Splash Spring 2020
Course Catalog
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Arts
A412: Exploring Acting
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Emma Hunt
An introduction to the basics of acting/improvisation through fun performance activities, ensemble games, and working on small scenes! No theatre experience need, just a willingness to move around and an open mind towards creativity.
A432: Hip Hop and Salsa Dancing For Beginners and Intermediate Dancers
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Shatoyia Jones
A dance class mixing hip hop, salsa and lyrical dance into a fun choreo that is intended to help you build confidence, relieve stress and have fun-- all while learning the basics of some awesome dance styles.
Prerequisites
A desire to have some fun!
Prerequisites
A desire to have some fun!
A442: Photography Basics: Camera and Composition
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Euvin Lee,
Samuel Penney
This course will cover the basics of camera settings and composition techniques.
For camera settings, we will go over exposure and how to control it using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This will give you full creative control over your camera!
For composition techniques, we will cover the Rule of Thirds, the Golden Ratio, foreground elements, leading lines, and more. This will help you change snapshots into photographs worth framing
If time allows at the end of the course, we will demonstrate the power of editing in programs like Adobe Lightroom to further shape images to match your artistic vision.
For camera settings, we will go over exposure and how to control it using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO. This will give you full creative control over your camera!
For composition techniques, we will cover the Rule of Thirds, the Golden Ratio, foreground elements, leading lines, and more. This will help you change snapshots into photographs worth framing
If time allows at the end of the course, we will demonstrate the power of editing in programs like Adobe Lightroom to further shape images to match your artistic vision.
Engineering
E427: Biomimicry
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Will Wachter
Interested in bioengineering? Do you want to learn more about the engineering design process and medical device design? This class will cover nature inspired design, and will introduce current bio-technologies that are transforming medicine.
Prerequisites
Basic biology course
Prerequisites
Basic biology course
E440: Engineering a Diode Circuit
Difficulty: **
Have you ever had 50 volts straight through the heart? Even if you did, you could be totally fine!
Come find out how as we demystify the world of electronics -- we promise we won’t shock you. You'll have a chance to build your own diode circuit using Arduino as you learn about LED, VIR, and (have) FUN!
Prerequisites
Having a basic understanding of circuits would be great, but not essential!
Come find out how as we demystify the world of electronics -- we promise we won’t shock you. You'll have a chance to build your own diode circuit using Arduino as you learn about LED, VIR, and (have) FUN!
Prerequisites
Having a basic understanding of circuits would be great, but not essential!
E449: Mechanical Engineering of the Catapult
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Nithin Chintala,
Tyler Gogal
Learn about the engineering behind the medieval siege weapon, the catapult.
E459: Egg Drop
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Tatiana Ediger
Do you want to design an apparatus that'll let you drop an egg from 2-stories up without breaking it?? In this class you'll learn about the important science of resisting the force of gravity in a slow descent, AND you'll get to compete with one another to make the best design!
This activity is open to everyone so bring your friends and get ready to have fun!
Prerequisites
None
This activity is open to everyone so bring your friends and get ready to have fun!
Prerequisites
None
E463: Introduction to Sound
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Laura Calderon
We’d be exploring how a speaker works, converting electric energy into acoustic waves. This would include what speakers are made of, why they work, and the different methods of producing sound with the technology. Additionally, we would go over methods to produce the best overall sound. This would feature a demonstration of an electromagnetic speaker model which would end with emitting sound from a box.
E464: Amateur Rocketry Basics: Manufacturing & Launch
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Brian Januzzi
It's not rocket science! Oh wait... it is! (Part 2)
We will then talk about the various vendors in the amateur rocketry space, the common East Coast launch sites, and how to actually launch your rocket.
This class will jump right into things and won't make much sense without taking Part 1!
Prerequisites
Take the Part 1!
We will then talk about the various vendors in the amateur rocketry space, the common East Coast launch sites, and how to actually launch your rocket.
This class will jump right into things and won't make much sense without taking Part 1!
Prerequisites
Take the Part 1!
E465: Amateur Rocketry Basics: Rocket Science & Design Process Overview
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Brian Januzzi
It's not rocket science! Oh wait... it is! (Part 1)
Come to learn the basics of rocket design. We will briefly overview how rockets work and some terminology, review the design of a complex research rocket, and then together build a basic model of an amateur rocket you could make yourself!
Take Part 2 to continue the adventure!
Prerequisites
An interest in controlled explosions.
Come to learn the basics of rocket design. We will briefly overview how rockets work and some terminology, review the design of a complex research rocket, and then together build a basic model of an amateur rocket you could make yourself!
Take Part 2 to continue the adventure!
Prerequisites
An interest in controlled explosions.
E466: Cookie Assembly Line - An Intro to Industrial Engineering
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
IISE Northeastern
Hungry for both cookies and engineering? Join our cookie line assembly workshop to learn more about Industrial Engineering while having the opportunity to create and improve your very own cookie assembly line!
Please be aware of any allergies, as this activity will include chocolate and vanilla cookies.
Class Style
Workshop
Please be aware of any allergies, as this activity will include chocolate and vanilla cookies.
Class Style
Workshop
Humanities
H413: Coup d’Etat: Tips and Tricks
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Felix Moisand
Promising revolutionary looking to seize control of the government? Aspiring dictator looking to protect yourself from threats against your power? Come join this course that will examine the factors that make countries particularly vulnerable to coups and the mechanics of a coup d’etat, using examples from real-world coup attempts.
H416: Two Truths, One Lie: Wacky History Stories
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Felix Moisand,
David Zheng
In this course, we will present three wacky, hard-to-believe stories from the world’s history. The catch is: one of them is a lie. Can you separate out the true stories from the fake? After all, sometimes truth is stranger than fiction...
H423: Philosophical BS
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Zachary Maizes
Do you ever feel like big tech is watching your every move?
Ever wonder about the ethical ramifications of various inventions?
Confused as to why some people do/don’t contribute to environmental causes?
Want to learn some philosophy from someone who took a single philosophy course and now feels that he is an expert?
If so, look no further than this class!
I took a super interesting course about ethics in relation to modern technology last semester and love discussing philosophy with others.
Within this class, I will have a few prepared discussion points and a few that you will be able to choose from as a group, and this will allow for a vibrant and deep discussion about how human values relate to the technology of the modern era.
Disclaimer: While I do consider myself fairly knowledgeable about the topics I plan on discussing, I’m not all-knowing, and everything discussed should be taken with a few grains of salt.
Prerequisites
Some logical reasoning skills An open mind
Ever wonder about the ethical ramifications of various inventions?
Confused as to why some people do/don’t contribute to environmental causes?
Want to learn some philosophy from someone who took a single philosophy course and now feels that he is an expert?
If so, look no further than this class!
I took a super interesting course about ethics in relation to modern technology last semester and love discussing philosophy with others.
Within this class, I will have a few prepared discussion points and a few that you will be able to choose from as a group, and this will allow for a vibrant and deep discussion about how human values relate to the technology of the modern era.
Disclaimer: While I do consider myself fairly knowledgeable about the topics I plan on discussing, I’m not all-knowing, and everything discussed should be taken with a few grains of salt.
Prerequisites
Some logical reasoning skills An open mind
H426: WTF is Israel and WTF is going on there and WTF should I care?
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Ike Kaper
Many of you may have been hearing about Israel but may not have the best idea of what people are talking about. This is the class for any of you curious to learn more. I will attempt to show you an unbiased picture of the situation (and prove that there is no such thing as no bias). This will be a fairly fast paced lecture because I will want to involve you and allow you time to ask questions.
Prerequisites
I'll be expecting a basic understanding of world history (what is WW2?).. Also, while I understand this is a contentious topic but please be prepared to be civil while discussing this.
Prerequisites
I'll be expecting a basic understanding of world history (what is WW2?).. Also, while I understand this is a contentious topic but please be prepared to be civil while discussing this.
H430: You Can't Get there From Here: A History of Why Getting Around Boston is Hard
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Salvatore LaRussa
If you manage to get to Splash, you probably know a thing or two about getting around Boston. For example, we have an excellent public transit system that only catches on fire every other week, roads that are so well-arranged that Google Maps only gets confused once every ten minutes, and well-maintained brick sidewalks that are great at teaching you to have really good balance on uneven surfaces. But do you know why Boston is the way it is?
In this class, I'm going to attempt to explain why Boston is the mess that it is. It's a story that involves geography, geology, and some fairly nasty politics, as well as quite a few moments of just dumb luck. I may not succeed, but I can guarantee that it will be definitely more fun than an hour of being on a rush-hour orange line train.
Prerequisites
A fair warning: This class will mention some uncomfortable moments in Boston's political history, particularly in regards to class/race relations. While much of the class will be more lighthearted, I don't want this to catch anyone by surprise, and I hope to have some serious discussions about these topics. Having been to the city of Boston is encouraged, but not required.
In this class, I'm going to attempt to explain why Boston is the mess that it is. It's a story that involves geography, geology, and some fairly nasty politics, as well as quite a few moments of just dumb luck. I may not succeed, but I can guarantee that it will be definitely more fun than an hour of being on a rush-hour orange line train.
Prerequisites
A fair warning: This class will mention some uncomfortable moments in Boston's political history, particularly in regards to class/race relations. While much of the class will be more lighthearted, I don't want this to catch anyone by surprise, and I hope to have some serious discussions about these topics. Having been to the city of Boston is encouraged, but not required.
H431: How To Make Money By Doing What Is Right and Making a Positive Impact
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Shatoyia Jones
Learn about different career paths and programs you can take / get involved with to start making money by doing what is right and making a positive impact in your community!
Also come to learn more about different scholarship and grant programs for youth and young adults who desire to go into entrepreneurship, public service, social justice and/or education!
Also come to learn more about different scholarship and grant programs for youth and young adults who desire to go into entrepreneurship, public service, social justice and/or education!
H436: Taking the Eek! out of public speaking
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Chloe Noll
Whether you're terrified of speaking in public or you just want to hone your skills, this is the class for you! This will be a safe and fun environment to learn and practice how to give a speech, think on your feet, and learn what you specifically can do to make your presentations less mentally torturous.
H441: Intro to The Legal World
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Nivjana Minga
Interested in a law career or law in general? This course is made for the basics, know the basic laws, rights and legal processes! How does court work? How is the government organized? How has power over what? This is a simple yet in depth look to the legal world and also a bit of history of our country!
If you are interested in any part or learning the answers to the questions above, sign up!
If you are interested in any part or learning the answers to the questions above, sign up!
H443: A Detailed View into Accommodations, Medications and the Psychology of ADHD and Other Learning Disabilities
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Robert James Konefal
An analysis of learning disabilities, their accomodations, their medications and the underlying psychology behind them.
Prerequisites
N/A
Prerequisites
N/A
H447: Philosophy of Anarchy
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Jaiden Cruger
When you think of anarchy, what do you think of? Loud English punk music and V for Vendetta? In actuality, anarchism is a diverse political philosophy that has challenged the way we engage with one another since its invention. In this class, we will discuss central tenents of and challenges to anarchism. We will also explore sub-branches of anarchism including anarcho-socialism, anarcho-feminism, anarcho-primitivism, and, yes, anarcho-capitalism.
H448: Warning: This Class May Cause an Existential Crisis
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Jaiden Cruger
Nihilism. Existentialism. Absurdism. These three schools of thought tore to shreds what we thought we knew about ourselves and the world, then ushered in a new era of thought. Of course, these principles don’t just exist on the societal level. Questions about who we are and why life matters are fundamental to the human experience. Heck — you may have already experienced what you considered to be an existential crisis. Now is your chance to get the philosophical perspective on that experience! This class will discuss the work of Nietzsche, Sartre, and Camus among others. This class will be largely discussion based, so come prepared to share your thoughts and engage with others.
TW: Brief of suicide
TW: Brief of suicide
H452: Prose, Poetry, and Personality - Introduction to Creative Writing
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Gwendolyn Inman
From Character to Setting to Dialogue, join us for a fun, low stress writing workshop where we go over the basics of telling a good story. We will be doing some writing, as well as have some time to workshop any previously writen pieces you might want feedback on.
H455: Elgnish Luaagnge Tcrkis
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Miles Calabresi
I can say the same word and make two people hear two different things (think Yanny/Laurel). German speakers can follow a nursery rhyme that baffles English speakers. Language is a funny thing. In this linguistics-themed class, we'll take a look at neat tricks with language and why they work.
H456: Public Speaking
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Miles Calabresi
Come find out some keys to good public speaking and strengthen your own skills. There will be opportunities to practice, but no one will be forced to.
H457: More Than the Sum of Our Parts: A Look at the Global Market for Human Body Parts
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Catherine Jones
How much is the human body worth if it’s not in one piece? Your kidneys, bones, hair, and blood are all worth more individually than they are together, but why is this so? And how do these factors contribute to the global trade in human tissues, organs, cells, and even genetic material?
This class will look at the sociopolitical factors underlying the trade of human materials and the ethical implications of the existence of this red market.
Prerequisites
NOTE: This class will not be showing any pictures of human corpses or discussing detailed methods of organ harvesting. The subject material is serious and we would like to treat it respectfully.
This class will look at the sociopolitical factors underlying the trade of human materials and the ethical implications of the existence of this red market.
Prerequisites
NOTE: This class will not be showing any pictures of human corpses or discussing detailed methods of organ harvesting. The subject material is serious and we would like to treat it respectfully.
H461: From 0 to a 100 real quick: What is a grassroots movement and why they are key in the 2020 election (and beyond)
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Julia Jaime Rodriguez,
Gal Nissan
From the youth led climate change movement, to the student protests in Hong Kong, to Bernie Sanders’ presidential campaign, you may have noticed that (mostly) student-led, grassroots movements have all of a sudden taken off! But why? We will be focusing primarily on Bernie’s campaign and will be going over to what makes his movement - and other grassroots movements - so special! We will also explore the implications of this for his presidency and what that might look like! Come learn about the ~ political revolution ~
H404: From Newspaper Cartoons to Tiktoks: The Evolution of Political Satire
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Kristin D'Angelo
Have your parents ever roasted you for being on your phone too much, for spending hours scrolling through social media? Have they ever spent hours reading the newspaper? Well, you should inform them that news has evolved, and that those little political cartoons they look at mocking current politics have transformed into witty and sometimes questionable video clips of kids on the Internet giving their hot take on current events. In this class, we'll analyze some of the most infamous political cartoons from the past alongside some of the most iconic vines and tiktoks of our generation, and observe how political satire has changed and evolved with each generation.
Prerequisites
Not required but if possible bring a cell phone or other mobile electronic device and download the app “tiktok”
Prerequisites
Not required but if possible bring a cell phone or other mobile electronic device and download the app “tiktok”
Math & Computer Science
M434: Programming Languages: History and Types
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Charles DeLorey
Do you like programming? Do you find yourself thinking about Python or C++ and thinking, "why is the language like this?" In this course, you will learn about the history of programming languages from the very beginning to the present day, as well as important features of programming languages that make them stand out from all the rest. We will be looking at some examples of code and why they are important.
Prerequisites
A general interest in programming/programming languages is ideal, as I will be introducing important programming terms fairly quickly.
Prerequisites
A general interest in programming/programming languages is ideal, as I will be introducing important programming terms fairly quickly.
Science
S403: Code Within Code
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Kristin D'Angelo
Do you like computer science coding? Do you like morse code? Do you like gene sequence code? Well you're in luck!
In this class, you'll be decoding encrypted codes within a gene sequence code, answering riddles with code, and then you'll be able to write your own code!
In this class, you'll be decoding encrypted codes within a gene sequence code, answering riddles with code, and then you'll be able to write your own code!
S405: This is Why We Can't Have Nice Things: Take one Pill a Day and Cry
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Salvatore LaRussa
"The pharmaceutical industry is now the most poorly regarded industry in Americans' eyes." --Gallup Polls, 2019.
Somehow, Americans still have time to hate on Big Pharma, even despite a tumultuous Federal Government (ranked second worst on the above list, by the way), fears of Facebook selling your grandma's contact info to the Russians or something, and an oil industry that still hasn't done anything to fix sea levels that threaten to drown all of the parts of the world that aren't currently on fire. It turns out that the pharmaceutical industry just seems that evil.
Of course, nothing in the world is actually that simple, and nothing changes overnight. The real story of why drugs are expensive, making new drugs is even more expensive, and why we still don't have a cure for cancer* is over a hundred years in the making. In this class, I will attempt to explain why, when it comes to pharmaceuticals, we still can't have nice things.
*I will also explain why having "a cure for cancer" is probably impossible.
Somehow, Americans still have time to hate on Big Pharma, even despite a tumultuous Federal Government (ranked second worst on the above list, by the way), fears of Facebook selling your grandma's contact info to the Russians or something, and an oil industry that still hasn't done anything to fix sea levels that threaten to drown all of the parts of the world that aren't currently on fire. It turns out that the pharmaceutical industry just seems that evil.
Of course, nothing in the world is actually that simple, and nothing changes overnight. The real story of why drugs are expensive, making new drugs is even more expensive, and why we still don't have a cure for cancer* is over a hundred years in the making. In this class, I will attempt to explain why, when it comes to pharmaceuticals, we still can't have nice things.
*I will also explain why having "a cure for cancer" is probably impossible.
S406: Your Body Is a Clock: Chronobiology
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Lauren MacLachlan
Circadian rhythms - everyone has one, right? Turns out that some people have rhythms that make them nocturnal (hi), while some people have rhythms that better suit them for life on Mars. This class is for anyone who HATES waking up early, anyone who's ever felt like they got run over by a bus after an international flight, or anyone who is interested in why exactly the number "24" isn't just a construct but is woven into our DNA.
We'll definitely be getting into some neuroscience and genetics here, but we're also gonna talk about what it's like to live in a cave and whether that sleeping cure your Grandma tells you "works every time" is real or not.
Prerequisites
A bit of genetics or biology would be helpful, but definitely won't get in the way!
We'll definitely be getting into some neuroscience and genetics here, but we're also gonna talk about what it's like to live in a cave and whether that sleeping cure your Grandma tells you "works every time" is real or not.
Prerequisites
A bit of genetics or biology would be helpful, but definitely won't get in the way!
S407: Psychiatric and Neurological Disorder
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Lauren MacLachlan
"Multiple personalities," hearing color, surviving a rod being blasted through your brain, and more - welcome to an exploration of neuroscience and abnormal psychology through the things that go wrong.
Please be sure to bring any questions you may have relating to psychiatric and neurological disorder!
Prerequisites
Everything will be nice and light-hearted for the most part, but a number of our topics are fairly serious.
Please be sure to bring any questions you may have relating to psychiatric and neurological disorder!
Prerequisites
Everything will be nice and light-hearted for the most part, but a number of our topics are fairly serious.
S414: The Fermi Paradox: Are We Alone Out Here?
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Felix Moisand
The Milky Way Galaxy alone has billions of stars and makes up just a fraction of the observable universe. And yet, in the entirety of human history, we have never had a confirmed encounter with an alien civilization. Over lunch one day, famous physicist Enrico Fermi asked the question: “Where is everybody?” In this course, we will examine the basis for Fermi’s question and look at some proposed answers to the question, then open it up to discussion about what you think!
S418: Psychology: Let's Get Stressed!
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Giliana Busler,
Yasmine Karni
A fun and interactive class where you will learn the ins and outs of minimizing stress and the effects it can have on the brain. Look forward to stress reducing activities!
Prerequisites
A good attitude
Prerequisites
A good attitude
S424: The Apotheosis Hypothesis
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Evan Mun
Have you ever wanted something so badly only to be told it was impossible? A researcher’s job is to prove those people wrong! Apotheosis refers to the ascent of something to a divine status. This course explores the ways bio-engineering can create a brighter future in ways once believed only accessible to gods.
Students will be guided through a brief history of the advancements that led to humans taking control of evolution, followed by a deeper dive into some current achievements within the field of synthetic biology (CRISPR, Optogenetics, Stem Cells, and beyond!). The course aims to illuminate the ways in which impossible problems can be overcome by the science of controlling biological systems. This includes a spotlight on the embryonic engineering which inspired my research career and an interactive period where students will workshop hypothetical solutions to their own “impossible” problems.
Prerequisites
Understanding of basic biology is helpful, but not necessary. Questions are highly encouraged!
Students will be guided through a brief history of the advancements that led to humans taking control of evolution, followed by a deeper dive into some current achievements within the field of synthetic biology (CRISPR, Optogenetics, Stem Cells, and beyond!). The course aims to illuminate the ways in which impossible problems can be overcome by the science of controlling biological systems. This includes a spotlight on the embryonic engineering which inspired my research career and an interactive period where students will workshop hypothetical solutions to their own “impossible” problems.
Prerequisites
Understanding of basic biology is helpful, but not necessary. Questions are highly encouraged!
S428: The Sweet Chemistry of Sugar, and How to Make It Explode
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Max Rutman
Ever wondered why plants, animals, bacteria, and so many other organisms all use sugar as food?
In this course, we will explore the different types of sugar, how they're used by the body, and what makes them such a good energy source (using combustion, of course!)
In this course, we will explore the different types of sugar, how they're used by the body, and what makes them such a good energy source (using combustion, of course!)
S429: How (not) to Die in a Chemistry Lab
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Salvatore LaRussa
Ah, yes, chemistry labs. One of the only places in the world where people hand you-- no, make you handle-- substances that you otherwise aren't supposed to touch with a ten-foot-long pole. Of course, high school chemistry labs are only mildly very dangerous, so for this class we're going to kick things up a notch, and give a brief, sometimes ridiculous introduction to some chemicals that ought to be kept in a fume hood behind several locked doors, and some other that you may come across if you study chemistry in the future-- even though they too probably ought to be locked up as well.
Prerequisites
A bit of high-school level chemistry. Knowing a bit about the reactivity of different periods on the periodic table would be really useful.
Prerequisites
A bit of high-school level chemistry. Knowing a bit about the reactivity of different periods on the periodic table would be really useful.
S435: What's in Your Head 101
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Aimee Sun
This class in broken up into a variety of workshops on multiple aspects of your brain. Learn more about the biology and psychology of the human mind and how it impacts your everyday life. Dive into what makes you, you!
S437: The Cat Conspiracy and Other Mind-bending Parasites
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Chloe Noll
Do you have a morbid fascination with human parasites? Want to learn about microscopic organisms that will fuel your nightmares? Then this class is for you! From toxoplasma gondii to rabies to mad cow disease, we will learn learn how these parasites hack your neurology and examine the strange results that follow. In this class, we will focus specifically on parasites that change your brain and learn about new research revealing the shocking effects of a mind-altering parasite that has already infected at least 30% of humanity!
S444: This Is Going Tibia Great Class: Anatomy Through Dissections
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Samyukta Mallick
Have you ever wondered what your body looks like on the inside? Or how all the different body systems work together to keep you alive? Do you enjoy hands-on science projects? "This Is Going Tibia Great Class: Anatomy Through Dissections" will give students the opportunity to learn about animal anatomy through dissections and will also explain how we can use model organisms to learn more about the human body itself.
S446: At the Ends of the Earth: Life in Deep Ocean Trenches
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Sonni Barrios
You may have heard the factoid that 95% of Earth’s oceans have not been explored. You may have also watched that one scene in Finding Nemo, or seen a picture of a giant squid, and said “No thanks, Satan!”
If you feel equal parts terrified and intrigued by the creatures lurking in the darkest depths of our oceans, this class is for you. Although much is unknown about the ecology of the deep sea, there have been great strides made in recent years to understand the surprisingly abundance of life found here. This class will cover the ecology, physiology and chemistry of extremophiles living in deep sea trenches.
If you feel equal parts terrified and intrigued by the creatures lurking in the darkest depths of our oceans, this class is for you. Although much is unknown about the ecology of the deep sea, there have been great strides made in recent years to understand the surprisingly abundance of life found here. This class will cover the ecology, physiology and chemistry of extremophiles living in deep sea trenches.
S453: Clinical Microbiology, aka Poop Medicine
Difficulty: **
Poop transplants: a life-saving rescue therapy. How do they work and what does that mean for us? More than half the cells in your body are not human. They are bacteria, and they affect everything from food digestion to mood disorders. We will review surprising discoveries in microbiome research and discuss how poop is changing our understanding of health. This will take us on a tour of several medical specialties from biochemistry to neuroimmunology.
Class Style
Presentation/Lecture
Class Style
Presentation/Lecture
S458: Would You Believe It? An Exploration of Weird Medical History
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Catherine Jones
The human body is a travesty, and so is how we treat it!
Medical history is absolutely fraught with tales of conditions too weird to believe, ill-advised treatments for the healthy and unhealthy alike, and out-of-the-box thinking that really should have stayed inside the box. Please join me as we take a nose dive into some of the strangest ways your body can go wrong, and the myriad misguided measures we can use to turn even the most common ailments into something mystifying!
Medical history is absolutely fraught with tales of conditions too weird to believe, ill-advised treatments for the healthy and unhealthy alike, and out-of-the-box thinking that really should have stayed inside the box. Please join me as we take a nose dive into some of the strangest ways your body can go wrong, and the myriad misguided measures we can use to turn even the most common ailments into something mystifying!
S460: Playing with Perception
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Leannah Newman
Has your brain been tricking you? Seeing movement in images which are perfectly still? Hearing different words from the ones actually being said? Our brains are supposed to reliably tell us about the external environment, so how can this happen?
Sensory illusions are not only fun to engage with, but essential tools to understand the way the brain works to understand our environment. In this course, we will demonstrate and discuss both popular and lesser-known optical, auditory, and tactile illusions with the goal of understanding more about brain processing. You will also have the opportunity to get your own burning questions about perception answered and leave knowing illusions, and your brain, a little better.
Sensory illusions are not only fun to engage with, but essential tools to understand the way the brain works to understand our environment. In this course, we will demonstrate and discuss both popular and lesser-known optical, auditory, and tactile illusions with the goal of understanding more about brain processing. You will also have the opportunity to get your own burning questions about perception answered and leave knowing illusions, and your brain, a little better.
Miscellaneous
X408: Want to Play in a Game Show?
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Nicholas Jean,
Lauren MacLachlan
My absolute guilty pleasure is watching game shows of all kind. Chain Reaction got rebooted? I'm on it. I've probably seen every episode of Cutthroat Kitchen twice. And don't even get me started when the Big Brother live feeds turn on. But I'm sick of just *watching* game shows -
- which is why I've devised my own for you all to play. There'll be teams, there'll be challenges, and there may even be prizes. Whatever your thing is - solving puzzles, thinking outside the box, competitive drive... Game on.
Featuring challenges from Only Connect and more!
Prerequisites
We're putting lecture slides and laser pointers away on this one, team, so be prepared to play!
- which is why I've devised my own for you all to play. There'll be teams, there'll be challenges, and there may even be prizes. Whatever your thing is - solving puzzles, thinking outside the box, competitive drive... Game on.
Featuring challenges from Only Connect and more!
Prerequisites
We're putting lecture slides and laser pointers away on this one, team, so be prepared to play!
X409: Intro Finance
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Matthew Goldberg
Introduction to basic Finance skills, how to budget, what are credit cards, and anything else you want to learn.
Prerequisites
None
Prerequisites
None
X410: BA DA BA BA BAAAAAAA - They got you now.
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Nivjana Minga
What you buy and what you want to buy are different. They know how to get to you, and they always win. Explore how companies market to consumers WORLDWIDE and maybe by the end you can be a pro too. The basics will be enough for you to break down every advertisement and every logo you see and know exactly what you're getting. If you're even slightly interested in business, creating a business, or even just marketing in general, this will be a nice view into what you could be doing in the future.
X411: Surviving the Slow Apocalpyse: A Wastelander's Guide to a Hot Earth
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Jack Edelman
What are the next fifty years going to look like? In a nutshell, hot.
The bad news: climate change is going to happen. It already is happening, as you're probably aware. It's too late to stop it. So, if we can't prevent it, the question becomes "how do we survive it"? The good news: We can survive it, and we do have enough time to transition to ways of living that are adapted to a post-climate change world. Come and learn how to continue to enjoy things like electric lighting, hot water, a car that runs, and eating food, in a world where climate change has destroyed the global logistics network that used to supply them!
The bad news: climate change is going to happen. It already is happening, as you're probably aware. It's too late to stop it. So, if we can't prevent it, the question becomes "how do we survive it"? The good news: We can survive it, and we do have enough time to transition to ways of living that are adapted to a post-climate change world. Come and learn how to continue to enjoy things like electric lighting, hot water, a car that runs, and eating food, in a world where climate change has destroyed the global logistics network that used to supply them!
X415: Kaiserreich: What If Germany Had Won the First World War?
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Felix Moisand
The First World War, and the subsequent Treaty of Versailles set the stage for much of modern European and World history. In this course, we will examine some of the key turning points in the war that turned the tide against the Central Powers, look at the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk and other German plans for the post-war world, and hypothesize about what a Central Powers victory may have looked like.
Prerequisites
A general understanding of the First World War is helpful.
Prerequisites
A general understanding of the First World War is helpful.
X417: What is real friendship?
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Giliana Busler,
Yasmine Karni
We want students to be able to learn about friendship. It is a topic that is never really taught in school and isn’t something that ever gets explained - even though friendship is one of the hardest aspects of life to master. We are teaching the class together and we think we are such a good example of a strong and healthy friendship. We want to be able to show student what its like to be in a healthy & loving friendship. They hear so much about relationships and all that, but mastering it with a friend is not any less important (if not more). We will use real life examples and videos to make it collaborative and hopefully help students learn more about themselves and what they want from a friendship.
X419: Weebs: A Lifestyle Guide
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Zachary Maizes,
David Zheng
Have you ever experienced the wondrous world of Japanese culture?
We haven’t either! However, we do love manga and anime, and would love to discuss these topics with you!
Whether you consider yourself a proud weeb, an uncultured normie, or just someone who wants to learn a bit more about a form of entertainment they don’t know that much about, this is the class for you!
We will be discussing various anime and manga along with the surrounding culture and community, along with recommending a few high-quality ones to you all!
Disclaimer: Since this does encompass an entire type of media, there may be some mention of some more extreme topics if we discuss specific anime or manga that make use of edgier material. While there shouldn’t be anything foreign to a high schooler or offensive to anyone, we encourage an open mind when coming to this class.
We haven’t either! However, we do love manga and anime, and would love to discuss these topics with you!
Whether you consider yourself a proud weeb, an uncultured normie, or just someone who wants to learn a bit more about a form of entertainment they don’t know that much about, this is the class for you!
We will be discussing various anime and manga along with the surrounding culture and community, along with recommending a few high-quality ones to you all!
Disclaimer: Since this does encompass an entire type of media, there may be some mention of some more extreme topics if we discuss specific anime or manga that make use of edgier material. While there shouldn’t be anything foreign to a high schooler or offensive to anyone, we encourage an open mind when coming to this class.
X420: Gaming: Explained: Remastered Edition
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Zachary Maizes
Due to (the lack of) popular demand, Gaming: Explained is coming back for another go! After a grand total of >0 people showed up in Fall 2019 I figured everyone must want to learn some more about games. In this new and (maybe) improved version, I will be discussing various genres of games with a focus on more popular and more complicated games, along with a how-to for constructing a meta-game for a game night and some escape room tips and tricks.
Just of note, this was a very popular class in the fall so it may fill up fast.
Just of note, this was a very popular class in the fall so it may fill up fast.
X421: Dungeons and Dragons 101
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Samantha Silvers
Learn the rules of Dungeons and Dragons! Even if you know nothing about the game going in this course is here to get you up to speed!
Note: This course is for learning what the game is and the basic rules only. For character creation take D&D Character Creation 101.
Note: This course is for learning what the game is and the basic rules only. For character creation take D&D Character Creation 101.
X422: D&D Character Creation 101
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Samantha Silvers
Want to learn how to build a character sheet for Dungeons and Dragons? Want to learn how to craft a compelling backstory and personality for your character? This is the class for you!
Prerequisites
Must have a basic understanding of Dungeons and Dragons rules. Taking the class Dungeons and Dragons 101 prior to this class is highly recommended.
Prerequisites
Must have a basic understanding of Dungeons and Dragons rules. Taking the class Dungeons and Dragons 101 prior to this class is highly recommended.
X425: Aliens, Conspiracies and Mysteries - What went bump last night?
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Ike Kaper
I have scoured the depths of the internet and other sources to find several famous and obscure mysteries. You'll probably know some of these but there will be a few oddball ones you've likely never heard of.
DISCLAIMER: By signing up for this class, you are unable to blame me for nightmares (jk :) )
Prerequisites
Some level of emotional maturity. Some of the mysteries do not have happy endings or involve mature content. Be prepared to share your favorite mystery.
DISCLAIMER: By signing up for this class, you are unable to blame me for nightmares (jk :) )
Prerequisites
Some level of emotional maturity. Some of the mysteries do not have happy endings or involve mature content. Be prepared to share your favorite mystery.
X438: Principles of Fashion: How to Compose the Perfect Outfit
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Matthew Teague
Do you ever wake up in the morning and struggle to decide what to wear? If so, this may be the class for you. As a fashion enthusiast myself, I would like to share the way I think about fashion and how I compose my outfits. Although I am a male myself, this class will not be limited to male fashion, and will include useful tips for all genders.
X439: I Can See My House From Here: City Planning
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Lauren MacLachlan
Transportation, infrastructure, zoning, oh my! What if we put a lake there, a Dunkin' Donuts there, or a toxic waste dump here? What do cities need to function - and more importantly, what do they need to be good places to live?
In this class, we'll gloss over some of the basics of what urban planning is all about, talk about what we think makes a pretty alright city, and then we'll play a big fun game where we design our own "perfect" city.
In our game, you'll be the boss - think preschools and interstates belong adjacent? Want your commute to be via cable car? I guess we'll see!
In this class, we'll gloss over some of the basics of what urban planning is all about, talk about what we think makes a pretty alright city, and then we'll play a big fun game where we design our own "perfect" city.
In our game, you'll be the boss - think preschools and interstates belong adjacent? Want your commute to be via cable car? I guess we'll see!
X450: Handling Stress 101
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Amisha Patel
Have you ever stayed up late working on an assignment due in only a matter of a couple of hours? Have you ever felt overwhelmed with the amount of work you've had to get done in any given point in time? Have you ever felt STRESSED OUT about anything, be it school, work, or anything at all?
If you answered yes to any of the above listed questions, or are just simply looking for any tips, tricks, and advice on how to handle and manage your stress levels, this class may help provide you with some real-life, applicable solutions!
Prerequisites
An open mind and respect!
If you answered yes to any of the above listed questions, or are just simply looking for any tips, tricks, and advice on how to handle and manage your stress levels, this class may help provide you with some real-life, applicable solutions!
Prerequisites
An open mind and respect!
X451: Icons Vs. Role Models
Difficulty: **
Teachers:
Christian Nelson
Icons Vs. Role Models is a laid back, opinion centered course that requires your critical thinking skills.
It's reliant on participation and discussion, with the ultimate goal being a productive, dialogue-based analysis of the differences between contemporary iconography and "rolemodelography".
Basically, we'll be asking the big questions.
What people matter in my life?
What's so cool about Britney Spears? Who is Lovely Peaches? How does this relate to my mom? Should I listen to what these people have to say? Should I listen to my mom?
It's reliant on participation and discussion, with the ultimate goal being a productive, dialogue-based analysis of the differences between contemporary iconography and "rolemodelography".
Basically, we'll be asking the big questions.
What people matter in my life?
What's so cool about Britney Spears? Who is Lovely Peaches? How does this relate to my mom? Should I listen to what these people have to say? Should I listen to my mom?
X454: History of Kanye West: This Generation's Closest Thing to Einstein
Difficulty: *
Teachers:
Nate Gillin
This course will explore Kanye's rise to fame, his media demonization, and his ever-evolving sound. The goal is to provide a better perspective on the widely misunderstood musician and take a holistic view at how certain events shaped his life.
Prerequisites
No ambidextrous students, pick left or right not both.
Prerequisites
No ambidextrous students, pick left or right not both.