Schedule and Room Assignments
4th quarter classes begin the week of March 18, 2024.
You can see key dates in our Google calendar or view our Academic Calendar. You can also view the schedule as a grid (below) or as a list.
Quarter beginning March 18, 2024 |
Tuesday
Eye in the Sky: Drones & Videography (Q4) *
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
From aerial videos of natural disasters to stealthy behind-the-lines views of military movements and spectacular nature cinematography, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) provide a safe and cost- effective means to enhance the visual experience and capture new vantage points of the world around us. This quarter-long class combines drone technologies with photography and videography for an integrated STEM skillset that can serve as a hobby or career. This course provides an introduction to drone safety and operation, including the crucial TRUST (The Recreational UAS Safety Test) certification required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for recreational UAS operations. Students will learn the distinctions between recreational and commercial drone use and delve into vital topics such as LAANC (Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability) and RID (Remote Identification) that are essential for the safe and creative operation of drones for photography and videography. This class also places an emphasis on capturing high-quality footage with a drone for content production. By the end of the quarter, students will possess the skills, knowledge, TRUST certification, and a solid understanding of the fundamentals of content creation. Students will complete a videography project that they plan, storyboard, film, and edit. There are no prerequisites for this class, making it an ideal starting point for young drone enthusiasts. The course instructor holds FAA certification and has a background in film and television production. Because of Compass's proximity to Dulles airport and location within controlled airspace, drones cannot be flown at Compass nor operated indoors. Concepts will be covered in class, and students will have weekly assignments to accomplish outside of class in accordance following the recreational and academic drone use guidelines, laws and regulations. The instructor will have drones to loan to students. To check-out a drone, a parent or guardian must sign a form accepting financial and legal responsibility for the drone and provide a refundable deposit. Alternatively, students may use their own camera-capable drone. The class size is limited to 8 students because of the number of available drones, and the class is being offered both 3rd quarter and 4th quarter (select one).
10:00 am-10:55 am
7th-10th
Flight Simulation Lab: Systems
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 5
How can a pilot practice landing a plane in icing conditions with gusty wind at night or dog-fighting against enemy aircraft over a desert? How do pilots learn the controls of a new aircraft or practice new FAA procedures? How can gamers immerse themselves in realistic aircraft scenarios? They can stay safe and sharpen their skills using flight simulators! In this semester-long course, students will examine a variety of flight simulators used in entertainment, recreation, and professional development, such as training both combat and general aviation pilots. Students will learn about the history and development of early flight simulators, from the wooden fuselage "Link Trainer" mounted to inflatable air bellows to today's state-of-the-art Level D systems. This immersive learning experience allows students to gain insight into the aviation industry, technology, and career prospects while providing a solid foundation in flight simulation. In this course, students will explore the hardware components of flight simulation, focusing on flight control hardware systems, mechanical feedback, control loading/force feedback systems, including sticks, yokes, and pedals. They will also investigate the visual systems employed in flight simulation including the advantages and disadvantages of various system types, from monitors and projection to VR and mixed reality setups. Additionally, students will discover the intricacies of audio systems, learning about speaker systems, analog and digital audio, headphones, and audio cabling connections, all of which play a crucial role in creating an immersive flight simulation experience that translates into better proficiency in the cockpit and higher retention of learned information. The instructor will bring his trailer-mounted mobile simulation lab to Compass for the class's use, and field trips will be schedule some weeks instead of classroom time. This is a 16-week, semester-long class led by a professional in aviation. Please note that the first three weeks of overview and introduction to flight simulators will repeat information from spring semester 2023, but weeks 4+ will be new content focused on systems and hardware.
11:00 am-11:55 am
7th-8th
(Semester Long)
Speak Out! Making Your Point (Persuasive Public Speaking)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Public speaking skills are essential to academia, to success in future careers, and to simply making friends or standing up for yourself! Students will develop their public speaking skills and their own "voice" through the art of storytelling in a fun, supportive environment taught by a public speaking coach. In this class, students will examine the elements of persuasive speaking by playing hilarious storytelling games and preparing short assignments. Students will gain confidence in public speaking by writing and practicing a speech that defends or persuades a position or view that they care about! Students will try to engage or influence their audience on an issue of personal, local, national, or global importance. Want to encourage recycling, change policies at the library, or lobby for a later curfew? Those are persuasive speeches! They will learn how to best present data and details to the audience, conquer any level of nervousness, and become more confident storytellers. They will discover how to use storytelling to enhance anything they do. Each class includes an icebreaker activity, a daily lesson, practice through a game or assignment, individualized feedback, and wrap-up. Students will practice posture, eye contact, enunciation, gestures, pauses, and timing while receiving tips and techniques from the coach and peers. The class will culminate in an end of the quarter presentation for parents. Topics in future quarters include: Finding Your Voice (Expository)- 3rd quarter, and Making Your Point (Persuasive)- 4th quarter
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
6th-8th
Speak Up! Making Your Point (Persuasive Public Speaking)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Public speaking skills are essential to academia, to success in future careers, and to simply making friends or standing up for yourself! Students will develop their public speaking skills and their own "voice" through the art of storytelling in a fun, supportive environment taught by a public speaking coach. In this class, students will examine the elements of persuasive speaking by playing hilarious storytelling games and preparing short assignments. Students will gain confidence in public speaking by writing and practicing a speech that defends or persuades a position or view that they care about! Students will try to engage or influence their audience on an issue of personal, local, national, or global importance. Want to encourage recycling, change policies at the library, or lobby for a later curfew? Those are persuasive speeches! They will learn how to best present data and details to the audience, conquer any level of nervousness, and become more confident storytellers. They will discover how to use storytelling to enhance anything they do. Each class includes an icebreaker activity, a daily lesson, practice through a game or assignment, individualized feedback, and wrap-up. Students will practice posture, eye contact, enunciation, gestures, pauses, and timing while receiving tips and techniques from the coach and peers. The class will culminate in an end of the quarter presentation for parents. Topics in future quarters include: Finding Your Voice (Expository)- 3rd quarter, and Making Your Point (Persuasive)- 4th quarter
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
3rd-5th
Crafty Kids Club (Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Crafty Kids Club is a weekly after-school meet-up for kids in grades 2-5. Kids gather and socialize while completing a craft around a monthly theme. An experienced Compass crafts instructor facilitates the projects each week. Projects are selected to showcase a variety of materials and crafting techniques and to promote creativity and imagination. Each quarter, students will complete projects organized around two themes from among eight craft categories: wooden, wearables, simple sewing, painting, sculpting, paper, beading, and mixed media. Kids will enjoy the camaraderie of working alongside a group of friends in Crafty Kids Club, and parents will appreciate the break! Parent Notes:
- All the supplies are provided: No need to search high and low for the needed materials
- Reduce waste and clutter: No need to buy large quantities of specialty supplies for a one-time project.
- Reduce clean-up: Leave the glue, paint, and glitter mess at Compass.
- Kids get to experiment with a variety of materials and techniques, even if you are not crafty.
- Crafting improves dexterity and fine motor skills
- An afterschool club makes a great social outlet.
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- Creating with Color
- Ocean Odessey
3:00 pm-3:55 pm
2nd-5th
Preparation for Pre-Algebra*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue,Thu
Open Spots: 0
Preparation for Pre-Algebra is a year-long curriculum that will teach the fundamentals a student must master before embarking pre-algebra, algebra, and beyond. The class will review arithmetic skills, operations, and number theory. Key topics include fractions, rates, ratios, decimals, and percentages. Students will learn the computational operations of adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals. They will learn what decimals stand for, how they relate to fractions, and how to convert between the two. They will discover how rates and ratios are also fractions. Students will learn how to work with negative numbers including strategies for completing all four common operations with negative numbers. The class will also cover exponents and orders of magnitude to make sense of really small and really big numbers and common operations. This class will also emphasize real world applications of the mathematical concepts through word problems so students become comfortable switching between prose (written descriptions) and mathematical representation (numbers, symbols) of real world examples such as money, mileage, weights, percentages, and scientific measures. Prerequisites: This course can be considered a pre-pre-algebra class that will teach the core concepts typically covered in later elementary school/early middle school after a general arithmetic curriculum and before pre-algebra. While different curriculums and student pacing will vary, this class would be appropriate for a student who has successfully covered long division, multiplication of multiple digit numbers, and an introduction to simple fractions and who has complete mastery of multiplication facts, skills often aligned with 5th grade mathematics. Workload: Students should expect to spend 3-4 hours per week outside of class to complete practice problems, homework, and assessments. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address to be set up users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by: checking that weekly homework sets are complete; spot-checking the full solution 1-2 select problems in class each week, and giving quarterly take-home tests. Points will also be awarded for class participation. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: Students should purchase the two class texts: "The Complete Book of Math, Grades 5-6" (ISBN# 978-1561896776) and "EP Math 5/6 Workbook" (ISBN# 979-8643323693).
10:00 am-10:55 am
6th-7th
(Year Long)
Algebra I (Tue, Thu)*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue,Thu
Open Spots: 1
This is a complete course in high school Algebra I which will cover fundamental concepts in algebra and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. This course is designed to emphasize the study of algebraic problem-solving with the incorporation of real-world applications. Topics in Algebra I include number systems, linear systems, rational numbers, complex numbers, exponents, roots, radicals, quadratic equations, polynomials, factoring, absolute values, ratios, and proportions. In addition, the course will cover solving and graphing systems of functions, linear equations, and inequalities. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem-solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation in pre-algebra topics in order to take this class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1.25-1.75 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 13-day cycle in this class with: a new unit introduced on a Friday (day 1), lecture on Wednesday (day 6), questions and answers on the next Friday (day 8), and homework due the next Wednesday (day 13). After introduction of a new topic (day 1), students will be expected to read the assigned section and look through worked, sample problems before the lecture the following Wednesday (day 6). Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of all work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by checking that weekly homework sets are complete and giving periodic take-home tests; class participation is also strongly encouraged. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Algebra I: Expressions, Equations, and Applications by Paul A. Foerster. It is available in a few different editions, each of which is virtually identical: 2nd edition (ISBN-10 020125073X, ISBN-13 978-0201250732), 3rd edition (ISBN-10 0201860945, ISBN-13 978-0201860948), and Classic edition (ISBN-10 020132458X, ISBN-13 978-0201324587). It is also available under the title Foerster Algebra I, Classics edition (ISBN-10 0131657089, ISBN-13 978-0131657083). A calculator is not needed for this course. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Algebra I for purposes of a high school transcript.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
7th-10th
(Year Long)
The Artistry of Writing: Daring Dialogue
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 8
What does it take to write a story that jumps off the page and comes alive in a reader's mind? Great authors have mastered the Artistry of Writing. This two-hour workshop will focus on one facet of excellent storytelling: daring dialogue.
Banter. Arguments. Secret-sharing. More than simply what a character says, well-crafted dialogue adds depth to a scene. It brings characters to life and plays a large part in the writer's adage, "Show, don't tell." Successful dialogue sounds natural, whether breaking hearts, inspiring friends, or sneaking skeletons out of a closet. The class will analyze dialogue and identify why it works. We will craft conversations as a group and then draft dialogue independently. There will be an opportunity to share and receive feedback.
This session is part of a series of writers' workshops led by a celebrated author and focused on the Artistry of Writing. Topics in this series include: Compelling Characters (3/5/23); Daring Dialogue (3/19/24); Astounding Action Scenes (4/9/24) and Suspenseful & Scary Scenes (4/23/24).
1:00 pm-2:55 pm
7th-12th
The Artistry of Writing: Astounding Action Scenes
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 8
What does it take to write a story that jumps off the page and comes alive in a reader's mind? Great authors have mastered the Artistry of Writing. This two-hour workshop will focus on one facet of excellent storytelling:action scenes.
Everyone loves a good action scene! But what makes car chases, bare-knuckled brawls, and dystopian disasters as exciting for the reader as they were in the writer's head? The answer comes down to writing technique and a set of rules that won't disappoint.
In this workshop, students will analyze different action scenes and identify the balancing act of physical action and internal narrative with what readers need to be told. We will write an action scene together before students take a swing at their drafts independently. There will be an opportunity to share and receive feedback.
This session is part of a series of writers' workshops led by a celebrated author and focused on the Artistry of Writing. Topics in this series include: Compelling Characters (3/5/23); Daring Dialogue (3/19/24); Astounding Action Scenes (4/9/24) and Suspenseful & Scary Scenes (4/23/24).
1:00 pm-2:55 pm
7th-12th
The Artistry of Writing: Suspenseful & Scary Scenes
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 9
What does it take to write a story that jumps off the page and comes alive in a reader's mind? Great authors have mastered the Artistry of Writing. This two-hour workshop will focus on one facet of excellent storytelling:suspenseful and scary scenes.
Some books make you laugh. Others make you cry. Then there are those special stories that force your heart into your throat. You have to know what will happen next, but you aren't sure you can turn the page. This workshop will focus on writing heart-pounding emotions.
Suspense and scares go beyond the building blocks of a story (plot, characters, setting) and dive into mood, tone, and theme. This is where less is more. Where sentences can be a single word, and a change in punctuation transforms everything. Students will analyze passages and ask what emotion the author had hoped for. As a class, we will build a scene fraught with tension before turning to independent writing. There will be an opportunity to share and receive feedback.
This session is part of a series of writers' workshops led by a celebrated author and focused on the Artistry of Writing. Topics in this series include: Compelling Characters (3/5/23); Daring Dialogue (3/19/24); Astounding Action Scenes (4/9/24) and Suspenseful & Scary Scenes (4/23/24).
1:00 pm-2:55 pm
7th-12th
American History: The 20th Century and WWII (1925-1950)*
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
10:00 am-11:55 am
9th-12th
(Semester Long)
Dynamic Dioramas: Biome Builders- Grasslands (The Savanna) Tues*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
The best way to understand a biome is to build (a model) one! A biome is a large zone on Earth characterized by its climate, soil, vegetation, and organisms with special adaptations for the unique environment. In modeling biomes, students will learn how they are different than similar ecological concepts like habitats and ecosystems. Students will discover how human activities, such as deforestation and habitat destruction, are transforming biomes.
In this science-themed diorama class, students will be exposed to concepts such as trophic levels, the water cycle, biological competition, geographic isolation, convergent evolution, species diversification, natural vs unnatural climate change, food webs, habitat loss, and ecological niches, while they are working on their models.
Grassland biomes are found on every continent (except Antarctica) and are flat, open regions dominated by grass with scattered trees and shrubs, and a warm, dry climate. Tropical grasslands, known as savannas, cover half the continent of Africa as well as areas of Australia, India, and South America. Compass ecologists will focus on African savannas where large, diverse animals such as elephants, wildebeest, warthogs, zebras, rhinos, gazelles, hyenas, cheetahs, lions, leopards, ostrich, and other birds and small mammals, graze and hunt in the expansive grasslands.
Each student will create an individual diorama. Students will craft and hand-shape their scene on a 10 x 14 inch foam board using artistic, model-making techniques. They will customize their dioramas with landforms, waterways, plant life, and paint. Once individual projects are constructed, students will populate them with miniature figures and combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to create a larger terrain. Students will then compete in a zoology-based survival strategy game. Each student will create one board and receive a set of miniatures to take home with them. Course documents such as maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
Topics in this series include: Tropics (The Rainforest)- Quarter 1; Tundra (The Arctic)- Quarter 2; Arid (The Desert)- Quarter 3; and Grasslands (The Savanna)- Quarter 4.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
2nd-4th
Dynamic Dioramas: Virginia History- The Civil War, 1861-1865*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
Virginia experienced fighting from the earliest days of the Civil War, throughout the conflict, and at the very end near Appomattox Courthouse following the Confederacy's loss of its capital in Richmond. Virginia saw almost every type of battlefield fought in the war, from the fields of Manassas to the mountains in the Shenandoah and from the first ironclad battles around Hampton Roads to sieges on a scale never before seen at Petersburg. There is Civil War history all around Virginia. Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, and historical maps, students will each form a 10" X 14" shaped, foam diorama of a portion of a battlefield from the campaign. Choices will include some of the Civil War's earliest battles, like Bull Run and Manassas, the Defenses of Washington, guerilla battles in the Shenandoah Valley, or great sieges like Petersburg. Students will each receive 1:72 scale miniature soldiers to populate their scene. Once individual projects are constructed, students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to create larger scenes. Students will spend the remainder of the quarter learning about the tactics and outcomes of the military engagement while playing a table-top strategy game. Student strategists will use a simplified version of the Fire and Fury gaming rule system for moving troops and equipment. The instructor will use maps and visual presentations to explain the historical background and circumstances leading up to the specific battle. Course documents, such as period maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this year's Civil War Series include: First Battle of Manassas (Quarter 1); The Anaconda Plan, Civil War Naval Battles (Quarter 2); The Atlanta Campaign and Sherman's March to the Sea (Quarter 3); and The Siege of Petersburg, the fall of Richmond (Quarter 4).
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
3rd-5th
Battle Strategies & Dioramas: WWII- Battle of the Bulge (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Students will engage in a hands-on 3D battle strategy game using the military dioramas that they make! In late 1944, the outcome of the Second World War was no longer in doubt, however, the ongoing fighting was just as lethal. Hitler was desperate to pull off a miraculous victory in the West, and he set his sight on the Ardennes, a "quiet" sector of the front in Luxembourg where the Allies had sent badly damaged units to recover from fierce fighting elsewhere. The Allies believed that Germany would not invade through the forest in the winter, especially with the dire circumstances they faced everywhere else. This was a miscalculation. Hitler used this opportunity to ram the last functioning units to attempt to "drive the Allies back into the sea" and take the port of Antwerp in a conflict known as The Battle of the Bulge. Using artistic model-making techniques, hand tools, and historical maps, students will each form a 10" X 14" shaped, foam diorama with landscape elements (hills, valleys, rivers, ridges, vegetation, airfields, etc) to represent a scene of a famous historical engagement. Students will each receive scale miniature naval ships to populate their scene. Once individual projects are constructed, students will combine their dioramas alongside those of their classmates to approximate the larger battlefield terrain. Students will spend the remainder of the quarter learning about the tactics and outcomes of the military engagement while playing a table-top strategy game. Student strategists will use a simplified version of the Axis and Allies gaming rule system for moving troops and equipment. Along with their classmates, students will see how this battle progressed and test different outcome scenarios that might have occurred with different battlefield choices. The instructor will use maps and visual presentations to explain the historical background and circumstances leading up to the specific battle. Course documents, such as period maps, game rules and all other instructional media will be available via a Google Drive link which will be emailed to parents. There is a $25.00 materials fee payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Topics in this year's series include: Pearl Harbor (Quarter 1), Guadalcanal (Quarter 2), D-Day (Quarter 3), and Battle of the Bulge (Quarter 4).
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
5th-8th
Art in Action: Destination Art (Tue 10am)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 3
Elementary artists can get in on the action as they learn about a different artist or artistic style each week and create a representative piece using a wide range of artistic supplies such as tempura and water color paints, pastels, pencils, cray pas, oil pastel crayons, specialty papers, sculpting media, and embellishments. Fourth quarter, students will be introduced to a surprise countries or culture each week where they will learn briefly about the locale's unique tradition of art. The class will use a variety of materials and techniques to represent the projects inspired by the secret destination. Topics in this Series: Picasso in Perspective (Quarter 1); Original Works of the Worlds Oceans (Quarter 2); American Artist Spotlight (Quarter 3); Destination Art (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints.
10:00 am-10:55 am
3rd-4th
Junior Art Studio: Scenic Seascapes (Tue, 11am)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
This class is a multi-media art sampler for our youngest artists! Each week students will learn a few fun facts about a type of art or artist, view sample works, and then will create a project in the style of the artist using a wide variety of materials and representative colors, patterns, textures, and embellishments. Young artists will have the opportunity to work with a different media each week such as tempera paint, various papers, color pencils, markers, tissue paper, translucent tracing paper, cray pas, oil pastels, charcoals, and watercolors. Fourth quarter, Junior Artists will study seascape art and aspects of the ocean and its animals from artists such as John Groves, Jim Holland and Natasha Nazareako. Our art projects will vary and feature lighthouses, ocean animals, and seascapes. Through weekly projects, junior artists will create their own sea-inspired art while learning about the artist, the technique, and the subject matter. Topics in this Series: Kings and Queens- Kids' Medieval Art (Quarter 1); Artists & their Animals (Quarter 2); Whimsical Winter Works (Quarter 3); Scenic Seascapes (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints.
11:00 am-11:55 am
K-2nd
Decorative Arts Studio: Upcycled, Recycled Projects for Kids
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Student artists will enjoy working hands-on, in 3-dimensions with a variety of sculpting and crafting materials to create original Decorative Arts. Assembling decorative items is multi-sensory, and students enjoy the tactile experience of shaping, stacking, forming, flattening, and layering a selection of materials to create unique, personal projects. Decorative art engages a different artistic skillset than coloring, drawing, and writing, and encourages creativity to represent objects in three dimensions. In this studio environment, students will create original hand-made pieces using a range of artistic techniques and a myriad of materials to choose from. Fourth quarter, students will create unique sculptures and decorative items from salvaged materials. Upcycling and recycling are conscientious ways to transform and reuse materials that would ordinarily be discarded! Everyday throw-aways such as cans, bottles, lids, and cardboard tubes will be turned into sculptures. Example past projects include bottle top "mosaics", cute bottle people, and re-envisioned florist vases. Some projects will take two weeks to complete with the first week dedicated to the construction and second week focused on finishing techniques such as painting and embellishing. A supply fee of $20.00 per student is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. This is a 7-week class will not meet on 03/26. Topics in this Series: Sculpture Skills (Quarter 1), Marvelous Mosaics (Quarter 2), Fiber Arts Fun (Quarter 3), and Upcycled, Recycled Projects (Quarter 4).
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
3rd-5th
Junior Art Studio: Scenic Seascapes (Tue, 12pm)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
This class is a multi-media art sampler for our youngest artists! Each week students will learn a few fun facts about a type of art or artist, view sample works, and then will create a project in the style of the artist using a wide variety of materials and representative colors, patterns, textures, and embellishments. Young artists will have the opportunity to work with a different media each week such as tempera paint, various papers, color pencils, markers, tissue paper, translucent tracing paper, cray pas, oil pastels, charcoals, and watercolors. Fourth quarter, Junior Artists will study seascape art and aspects of the ocean and its animals from artists such as John Groves, Jim Holland and Natasha Nazareako. Our art projects will vary and feature lighthouses, ocean animals, and seascapes. Through weekly projects, junior artists will create their own sea-inspired art while learning about the artist, the technique, and the subject matter. Topics in this Series: Kings and Queens- Kids' Medieval Art (Quarter 1); Artists & their Animals (Quarter 2); Whimsical Winter Works (Quarter 3); Scenic Seascapes (Quarter 4). Supply Fee: There is a supply fee of $25.00, payable to the instructor on the first day of class which covers consumable class materials such a specialty papers, watercolor pencils, and paints.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
K-2nd
Decorative Arts Studio: Upcycled, Recycled Projects for Tweens
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 4
Student artists will enjoy working hands-on, in 3-dimensions with a variety of sculpting and crafting materials to create original Decorative Arts. Assembling decorative items is multi-sensory, and students enjoy the tactile experience of shaping, stacking, forming, flattening, and layering a selection of materials to create unique, personal projects. Decorative art engages a different artistic skillset than coloring, drawing, and writing, and encourages creativity to represent objects in three dimensions. In this studio environment, students will create original hand-made pieces using a range of artistic techniques and a myriad of materials to choose from. Fourth quarter, students will create unique sculptures and decorative items from salvaged materials. Upcycling and recycling are conscientious ways to transform and reuse materials that would ordinarily be discarded! Everyday throw-aways such as cans, bottles, lids, and cardboard tubes will be turned into sculptures. Example past projects include bottle top "mosaics", cute bottle people, and re-envisioned florist vases. Some projects will take two weeks to complete with the first week dedicated to the construction and second week focused on finishing techniques such as painting and embellishing. A supply fee of $20.00 per student is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. This is a 7-week class will not meet on 03/26. Topics in this Series: Sculpture Skills (Quarter 1), Marvelous Mosaics (Quarter 2), Fiber Arts Fun (Quarter 3), and Upcycled, Recycled Projects (Quarter 4).
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
6th-8th
General Chemistry (On-Level or Honors)- Lecture*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
This is a place-holder for the Chemistry lecture. Students should register for the Chemistry Lab, which will automatically enroll them in both class sections.
10:00 am-10:55 am
10th-12th
(Year Long)
Anatomy & Physiology (On-Level or Honors)- Lecture*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
This is a place-holder for the Anatomy & Physiology lecture. Students should register for the Anatomy & Physiology Lab, which will automatically enroll them in both class sections.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
10th-12th
(Year Long)
Vet 'Ventures: Marine Mammal Rescue (1 pm)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 3
An older orca in an ocean tidal pool. A sick sea lion in the surf. A disoriented dolphin by the dock. Sometimes even our marine mammal friends need medical care! In this class, future marine veterinarians will learn all about whales, dolphins, manatees, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and walruses. The class will discover some of fun and fascinating facts, similarities, and differences in marine mammal families (and what makes some of these slick sea-dwellers mammals in the first place?) They will learn about the health and anatomy of these mammals including special adaptations for the marine environments. Finally, the class will discover how medical care is delivered to marine mammals and what threats the species face in the oceans today. Each class meeting will include hands-on and interactive demonstrations, simulations, role-playing, activities, games, stories, or short video clips to convey the information. During the first week, students will receive a lab coat and clinic name tag, a marine mammal model for demonstrations, and a class workbook. They will "adopt" and name their animla, and during the final week, they will receive a diploma. (Animals, lab coats, name tags, and workbooks will remain at Compass between classes so they are not forgotten at home). There is a $25.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
1st-2nd
Vet 'Ventures: Marine Mammal Rescue (2 pm)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 5
An older orca in an ocean tidal pool. A sick sea lion in the surf. A disoriented dolphin by the dock. Sometimes even our marine mammal friends need medical care! In this class, future marine veterinarians will learn all about whales, dolphins, manatees, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and walruses. The class will discover some of fun and fascinating facts, similarities, and differences in marine mammal families (and what makes some of these slick sea-dwellers mammals in the first place?) They will learn about the health and anatomy of these mammals including special adaptations for the marine environments. Finally, the class will discover how medical care is delivered to marine mammals and what threats the species face in the oceans today. Each class meeting will include hands-on and interactive demonstrations, simulations, role-playing, activities, games, stories, or short video clips to convey the information. During the first week, students will receive a lab coat and clinic name tag, a marine mammal model for demonstrations, and a class workbook. They will "adopt" and name their animla, and during the final week, they will receive a diploma. (Animals, lab coats, name tags, and workbooks will remain at Compass between classes so they are not forgotten at home). There is a $25.00 supply fee due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
3rd-4th
Algebra I: Semi Private (Tue, Thu)- Semester 2*
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue,Thu
Open Spots: 2
This is a semi-private section for students with permission of Compass and the Instructor This is a complete course in high school Algebra I which will cover fundamental concepts in algebra and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. This course is designed to emphasize the study of algebraic problem-solving with the incorporation of real-world applications. Topics in Algebra I include number systems, linear systems, rational numbers, complex numbers, exponents, roots, radicals, quadratic equations, polynomials, factoring, absolute values, ratios, and proportions. In addition, the course will cover solving and graphing systems of functions, linear equations, and inequalities. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem-solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation in pre-algebra topics in order to take this class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1.25-1.75 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 13-day cycle in this class with: a new unit introduced on a Friday (day 1), lecture on Wednesday (day 6), questions and answers on the next Friday (day 8), and homework due the next Wednesday (day 13). After introduction of a new topic (day 1), students will be expected to read the assigned section and look through worked, sample problems before the lecture the following Wednesday (day 6). Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of all work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by checking that weekly homework sets are complete and giving periodic take-home tests; class participation is also strongly encouraged. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Algebra I: Expressions, Equations, and Applications by Paul A. Foerster. It is available in a few different editions, each of which is virtually identical: 2nd edition (ISBN-10 020125073X, ISBN-13 978-0201250732), 3rd edition (ISBN-10 0201860945, ISBN-13 978-0201860948), and Classic edition (ISBN-10 020132458X, ISBN-13 978-0201324587). It is also available under the title Foerster Algebra I, Classics edition (ISBN-10 0131657089, ISBN-13 978-0131657083). A calculator is not needed for this course. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Algebra I for purposes of a high school transcript.
9:00 am-9:55 am
3rd-5th
(Semester Long)
PreCalculus with Trigonometry*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue,Fri
Open Spots: 3
This is a complete course in high school PreCalculus which will cover fundamental concepts and provide a solid foundation of mathematical literacy, problem solving, reasoning, and critical thinking skills that are necessary for the exploration of more advanced and rigorous topics in mathematics. Topics in Precalculus include functions: polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric (right angle and unit circle). In addition, the course will cover polar coordinates, parametric equations, analytic trigonometry, vectors, systems of equations/inequalities, conic sections, sequences, and series. Students will explore these topics through class discussions, practice problems, and open-ended problem solving. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry in order to take this class. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1.25-1.75 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on a 13-day cycle in this class with: a new unit introduced on a Friday (day 1), lecture on Wednesday (day 6), questions and answers on the next Friday (day 8), and homework due the next Wednesday (day 13). After introduction of a new topic (day 1), students will be expected to read the assigned section and look through worked, sample problems before the lecture the following Wednesday (day 6). Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of all work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address in order to be set up as users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. In lieu of a graphing calculator, students should have access to websites desmos.com and wolframalpha.com for graphing assignments. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by checking that weekly homework sets are complete and giving periodic take-home tests; class participation is also strongly encouraged. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for the purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: Students should purchase or rent the required textbook for this class: Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus, 6th edition by Stewart, Redlin, and Watson (ISBN-10 0840068077, ISBN-13 978-0840068071). A scientific calculator similar to the Casio fx-115ES PLUS is required for this class. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Precalculus for purposes of a high school transcript.
11:00 am-11:55 am
10th-12th
(Year Long)
High School Probability & Statistics (On-Level, Honors)*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue,Fri
Open Spots: 4
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million. 77% of teens ages 12-17 have cell phones. One out of every two of youth voters cast a ballot in 2020. From election polls to stock market data and weather reports to medical test results, statistics and probability are all around us. They are quoted in the podcasts we listen to, the news we watch, and the textbooks and articles we read. Statistics and probability are used in almost every field of study and career for forecasting, decision making, and tracking progress. In 2021-22, the government will release a tsunami of 2020 census statistics about our country's population. (Coincidentally, the odds of a tsunami hitting the east coast- less than the Powerball win.) But statistics and probability are also often misused, misquoted or incorrectly applied, so having a solid understanding of what these numbers represent will help make teens informed consumers and decision-makers. This course will explore the collection and analysis of data, inferences and conclusions, and the use of this information. Themes include relationships between variables, gathering data, interpreting categorical versus quantitative data. The class will also cover sample surveys, experiments, and observational studies and evaluate randomness and probability. Finally, students will learn about making inferences, justifying conclusions, and using probability to make decisions. Prerequisite: Students should have a solid foundation Algebra I and Geometry in order to take this class. It is an ideal class for a student who needs an additional credit in high school math, but who may not wish to pursue more advanced mathematics courses such as Algebra II and Pre-Calculus. Levels:The course provides a substantive, full-credit experience on either an Honors or On-Level track. All class members share core material and participate in the same class lectures. Honors students will receive additional, more challenging problems. Students register online for the same course, but must indicate which level they wish to follow by the first day of class. Students may move down a level (from Honors to On-Level) at any time. Workload: Students should expect to spend 1-1.5 hours per day on reading, review, and homework on most non-class days. Homework assignments will run on an approximately 11-day cycle in this class with: a new unit introduced on a Tuesday (day 1), lecture on Friday (day 4), questions and answers on the next Tuesday (day 8), and homework due the next Friday (day 11). After introduction of a new topic (day 1), students will be expected to read the assigned section and look through worked, sample problems before the next lecture. Solutions will be provided for some homework problems, but students are expected to show all steps of all work. Assignments: The Canvas online class management system will be used to post assignments and scores. Students should have their own e-mail address to be set up users of the Canvas system. Parents can also be set up as Canvas guests/observers for purposes of tracking the student's progress and workload. Assessments: In this class, the instructor will assess a student's progress by: checking that weekly homework sets are complete; spot-checking the full solution 1-2 select problems in class each week, and giving quarterly take-home tests. Points will also be awarded for class participation. Parents will be able to view accumulated points awarded in the class for purpose of determining a parent-awarded course grade. Textbook: The required textbook for this class is "Stats In Your World" 1st edition by David E. Bock (ISBN-13 : 978-0131384897). Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a complete credit in Probability & Statistics for purposes of a high school transcript.
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
11th-12th
(Year Long)
Practical Math for Real Life*
Quarter(s): 1,2,3,4
Day(s): Tue,Fri
Open Spots: 3
Financing a motorcycle, buying your first car, comparing lease options on an apartment, understanding your paycheck, and selecting insurance. These are all real-life scenarios that young adults will face within the first five years of graduating high school, if not sooner. These choices and others are an inevitable part of “adulting” and require a solid understanding of essential math skills. This course will work through practical, real-life situations and will review the math skills needed to make informed choices. Often called “Consumer Math,” this course will review arithmetic concepts such as decimals, fractions, discounts, rates, ratios, proportions, rounding, simple interest, estimating, and measurements. However, instead of working math problems in abstract exercises, students will revisit these concepts in the context of scenarios they will encounter in everyday life. What is a better deal: an extra 15% off the already discounted sales price of 30% off or Buy One, Get One free? Students will be able to use/apply arithmetic concepts to common scenarios to make informed consumer choices. Course themes include:
- Banking and Checking Accounts including balancing a checkbook (on paper and spreadsheet), understanding fees, and interest.
- Saving and Investing including how money grows, simple and compounding interest, overview of how stocks, bonds, savings accounts, and CDs work, and discussion on personal emergency fund.
- Credit Cards including fees, minimum payments, interest, what happens when the balance is not paid off, and a look at consumer credit scores.
- Measurement/Metric System/Unit Conversion including a review of what units are used for what items in imperial and metric systems, common ballparks and estimates, mathematical methods to convert and compare units, and the use of apps to make conversions.
- Sales/Discounts by looking at examples to compare various promotions and to calculate which is a better deal.
- Wages/Income including calculating weekly or bi-weekly or annual pay from a rate, estimate payroll withholdings as percentages, look at hour overtime affects earnings, commissions, and a survey of the salaries and hourly rates for variety of jobs teens and young adults might have.
- Pricing and Cost including sales taxes and how goods and services are priced and what mark-ups should be considered- useful for those wanting to have their own business.
- Rent/Mortgages For rentals, understand application fees, security deposits, and pre-paid amounts, monthly rate and what is included, and term of lease and make comparison among options. For purchases: understand how mortgages vary based on down payment, term, and interest rate. Students will look at cost of homes in their area and practice using online calculators to adjust down payment, term, interest rate, and homeowners’ insurance affect monthly payment, and they will look briefly at how the amount paid towards principle and interest (P/I) change over time.
- Types of Insurance including auto, health, and hazard insurance. What is required, what is recommended, and how much do they cost? Understanding option such as employer-paid v. self-pay; private insurance v. ACA marketplace policy; and terminology such as co-pay, co-insurance, deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, etc.
- Loans- Auto/Student/Personal/Consumer (such as furniture) including understanding how down payment, term, and interest rate affect your monthly payment and what it means to have “no interest for 12 months” or “zero down.”
- Automobiles including the cost of warranties and what they cover, the costs of owning and operating a vehicle, fuel efficiency, and the metrics of EVs.
- Budgeting including a personal plan given assumed career/average salary, and all anticipated expenses (housing, utilities, transportation, food, insurance, medical, clothing, entertainment).
- Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra
- Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class.
- Assignments: All assignments will be posted on password-protected Canvas classroom management site. There, students access assignments, upload homework, and message the instructor.
- Textbook/Materials: Students should purchase or rent the selected textbook and/or workbook. The specific editions will be identified by August 1.
- What to Bring: Notebook or paper, pen or pencil, textbook and/or workbook. From time to time the instructor may ask students to being a smart phone (for apps) or laptop for in-class investigation.
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
11th-12th
(Year Long)
Marine Biology: Marine Animal Close-Up*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Earth is an ocean planet! Life began in the oceans, and they are the linchpin of the biological, chemical, and physical processes that allow our planet to support life. This class will give students a basic understanding of the chemistry, physics and biology of earth's oceans. We'll also learn how oceans are informing our search for life on other planets. The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning, and students will engage in hands on demonstrations and experiments during each class.
During the fourth quarter, we'll be moving from a big picture perspective, looking at ecology and biomes, to focus in on individual species and how they live. We'll trace the evolution of the major groups of marine plants and animals, to see how their morphology and adaptations became more complex and diverse over time. The class will zoom in on representative species, let students vote on the most interesting, and compile a Case Studies science log that profiles these species. We'll also have a chance to observe and interact with living aquatic organisms in our classroom. Come meet bioluminescent dinoflagellates and feed an anemone!
Topics in this Series: Oceanography (Quarter 1); Coastal Biomes (Quarter 2); Open Water Habitats (Quarter 3); and Marine Animal Close-Up (Quarter 4).Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $15.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
11:00 am-11:55 am
5th-6th
Scientist for a Day: Biologist, Entomologist*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Find out what different scientists do! This class allows young scientists to explore different careers in the sciences and shows them that science is fun, approachable, and that anyone can do it! Students will use real scientific equipment and learn actual science terminology to investigate questions in different fields. Try out SCUBA gear as a marine biologist, learn the basics for studying DNA, perform experiments in chemistry, and try your hand at operating an ROV (remote operated vehicle). The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning, and students will engage in hands on demonstrations and experiments during each class. Fourth quarter, students will learn some basics biology, using their powers of observation and digital microscopes to investigate plants and animals from the grounds. The class will discuss how these organisms survive and adapt. As entomologists, they will take an up-close look at insects and discover the many important ecological functions that they perform, from nutrient cycling to pollination. Guest insects will include pillbugs, millipedes, Madagascar hissing cockroaches, and an ant farm. To emphasize the topic of nutrient cycling, students will also make their own worm farms to take home to observe and apply the basics of composting household waste. Topics in this Series: Paleontologist, Geologist (Quarter 1); Physicist, Astronomer (Quarter 2) Chemist & Medical Scientist (Quarter 3); Biologist, Entomologist (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $15.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
3rd-4th
Who Wants to Be a Scientist? Biologist, Entomologist (1pm)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
There are so many ways to do science! This class allows our youngest scientists to explore different careers in the sciences and shows them that science is fun, approachable, and that anyone can do it! Students will use real scientific equipment and learn actual science terminology to investigate questions in different fields. Try out SCUBA gear as a marine biologist, learn the basics for studying DNA, perform experiments in chemistry, and try your hand at operating an ROV (remote operated vehicle). The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning, and students will engage in hands on demonstrations and experiments during each class. Fourth quarter, students will learn some basics biology, using their powers of observation and digital microscopes to investigate plants and animals from the grounds. The class will discuss how these organisms survive and adapt. As entomologists, they will take an up-close look at insects and discover the many important ecological functions that they perform, from nutrient cycling to pollination. Guest insects will include pillbugs, millipedes, Madagascar hissing cockroaches, and an ant farm. To emphasize the topic of nutrient cycling, students will also make their own worm farms to take home to observe and apply the basics of composting household waste. Topics in this Series: Paleontologist, Geologist (Quarter 1); Physicist, Astronomer (Quarter 2) Chemist & Medical Scientist (Quarter 3); Biologist, Entomologist (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $15.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
1st-2nd
Who Wants to Be a Scientist? Biologist, Entomologist (2pm)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
There are so many ways to do science! This class allows our youngest scientists to explore different careers in the sciences and shows them that science is fun, approachable, and that anyone can do it! Students will use real scientific equipment and learn actual science terminology to investigate questions in different fields. Try out SCUBA gear as a marine biologist, learn the basics for studying DNA, perform experiments in chemistry, and try your hand at operating an ROV (remote operated vehicle). The focus will be on hands-on, dynamic learning, and students will engage in hands on demonstrations and experiments during each class. Fourth quarter, students will learn some basics biology, using their powers of observation and digital microscopes to investigate plants and animals from the grounds. The class will discuss how these organisms survive and adapt. As entomologists, they will take an up-close look at insects and discover the many important ecological functions that they perform, from nutrient cycling to pollination. Guest insects will include pillbugs, millipedes, Madagascar hissing cockroaches, and an ant farm. To emphasize the topic of nutrient cycling, students will also make their own worm farms to take home to observe and apply the basics of composting household waste. Topics in this Series: Paleontologist, Geologist (Quarter 1); Physicist, Astronomer (Quarter 2) Chemist & Medical Scientist (Quarter 3); Biologist, Entomologist (Quarter 4). Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $15.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class.
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
1st-2nd
Reading Ready! (Q4)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Reading Ready is a supplemental reading and writing class for 5- and 6- year-olds. The class is whole language inspired with phonics games, partner reading, simple journaling, and self-created spelling lists for home. The group will explore habits of good readers and writers through examples of well-loved children's authors. Students must already be able to recognize each letter and corresponding sound of the alphabet, be familiar with simple blends, know a few beginner sight words (such as I, am, and no), and must be able to write their own name. Please note this class is designed for students to enjoy a fun, new dimension of reading with peers and a teacher, but this will not take the place of a comprehensive language arts curriculum and daily reading practice.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
K-1st
Reading Rangers (Q4)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Reading Rangers is a supplemental reading and writing class for beginning readers. The class is whole language inspired with phonics and decoding games, partner reading, simple journaling, and vocabulary lists for home. The group will explore habits of curious readers and writers through the examination of renounded children's picture story books. The class will discuss characters, setting, sequence of events, and predicting outcomes and will write simple sentences. Students should be able to read Level 1 books such as Frog & Toad and Little Bear. (In other words, students in this group should have processed beyond Bob-type books, but also not be more advanced than Level 1 readers.) Please note this class is designed for students to enjoy a fun, new dimension of reading with peers and a teacher, but this will not take the place of a comprehensive language arts curriculum and daily reading practice.
11:00 am-11:55 am
K-1st
Compass Chorale (Spring)
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 3
In the style of "High School Musical" or a glee club, Compass Chorale is for tween singers who want to have fun taking their vocal performance to the next level. This semester-long program will focus on choral arrangements of contemporary pieces with 2- and 3- part harmonies. Singers will be expected to memorize pieces and participate in the semester performance (May 14) along with one additional rehearsal outside of regular class hours. This program includes instruction on vocal development and performance such as posture, breathing, intonation, and the principles of blending vocal harmonies. Basic musical notation will be introduced as well as melodic and harmonic intervals. Compass Chorale is for students who took Learn to Sing class(es) at Compass, those who have other musical theater experience. First time new singers and younger students who have choral experience must receive instructor approval to enroll. Students are encouraged to enroll early because the number, ages, experience, and vocal parts of the students will determine which songs selected. There is a $25.00 fee for a music notebook due payable to the instructor on the first day of class. This is a 14-week session that will not meet on 1/30/24 and 2/6/24.
11:00 am-11:55 am
6th-8th
(Semester Long)
Rhythm Rocks: Drum Jam (Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Students of all ages will love the energy and exhilaration of drumming! Students will learn rhythms and drumming patterns from West Africa and other cultures. In this "hands-on" class, students will learn hand-drumming on djembe drums and accompanying percussion accessories such as tambourines, triangles, rhythm sticks, maracas, and bongos. Students will learn the difference between steady beat, rhythms, and polyrhythms, which involve patterning, call and response, and different tonal levels. Drummers will be "in the groove" as they learn single stroke rolls, single and double paradiddle, frills, and patterns. They will be encouraged to experiment with different percussion instruments and to improvise. New drummers are welcome to enroll any quarter, and returning drummers are encouraged to return and continue to learn more complex drumming techniques. Drummers may be divided by age and/or drumming experience in class with each group taught the same rhythm with varying degrees of difficulty. All instruments are provided by the instructor.
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
3rd-6th
Creative Storytelling: Once Upon a...Winding Path*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Children are full of stories and bubbling over with big ideas! In this class, students will learn how to capture their creative vision into a simple story that they will write and illustrate. Two roads diverged in a wood, and our storytellers will create their own path. What happens when tricky travelers and cryptic characters meet secretive strangers on a winding woodland path? Students will learn how to build a Story Arc through guided, weekly activities. They will discover the key elements to composing a story such as crafting characters, posing a problem, advancing the action, constructing the climax, and writing the resolution- through brainstorming questions like, "Who is in your story?", "Where does this take place?", "What does that look like?" and "What happened after ____?" Emerging writers or readers are welcome and will receive support, if needed, to get their own words written down. Psst- don't tell your child, but this class helps lay the foundation in language arts for more advanced creative writing and composition. Pair this class with Acting: Kids Theater or Writing Well to further encourage communication and storytelling skills. The supply fee is included in the class tuition. Topics in this Series: A Secret Room (Quarter 1); A Shipwreck (Quarter 2); A Medieval Castle (Quarter 3); and A Winding Path (Quarter 4).
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
1st-3rd
Writers @ Work: Papers with Pizzazz*
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Writers @ Work is a fundamental writing class that will prepare seventh and eighth grade students for high school level composition. The class will progress from getting started on learning how to effectively structure purposeful paragraphs) (first semester) to multiple paragraphs linked into articulate and organized essays (second semester). Second semester will focus on essay writing by combining several paragraphs to form a paper. Essays will cover persuasive, personal, and formal themes. Students will learn about topic sentences, transitions between paragraphs, clarity, and guiding the reader through their discussion. Writers will learn about organizing their thoughts or evidence and selecting the most important points to craft a multi-paragraph composition. Students have freedom to choose topics for each form. They will be encouraged to first write about something they already know about and then write about a new topic where they will be challenged to define the question they want to investigate, find sources for their research, organize details, and document information used. Grammar concepts will be introduced throughout the year, and students will be encouraged to incorporate the technique in their next writing or revision. Grammar concepts will include a "toolbox" of writing techniques and rules such as sentence structure, complex and compound sentences, independent and dependent clauses, parts of speech, agreement, tense, use of dialogue and quotation marks, and correct use of punctuation. Students will also be taught techniques for brainstorming and outlining before beginning to write and will be given tips on choosing creative, interesting, and powerful words over mundane, vague, and over-used words. In both semesters, there will be an emphasis on revision. Writing is seldom just the way the author hopes in the first draft. At times, students will be encouraged to use the same paragraph for several weeks to build-upon their first draft, incorporate feedback, apply writing and grammar techniques, in order for them to see the benefits of revision. They will learn to read their own writing from a reader's perspective and develop strategies for improving it. Students will give and receive feedback from class peers and receive regular feedback from the instructor. Time will be set aside in most classes for dedicated, in-class writing (8-10 minutes.)
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
7th-8th
(Semester Long)
Writing Wonders: Fact Finder (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
Writing is a fundamental skill for school and for life, and it gives kids a voice! In this class, third and fourth graders will explore writing in many different ways. They will learn the basics of good writing and the art of revision. Classes will consist of simple lessons on writing plus in-class writing practice. Students will always be encouraged to write about what interests them, but they will also always be given fun, creative writing prompts so no one feels the panic of figuring out "what to write."
Fourth quarter, students will be introduced to writing informative paragraphs and basic research skills.
The goal for this course is for young students to gain confidence, increase writing fluency, and learn how to incorporate writing into everyday work and play. Each week, the instructor will share brief lessons on grammar such as correct capitalization, agreement, tenses, parts of speech, use of adjectives/adverbs, etc. They will also learn the steps of the writing process: prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing, and strategies for each state. Student must be minimum age 8 to take this class and should be on grade level for reading and handwriting.
Topics in this Series: My Memories (Quarter 1); Transforming Tales (Quarter 2), Fun with Fiction (Quarter 3), and Fact Finder (Quarter 4).
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
3rd-4th
English: British Literature with Writing Lab: Literary Anal...
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue,Fri
Open Spots: 3
This full-credit high school English class will focus on developing critical reading and writing skills through the study of a range of canonical and post-colonial genres and texts written in English. Through exposure to a variety of voices across time periods and geographical regions, students will investigate major themes, such as the importance of language as a locus of power, the continuity of human nature, and the role of the imagination. Spring semester will introduce students to post-colonial texts and genres featuring Vindication of the Rights of Woman (Mary Wollstonecraft), Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen), Frankenstein (Mary Shelley), and Paradise Lost (John Milton). Writing Lab: An essential component of this course will be an in-class Writing Lab. Students will write two or three critical response papers and a full-scale literary analysis essay each term. Students will continue to hone the components of academic writing, including how to construct a thesis statement that makes an argument, how to support their ideas effectively with textual evidence, how to organize an argument logically, and how to cite sources in MLA format. Students should bring a laptop to class one day per week for in-class writing. Meeting Days: This is a 14- week class that will not meet on March 26, March 29, May 14, or May 17. Topics in this Series: British Literature, Part I (Semester 1) and British Literature, Part II (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: Students should be able to read at grade level and have completed Introduction to Genre or equivalent high school level writing class. Students are expected to take an active role in discussion and complete all writing assignments. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: All assignments will be posted in a Google Classroom management site. Students will need their own gmail accounts to access Google Classroom. Assessments: Students' written assignments will be graded using a rubric and assigned points that the homeschool parent can use when assigning an overall class grade. Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $22.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for the class pack of books and handouts. What to Bring: Students should bring the current literature, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking passages/pages. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a half-credit (one semester) or full credit (both semesters) in English for purposes of a high school transcript.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
10th-11th
(Semester Long)
Cover-to-Cover: Coming of Age (Middle School Book Group)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
In Cover-to-Cover, middle school-aged students will read renowned classics and award-winning young adult literature. This book discussion group will examine a different theme each quarter to introduce students to literary analysis. Students will read, examine, and compare two full-length novels that share similar themes through facilitated discussions and extension activities which encourage students to make personal connections to what is read. The group will evaluate themes, characters, setting, and writing style. Fourth quarter, students will examine the theme of coming of age with S.E. Hinton's, The Outsiders and E.L. Konigsburg's, The View from Saturday. Assigned chapters are expected to be read at home, either as read-aloud, individual silent reading, or listening to the unabridged audiobook. Students should come to class prepared to discuss the reading. Classroom discussions will emphasize the use of textual evidence when explaining thoughts and opinions. Students will be assigned creative, short assignments to enhance and demonstrate their understanding of each novel such as quote explications, thematic questions, or imagining a conversation between characters from different books. Meeting Days: This is a 6- week class that will not meet on March 26 or May 14 Topics in this Series: Courage and Bravery (Quarter 1); Mystery/Detective (Quarter 2); Dystopian Worlds (Quarter 3); and Coming of Age (Quarter 4). Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and because they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $15.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class. What to Bring: Students should bring the current novel, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking pages.
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
7th-8th
English: American Literature with Writing Lab- Rhetorical A...
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue,Fri
Open Spots: 4
This full-credit English course is designed to prepare students for college level academic writing. It will deepen student's critical reading and textual analysis skills by asking students to think critically about the "American Dream" and what it means to be an American by reading texts that engage with these topics from the 18th century to today. In this course, students will read and respond in writing to both fiction and non-fiction texts, and our analytical method will focus on rhetorical context (subject, purpose and audience). Spring Semester will feature Their Eyes Were Watching God (Zora Neale Hurston), The Things They Carried (Tim O'Brien), and a selection of other short fiction and poetry. Writing Lab: An essential component of this course will be an in-class Writing Lab. Students in this class should have mastered the basics of academic writing, such as constructing a thesis statement that makes an argument and organizing their thoughts through effective topic sentences and transition statements. This class will deepen students' textual analysis skills with a focus on developing rhetorical analysis, the study of how a text makes meaning. Over the course of the year, students will develop familiarity with a variety of writing styles and forms including rhetorical analysis, literary analysis, critical response, close reading, opinion essay, and personal essay. Students should bring a laptop to class one day per week for in-class writing. Meeting Days: This is a 14- week class that will not meet on March 26, March 29, May 14, or May 17. Prerequisites: Students taking this class should have mastered the foundations of Introduction to Genre and British Literature (or similar English courses), are expected to take an active role in discussion and complete all writing assignments. Topics in this Series: American Literature, Part I (Semester 1) and American Literature, Part II (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class. Assignments: All assignments will be posted in a Google Classroom management site. Students will need their own gmail accounts to access Google Classroom. Assessments: Students' written assignments will be graded using a rubric and assigned points that the homeschool parent can use when assigning an overall class grade. Textbook/Materials: Because students will need clean, inexpensive copies of each novel to mark in, and they must be able to refer to the passages on the same page numbers, copies of mass market paperbacks will be pre-purchased and bundled for students. (See Supply Fee below). Supply Fee: A class fee of $44.00 is due payable to Compass on the first day of class for the class pack of books and handouts. What to Bring: Students should bring the current literature, paper, pen or pencil and highlighter to class each week. Some students may wish to bring paper clips, adhesive flags or post-it notes for marking passages/pages. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a half-credit (one semester) or full credit (both semesters) in English for purposes of a high school transcript.
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
11th-12th
(Semester Long)
Private Guitar or Drumming Lesson- 1 Hour (Tue, 10:00 am)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
60-minute Private Guitar or Drumming Lessons X 8 weeks with Ney Mello. Song/Theory Books: Guitar students should purchase a tablature book from Compass for $8.00 Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
10:00 am-11:00 am
K-12th
Private Guitar or Drumming Lesson- 1 Hour (Tue, 11:00 am)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
60-minute Private Guitar or Drumming Lessons X 8 weeks with Ney Mello. Song/Theory Books: Guitar students should purchase a tablature book from Compass for $8.00 Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
11:00 am-12:00 pm
K-12th
Private Guitar or Drumming Lesson- 1 Hour (Tue, 12:00 pm)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
60-minute Private Guitar or Drumming Lessons X 8 weeks with Ney Mello. Song/Theory Books: Guitar students should purchase a tablature book from Compass for $8.00 Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
12:00 pm-1:00 pm
K-12th
Beginner 'Bots: Creepy Crawlies (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Discover the world of robotics using kids' favorite, interlocking building bricks! Students will build and program a different whimsical, mechanized project each week using the WeDo 2.0 robotics system by LEGO Education. Fourth quarter, students will model and motorize creepy crawly creatures such as a crab, praying mantis, scorpion, snail, ant, spider, tadpole, and more. Their robots will be built using special-shaped LEGO components from the WeDo Educational set, motors, motion sensors, tilt sensors and a programmable, Bluetooth control unit ("brain"). Student will use classroom tablets to program the control units using an intuitive drag-and-drop coding modules. Prior experience with LEGO or coding is not required. All equipment is furnished. Topics in this Series: Animated Animals (Quarter 1), Jurassic Giants (Quarter 2); Rush Hour! (Quarter 3), and Creepy Crawlies (Quarter 4). Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 4/9/24.
10:00 am-10:55 am
2nd-3rd
Build It Better! Crazy Contraptions*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
LEGO Mindstorms components and motors are not just for building robots! These interconnecting pieces can be constructed into an infinite number of unique, mechanized machines- much like an erector set! Second quarter, students will discover what happens when simple machines are combined to work together. They will be challenged to develop a unique, individual segment of a maze that moves a ball from point A to point B, and each segment will link to a classmate's invention to keep the ball moving! They will use complex machines (compounded simple machines) with additional motors and more components to move the ball through a series of lifts, automated carts, moving gates, escalators, and more! Will each contraption transfer the ball to its neighbor without hitting the floor? Can they pass the ball to their neighbor without hitting the floor? This project is inspired by the LEGO Great Ball Contraption competition, which is similar to Rube Goldberg inventions. See http://greatballcontraption.com/ or You Tube videos for impressive examples of the Great Ball Contraption. Fourth quarter, students will be challenged to build bigger, better, more complex contraptions with compound machines and more mechanization! Topics in this Series: Gadgets & Gizmos (Quarter 1); Widgets and Whatsits (Quarter 2): Marble Mazes (Quarter 3); and Crazy Contraptions (Quarter 4). Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 4/9/24.
11:00 am-11:55 am
3rd-4th
Robot Fab Lab: Art Bot (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 5
Design and build a robot to hold a colored pencil or marker, and program it to make designs. Students will end up with an automated spirograph! Will your 'bot draw concentric circles, spirals, pinwheels or more complex hypotrochoids and epitrochoids? Students will use the LEGO MINDSTORMS Education EV3 robotics sets. They will build with motors, wheels/axles, gears, levers, and special components. Students will have to install touch, sound, color, and infrared sensors while also learning to program sequences and commands that use input/output devices for controlled movements and precise turns. Using the drag-and-drop EV3 coding menu, students will learn to program their robots while experimenting with key concepts such as fixed values, variables, loops, and logic constructs. This course integrates science, engineering and computational thinking while introducing physical constraints, units of measurement, and coordinate systems. But, don't worry, this is a beginning robotics class. Prior experience is not expected, but returning students are welcome. Each student will build his/her own robotic project, so students can progress and customize at their own pace. In general, in this class, students will spend two weeks assembling, three weeks programming, and two weeks testing and re-designing their projects. Topics in this Series: Lunar Lander (Quarter 1); Battle Bots (Quarter 2); Tomb Explorer (Quarter 3), and Art Bots (Quarter 4). Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 4/9/24.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
5th-6th
Junior Engineering with LEGO: Colossal Construction (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 5
Students will use LEGO to design and build simple engineering projects out of everyone's favorite building toy! In this 90-minute class, students will explore concepts and vocabulary in physics, mechanical engineering, structural engineering, aerospace engineering, and architecture while playing with their creations. Fourth quarter, students will build colossal vehicles like monster trucks and hulking construction vehicles and model enormous developments such as a massive waterfront development, a towering sky scraper, and a expansive space station. Each class begins with 10-minutes of free build from tubs of LEGO components followed by a short discussion and demonstration of the day's project and concepts. Students build individually or in groups. Instructors will provide individual assistance, facilitate challenges, performance testing, competitions, and modifications to projects. Some projects may have been introduced in prior year's sessions, but each new build is unique, and student's building skills and understanding will have grown. Students must be minimum age 5 and able to separate from their parents for this class. Topics in this Series: Super Structures (Quarter 1); Awesome Automobiles (Quarter 2); Monster Machines (Quarter 3); Colossal Construction (Quarter 4). Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 4/9/24.
1:30 pm-2:55 pm
K-2nd
FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE): Tweens (Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic PE program for that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get tweens up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same!
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
5th-8th
FUNctional Fitness and Cross-Training (PE): Kids (Tue, Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 7
FUNctional Fitness is a dynamic kids' PE program that incorporates well-rounded exercises to get kids up and moving mid-day! No two workouts are the same, but each day's activities incorporate exercises that target 10 areas: cardio-vascular endurance, stamina, strength, flexibility, power, speed, coordination, agility, balance, and accuracy. FUNctional Fitness focuses on functional movements that are fundamental to all aspects of play and exercise- pulling, pushing, running, throwing, climbing, lifting, and jumping. Work-outs are scalable and adaptable to different individual's own level, and the emphasis is on fun, safety, and personal accomplishment rather than competition among classmates. When the weather permits, some exercises may be taken outdoors. The physical challenges of FUNctional Fitness will foster self-confidence, focus, and help instill a foundation for a lifetime of fitness. All equipment is furnished. Students are asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing, such as running pants or sweatpants, and comfortable, supportive athletic shoes. FUNctional Fitness continues each quarter, and students may repeat the class to continue to improve fitness. No two workouts are the same! Students must be minimum age 7 to take this class.
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
2nd-4th
Tweens Acting Out: Vanished in a Video Game
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Tweens take over as they collectively brainstorm and collaboratively write own play. Find out what happens when tweens "act out" the unique characters and an original storyline they created. What happens when a player gets trapped inside their favorite game? What easter eggs will the crafty characters and naive NPCs uncover, and will they finish off the final boss? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and to begin to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with the students' input. The class will learn the practical aspects of acting, as they work on script read-through, blocking, costume/prop design, and planning the show. Students will develop their own "actor's toolkit" of voice, body, and imagination in this creative process! Actors will grow in confidence and communication skills in preparation for a final sharing with parents on the final day of the quarter. Once the script is fully developed with everyone's parts, about half-way through the quarter, it will be emailed to parents. Parents will be expected to help their children memorize their script/lines/cues and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. Topics in this Series: Can't Believe it Came to Life (Quarter 1), Technology Takeover (Quarter 2), Whodunnit? (Quarter 3) and Vanished in a Video Game (Quarter 4).
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
6th-8th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 12:00 pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
12:00 pm-12:30 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 12:30pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
12:30 pm-1:00 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 1:00 pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
1:00 pm-1:30 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 1:30pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
1:30 pm-2:00 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 2:00 pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
2:00 pm-2:30 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 2:30pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
2:30 pm-3:00 pm
K-12th
Private Music or Voice Lesson- 30 min (Tue, 3:00pm) Q4
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
30-minute Private Music or Voice Lessons X 7 weeks with Wyndy Fredrick in piano, flute, ukulele, clarinet, or voice. Song/Theory Books: After the first lesson for new students, the instructor will select and purchase a Music or Voice book and collect reimbursement from the parent. Continuing students should bring their current book(s). Cancellation/Rescheduling: In the event of a change in your schedule, Compass requires 24 hours notice to reschedule the private lessons. Every effort will be made to reschedule the session at a time that is mutually agreeable to the teacher, the student/client, and Compass. In the event of a no-show or change/cancellation occurring less than 24 hours before the scheduled instruction session, pre-paid fees will be forfeited and no refund will be offered.
3:00 pm-3:30 pm
K-12th
Acting- Kids' Theater: Twisted Treasure Tale
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
Kids take to the stage as they collaboratively write and perform their very own play with unique characters and an original storyline. Watch as our ambitious actors spin a tall tale about a yet-to-be-discovered treasure. Where will it be found? A deserted island, spooky basement, or far away land? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other, then read through the two, prepared scripts together. Through group activities and guided discussion, they will create new characters, brainstorm variations, craft plot changes, add lines, and cast their parts. The instructor will then update and customize the class script with the students' input. The class will learn the practical aspects of acting, as they work on script read-through, blocking, costume/prop design, and planning the show. Students will develop their own "actor's toolkit" of voice, body, and imagination in this creative process! Actors will grow in confidence and communication skills in preparation for a final sharing with parents on the final day of the quarter. Once the script is fully developed with everyone's parts, about half-way through the quarter, it will be emailed to parents. Parents will be expected to help their children memorize their script/lines/cues and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. Note: Students who are emerging readers (not able to read at a 3rd/4th grade level) would be better suited to the Young Actor's Playhouse class, rather than this level. Topics in this Series: The Craziest Dream Ever (Quarter 1), Mix Up on Mars (Quarter 2), Super DUper New Superheroes (Quarter 3), Twisted Treasure Tale (Quarter 4).
10:00 am-10:55 am
3rd-5th
Acting: Young Actor's Playhouse: Silliest Circus
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 3
Acting is an adventure! Young actors work together to create and perform their very own play with unique characters and an original storyline. Will they encounter a colorful clown, a jolly juggler, or an adventurous acrobat in their own three-ring circus? Students will begin with improvisational games to get to know each other and to begin to brainstorm about their original play. Through group activities and guided discussion, the young actors will decide on characters, conflict, and conclusion, and the story they want to tell. The script will be developed and customized for this class with input from the students. Young actors will explore skills such as sensory awareness, listening, stage movement, character development, emotional expression, and observation/concentration while learning to portray their original character. Young actors will learn aspects of acting by script read-through, blocking, costume/prop discussion, and planning the show. Through individual and group activities, young actors build confidence in preparation for a final sharing for parents. Students will work from a simple, written script, but emerging readers can be accommodated. Parents will be emailed the script after the 3rd or 4th class and will be expected to help their children memorize their lines and assemble a simple make-at-home costume, ideally from clothing items and accessories you already own and a little creativity. All actors must be at least age 6 to sign up for this class. Topics in this Series: Medieval Mix-Up (Quarter 1), Cat & Dog Drama (Quarter 2), Arctic Adventure (Quarter 3) and Silliest Circus (Quarter 4).
11:00 am-11:55 am
1st-2nd
Cooking for Little Kids: Savory Spring Specialties (Tue)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Students will enjoy making tasty, light spring recipes that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Spring Specialties are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include:
- Divine Water Chestnuts
- Gazpacho
- Orchard Ambrosia Salad
- Chicken Carbonara
- Succotash
- Brussels Sprout Casserole
- Orzo with Spinach, Tomato and Ricotta
- Blueberry Lemon Trifle
10:00 am-10:55 am
1st-3rd
Cooking for Kids: Savory Spring Specialties (Tue, 11am)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 1
Students will enjoy making tasty, light spring recipes that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Spring Specialties are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include:
- Divine Water Chestnuts
- Gazpacho
- Orchard Ambrosia Salad
- Chicken Carbonara
- Succotash
- Brussels Sprout Casserole
- Orzo with Spinach, Tomato and Ricotta
- Blueberry Lemon Trifle
11:00 am-11:55 am
3rd-5th
Cooking for Kids: Savory Spring Specialties (Tue, 12pm)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Students will enjoy making tasty, light spring recipes that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Spring Specialties are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include:
- Divine Water Chestnuts
- Gazpacho
- Orchard Ambrosia Salad
- Chicken Carbonara
- Succotash
- Brussels Sprout Casserole
- Orzo with Spinach, Tomato and Ricotta
- Blueberry Lemon Trifle
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
3rd-5th
Cooking for Tweens: Savory Spring Specialties (Tue)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Students will enjoy making tasty, light spring recipes that feature a variety of fruits, vegetables, and fresh ingredients. Spring Specialties are selected to be nutritious, fun, and simple to make. Each class will focus on a portion of a meal including appetizer, salad, soup, side dish, main dish, and dessert. The Compass chefs' culinary adventures will include:
- Divine Water Chestnuts
- Gazpacho
- Orchard Ambrosia Salad
- Chicken Carbonara
- Succotash
- Brussels Sprout Casserole
- Orzo with Spinach, Tomato and Ricotta
- Blueberry Lemon Trifle
1:00 pm-1:55 pm
6th-8th
Kids' Confection Kitchen: Casual Confections (Tue)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Toffee. Taffy. Truffles... End the day on a sweet note! Students will enjoy making and eating delicious confections. Each week they will prepare a fresh, handmade dessert or sweet such as: pies, cakes, cookies, tarts, trifles, mousses, puddings, candies, fudge, brittle, or chocolates. The class will include some icing, decorating, and garnishing techniques for completed desserts. This quarter, the Compass bakers' culinary adventures will include:
- Coconut Macaroons (nut)
- Mini Lemon Meringue Pie
- Blueberry Honey Cakes
- Mint Chocolate Pecan Trifle (nuts)
- Glazed Blackberry Cake
- Strawberry Rhubarb Cobbler
- Chocolate Caramel Toffee Fudge (nuts)
- Lemon Cupcakes with Lavender Frosting
2:00 pm-2:55 pm
5th-8th
Swimming: Young Beginners (Tue, Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 3
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. Young Beginners is for very young students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills including water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning.
9:15 am-9:45 am
PK-K
Swimming: Beginners/ Adv. Beginners (Tue, Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. During the first lesson, students will be observed and determined to be Beginner or Advanced Beginner level, and the class will be divided accordingly among two instructors. Beginners level is for students with little to no swim experience and will cover YMCA Level 1 skills such as water acclimation, floatation, water movement, putting face in the water, swimming 5 feet without a floatation device, and becoming comfortable on back in water. Advanced Beginners level will review all skills in beginner-level class and add YMCA Level 2 skills such as stamina, swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, rotary breathing, becoming comfortable in deep water, and stroke introduction to include: front crawl, backstroke, and elementary breaststroke. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning.
10:05 am-10:45 am
1st-3rd
Swimming: Intermediate (Tue, Q4)
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 4
Homeschool Swim Lessons are taught at the Reston YMCA located 0.9 miles/ 3 minute drive from Compass's classroom facility. For more information on swimming lessons, see the program webpage. Intermediate level is for students who are proficient in Advanced Beginner level skills such as swimming one length of the pool (25 yards), performing elementary backstroke, and becoming comfortable in deep water. Intermediate swimmers will cover Levels 3 of the YMCA program including elementary breaststroke, backstroke, front crawl with rotary breathing all at 25 yards, with work towards Level 4 skills including stamina and increasing all swimming to 50 yards or more, plus breast stroke, elementary butterfly stroke and kick, elementary dives, and turns. Please note that these skills will be introduced and progress at different rates depending on the comfortable level and experience of enrolled students and may take more than one quarter to complete. At times, students might be moved to a different swimming group (same day, same time, different instructor) to better match the experience level of enrolled children. Lessons are 40 minutes long, running from 0:05 until 0:45 after the hour, leaving enough time to towel dry, change clothes, and return to Compass for your next class. Students should bring a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes. Googles and swim caps are optional. A parent (or parent proxy) is required to remain on site. Parents may wait on poolside benches or lobby seating. YMCA waivers must be signed and returned for each swimmer. All registration is completed through Compass. All YMCA swimming classes are taught by certified, experienced, background-checked adult instructors with experience teaching children. Consider enrolling your child in both Tuesday and Thursday classes to improve their rate of learning.
12:05 pm-12:45 pm
2nd-6th
Nature Quest: Spring- Adventurers (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 0
Experience the thrill of spring- nature's fastest paced season! Watch as the forest transforms each week with new leaves, flowers, nests, and the full stream bursting with life. It is the time for harvesting wild edibles, enjoying bird-song, and relishing the sights and smells of wildflowers and the fresh spring air. Step outdoors to each week to explore nature with a senior naturalist/outdoor educator. Take a break from sit-down classes, indoor activities, and screen time to explore the natural world, get fresh air, and exercise. The group will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon while they discover all the secrets that woods hold when you stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn-over, and peek under! A portion of each session will be seeking and discussing what is found each season. Students will get to know native animals and key types of plants and trees in our area. Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things they encounter outdoors, observing and appreciating discoveries in nature, safe exploration of the woods, and how to be a good steward of nature. The class will also discuss outdoor skills such as shelter and outdoor safety. Students will play games in the woods to practice outdoor skills. Visit the Compass Nature Quest class webpage for more information on the program, location, and Frequently Asked Questions. Students should come prepared for class with outdoor/play clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and/or insect repellent, a hat, and jacket or layered outerwear depending on the weather/temperature. The group exploration/activities in the woods are for enrolled students only, and tag-along parents and siblings cannot be accommodated. Students must be age 5 by the start of the class, and they must be comfortable separating from their parents for the duration of the class, remain with the group, and follow instructions. Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 3/26/24.
11:00 am-11:55 am
K-2nd
Nature Quest: Spring- Pathfinders (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 2
Experience the thrill of spring- nature's fastest paced season! Watch as the forest transforms each week with new leaves, flowers, nests, and the full stream bursting with life. It is the time for harvesting wild edibles, enjoying bird-song, and relishing the sights and smells of wildflowers and the fresh spring air.
Step outdoors to each week to explore nature with a senior naturalist/outdoor educator. Take a break from sit-down classes, indoor activities, and screen time to explore the natural world, get fresh air, and exercise. The group will explore the southern section of Sugarland Stream Valley Park in Herndon while they discover all the secrets that woods hold when you stop, look, listen, smell, touch, turn-over, and peek under!
A portion of each session will be seeking and discussing what is found each season. Students will get to know native animals and key types of plants and trees in our area. Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things they encounter outdoors, observing and appreciating discoveries in nature, safe exploration of the woods, and how to be a good steward of nature. The class will also discuss outdoor skills such as shelter and outdoor safety. Students will play games in the woods to practice outdoor skills.
Visit the Compass Nature Quest class webpage for more information on the program, location, and Frequently Asked Questions. Students should come prepared for class with outdoor/play clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and/or insect repellent, a hat, and jacket or layered outerwear depending on the weather/temperature. The group exploration/activities in the woods are for enrolled students only, and tag-along parents and siblings cannot be accommodated. Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 3/26/24.
12:00 pm-12:55 pm
3rd-4th
Outdoor Survivor: Spring (Tue)*
Quarter(s): 4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 4
Venture outdoors each week to explore the woods with a senior naturalist and mentor while learning valuable survival skills. Students will learn how to construct a temporary debris shelter, make cordage, identify edibles, track animals, purify water, perform basic first aid, and use maps and compass (orienteering). Students will get to know native animals and key types of plants and trees in our area. Emphasis will be on becoming comfortable with things you encounter outdoors, safe exploration of the woods, how to be a good steward of nature, and what to do if you ever became lost or injured in the woods. Skills will be reintroduced and adapted each each quarter because the available plants, animals, materials, and water sources change with each season. Students will have a blast, develop greater self-confidence, and build a strong connection to nature and to the real world! Explorations in the woodsis for enrolled students only, and tag-along parents and siblings cannot be accommodated. For information on where the class meets, what to wear, and inclement weather, see the webpage for Compass's Nature Quest program. Note: This is a 7-week class that will not meet on 3/26/24.
1:00 pm-2:55 pm
5th-6th
PenPoint: Literary Magazine Board **ONLINE**
Quarter(s): 3,4
Day(s): Tue
Open Spots: 4
The PenPoint Literary Magazine Board is a home for students who love to write, who love to read writing, and who love to share writing with others. Students in this course will select writings from their portfolios and prepare them to submit to contests, anthologies and publications beyond our Compass campus. While continuing to draft and explore their own personal writing, students will assume editorial roles in the production of Pen Point, a nation-wide homeschool literary and arts anthology. As editors, students will design and build an anthology, advertise the publication, solicit manuscripts and artwork, develop selection criteria, review/select/edit material, and learn the principles of layout and design. Embedded in this process are real-world experiences, and students will improve their communication and organization skills through goal-setting, time management, meeting deadlines, emailing, confirmations, proofreading, etc. Note:This is an online class with some meetings in a virtual classroom providing live, synchronous collaboration. Topics in this Series: Creative Writing (Semester 1) and Publsihing (Semester 2). Students continuing from first semester receive priority pre-registration for second semester. Prerequisites: Advanced reading, writing, and analytical skills. Workload: Students should expect to spend 2-3 hours per week outside of class on investigation, writing, or editing for this class. Assignments: Writing and editing assignments will be delegated by the student board. Assessments: In lieu of a teacher-provided assessments, writers will receive peer feedback on their own work, and the finished product will be a printed anthology for their portfolio. Lab/Supply Fee: A class fee of $20.00 is due payable to the instructor on the first day of class for publishing expenses What to Bring: Students should bring laptops to class to work collaboratively and real-time on shared documents and the class portal. Credit: Homeschool families may wish to count this course as a component (partial) credit in English for purposes of a high school transcript.
10:00 am-11:30 am
9th-12th
(Semester Long)
Art / Music | Science / Technology | Humanities / Social Sciences | Language Arts |
Extracurricular | Math | Foreign Language | (Full Classes) | Private Lessons | Cooking | Lunch N Learn |