Fall 2024 Tuesdays
5th-8th Grade Course Descriptions
9:15-10:1o Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
NEW! Let’s Get Started: Grammar Exploration & Greek and Latin Roots
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Let’s unravel words, ignite curiosity, and celebrate the beauty of language together! Unlock the power of language through this engaging class and watch your vocabulary grow while strengthening your grammar skills. Understanding Greek and Latin roots not only enhances vocabulary but also improves spelling and boosts confidence as readers and writers. Students will learn how to write powerful sentences by studying fabulous passages written by famous authors and applying new vocabulary and grammar concepts.
Course Highlights:
Greek and Latin Roots Exploration:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Let’s unravel words, ignite curiosity, and celebrate the beauty of language together! Unlock the power of language through this engaging class and watch your vocabulary grow while strengthening your grammar skills. Understanding Greek and Latin roots not only enhances vocabulary but also improves spelling and boosts confidence as readers and writers. Students will learn how to write powerful sentences by studying fabulous passages written by famous authors and applying new vocabulary and grammar concepts.
Course Highlights:
Greek and Latin Roots Exploration:
- Investigate how words evolve, adapt, and interconnect across languages and centuries.
- Decode complex terms by dissecting their roots, prefixes, and suffixes.
- Learn 25 Greek and Latin roots and endless new vocabulary with words derived from these roots.
- Conquer sentence structures, prepositional phrases, subject-verb agreement and capitalization rules.
- Discover the elegance of well-constructed sentences through famous literary works.
- Grammar focus this session is on sentence structure, prepositions, prepositional phrases and subject-verb agreement.
- Expand your vocabulary through wordplay, analogies, and creative exercises.
- Elevate your writing skills by constructing sentences using new vocabulary.
- Interactive class filled with word games, puzzles, and purposeful activities
- Explore word play through riddles, word origins, and quirky anecdotes.
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Let’s Continue: Grammar Exploration & Greek and Latin Roots
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Welcome to an exciting journey through the fascinating world of language! Together we explore Greek and Latin roots and discover how they shape our vocabulary and enhance our communication skills. Whether you join this class for the first time or continue from our first six-week course, you will enjoy building your vocabulary and grammar skills through fresh interactive word exercises and purposeful actives. Students will learn how to write powerful sentences by studying fabulous passages written by famous authors and applying new vocabulary and grammar concepts.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview:
Welcome to an exciting journey through the fascinating world of language! Together we explore Greek and Latin roots and discover how they shape our vocabulary and enhance our communication skills. Whether you join this class for the first time or continue from our first six-week course, you will enjoy building your vocabulary and grammar skills through fresh interactive word exercises and purposeful actives. Students will learn how to write powerful sentences by studying fabulous passages written by famous authors and applying new vocabulary and grammar concepts.
Course Highlights:
- Greek and Latin Roots Exploration: learn 25 new Greek and Latin roots and many words derived from these.
- Gain a deeper understanding of verb tenses, sentence structures, and punctuation rules.
- Learn how to use adjectives, adverbs, phrases and clauses to expand your sentences
- Continue to build well-constructed sentences by studying fantastic sentences from famous literary works.
- Strengthen your writing skills by using new vocabulary and applying grammar concepts.
- Fun and Dynamic Learning: word play exercises, grammar games, riddles and more!
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
10:15-11:10 Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
NEW! Elections, Voting, and the U.S. Government
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $375
Course Overview
Join us as we empower young citizens to exercise their voices, make informed choices, and actively participate in shaping our nation’s future! In this engaging course, students explore the foundations of democracy, the electoral process, and the critical role citizens play in shaping their government. From understanding voting rights to analyzing our system of government, students gain essential knowledge about civic participation, individual liberties, and the intricate workings of the U.S. government.
Course Highlights:
Instructor: Ally Contreras
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $375
Course Overview
Join us as we empower young citizens to exercise their voices, make informed choices, and actively participate in shaping our nation’s future! In this engaging course, students explore the foundations of democracy, the electoral process, and the critical role citizens play in shaping their government. From understanding voting rights to analyzing our system of government, students gain essential knowledge about civic participation, individual liberties, and the intricate workings of the U.S. government.
Course Highlights:
- The Power of Voting: Understand the significance of voting as a fundamental right.
- Rights and Responsibilities: Evaluate the obligations citizens have, including obeying laws, paying taxes, and serving on juries.
- The Electoral Process: Investigate how elections work, from primaries to general elections, including the Electoral College and its role in presidential elections.
- Civic Engagement: Reflect on the impact of individual votes on the collective future.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
Outside Classwork - Approximately one hour per week. Use this time to review concepts, reinforce learning, and explore related resources.
11:15-12:10 Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
NEW! Time To Write: Narratives, Expository, and Persuasive Writing
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $375
Course Overview
Whether crafting fascinating narratives, writing expository essays, or honing persuasive techniques, students develop essential writing skills while engaging with thought-provoking writing prompts. In addition to strengthening clarity, coherence, and style, students learn the art of revising and refining written pieces. The goal of this class is to have fun while becoming more confident writers, ready to express other ideas effectively.
Course Highlights:
Note: All assignments are required to be typed in order to make the revision process easier.
Outside Classwork: Weekly Writing and Revisions: Students will continue their writing journey beyond the classroom. Expect to spend approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour per week honing your craft.
Instructor: Chryssa Atkinson
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $375
Course Overview
Whether crafting fascinating narratives, writing expository essays, or honing persuasive techniques, students develop essential writing skills while engaging with thought-provoking writing prompts. In addition to strengthening clarity, coherence, and style, students learn the art of revising and refining written pieces. The goal of this class is to have fun while becoming more confident writers, ready to express other ideas effectively.
Course Highlights:
- Explore diverse techniques to effectively convey opinions, persuade audiences, and captivate readers with engaging narratives
- Interactive writing sessions to encourage hands-on practice and skill development.
- Engage in collaborative writing activities that foster a sense of community and encouraging peer learning.
- Participate in interactive brainstorming sessions to stimulate creativity and generate innovative ideas for writing assignments.
- Enjoy a supportive and vibrant learning environment where fun and friendship thrive, making the writing journey a truly enriching experience.
Note: All assignments are required to be typed in order to make the revision process easier.
Outside Classwork: Weekly Writing and Revisions: Students will continue their writing journey beyond the classroom. Expect to spend approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour per week honing your craft.
Instructor: Chryssa Atkinson
3rd-6th Grade Course Descriptions
9:00-9:55 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Building a Strong Foundation in Multiplication
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $340
Course Overview
Leap from learning subtraction and addition to the basic concept of multiplication. First, we will anchor the concept of multiplication in relation to addition – which your child should already be comfortable with. Students will visualize the idea of repeated addition using arrays. Next, join us as we embark on a multiplication journey through skip-counting, pneumonic devices, hands-on activities, and games. Each week students are introduced to new facts while reviewing the previous ones. Essential multiplication vocabulary and the properties of zeros, ones, twos, threes, fives, tens, and elevens are covered first then we move on to the other facts. We continue to build covering multiplication facts 0 - 12's. Sign up, and don't miss the fun!
Outside Classwork: 10 minutes a day of review
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
12 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 & November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $340
Course Overview
Leap from learning subtraction and addition to the basic concept of multiplication. First, we will anchor the concept of multiplication in relation to addition – which your child should already be comfortable with. Students will visualize the idea of repeated addition using arrays. Next, join us as we embark on a multiplication journey through skip-counting, pneumonic devices, hands-on activities, and games. Each week students are introduced to new facts while reviewing the previous ones. Essential multiplication vocabulary and the properties of zeros, ones, twos, threes, fives, tens, and elevens are covered first then we move on to the other facts. We continue to build covering multiplication facts 0 - 12's. Sign up, and don't miss the fun!
Outside Classwork: 10 minutes a day of review
Instructor: Laurie Weir
10:00-11:00 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Building First-Rate Sentences
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the art of sentence writing! Students jump into the heart of strong writing—creating sentences that dazzle. Our focus? The “Wow” factor! Students examine different sentence types and explore the magic of colorful language. From vivid details to expanded ideas, we’ll unlock the secrets of creating sentences with an impact.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Under 30 minutes per week. Practicing sentence construction and experimenting with colorful language.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Welcome to the art of sentence writing! Students jump into the heart of strong writing—creating sentences that dazzle. Our focus? The “Wow” factor! Students examine different sentence types and explore the magic of colorful language. From vivid details to expanded ideas, we’ll unlock the secrets of creating sentences with an impact.
Course Highlights:
- Sentence Exploration: Discover the variety of sentence structures and their impact.
- Colorful Words and Details: Explore how descriptive language enhances sentences.
Outside Classwork: Under 30 minutes per week. Practicing sentence construction and experimenting with colorful language.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Literature: Island of the Blue Dolphins
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19. December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 and November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
American writer Scott O’Dell takes readers to the windswept shores of San Nicolas Island, where the true story of Juana Maria unfolds. This gripping adventure book is where survival meets storytelling, and every page holds a hidden treasure! During this course, we’ll journey alongside Karana, a Native American girl left alone in the 19th century as she waits for rescue. Her story is one of courage, resourcefulness, and endurance. Join us for an outstanding literary adventure!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters, selected reading skills, and writing brief chapter summaries.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19. December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 and November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
American writer Scott O’Dell takes readers to the windswept shores of San Nicolas Island, where the true story of Juana Maria unfolds. This gripping adventure book is where survival meets storytelling, and every page holds a hidden treasure! During this course, we’ll journey alongside Karana, a Native American girl left alone in the 19th century as she waits for rescue. Her story is one of courage, resourcefulness, and endurance. Join us for an outstanding literary adventure!
Course Highlights:
- Reading Strategies: Previewing chapters, making predictions, paraphrasing,
- Making Inferences: Reading between the lines
- Comprehension Questions: Deepening understanding by answering thought-provoking questions
- Shared Discussions: Explore themes of courage and the human spirit.
- Participate in purposeful and fun vocabulary games.
Outside Classwork: Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters, selected reading skills, and writing brief chapter summaries.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes
- First Californians & Missions: Explore the heritage of California’s indigenous peoples.
- The California Gold Rush and the Pony Express Adventure: Learn about the impacts of gold fever on the land and its people, and ride alongside brave messengers who bridged vast distances.
- Transcontinental Railroad Project: Follow the iron tracks that connected the nation.
- California Geography: Dive deeper into the state’s diverse landscapes.
11:15-12:30 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! Cosmic Explorers: Journey Through the Solar System
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
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
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
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
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19. December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 and November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
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
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19. December 3, 10
No Class: October 22 and November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
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
11:15-12:15 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Keeping Fit! Elementary PE
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10, 17
(No Class October 22 and November 26)
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
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10, 17
(No Class October 22 and November 26)
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
12:15-12:45 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Lunch Bunch
Tuesdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10, 17
(No Class October 22 and November 26)
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
Tuesdays: 12:15-12:45
13 weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15, 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10, 17
(No Class October 22 and November 26)
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
12:45-1:55 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
First Californians & Missions
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Step into the ancient footprints of California’s original inhabitants! In this course, we’ll journey back to a time when the land was shaped by diverse tribes, rich cultures, and vibrant traditions. California’s indigenous people were among the most populous and varied natives in all of North America before the arrival of European settlers. Participants will also examine the beginnings of the colonization of California by the Spanish, as well as the establishment of the 21 Spanish missions along the coast. Let’s uncover their stories, wisdom, and enduring legacy.
Course Highlights:
Outside Coursework: work involves reading short passages, answering questions, and completing unfinished work from class.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: Sept 10, 17, 24 Oct 1, 8, 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Step into the ancient footprints of California’s original inhabitants! In this course, we’ll journey back to a time when the land was shaped by diverse tribes, rich cultures, and vibrant traditions. California’s indigenous people were among the most populous and varied natives in all of North America before the arrival of European settlers. Participants will also examine the beginnings of the colonization of California by the Spanish, as well as the establishment of the 21 Spanish missions along the coast. Let’s uncover their stories, wisdom, and enduring legacy.
Course Highlights:
- Explore the different tribes that called California home.
- Learn how different tribes adapted, survived, and thrived in California.
- Discover the story behind the building of the Spanish Missions.
- Uncover how the missions impacted the First Californians and the settlement of California.
Outside Coursework: work involves reading short passages, answering questions, and completing unfinished work from class.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
- The California Gold Rush and the Pony Express Adventure: Learn about the impacts of gold fever on the land and its people, and ride alongside brave messengers who bridged vast distances.
- Transcontinental Railroad Project: Follow the iron tracks that connected the nation.
- California Geography: Dive deeper into the state’s diverse landscapes.
The Californian Gold Rush & Pony Express Adventure
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Eureka! We’ve struck gold! Join us on an exciting adventure as we dive into the history of the 1848 California Gold Rush. From the first glimmer of gold to the bustling mining camps, we’ll uncover the stories of James Marshall and other key figures. Most importantly, we’ll answer the question: How did this gold rush impact California and the United States? But that's not all! Our journey continues as we explore the Pony Express. You'll get to experience the thrill of mail delivery across vast distances in the 1860s before the telegraph took over. Through mini-lectures and hands-on activities, you'll discover who launched this daring mail service, the perilous routes brave riders took, and the obstacles they faced.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Involves finishing up work started in class, some reading, and answering questions to gain a deeper understanding.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: October 29 November 5, 12, 19 December 3, 10
No Class: November 26
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Eureka! We’ve struck gold! Join us on an exciting adventure as we dive into the history of the 1848 California Gold Rush. From the first glimmer of gold to the bustling mining camps, we’ll uncover the stories of James Marshall and other key figures. Most importantly, we’ll answer the question: How did this gold rush impact California and the United States? But that's not all! Our journey continues as we explore the Pony Express. You'll get to experience the thrill of mail delivery across vast distances in the 1860s before the telegraph took over. Through mini-lectures and hands-on activities, you'll discover who launched this daring mail service, the perilous routes brave riders took, and the obstacles they faced.
Course Highlights:
- The origins of the gold rush.
- Learn about James Marshall’s discovery at Sutter’s Mill.
- Stake your claim and experience the highs and lows of mining life.
- Explore the geography of the “Gold Country”
- Learn about the need for quicker mail delivery service and the company that sped up mail delivery across the country
- Ride alongside the Pony Express riders and learn how the mail was carried across the country.
- Discover the challenges faced by these intrepid messengers.
Outside Classwork: Involves finishing up work started in class, some reading, and answering questions to gain a deeper understanding.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
- Transcontinental Railroad Project: Follow the iron tracks that connected the nation.
- California Geography: Dive deeper into the state’s diverse landscapes.
- First Californians & Missions: Discover the rich heritage of California’s indigenous peoples.