Winter/Spring 2025 Tuesdays
5th-8th Grade Course Descriptions
9:15-10:10 Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
NEW! Let's Explore: Grammar Exploration & Greek and Latin Roots
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Join in on an eye-opening journey into building amazing vocabulary and crafting powerful sentences in our third session of grammar mastery and Greek and Latin roots. Whether you join this class for the first time or are a continuing student, you will enjoy building your vocabulary and grammar skills through fresh interactive word exercises and purposeful actives. Students focus on fabulous passages written by famous authors and then apply new vocabulary and grammar concepts to become masters of the written word.
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: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Join in on an eye-opening journey into building amazing vocabulary and crafting powerful sentences in our third session of grammar mastery and Greek and Latin roots. Whether you join this class for the first time or are a continuing student, you will enjoy building your vocabulary and grammar skills through fresh interactive word exercises and purposeful actives. Students focus on fabulous passages written by famous authors and then apply new vocabulary and grammar concepts to become masters of the written word.
Course Highlights:
- Greek and Latin Roots Exploration: learn 25 new Greek and Latin roots and countless words derived from these.
- Gain a deeper understanding of verb tenses, sentence structures, and more punctuation rules.
- Take command of special issues with pronouns and verbs and master the comma!
- 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
NEW! Grammar Exploration & Greek and Latin Roots
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 9:15-10:10
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $260
Course Overview:
In this final 7-week worksop, we’ll explore the building blocks of language—the ancient roots that connect us across time and cultures. By understanding these roots, students not only expand their vocabulary but also gain insights into the evolution of the English language. Students focus on fabulous passages written by famous authors and then apply new vocabulary and grammar concepts to become masters of the written word.
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
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $260
Course Overview:
In this final 7-week worksop, we’ll explore the building blocks of language—the ancient roots that connect us across time and cultures. By understanding these roots, students not only expand their vocabulary but also gain insights into the evolution of the English language. Students focus on fabulous passages written by famous authors and then apply new vocabulary and grammar concepts to become masters of the written word.
Course Highlights:
- Greek and Latin Roots Exploration: learn 25 new Greek and Latin roots and a plethora of words derived from these.
- Gain a deeper understanding of verb tenses, sentence structures, and punctuation rules.
- Elevate your grammar knowledge with a focus on comparisons, misplaced modifiers and possessives.
- 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! Math Workshop: Decimals and Percents
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $225
Course Overview
In this engaging workshop, students dive into the fascinating world of decimals and percents. Through a combination of weekly mini-lessons, interactive games, and practice problems, participants will master the essential skills needed to navigate these numerical concepts. By the end of the course, students will be well-versed in converting fractions, decimals, and percents interchangeably.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Students can expect up to forty-five minutes of outside practice, depending on their skill level.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $225
Course Overview
In this engaging workshop, students dive into the fascinating world of decimals and percents. Through a combination of weekly mini-lessons, interactive games, and practice problems, participants will master the essential skills needed to navigate these numerical concepts. By the end of the course, students will be well-versed in converting fractions, decimals, and percents interchangeably.
Course Highlights:
- Fractions: Understand the fundamentals of fractions.
- Percentages: Explore the concept of percentages.
- Decimals: Grasp the significance of decimals.
- Conversion Skills:
- Convert fractions to percentages and vice versa.
- Convert decimals to percentages and vice versa.
- Convert fractions to decimals and vice versa.
Outside Classwork: Students can expect up to forty-five minutes of outside practice, depending on their skill level.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
NEW! Math Workshop: Understanding Fractions
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
In this dynamic and engaging workshop, young learners explore the captivating world of fractions. We believe that learning is most effective when it’s enjoyable, and this workshop combines fun with skill-building. Students will not only gain a solid understanding of fractions but also have ample opportunities to practice their newfound knowledge.
Course Highlights:
Review of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
Outside Classwork: Students can expect up to forty-five minutes of outside practice, depending on their skill level.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 10:15-11:10
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
In this dynamic and engaging workshop, young learners explore the captivating world of fractions. We believe that learning is most effective when it’s enjoyable, and this workshop combines fun with skill-building. Students will not only gain a solid understanding of fractions but also have ample opportunities to practice their newfound knowledge.
Course Highlights:
- Concept Mastery: Students learn the fundamental concepts of fractions, ensuring they grasp the underlying meaning.
- Practice and Repetition: Through a variety of activities, students will reinforce their skills repeatedly.
- Hands-On Learning: Direct instruction, small group work, and interactive games will enhance comprehension.
Review of Fractions and Mixed Numbers
- Review of key vocabulary
- Practice reducing fractions to the lowest term
- Comparing fractions with like denominators.
- Finding a common denominator for ordering fractions
- Finding equivalent fractions
- Grasping the concept of mixed numbers and improper fractions.
- Converting between mixed numbers and improper fractions.
- Adding three or more fractions with like denominators
- With and without common denominators
- Multiplying units of a fraction by a whole number
- Dividing units of a fraction by a whole number
- Reciprocals
- Divide fractions and mixed numbers
Outside Classwork: Students can expect up to forty-five minutes of outside practice, depending on their skill level.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
11:15-12:10 Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
NEW! Public Speaking: The Art of Sharing Ideas
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Public speaking—the art of sharing ideas, connecting with audiences, and leaving a lasting impression. In this dynamic course, we’ll share with your child with the tools to communicate effectively. Get ready for a journey that blends theory with practice, unleashing your child's unique presentation style.
Course Highlights:
Confidence and Clarity
Outside Classwork: Time spent researching topics for speeches, writing original speeches, and practicing outside of class.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $245
Course Overview
Public speaking—the art of sharing ideas, connecting with audiences, and leaving a lasting impression. In this dynamic course, we’ll share with your child with the tools to communicate effectively. Get ready for a journey that blends theory with practice, unleashing your child's unique presentation style.
Course Highlights:
Confidence and Clarity
- Master the essentials of confident delivery.
- Learn to articulate with clarity, even under the spotlight.
- Discover the secrets of grabbing attention from the very first word.
- Stay connected with your listeners throughout the speech.
- Embrace authenticity—voice matters.
- Develop a style that reflects personality and purpose.
- Receive personalized guidance
- Fine-tune delivery, gestures, and vocal dynamics.
Outside Classwork: Time spent researching topics for speeches, writing original speeches, and practicing outside of class.
Instructor: Ally Contreras
NEW! Poetry Workshop
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course OverviewIn this middle school poetry class, words dance, emotions sing, and imagination takes flight! In this vibrant and engaging course, students will embark on a delightful exploration of poetry, discovering the magic and beauty hidden within the lines of verse.
Course Highlights
Outside Classwork: Completing exercises starring class, reading poems, and writing/revising original prose.
Instructor: TBD
5th-8th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:10
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo
Tuition: $255
Course OverviewIn this middle school poetry class, words dance, emotions sing, and imagination takes flight! In this vibrant and engaging course, students will embark on a delightful exploration of poetry, discovering the magic and beauty hidden within the lines of verse.
Course Highlights
- Understand poetry terminology and literary elements
- Appreciate poetry's purpose and unique form
- Explore sound devices such as rhyme, rhyme scheme, alliteration, and more
- Examine types of poetry
- Analyzing poems
- Practice close reading and interpretation.
- Exploring poems and engage in writing exercises for different types of poetry.
Outside Classwork: Completing exercises starring class, reading poems, and writing/revising original prose.
Instructor: TBD
3rd-6th Grade Course Descriptions
9:00-9:55 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Learning To Solve Word Problems
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $225
Course Overview
Word problems can be tricky for many students. The goal of this class is to guide learners to become problem solvers, by expanding their understanding of how to break down word problems and recognize keywords. Students put into practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division while practicing strategies important strategies. In addition to developing strategies, students are given plenty of opportunities to solve problems. This course is designed as additional support to your child's math curriculum.
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $225
Course Overview
Word problems can be tricky for many students. The goal of this class is to guide learners to become problem solvers, by expanding their understanding of how to break down word problems and recognize keywords. Students put into practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division while practicing strategies important strategies. In addition to developing strategies, students are given plenty of opportunities to solve problems. This course is designed as additional support to your child's math curriculum.
Outside Classwork: Finish work started in class
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Geometry & Measurement
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
To help reinforce your math skills this year, join us for a special workshop class. Each week starts with a mini-lesson focused on important geometry or measurement skills. Students build math vocabulary and a greater understanding of the subject matter and participate in hands-on activities. Topics include standard measurement and conversions, types of lines and angles, finding the area and perimeter of a shape, understanding the coordinate plane, and measuring angles using a protractor.
Outside Classwork: up to forty-five minutes depending on skill level
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 9:00-9:55
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $255
Course Overview
To help reinforce your math skills this year, join us for a special workshop class. Each week starts with a mini-lesson focused on important geometry or measurement skills. Students build math vocabulary and a greater understanding of the subject matter and participate in hands-on activities. Topics include standard measurement and conversions, types of lines and angles, finding the area and perimeter of a shape, understanding the coordinate plane, and measuring angles using a protractor.
Outside Classwork: up to forty-five minutes depending on skill level
Instructor: Laurie Weir
10:00-11:00 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Intro to Report Writing: Animals
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
8 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25
No Class: March 4, 11
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
This course is designed for students who are new to report writing. Students gain an understanding of finding information from different sources, basic note-taking, and using the information from the notes to write informative paragraphs. Included in this class are the elements of the traditional paragraph format: topic sentences, supporting sentences, details, and closing sentences. The class expands upon your child's foundation in writing and help them gain an understanding of writing a report.
Prerequisite: Students must be comfortable with writing sentences and paragraphs.
Outside Classwork: completing research, writing started in class, and editing writing drafts
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Note: Students may easily repeat this class. They can select a different animal.
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
8 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25
No Class: March 4, 11
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
This course is designed for students who are new to report writing. Students gain an understanding of finding information from different sources, basic note-taking, and using the information from the notes to write informative paragraphs. Included in this class are the elements of the traditional paragraph format: topic sentences, supporting sentences, details, and closing sentences. The class expands upon your child's foundation in writing and help them gain an understanding of writing a report.
Prerequisite: Students must be comfortable with writing sentences and paragraphs.
Outside Classwork: completing research, writing started in class, and editing writing drafts
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Note: Students may easily repeat this class. They can select a different animal.
NEW! Literature: Patty Reed's Doll - A Story of Pioneer Bravery
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
5 Weeks: April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $205
Course Overview
Step into the pages of history with Patty Reed’s Doll. This novel takes us back to the winter of 1846, when Patty Reed—a brave eight-year-old—embarked on a treacherous journey from Springfield, Illinois, to California. They were looking for a shortcut to the West but heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada mountains stranded them, testing their resilience, determination, and courage.
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters, answering comprehension questions, and vocabulary exercises.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00
5 Weeks: April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $205
Course Overview
Step into the pages of history with Patty Reed’s Doll. This novel takes us back to the winter of 1846, when Patty Reed—a brave eight-year-old—embarked on a treacherous journey from Springfield, Illinois, to California. They were looking for a shortcut to the West but heavy snow in the Sierra Nevada mountains stranded them, testing their resilience, determination, and courage.
Course Highlights:
- Reading Strategies: previewing chapters, making predictions, paraphrasing,
- Making Inferences.
- Comprehension Questions: Deepening understanding by learning how to answer thought-provoking questions.
- Shared Discussions: Explore themes of courage and the human spirit.
- Creative project
Outside Classwork: Weekly assignments include reading assigned chapters, answering comprehension questions, and vocabulary exercises.
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.
- Island of the Blue Dolphins Literature Class: Dive into another book.
11:15-12:30 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
NEW! The Human Body: Exploring the Wonders Within
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
Course Overview
Embark on a captivating exploration of the intricate machinery that constitutes the human body. In this course, we delve into the fascinating realms of the human body, unraveling the secrets of our biological systems that keep us alive and thriving. From microscopic cells to complex organs, your student gains a deeper understanding of how our bodies function and interact through hands-on activities.
Course Highlights:
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
6 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $265
Course Overview
Embark on a captivating exploration of the intricate machinery that constitutes the human body. In this course, we delve into the fascinating realms of the human body, unraveling the secrets of our biological systems that keep us alive and thriving. From microscopic cells to complex organs, your student gains a deeper understanding of how our bodies function and interact through hands-on activities.
Course Highlights:
- Cells: Explore their structures, functions, and remarkable adaptations
- Skeletal System: Study bones, joints, and their roles in support, protection, and movement.
- Muscular System: how they contract, generate force, and enable motion.
- Nervous System: neurons, synapses, and the intricate network that governs our thoughts, sensations, and actions.
- Circulatory System: the highways of blood vessels, the heart’s rhythm, and the vital exchange of nutrients and oxygen.
- Respiratory System: Understand breathing, gas exchange, and the lungs’ remarkable capacity.
- Digestive System: Trace the path of food, from ingestion to nutrient absorption, and appreciate the gut’s multifaceted functions.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Botanical Adventures: Plants and Fungi
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $299
Course Overview
Are you ready to join us on a captivating journey through the lush world of plants and the mysterious realm of fungi? For seven weeks we dive into the fascinating lives of flora and fungi, unraveling their secrets, celebrating their diversity, and understanding how plants and fungi contribute to ecosystem balance. Let’s nurture our connection to the Earth, one leaf and spore at a time!
Course Highlights:
Plant Kingdom Expedition:
Fungi Quest:
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesday: 11:15-12:30
7 Weeks: March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $299
Course Overview
Are you ready to join us on a captivating journey through the lush world of plants and the mysterious realm of fungi? For seven weeks we dive into the fascinating lives of flora and fungi, unraveling their secrets, celebrating their diversity, and understanding how plants and fungi contribute to ecosystem balance. Let’s nurture our connection to the Earth, one leaf and spore at a time!
Course Highlights:
Plant Kingdom Expedition:
- Botanical Basics: Understand plant anatomy, growth cycles, and adaptations.
- Photosynthesis: Explore the magic of chlorophyll and how plants convert sunlight into energy.
- Plant Families: Discover the fascinating diversity of flowering plants, ferns, mosses, and more.
Fungi Quest:
- Mycological: Dive into the hidden world of fungi—molds, yeasts, and mushrooms.
- Decomposers and Symbionts: Explore their roles in ecosystems, breaking down organic matter and forming partnerships with plants.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
11:15-12:15 Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Keeping Fit! Elementary PE
Tuesdays: 11:15-12:15
13 weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
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: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
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: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
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: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
(No Class: March 4, 11 and April 15)
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
NEW! Transcontinental Railroad Project: Bridging East and West
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
7 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18
No Class: March 4, 11
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $285
Course Overview
In the mid-1800s, a vision emerged—a railroad that would span the continent, uniting the United States like never before. In this course, we’ll ride the iron tracks of history, exploring how the Transcontinental Railroad transformed America. From daring entrepreneurs to tireless laborers, we’ll uncover the stories behind this monumental project. All aboard! Let’s ride the rails of history, connecting coasts and weaving a nation together!
Course Highlights:
Outside Classwork: includes some reading and questions to answer to gain a deeper understanding.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
7 Weeks: January 21, 28 February 4, 11, 18, 25 March 18
No Class: March 4, 11
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $285
Course Overview
In the mid-1800s, a vision emerged—a railroad that would span the continent, uniting the United States like never before. In this course, we’ll ride the iron tracks of history, exploring how the Transcontinental Railroad transformed America. From daring entrepreneurs to tireless laborers, we’ll uncover the stories behind this monumental project. All aboard! Let’s ride the rails of history, connecting coasts and weaving a nation together!
Course Highlights:
- Meet Theodore Judah the visionary behind the building of the railroad and the investors—Leland Stanford, Collis Huntington, Charles Crocker, and Mark Hopkins known as the “The Big Four”
- Honor the contributions of Chinese immigrants who toiled on the tracks.
- Explore their challenges, sacrifices, and resilience.
- Follow the race between the Central Pacific and Union Pacific until they meet at Promontory Summit.
- Map out the routes of the railroad companies
- Understand the need for standardized time zones.
Outside Classwork: includes some reading and questions to answer to gain a deeper understanding.
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.
- California Geography: Dive deeper into the state’s diverse landscapes.
NEW! California Geography: Exploring the Golden State
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: March 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Course Overview
Welcome to the land of sun-kissed beaches, towering redwoods, and rugged mountains! In this course, we’ll take a close look at California’s geography. From alpine peaks to fertile valleys, we’ll explore the state’s diverse landscapes. Buckle up for a journey through foggy coastlines, arid deserts, and everything in between. Let’s map out the Golden State!
Course Highlights:
Four Main Regions: Traverse the state’s distinct regions
Land Features and Points of Interest: Discover California’s geographical gems
Mapping California: Students create a large map of California, visualizing its diversity and essential locations.
Outside Classwork: Up to an hour of homework each week, reinforcing your understanding of California’s geography and state.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesday: 12:45-1:55
6 Weeks: March 25 April 1, 8, 22, 29 May 6
No Class: April 15
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $260
Course Overview
Course Overview
Welcome to the land of sun-kissed beaches, towering redwoods, and rugged mountains! In this course, we’ll take a close look at California’s geography. From alpine peaks to fertile valleys, we’ll explore the state’s diverse landscapes. Buckle up for a journey through foggy coastlines, arid deserts, and everything in between. Let’s map out the Golden State!
Course Highlights:
Four Main Regions: Traverse the state’s distinct regions
- Coastal Region: Foggy shores, iconic beaches, and marine life.
- Mountain Region: Alpine peaks, including the world’s tallest trees.
- Central Valley: Fertile farmlands and agricultural abundance.
- Desert Region: Arid landscapes and unique ecosystems.
Land Features and Points of Interest: Discover California’s geographical gems
- National Parks: Yosemite, Joshua Tree, Sequoia, and more.
- Historical Sites: Missions, Gold Rush towns, and cultural landmarks.
- Highest and Lowest Points: Mount Whitney and Death Valley.
Mapping California: Students create a large map of California, visualizing its diversity and essential locations.
Outside Classwork: Up to an hour of homework each week, reinforcing your understanding of California’s geography and state.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes:
- First Californians & Missions: Discover the rich 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.
- The Transcontinental Railroad Project: Follow the iron tracks that connected the nation.