CLASS CATALOGUE Fall 2023
(GRADES 6-12)
Click Registration Form to open the registration form in a new window, so that you can view the Class Catalogue next to the registration form in your browser. Please request permission by emailing karen@karengolden.com, if your student would like to register for a class that is not listed for their age.
* If you are a student at a homeschool charter school, you may be able to take our high school classes for credit if you talk to your contact person from the school. All the schools have different procedures and policies. Please let us know if you need assistance with syllabi and curriculum.
MONDAY CLASSES (11 WEEKS) In-person at Adat Shalom
World History: The Early Modern World 1400 - 1800
Monday: 9:00 am – 10:30 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 11, 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
Today, all humans, whether they are Europeans, Australian Aborigines, or Africans, belong to the same subgroup of human beings, Homo Sapiens Sapiens, or wise, wise humans. We have more in common with our ancestors and each other than we often admit, and we have survived thousands of years because of our ability to adapt and progress. This is the third semester of a 6-semester curriculum, but students can join at any time. We will be covering a lot of material in a short amount of time, so students will be expected to pay keen attention in class, take notes, and do a fair amount of homework, including weekly quizzes and a PowerPoint presentation. Students will not only learn the important events in history, but also learn how the information fits together in terms of human development, time periods, and regions of the world. We will make a timeline so that we can better understand how different societies developed over the course of history with similar stories. The curriculum will be based on the third unit of the Glencoe World History book.
Students are welcome to take this class remotely. Please let us know when you register.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $340
Geography - Latin America and the Caribbean
Monday: 10:30 am – 11:25 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 11, 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
Pack your bags, and join us on an exploration of Latin America and the Caribbean! This will be part one of a yearlong class. This course will cover both the physical and human geography of Latin America and the Caribbean. Students will strengthen their map skills and become familiar with flags, currencies, languages, and climates of this region of the world. They will also learn about the rich history, culture, and landmarks of individual countries. I have traveled to many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, so students will gain a firsthand perspective and be able to see pictures and objects from the countries we visit. At the end of the semester, students will complete an individual country research project. Each class will include creative activities and discussions, as well as exercises on researching and writing. Students will be expected to complete assignments on Google Classroom. Access to a Gmail account is required for this class.
TEACHER: Hyla Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $300
Chemistry Is Everything
Monday: 12:00 am – 12:55 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 11, 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
Chemistry is everything, because everything is chemicals! In this year-long class, students will get an introduction to the foundational topics taught in any standard high school chemistry course. We’ll explore the interactions between atoms & molecules, chemical reactions, states of matter, electricity and more, through a series of hands-on laboratory style experiments. Through testing predictions, practicing critical thinking, and utilizing the scientific method, we’ll explore the world of Chemistry, and above all… have fun!
Students can participate in this class in one of two ways:
Participation Option: Students will attend lectures and complete in-class projects. Quizzes, homework and at home projects are optional. NO formal grade is given.
Graded Option: Students will attend lectures and complete in-class projects. Students will also read from the textbook, do homework assignments, and take quizzes and exams. An at home project is required each semester. Formal grades will be given. A link will be provided for an online textbook or there will be a low cost option for purchase.
All students will need to enroll in and regularly check Google Classroom, which will require access to a Gmail account. **This is a year-long course** but students are only required to take both semesters if they are receiving high school credit for the class from their charter school. Fall and Winter/Spring semesters will cover different topics and feature different chemistry experiments.
TEACHER: Keera Lindenberg
SEMESTER FEE: $300
Jump Rope Skills
Monday: 1:00 pm – 1:55 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 11, 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
This jump rope course will teach students the basics of Single Rope, Double Dutch, and Group Jumping. Students will learn a variety of skills and jump rope activities to improve confidence, endurance, focus, teamwork, and creative expression. All skills will be age appropriate.
Here is a link to the ropes Mike recommends: https://buyjumpropes.net/economy-beaded-jump-ropes/. Please purchase an 8 foot rope in the color of your choosing and bring it to the first class. Students will be responsible for bringing their ropes to class. If your child would like to leave a rope at CLP, this is fine. It will be labeled with their name.
Returning and new students welcome!
TEACHER: Mike Fry
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Escape Room Design
Monday: 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm (10 weeks - please note that this class starts on 9/18)
Sept. (no class 11), 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
This class examines the history of escape rooms and other live interactive activities, analyzes their form and structure, explores the creation and modification of puzzles and other mechanics, and looks at the business of interactive entertainment. Students will collaborate to design one escape room-type event as a final project. This class is for those who enjoy and want to know about puzzles, theater, performance art, art production, games and especially the design process. No previous experience required.
TEACHER: Aaron Vanek
SEMESTER FEE: $300
Drawing Fundamentals
Monday: 12:00 pm – 12:55 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 11, 18, (no class 25), Oct. (no class 2), 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, (no class 20), 27, Dec. 4, 11
Grades 6 and up
People often tell me that they cannot draw. My answer is always the same: “Everybody can draw. You first need to learn how to see.” When you learn to play an instrument, you learn to identify the sound of the notes and you should practice often to become good. That is the same with drawing. We study the science of drawing (perspective and lighting), mixed in with doodling techniques, and other topics the students express interest in. Each student will need a sketchbook (minimum size 8”x10”) and will be expected to draw in it regularly outside of class. We will provide all other materials, but students are welcome to bring their own supplies.
This class is not a repeat of WS 2023 but rather, a continuation. New students are welcome!
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $300
WEDNESDAY CLASSES (13 WEEKS) In-person at Adat Shalom
Physiology and Anatomy - Let's Follow In DaVinci's Footsteps
Wednesday: 9:00 am – 9:55 am (13 weeks)
Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. (no class 4), 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, (no class 22), 29, Dec. 6, 13
Grades 6 and up
Find out how the body works through this inventive science class! We will follow in Da Vinci’s footsteps by drawing our main organs, tissues and body systems while learning how they work. By creating real life drawings, Dr. Charlotte will guide you from your skin to your skeleton, from head to toe. In the end, the students will have a beautiful and anatomically correct book of personal drawings of the amazing body! This class will also include labs and projects. This class is run in two tracks. After the first 5 weeks, you can not change tracks.
Track 1: Students will participate in lectures and in class labs. Quizzes, homework and class project are optional. No formal grade is given. A folder for unfinished and finished drawings is needed.
Track 2: Students will participate in lectures and in class labs. Students in Track 2 will do assignments and quizzes and an end of the semester exam. The class project is mandatory and formal grades will be given. A folder for unfinished and finished drawings is needed.
TEACHER: Charlotte Swanson
SEMESTER FEE: $340
Middle School English (In-Person)
Wednesday: 10:00 am – 11:25 am (13 weeks)
Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. (no class 4), 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, (no class 22), 29, Dec. 6, 13
Grades 6 - 8
From Shakespearian plays to spooky poetry by Edgar Allan Poe, and the dystopian worlds of Ray Bradbury to the allegorical novellas of George Orwell, this class will explore the richness and variety that the literary world has to offer. Students will learn how to analyze literature, and think critically about different ideas and themes. They will learn to write creatively as well as academically. Writing skills include richer word choices, stronger paragraphs, idea brainstorming, organizational tools, description enrichment, the five-paragraph essay format, and editing strategies. Students will be expected to complete weekly assignments on Google Classroom where they will also receive individualized feedback. Access to a Gmail account is required for this class. No textbook required. New material for returning students.
Required materials:
- Pencils and erasers
- Lined paper
- Folder
TEACHER: Hyla Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $400
US Government - Your Voice Is Your Vote
Wednesday: 11:45 pm – 12:40 pm (13 weeks)
Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. (no class 4), 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, (no class 22), 29, Dec. 6, 13
Grades 6 and up
We will learn through discussions and activities how the US voting system and government works. Staying as non-partisan as possible, we will cover a diverse amount of viewpoints and learn about different forms of government (empire, monarchy, dictatorship, republic) and partisan positions (libertarian, socialist, liberal, conservative). We will learn about the separation of powers in the US, and how a bill becomes a law. We will talk about who gets to vote today, and how and why that has changed. This class will include a lecture, activities, and student participation exercises that simulate real-life scenarios.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $325
Podcast Academy
Wednesday: 12:45 pm – 1:40 pm (13 weeks)
Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. (no class 4), 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, (no class 22), 29, Dec. 6, 13
Grades 6 and up
Our programs are built to give each student the skills and knowledge necessary to build a successful podcast. From recording, to script writing, to an on-camera personality. We teach everything so that you leave our course 100% self sufficient. Our goal is to build confidence by giving you all the tools and secrets that it takes most people years to learn. With almost a decade of podcasting and broadcasting experience, we are excited to teach and set others on the pathway to Digital Media success!
This class has a maximum of eight students. Register early to hold your spot.
TEACHER: Keith Good News McElhannon
SEMESTER FEE: $375
Speaker’s League
Wednesday: 1:45 pm – 3:00 pm (13 weeks)
Sept. 6, 13, 20, 27, Oct. (no class 4), 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1, 8, 15, (no class 22), 29, Dec. 6, 13
Grades 4 and up
Come join the fun and take the fear out of public speaking. Modeled after Toastmasters, Speaker's League offers kids the opportunity to hone their public speaking skills through hands-on activities including the preparation and presentation of speeches, impromptu speaking, the use of visual aids, gestures, and vocal variety. The meetings are run by the students and they progress through levels as they master specific skills. New this year, students will have access to an interactive online training program and can purchase an interactive club handbook for $16 which includes additional information geared toward the level of each student.
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $335
FE JCC 5k with TEAM CLP. Team training is for EVER
FRIDAY CLASSES (11 WEEKS) Online. Your teacher will send you the Zoom links.
Storytelling - Let's Tell Stories
Friday: 8:00 am – 9:00 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
Grades 3 - 6
Humans love stories, and a well told story is even more beloved. In this class, we will learn to tell stories from a variety of sources including personal and family stories, folktales, legends and more. Students will learn what makes a good story and how to offer supportive suggestions for helping their classmates tell a better story. This class enhances creativity, public speaking, and the art of listening in a fun, interactive, and safe environment where even the shyest students can shine. Because this class is virtual, we can make friends from near and far and will have the opportunity to hear other professional storytellers from far-away places.
New and returning students welcome!
TEACHER: Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Chess 2: Chess In The Age Of Technology
Friday: 9:15 am – 10:15 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
Grades 1 and up
Kids love technology; from the iPad to the Xbox to whatever thing is next, they can't stop smudging the screen with their little kid fingers! In this class, we will put technology in the hands of good by using it to enhance and further Chess knowledge. Each week we will explore a different kind of technology to help the students understand the game better. From the 1970s Chess Challenger to apps to self moving magnetic pieces to virtual reality and everything in between, this class is sure to be "liked" by all!
*All students should be confident in the basic rules of Chess. This is a perfect follow up class for any children who previously attended Beginners Chess and/or Chess 2.0.*
TEACHER: Brian Julian
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Chess 1 - Welcome To The Game Of Kings And Queens
Friday: 10:30 am – 11:30 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
All ages
The old saying goes, "Chess is the game of Kings (and Queens)", and in this class we'll find out why. Chess subtly teaches children all the qualities of a noble king or queen: perseverance, nobility, kindness, benevolence, responsibility, problem solving, confidence, sportsmanship, planning, patience, social skills, critical thinking, imagination and more. And if that weren't enough, it's also super awesome fun! In this class, we'll start at the beginning to discover all the different characters (pieces) of Chess and background information about who they are and where they come from. Then it's onto how they move on the board and the rest of the dynamic rules of this 2000 year old Game of Kings!
TEACHER: Brian Julian
SEMESTER FEE: $275
In The News - Beyond The Headlines and Speaker's League
(Students will learn both of these subjects in this time frame during alternating weeks)
Friday: 10:30 am – 11:30 am (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
Grades 6-8
In The News - Beyond The Headlines
We will read articles and watch videos about events in the news and have class discussions about how these events impact us, our communities, and the world. This class does NOT promote a specific political ideology. Topics will include elements of history, how our government and industry operate, and how to move ideas for change into action. Students will also gain news media literacy by learning how to judge the reliability and credibility of information. Students will be expected to write several short essays, often comparing opposing viewpoints.
All new material from last semester. New and returning students are welcome.
Speaker's League
Come join the fun and take the fear out of public speaking. Modeled after Toastmasters, Speaker's League offers kids the opportunity to hone their public speaking skills through hands-on activities including the preparation and presentation of speeches, impromptu speaking, the use of visual aids, gestures, and vocal variety. The meetings are run by the students and they progress through levels as they master specific skills. New this year, students will have access to an interactive online training program and can purchase an interactive club handbook for $16 which includes additional information geared toward the level of each student.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal and Karen Golden
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Middle School English (Online)
Friday: 11:45 am – 12:45 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
Grades 6 - 8
From Shakespearian plays to spooky poetry by Edgar Allan Poe, and the dystopian worlds of Ray Bradbury to the allegorical novellas of George Orwell, this class will explore the richness and variety that the literary world has to offer. Students will learn how to analyze literature, and think critically about different ideas and themes. They will learn to write creatively as well as academically. Writing skills include richer word choices, stronger paragraphs, idea brainstorming, organizational tools, description enrichment, the five-paragraph essay format, and editing strategies. Zoom classes will be interactive and include engaging elements such as breakout rooms, PowerPoint presentations, games, Blooket, Kahoot, and so much more! Students will be expected to complete weekly assignments on Google Classroom where they will also receive individualized feedback. Access to a Gmail account is required for this class. No textbook required. New material for returning students.
TEACHER: Hyla Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Intro to Photoshop
Friday: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm (11 weeks)
Sept. 8, (no class 15), 22, 29, Oct. (no class 6), 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, (no class 10), 17, (no class 24), Dec. 1, 8, 15
Grades 5 and up
We will learn the basics of Photoshop, including working with layers, adjusting image quality, making selections, retouching images, using color, adding text and shapes, combining images, applying filters, and more. Each week there will be assignments to complete using your newly learned skills, including seamlessly deleting people from a photo and creating your own Mini Cooper car advertisement.
Adobe offers an “All Apps” plan to students for just $19.99/mo. for the first year.
TEACHER: Steve Rachwal
SEMESTER FEE: $275
Math Circle: A Partnership With 21st Century Math
Registration for this class is a two part process:
1. Email instructor Eric Kogan erickogan@21centurymath.com to request placement for the class, dates and fees.
2. Email Karen@karengolden.com to register for the class.
If you are part of a charter school, the Purchase Order is to be made out to Creative Learning Place. Thank you!
Beginners 2, Grade 5-6
Beginners 2 is based on the book, Math Adventures with ORMC, Level 2 "UCLA Math Circle" , From Ciphers to Nets of Solids, by Dr. Gleizer and Dr. Radko.
The course is designed for mathematically inclined children 9 to 12 years of age. There are 20 lessons in the book. Each lesson takes two to three 50-minute-long sessions to cover. Each lesson is followed by homework. The lessons cover the topics including ciphers, functions, solids, projections, introduction to logic, microchip design, and more.
Intermediate 1, Grade 7-8
The classes are suitable for mathematically inclined children 11 to 13 years of age. The topics covered include the Tower of Hanoi and the Sierpinksi Triangle, Egyptian multiplication and binary numbers, introduction to geometry, compass and ruler constructions, clock-face arithmetic, coordinates in the plane and on a sphere, functions and graphs, and geometry on the cylinder.
For more details about the program, such as our curriculum, grade levels, classes and fees please visit: https://www.21centurymath.com/.
Feel free to download the LESSON EXAMPLES to share with your children.
TEACHER: Eric Kogan
SEMESTER FEE: Will be based on the day of the week your child is placed.
Private Recorder Or Saxophone Lessons
Private Recorder or Saxophone Lessons
Learn to play the recorder or saxophone or brush up on your recorder skills. For beginning through advanced players. Private lessons can be arranged anytime Karen is not teaching a class at CLP, including Tuesdays and Thursdays, and in the afternoon and early evening hours. Both in-person and online.
TEACHER: Karen Golden
Class Fees: Private lessons will be sold in lesson packages: $160 for four 30 minute lessons.
Please email Karen@karengolden.com to schedule a time.
Tutoring
Are you interested in tutoring sessions in math or reading and writing for your child? A number of our CLP teachers are available to help your kids. Please check the box for tutoring on the registration form, or request tutoring here, and we will let you know about fees and availability.