Course Descriptions
Tuesday Classes - Winter & Spring 2021
1st-2nd Grade Classes - Jewish Community Center
9:00-9:50
NEW! Early Literature: Encountering Nature
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9: 50
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $120
Great children’s literature often works by engaging children’s physical senses with the natural world. Students experience six wonderful tales, such as The True Tale of Johnny Appleseed by Margaret Hodges, Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney, and The Curious Garden by Peter Brown that encourage a deeper connection and appreciation for the plant life that surrounds us. A nice compliment to our concurrent science class, Plants Alive, students learn to identify themes in a story and literary elements such as personification, hyperbole, simile and metaphor among others.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9: 50
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $120
Great children’s literature often works by engaging children’s physical senses with the natural world. Students experience six wonderful tales, such as The True Tale of Johnny Appleseed by Margaret Hodges, Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney, and The Curious Garden by Peter Brown that encourage a deeper connection and appreciation for the plant life that surrounds us. A nice compliment to our concurrent science class, Plants Alive, students learn to identify themes in a story and literary elements such as personification, hyperbole, simile and metaphor among others.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Early Literature: Cultivating Character
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9:50
6 Weeks: February 23 March 2, 23, April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $120
Author Neil Gaiman once wrote, “Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” Yes, reading aloud to children is important for nurturing academic skills, but even more essential is the character shaping we can effect by choosing stories that highlight strong moral themes. A few of the titles chosen for this unit, based on literary value and positive character traits include: Brave Irene by William Steig, Stone Soup retold by Heather Forest, A Chair for my Mother by Vera B. Williams, and Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox, among other great treasures.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9:50
6 Weeks: February 23 March 2, 23, April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $120
Author Neil Gaiman once wrote, “Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” Yes, reading aloud to children is important for nurturing academic skills, but even more essential is the character shaping we can effect by choosing stories that highlight strong moral themes. A few of the titles chosen for this unit, based on literary value and positive character traits include: Brave Irene by William Steig, Stone Soup retold by Heather Forest, A Chair for my Mother by Vera B. Williams, and Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox, among other great treasures.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
10:00-10:50
NEW! Plants Alive!
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 10:00-10:50
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $140
Grab a magnifying glass and take a close look at the fascinating living world of plants. Young botanists will observe and work with live plants as we study the various parts of plants, the plant life cycle and the necessary functions plants provide for all living things.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 10:00-10:50
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $140
Grab a magnifying glass and take a close look at the fascinating living world of plants. Young botanists will observe and work with live plants as we study the various parts of plants, the plant life cycle and the necessary functions plants provide for all living things.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Our Amazing Human Body
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 10:00- 10:50
6 Weeks: February 23 March 2, 23 April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $140
Take a journey through the six major systems that make up our human body. With hands-on activities and models, students will learn about the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 10:00- 10:50
6 Weeks: February 23 March 2, 23 April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $140
Take a journey through the six major systems that make up our human body. With hands-on activities and models, students will learn about the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems.
Outside Classwork: Minimal homework, under 30 minutes per week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
11:00-12:00
NEW! Math Facts Mastery (Addition and Subtraction)
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:00
7 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $180
Why is it important to know Math Facts? Research has shown that one cannot excel in math without fluency in basic facts! It is the foundation which aids in problem solving, increases confidence, form building blocks for higher level math concepts, saves time and reduces math anxiety. In this 7- week class, your student will be able to recall basic math facts accurately, quickly and effortlessly using a variety of tools including math manipulatives and fun games.
Outside Classwork: five minutes daily
Instructor: Grace Rowell
1st-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:00
7 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $180
Why is it important to know Math Facts? Research has shown that one cannot excel in math without fluency in basic facts! It is the foundation which aids in problem solving, increases confidence, form building blocks for higher level math concepts, saves time and reduces math anxiety. In this 7- week class, your student will be able to recall basic math facts accurately, quickly and effortlessly using a variety of tools including math manipulatives and fun games.
Outside Classwork: five minutes daily
Instructor: Grace Rowell
Art Exploration: Lab
K-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:00
5 Weeks: March 2, 23 April 13, 20, 27 (No Class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $175
Join us to paint, draw, build and create as we work with clay, wire, paints, pastels, and more in this explorative and fun Art Lab for kindergartners, first, and second graders! Students make exciting projects while having plenty of creative exploration time in this encouraging and supportive environment. See you in the Lab!
This class is fun, educational, and accessible class for young artists of all experience levels. Projects are new in every session.
Outside Classwork: There is no outside class work. Projects go home after they are finished. Mostly every week.
It’s up to the students if they want to work on it more at home.
Instructor: Sandy Reid
K-2nd Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:00
5 Weeks: March 2, 23 April 13, 20, 27 (No Class March 11, 18, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $175
Join us to paint, draw, build and create as we work with clay, wire, paints, pastels, and more in this explorative and fun Art Lab for kindergartners, first, and second graders! Students make exciting projects while having plenty of creative exploration time in this encouraging and supportive environment. See you in the Lab!
This class is fun, educational, and accessible class for young artists of all experience levels. Projects are new in every session.
- To see a sample of the types of projects we create each week and for more Information about Sandy’s Art Studio visit www.sandysartstudio.com.
- To follow current projects in class visit Instagram and Facebook.
Outside Classwork: There is no outside class work. Projects go home after they are finished. Mostly every week.
It’s up to the students if they want to work on it more at home.
Instructor: Sandy Reid
3rd-5th Grade Classes - Jewish Community Center
9:00-9:55
Mastering Multiplication Facts
3rd - 5th Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9:55
8 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $200
Quick recall of basic math facts is essential as students progress into the higher-level computation. This class is the perfect class for students who have worked on multiplication but have not reached mastery. Success comes with continued practice and strategies to figure out answers quickly. We will focus on reviewing facts, introduce the nines and twelves times tables, play games, and use weekly timed tests to improve the rate of recall.
Outside Classwork: Ten minutes of daily review
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd - 5th Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-9:55
8 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $200
Quick recall of basic math facts is essential as students progress into the higher-level computation. This class is the perfect class for students who have worked on multiplication but have not reached mastery. Success comes with continued practice and strategies to figure out answers quickly. We will focus on reviewing facts, introduce the nines and twelves times tables, play games, and use weekly timed tests to improve the rate of recall.
Outside Classwork: Ten minutes of daily review
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Geometry & Measurement
3rd - 5th Grade
Tuesdays 9:00 - 9:55
5 Weeks: March 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $135
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
Tuesdays 9:00 - 9:55
5 Weeks: March 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $135
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
10:00-10:50
NEW! Intro to Report Writing (Animal Report)
3rd - 5th Grades
Tuesdays: 10:00 - 10:50
8 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 2
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $200
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 paragraphs. Included in this class are the elements of the traditional paragraph format: topic sentences, supporting sentences, details, and closing sentences.
Prerequisite: Students must be comfortable with writing sentences and paragraphs.
Outside Classwork: Details Coming Soon!
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd - 5th Grades
Tuesdays: 10:00 - 10:50
8 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 2
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $200
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 paragraphs. Included in this class are the elements of the traditional paragraph format: topic sentences, supporting sentences, details, and closing sentences.
Prerequisite: Students must be comfortable with writing sentences and paragraphs.
Outside Classwork: Details Coming Soon!
Instructor: Laurie Weir
Literature-Snow Treasure
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays: 10:00 - 10:50
5 weeks: March 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JJC)
Tuition: $135
In the bleak winter of 1940, Nazi troops parachuted into Peter Lindstrom's tiny Norwegian village and held it captive. Nobody thought the Nazis could be defeated—until Uncle Victor told Peter how the children could fool the enemy. Join us as we use discussion, vocabulary games, and projects to shovel our way into this classic story about how a group of children outwitted the Nazis and sent the treasure to America. This is a beautifully written story thought to be true. Students have the opportunity to learn about Norway, it’s geography, literary elements, vocabulary, and much more.
Outside Classwork: Students receive a suggested homework sheet detailing the chapters to be read, Each week students read, complete comprehension questions, and vocabulary exercises.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays: 10:00 - 10:50
5 weeks: March 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JJC)
Tuition: $135
In the bleak winter of 1940, Nazi troops parachuted into Peter Lindstrom's tiny Norwegian village and held it captive. Nobody thought the Nazis could be defeated—until Uncle Victor told Peter how the children could fool the enemy. Join us as we use discussion, vocabulary games, and projects to shovel our way into this classic story about how a group of children outwitted the Nazis and sent the treasure to America. This is a beautifully written story thought to be true. Students have the opportunity to learn about Norway, it’s geography, literary elements, vocabulary, and much more.
Outside Classwork: Students receive a suggested homework sheet detailing the chapters to be read, Each week students read, complete comprehension questions, and vocabulary exercises.
Instructor: Laurie Weir
11:00-12:15
NEW! Botany Investigating Plant Life
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:15
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $160
Kingdom Plantae includes the largest and tallest living organisms on earth, as well as some of the smallest. Become a botanist-in-training as students take a close-up look at the parts of various plants: cells, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds, non-flowering plants, stems and roots. Students build a botany section within their interactive science notebooks and engage in hands-on activities in class and at home.
Outside Classwork: About an hour a week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:15
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $160
Kingdom Plantae includes the largest and tallest living organisms on earth, as well as some of the smallest. Become a botanist-in-training as students take a close-up look at the parts of various plants: cells, leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds, non-flowering plants, stems and roots. Students build a botany section within their interactive science notebooks and engage in hands-on activities in class and at home.
Outside Classwork: About an hour a week.
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
NEW! Human Anatomy & Physiology
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:15
6 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23, April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 9th, 11, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $160
Learn fascinating facts about six of the systems that make up our human body. With hands-on activities and models, students will begin with cells and then dive into the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. Students will learn through hands on experiments and complete labeled diagrams of the body systems during our journey into anatomy.
Outside Classwork: About an hour a week
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-5th Grade
Tuesdays 11:00-12:15
6 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23, April 13, 20, 27 (No class March 9th, 11, 30 April 6)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition $160
Learn fascinating facts about six of the systems that make up our human body. With hands-on activities and models, students will begin with cells and then dive into the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. Students will learn through hands on experiments and complete labeled diagrams of the body systems during our journey into anatomy.
Outside Classwork: About an hour a week
Instructor: Lisa Antonic
3rd-6th Grade Classes - Jewish Community Center
1:00-2:15
The Transcontinental Railroad Project
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:15
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $180 FULL- Email infoc3classes@gmail.com to be placed on a waitlist
In the mid 1800s, Americans dreamed of building a railroad that would cross the continent and further connect us as one nation. In this class students find out how this railroad transformed America. They learn about the Big Four, land grants, Chinese railroad workers, the two competing companies, the golden spike, the dangers and difficulties of the project, geography, and a new need for time zones. Students are teamed up to construct a model of the railroad that linked the East and the West and united Americans.
Outside Classwork: up to 30 minutes
Instructor: Laurie Weir
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:15
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $180 FULL- Email infoc3classes@gmail.com to be placed on a waitlist
In the mid 1800s, Americans dreamed of building a railroad that would cross the continent and further connect us as one nation. In this class students find out how this railroad transformed America. They learn about the Big Four, land grants, Chinese railroad workers, the two competing companies, the golden spike, the dangers and difficulties of the project, geography, and a new need for time zones. Students are teamed up to construct a model of the railroad that linked the East and the West and united Americans.
Outside Classwork: up to 30 minutes
Instructor: Laurie Weir
California Geography
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:15
7 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $210
The geography of California is rich and diverse. There are alpine mountains, foggy coastlines, hot deserts, and a fertile central valley. It is home to the world's tallest trees, highest and lowest points in the 48 contiguous states. Journey through the four main regions of the state, learning about geographical land features, points of interest such as national parks, historical sites, and other attractions unique to California. During class, students complete a large map of California to help them visualize the diversity and essential locations in California.
Outside Classwork: California Geography students will have up to an hour of homework each week.
Instructors: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes: First Californians & Missions, The California Gold Rush, The Pony Express, The Transcontinental Railroad Project
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:15
7 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23, April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No class March 11, 18, 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center of Mission Viejo (JCC)
Tuition: $210
The geography of California is rich and diverse. There are alpine mountains, foggy coastlines, hot deserts, and a fertile central valley. It is home to the world's tallest trees, highest and lowest points in the 48 contiguous states. Journey through the four main regions of the state, learning about geographical land features, points of interest such as national parks, historical sites, and other attractions unique to California. During class, students complete a large map of California to help them visualize the diversity and essential locations in California.
Outside Classwork: California Geography students will have up to an hour of homework each week.
Instructors: Laurie Weir
Suggested Companion Classes: First Californians & Missions, The California Gold Rush, The Pony Express, The Transcontinental Railroad Project
2:30-3:30
NEW! Robotics: Building Simple Machines
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 2:30-3:30
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center (JCC)
Tuition: $315
We will be exploring simple machines: wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, lever, screw and then will combine them together to make working models of real-life machines like catapults, stationary bikes, helicopters, and more. At the end, students will get the chance to come up with their own crazy and complicated contraptions.
Outside Classwork: None
Instructor: TBD
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 2:30-3:30
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16
Location: Jewish Community Center (JCC)
Tuition: $315
We will be exploring simple machines: wheel and axle, pulley, inclined plane, wedge, lever, screw and then will combine them together to make working models of real-life machines like catapults, stationary bikes, helicopters, and more. At the end, students will get the chance to come up with their own crazy and complicated contraptions.
Outside Classwork: None
Instructor: TBD
NEW! Engineering with LEGO: Robo Olympics
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 2:30-3:30
6 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23 April 6, 13, 20 (No class March 9, 16, 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center (JCC)
Tuition: $225
It’s Robo Olympics! This fun twist on the Olympics will have students challenged and thinking as they engineer “bots” in order to compete in different Olympic Games such as high jump, basketball, soccer, discus throw, and boxing. Concepts taught will include compression springs, levers, gears and energy.
Outside Classwork: None
Instructor: TBD
3rd-6th Grade
Tuesdays 2:30-3:30
6 Weeks: February 23, March 2, 23 April 6, 13, 20 (No class March 9, 16, 30)
Location: Jewish Community Center (JCC)
Tuition: $225
It’s Robo Olympics! This fun twist on the Olympics will have students challenged and thinking as they engineer “bots” in order to compete in different Olympic Games such as high jump, basketball, soccer, discus throw, and boxing. Concepts taught will include compression springs, levers, gears and energy.
Outside Classwork: None
Instructor: TBD
4th-9th Grade Classes - Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Note:
5th-8th Grade Students May Enroll In Up To Two Classes In A Row: Civics & PE
6th-9th Grade Students May Enroll In Up To Three Classes In A Row: Writing, Civics, PE, Speech & Debate
5th-8th Grade Students May Enroll In Up To Two Classes In A Row: Civics & PE
6th-9th Grade Students May Enroll In Up To Three Classes In A Row: Writing, Civics, PE, Speech & Debate
9:00-10:00
NEW! Literature & Composition: The Fighting Ground
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-10:00
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $150
Travel back in time with us to April 3rd, 1778! As we explore this story of a young boy who wants to be a soldier in the Revolutionary War, students learn key concepts related to literary analysis. This course is slightly different from our other literature classes—students arrive to the first class having already read the short novel, The Fighting Ground, and are ready to discuss and write about it! Each class begins with a discussion based on the novel. Students learn to examine text structure, the traits of characters, mood, genre, and point of view.
As the class progresses, students also engage in class-wide discussions during which they synthesize the “big ideas” about the novel. Then each student chooses a “big idea” that is meaningful to him/her and composes a five-paragraph essay on this idea, complete with a thesis statement and supporting examples from the text.
Novel Summary: April 3, 1778: He may be just thirteen, but Jonathan knows he's ready to go to the war against the British and dreams of fighting in the American Revolution. He can handle a gun, and he yearns to battle for glory, just like his brother and cousin. So when Jonathan hears the tavern bell toll, calling men to fight, he runs to join them. He doesn't realize that in just twenty-four hours, his life will be forever altered.
Outside Classwork: Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours each week
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 9:00-10:00
6 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $150
Travel back in time with us to April 3rd, 1778! As we explore this story of a young boy who wants to be a soldier in the Revolutionary War, students learn key concepts related to literary analysis. This course is slightly different from our other literature classes—students arrive to the first class having already read the short novel, The Fighting Ground, and are ready to discuss and write about it! Each class begins with a discussion based on the novel. Students learn to examine text structure, the traits of characters, mood, genre, and point of view.
As the class progresses, students also engage in class-wide discussions during which they synthesize the “big ideas” about the novel. Then each student chooses a “big idea” that is meaningful to him/her and composes a five-paragraph essay on this idea, complete with a thesis statement and supporting examples from the text.
Novel Summary: April 3, 1778: He may be just thirteen, but Jonathan knows he's ready to go to the war against the British and dreams of fighting in the American Revolution. He can handle a gun, and he yearns to battle for glory, just like his brother and cousin. So when Jonathan hears the tavern bell toll, calling men to fight, he runs to join them. He doesn't realize that in just twenty-four hours, his life will be forever altered.
Outside Classwork: Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours each week
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
How to Write a Research Paper
6th - 9th Grade
Tuesdays: 9:00-10:00
8 Weeks: February 23, March 2, March 23, March 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No class March 9 and 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $240
In this comprehensive writing class, students learn the process for writing a research paper and understand how it is different than writing a report. Students practice their researching, outlining and note-taking skills, learn to define and develop a strong thesis, and write and think critically about their topic before completing the final research paper. Students also learn citation and paraphrasing methods to ensure they properly acknowledge their sources and avoid plagiarism. This class is designed to help students gain a deep understanding of thesis statements and how to connect their research to their ideas.
Students should understand the various types of research available and be comfortable writing a 8-10 sentence paragraph. Research papers must be typed to make revising easier.
Outside Classwork: Students will need to visit the library and conduct research on their topic. In addition, students compose and revise rough drafts and complete any additional class assignments.
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
6th - 9th Grade
Tuesdays: 9:00-10:00
8 Weeks: February 23, March 2, March 23, March 30, April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No class March 9 and 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $240
In this comprehensive writing class, students learn the process for writing a research paper and understand how it is different than writing a report. Students practice their researching, outlining and note-taking skills, learn to define and develop a strong thesis, and write and think critically about their topic before completing the final research paper. Students also learn citation and paraphrasing methods to ensure they properly acknowledge their sources and avoid plagiarism. This class is designed to help students gain a deep understanding of thesis statements and how to connect their research to their ideas.
Students should understand the various types of research available and be comfortable writing a 8-10 sentence paragraph. Research papers must be typed to make revising easier.
Outside Classwork: Students will need to visit the library and conduct research on their topic. In addition, students compose and revise rough drafts and complete any additional class assignments.
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
10:00-11:15
NEW! A Page Out of History: Social Studies & Writing
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 10:00-11:15
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $350
History is an epic story—learn how to write it! This class supports higher level thinking and encourages students to view history as a fun investigation, all while being respectful to the circumstances of America’s development. Students examine and analyze real historical evidence from primary and secondary sources. While collaborating with classmates, students acquire discussion and problem solving skills. This class is a great first step learning how to write well thought out answers to document based questions and essays.
Some of the topics investigated will include:
Students should be able to independently write a 10-12 sentence paragraph before signing up for this course.
Outside Classwork: Students write and revise each week. Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours each week.
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
Note: If you are looking for a year-long writing program, combine this class with the Summarizing from Analyzing: Literary Analysis or The Writing Skills Seminar: The Writer’s Notebook.
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 10:00-11:15
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $350
History is an epic story—learn how to write it! This class supports higher level thinking and encourages students to view history as a fun investigation, all while being respectful to the circumstances of America’s development. Students examine and analyze real historical evidence from primary and secondary sources. While collaborating with classmates, students acquire discussion and problem solving skills. This class is a great first step learning how to write well thought out answers to document based questions and essays.
Some of the topics investigated will include:
- The Great Molasses Flood
- Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr’s Infamous Duel
- “The Gettysburg Address”
- “The Star Spangled Banner”
- The Mystery of the Stolen Mona Lisa
Students should be able to independently write a 10-12 sentence paragraph before signing up for this course.
Outside Classwork: Students write and revise each week. Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours each week.
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
Note: If you are looking for a year-long writing program, combine this class with the Summarizing from Analyzing: Literary Analysis or The Writing Skills Seminar: The Writer’s Notebook.
11:15-12:45
Speech and Debate Semester 2
6th+ Grade and 12+ years old
Tuesdays 11:15-12:45
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $350 FULL- Email infoc3classes@gmail.com to be placed on a waitlist
This class is the continuation of the first semester speech and debate class; however, new students are welcome to join. Students continue to learn and practice the art of speech and debate, develop research, reasoning, organizational, and essay writing skills. Students refine leadership skills while becoming more confident speakers and debaters.
While collaborating with other students, your student can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the power and responsibility of a well trained voice, increase their confidence, and consistently use critical thinking skills. Through games and meaningful application, students learn proper speech techniques and polished delivery. Students engage in structured argumentation, learn how to research and support their developing perspectives and apply their learning through debates. Using our unique teaching approach, we incorporate several team and partner assignments, along with key concepts from the renowned National Forensic League.
Please note: If your child has taken speech and debate with us before, each year follows a new curriculum, so the class may be taken multiple times.
Outside Classwork: Students are expected to research topics, write speeches, and rehearse presentations outside of class.
Instructors: Adrienne Collins and Laurie Weir
6th+ Grade and 12+ years old
Tuesdays 11:15-12:45
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $350 FULL- Email infoc3classes@gmail.com to be placed on a waitlist
This class is the continuation of the first semester speech and debate class; however, new students are welcome to join. Students continue to learn and practice the art of speech and debate, develop research, reasoning, organizational, and essay writing skills. Students refine leadership skills while becoming more confident speakers and debaters.
While collaborating with other students, your student can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the power and responsibility of a well trained voice, increase their confidence, and consistently use critical thinking skills. Through games and meaningful application, students learn proper speech techniques and polished delivery. Students engage in structured argumentation, learn how to research and support their developing perspectives and apply their learning through debates. Using our unique teaching approach, we incorporate several team and partner assignments, along with key concepts from the renowned National Forensic League.
Please note: If your child has taken speech and debate with us before, each year follows a new curriculum, so the class may be taken multiple times.
Outside Classwork: Students are expected to research topics, write speeches, and rehearse presentations outside of class.
Instructors: Adrienne Collins and Laurie Weir
11:30-12:30
P.E. Conditioning and Games Class
4th-8th Grade
Tuesdays 11:30-12:30
7 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $70
The goal of this class is to promote healthy and active lifestyles, while instilling positive values through structured, cooperative, and fun activities. Students in grades 4th-8th are provided with a 60 minute physical education program, supplementing their PE curriculum. This is an inclusive program, meaning that children of all skill levels and abilities will be included.
Sports are meant to be fun and entertaining. Each week students will learn and participate in a new activity which provides the opportunity for students to interact with each other allowing them to strengthen self-esteem, social skills, team work, sportsmanship, and physical health.
Note: Please enroll in this class by contacting the Mission Viejo Family YMCA.
4th-8th Grade
Tuesdays 11:30-12:30
7 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26 February 2, 9, 16, 23
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $70
The goal of this class is to promote healthy and active lifestyles, while instilling positive values through structured, cooperative, and fun activities. Students in grades 4th-8th are provided with a 60 minute physical education program, supplementing their PE curriculum. This is an inclusive program, meaning that children of all skill levels and abilities will be included.
Sports are meant to be fun and entertaining. Each week students will learn and participate in a new activity which provides the opportunity for students to interact with each other allowing them to strengthen self-esteem, social skills, team work, sportsmanship, and physical health.
Note: Please enroll in this class by contacting the Mission Viejo Family YMCA.
P.E. Conditioning and Games Class
4th-8th Grade
Tuesdays 11:30-12:30
7 Weeks: March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No Class March 9th and 16th )
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $70
The goal of this class is to promote healthy and active lifestyles, while instilling positive values through structured, cooperative, and fun activities. Students in grades 4th-8th are provided with a 60 minute physical education program, supplementing their PE curriculum. This is an inclusive program, meaning that children of all skill levels and abilities will be included.
Sports are meant to be fun and entertaining. Each week students will learn and participate in a new activity which provides the opportunity for students to interact with each other allowing them to strengthen self-esteem, social skills, team work, sportsmanship, and physical health.
Note: Please enroll in this class by contacting the Mission Viejo Family YMCA.
4th-8th Grade
Tuesdays 11:30-12:30
7 Weeks: March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27 (No Class March 9th and 16th )
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $70
The goal of this class is to promote healthy and active lifestyles, while instilling positive values through structured, cooperative, and fun activities. Students in grades 4th-8th are provided with a 60 minute physical education program, supplementing their PE curriculum. This is an inclusive program, meaning that children of all skill levels and abilities will be included.
Sports are meant to be fun and entertaining. Each week students will learn and participate in a new activity which provides the opportunity for students to interact with each other allowing them to strengthen self-esteem, social skills, team work, sportsmanship, and physical health.
Note: Please enroll in this class by contacting the Mission Viejo Family YMCA.
1:00-2:00
The Writer's Toolbox and Creative Writing
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:00
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $325
In this class students gain an introduction to different creative forms of writing such - memoirs, personal essays, letters, free writing, journals, flash fiction, vignettes, etc. Since figurative language, also called a figure of speech, makes writing more compelling, this course starts out by helping students understand the names of different figurative language techniques, and why they are effective. As students learn about each type, they review examples and create examples of their own. Next, they’ll complete a fun writing activity for each type of figurative language. In addition, students participate in numerous creative activities to make the process fun and engaging.
Note: If you are looking for a year-long writing program, this class with The Writer’s Notebook is a perfect combination.
Outside Classwork: Students write and revise each week. Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours a week
Instructor: Adrienne Collins
6th-9th Grade
Tuesdays 1:00-2:00
14 Weeks: January 12, 19, 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23 March 2, 23, 30 April 6, 13, 20, 27
(No Class March 9, 16)
Location: Mission Viejo Family YMCA
Tuition: $325
In this class students gain an introduction to different creative forms of writing such - memoirs, personal essays, letters, free writing, journals, flash fiction, vignettes, etc. Since figurative language, also called a figure of speech, makes writing more compelling, this course starts out by helping students understand the names of different figurative language techniques, and why they are effective. As students learn about each type, they review examples and create examples of their own. Next, they’ll complete a fun writing activity for each type of figurative language. In addition, students participate in numerous creative activities to make the process fun and engaging.
Note: If you are looking for a year-long writing program, this class with The Writer’s Notebook is a perfect combination.
Outside Classwork: Students write and revise each week. Depending on ability level, students should expect to spend approximately 1-1.5 hours a week
Instructor: Adrienne Collins