Description:
Think you hate math? Think again! If you love playing games, sorting shapes and patterns, creating 3D art, and training your brain with puzzles and pieces of pi(e), you will have a blast in this session exploring the foundations of mathematics. We will jump into geometry from points, lines, and angles to hands-on building activities. To practice patterns, we will use everything from tiny sprinkles to our own big bodies to recognize repetition. We will work on our critical thinking skills and powers of deduction by tackling mysteries and solving logical conundrums.
While we are doing all of that, we will be stretching our brains in all the right ways to boost our ability to THINK! We will look for math in works of art, explore math in the natural world, and create mathematical masterpieces of our own. Let’s build strong number sense and make our neuroplasticity pop together!

Description:
This engaging, hands-on history session will invite young learners to explore the ancient world through picture books and hands-on projects. We will cover topics from prehistoric nomads, early civilization, and ancient communities in Egypt, India, China, Greece, Mesoamerica, and Rome. Students will make connections between stories and the innovations of the people that inspired them.

Description:
Calling All Curious Creators and Future Engineers! In this interactive lab, young engineers will design, construct, and test amazing structures and machines, all while exploring the fundamental principles of engineering and physics. From towering buildings to the secrets of strong bridges, students will learn how real engineers solve problems, choose materials, and create stable, successful designs. Using simple and easily accessible materials, we’ll build incredible machines and tackle fun, creative challenges that spark imagination and teamwork.
A Google Classroom will be available to support learning at home and continue the conversation about the materials and concepts we explore in class. Get ready to think like an engineer and build like a pro!

Description:
This is not your average old white dude art history class! In this session, we will explore art from the perspectives of perhaps lesser known artists from marginalized communities throughout modern history. By exploring expressions from BIPOC, queer, and women artists, students can expect to gain a greater knowledge of the world around them.
This project-based class will be a blend of artist study, and creative techniques. After spending some time discussing the relevant aspects of the artists lives that molded their art, students will create works inspired by each artist. Students can expect lots of process type art, as well as some more technical elements. I always aim to keep my classes student-led, so the interests of the class will impact the direction of the course.
Homework requirements will be very minimal, if any at all. Some occasional reading or video might be completed at home depending on how things go, but most of the work will be completed during class time.

Description:
In Homeschool Choir, students will learn vocal techniques and how to apply them as a group to a selected repertoire. Each semester, the group will study 3-5 choral pieces and prepare performances for the entire academy. In this session, students will learn skills including directional reading, rhythm, solfège, vocal expression, and blending. Choir obviously fosters musicality, but it also creates a community of creative minds and allows students to work together towards a common goal.
This course is reading-heavy. If your child struggles with reading literacy, please contact instructor Caroline Snyder to discuss any accommodations she can provide.
As part of a middle-school-aged program at EXA, students are expected to consistently practice respectful listening and active participation. When all students follow these expectations, we create a safe and comfortable environment for every child to learn.

Description:
In this performance-based music class students will learn to play an instrument both individually and as a member of an ensemble. We will focus on proper techniques such as posture, embouchure, breathing, tone production, and proper instrument care. To showcase their progress, students will present a concert at the end of each semester.
Guidance on picking an instrument: Young musicians will choose from flute, clarinet, trumpet, or trombone. Families must supply their own instrument. Recommendations and more information on instrument rentals will be provided.
Homework Expectations: Students will be expected to practice their instruments daily. Practice expectations will be provided through Google Classroom.

What kids will learn:
Chess Basics: Understand the board, piece movements, and rules through interactive lessons.
Tactics & Strategy: Explore smart moves like pins, forks, and planning ahead.
More complex strategies: Older grades will enjoy learning more difficult chess strategies and how to apply them.
Critical Thinking: Solve real-game puzzles and boost decision-making skills.
Friendly Competitions: Enjoy group play, mini-tournaments, and team challenges.
Life Skills: Build confidence, focus, patience, and perseverance.
This session will be fun, supportive, and designed to spark a love for chess while building essential academic and social skills.

Description:
In Evolutionary Biology, students will build fundamental knowledge of heredity, genetics, and evolution. Throughout the course, concepts will be reinforced with engaging, hands-on activities. The spring semester will incorporate group projects for the annual KHS STEAM Fair.
As an upper-middle to high-school level course, Evolutionary Biology will have high expectations for behavior and participation. Students will be expected to listen respectfully during instruction, treat project materials with care, and participate in discussion, activities, and note-taking when appropriate.
Homework expectations: There will be occasional take-home assignments that will support concept retention and course progress.

Description:
This upper middle/high school course explores key moments in United States history through the powerful storytelling of theatre. By studying historically-inspired musicals, students examine how music, performance, and storytelling bring historical events and figures to life and shape modern interpretations of the past.
Students will watch and analyze selected musicals highlighting different periods of American history, including the founding era, westward expansion, immigration, labor movements, and civil rights. Through lyrics, staging, and character perspectives, students will consider how artistic choices influence how history is told.
The course will include discussions, lyric analysis, historical research, and comparisons between the historical record and stage portrayals. Students will develop skills in historical analysis, interpretation of artistic works, collaboration, and presentation.

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