - An Exciting Ancient Egyptian Mystery
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
If your student loves unraveling mysteries and exploring richly detailed worlds, this is the perfect novel. Dive into the world of ancient Egypt through the lens of Eloise Jarvis McGraw’s acclaimed historical mystery, The Golden Goblet. As we follow the journey of the main character, Ranofer, we’ll unravel secrets, confront challenges, and explore themes that resonate across time. This Newbery Honor award-winning novel immerses us in the bustling streets of Thebes circa 1400 BC, where artisans and craftsmen shape their destinies.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork- Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters and completing comprehension and vocabulary exercises.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
If your student loves unraveling mysteries and exploring richly detailed worlds, this is the perfect novel. Dive into the world of ancient Egypt through the lens of Eloise Jarvis McGraw’s acclaimed historical mystery, The Golden Goblet. As we follow the journey of the main character, Ranofer, we’ll unravel secrets, confront challenges, and explore themes that resonate across time. This Newbery Honor award-winning novel immerses us in the bustling streets of Thebes circa 1400 BC, where artisans and craftsmen shape their destinies.
Course Highlights:
- Rich Historical Context: Through meticulous research, McGraw paints a vivid picture of everyday life in ancient Egypt. From bustling markets to artisan workshops, we’ll explore customs, traditions, and the rhythm of existence.
- Literary Elements: Conflict Types, Idiomatic Expressions, and Theme Analysis
- Comprehension Questions: Deepening understanding by answering thought-provoking questions
- Shared Discussions: Explore themes of courage, honesty, and justice
- Participate in purposeful and fun vocabulary games
Outside Classwork- Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters and completing comprehension and vocabulary exercises.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
NEW! Study Skill: Note-Taking and More!
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Let’s tackle the art of learning, one well-organized note at a time! This course is designed to equip students with essential strategies for success. Students gain an understanding of various aspects of effective learning, with a special focus on mastering the two-column Cornell note-taking system. This course provides practical tools to boost students’ academic performance and confidence.
Course Highlights:
- The Cornell Note-Taking System: Take note-taking skills to the next level. Learn how to organize information efficiently, extract key points, and create a visual representation of your notes. The two-column format ensures clarity and aids in retention.
- Time Management: Time is a precious resource. Discover techniques to prioritize tasks, create study schedules, and strike a balance between academic commitments and personal life.
- Organizational Skills: Chaos impedes learning. We’ll explore methods to declutter study space, manage materials, and streamline workflow. An organized environment fosters productivity.
- Effective Textbook Reading: Uncover the secrets to active reading. From skimming to deep comprehension, we’ll discuss strategies for extracting valuable insights from textbooks.
- Memorization Techniques: Memorizing facts need not be daunting. Explore mnemonic devices, visualization, and spaced repetition to enhance memory retention.
- Study Strategies: Understand how to approach different subjects. Whether it’s math, literature, or science, we’ll tailor study methods to suit specific disciplines.
Outside Classwork- Allocate up to one hour per week for outside classwork. Use this time to review notes, practice techniques, and reinforce learning.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
11:15-12:15 Thursdays Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Keeping Fit! Elementary PE
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
13 Weeks: Sept 12, 19, 26 October 3, 10, 17, 24 November 7, 14, 21 December 5, 12, 19
No Class: October 31 and November 28
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $ 273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students. Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Thursdays: 11:15-12:15
13 Weeks: Sept 12, 19, 26 October 3, 10, 17, 24 November 7, 14, 21 December 5, 12, 19
No Class: October 31 and November 28
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $ 273
Course Overview
Warm-Ups, activities, group games, and group sports to help prepare students for a life of physical fitness, fitness testing, improved social/emotional awareness, and self-esteem. Activities and sports can be adjusted depending on age and skill level of students. Our goal is to keep youth active and excited about lifelong skills and healthy habits while having fun! Youth develop friendships, cooperation, and character values. Healthy team competition providing a context for practicing humility, overcoming obstacles, strategic thinking, and being part of a community!
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Lunch Bunch
Thursdays: 12:15-12:45
13 Weeks: Sept 12, 19, 26 October 3, 10, 17, 24 November 7, 14, 21 December 5, 12, 19
No Class: October 31 and November 28
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $ 156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
Thursdays: 12:15-12:45
13 Weeks: Sept 12, 19, 26 October 3, 10, 17, 24 November 7, 14, 21 December 5, 12, 19
No Class: October 31 and November 28
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $ 156
Course Overview
Time for fun! This is a supervised period where students eat their lunches in between classes. This community-building environment is great for giving students some interaction between classes.
Note: Contact the Mission Viejo Family YMCA to Enroll. Charter School Funds Accepted
Instructor: Certified YMCA Instructor
12:45-1:40 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Physical Science: States of Matter, Atoms, and the Periodic Table
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 12:45-1:40
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
In the Physical Science: States of Matter course, students embark on an exciting exploration of the fundamental building blocks of our universe. Through engaging lessons, hands-on experiments, and critical thinking, students will unravel the mysteries of matter in its various forms as well as the structure of atoms and molecules. From solid structures to gaseous particles, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of states of matter.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 12:45-1:40
6 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
In the Physical Science: States of Matter course, students embark on an exciting exploration of the fundamental building blocks of our universe. Through engaging lessons, hands-on experiments, and critical thinking, students will unravel the mysteries of matter in its various forms as well as the structure of atoms and molecules. From solid structures to gaseous particles, this course provides a comprehensive understanding of states of matter.
Course Highlights:
- Properties of Matter: Investigate the physical properties of matter, including mass, volume, and density.
- Solids, Liquids, and Gases: Explore the unique characteristics of solids, liquids, and gases.
- Changing States: Understand phase transitions, such as melting, freezing, vaporization, and condensation.
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
NEW! Earth Science: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 12:45-1:40
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
In the Earth Science: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions course, young geologists take an exciting journey to learn about the dynamic forces shaping our planet. From the rumbling depths of volcanoes to the majestic peaks of mountains, students explore Earth’s geological marvels. Through hands-on experiments, maps, and scientific inquiry, they’ll gain a profound understanding of plate tectonics, landforms, and the intricate dance of Earth’s layers.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 12:45-1:40
6 Weeks: Oct 24, 31 Nov 7, 14, 21 Dec 5 (No Class Nov 28)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
In the Earth Science: Plate Tectonics and Large-Scale System Interactions course, young geologists take an exciting journey to learn about the dynamic forces shaping our planet. From the rumbling depths of volcanoes to the majestic peaks of mountains, students explore Earth’s geological marvels. Through hands-on experiments, maps, and scientific inquiry, they’ll gain a profound understanding of plate tectonics, landforms, and the intricate dance of Earth’s layers.
Course Highlights:
- Plate Tectonics: Understand the movement of Earth’s lithospheric plates and their impact on continents, oceans, and mountain ranges.
- Volcanoes and Earthquakes: Investigate the causes and effects of volcanic eruptions and seismic activity.
- Landforms and Erosion: Explore the formation of mountains, valleys, and ocean trenches.
- Layers of the Earth: Dive into Earth’s interior, studying the crust, mantle, and core.
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
1:45-2:45 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Fun With Perspective
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 1:45-2:45
7 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10, 24 (No Class Oct 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $275
Course Overview
Unlock your creativity and explore the fascinating world of design and perspective drawing! Join us as we sketch, design, and transform ideas into visual wonders. Let your lines lead you to extraordinary places! Learn how to use the rules of perspective in drawing landscapes, people, animals, and buildings. No prior experience required—just an open mind and a willingness to experiment!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Finish exercise started in class
Instructor: Vicki Frazier
4th-8th Grade
Thursday: 1:45-2:45
7 Weeks: Sept 5, 12, 19, 26 Oct 3, 10, 24 (No Class Oct 17)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $275
Course Overview
Unlock your creativity and explore the fascinating world of design and perspective drawing! Join us as we sketch, design, and transform ideas into visual wonders. Let your lines lead you to extraordinary places! Learn how to use the rules of perspective in drawing landscapes, people, animals, and buildings. No prior experience required—just an open mind and a willingness to experiment!
Course Highlights:
- 1-Point Perspective Drawing Lessons:
- Worm’s Eye drawing
- Bird’s Eye drawing
- 1-Point perspective from an angle on the horizon
- Interior of a room
- 2-Point Perspective Drawing Lessons:
- City street scenes
- Animals in motion
- Foreshortening Drawing:
- Create dynamic Marvel-type hero poses
- Bring your creativity and the following materials:
- Drawing pad
- Ruler
- Triangle (for precise angles)
- Drawing pencil
- Eraser
- Fine-tip felt pen
Outside Classwork: Finish exercise started in class
Instructor: Vicki Frazier