Veritas In Academia

FLL Explore Lego Robotics

Tutor: Shelly Westrich and Assistants

Course Description: First Lego League (FLL) Explore is a robotics program designed for kids ages 6-10. Teams of 2-6 students work together to discover how science and technology impact the world around them.

Fall Semester: Teams work with Legos to build a motorized model, program using Lego Education WeDo Software, and create a Show Me poster related to their research of the yearly theme. Teams will compete in a Lego Explore Expo which is typically held in December. Class fee of $60/student covers the cost of FIRST Team Registration and Explore kit, Expo, and t-shirt.

Spring Semester: This class will focus on Lego building challenges and more programming opportunities. There is no competition/Expo for the spring class and therefore no extra class fees.

Ballet (ages 3-6)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Class Description: Come and learn this beautiful style of performance dance for beginners. Younger children will learn the basics of the ballet style of dance, including terms, poses, dance positions, common ballet moves, ballet barre and center exercises, and stretching. The children will also learn a routine putting different ballet positions and moves together. There will be 2 performances for families: one at the end of the first Semester (Advent performance), and another at the end of the year VIA Extravaganza.

Class Materials: Pink cloth ballet shoes (flat/basic, not pointe or demi-pointe). Split sole bottoms work nicely versus full leather sole on bottom. Cross straps also offer more support than a single strap on shoe top. Costumes or costume pieces for each performance (2 per year). Approximate cost per semester for costumes is $30-$50, but possibly more.

How to Pray (ages 6-9)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Course Description:Come and learn different types of prayer, different ways of praying, and essentially how to do it. All children will be learning how to use their imagination in the art of contemplative prayer to Jesus. There will be a Marian element to this class. We will learn and practice how to make hidden, little sacrifices to Our Lady, which is so pleasing to both her and the Lord. We will learn and practice different virtues. The children will discover or deepen their knowledge of their guardian angel and patron saint(s). Catholic prayer videos and short, typically animated Catholic movies are sometimes shown in class.

Physical Education, Nutrition, and Health (ages 6-9)

Tutor: Mary Amery

Course Description: This elementary level class will focus on various age-appropriate physical skills including games, fitness, and general motor skills. During the nice weather, we will be outside as often as possible and during the colder months we will move indoors. From organized sports to individual physical challenges, students will not only learn several games, but also learn the importance of following rules of the game, being honest in their play, and supporting team mates – all skills that have parallels in the spiritual life.
In addition, components of basic nutrition and health will be interspersed throughout the year. Using a Catholic outlook on the unity of body and soul and the belief in the resurrection of the body, we will use biblical verses highlighting activity, food, and striving for virtue. We will explore how God provides for us and aids us in living our lives as temples of the Holy Spirit. No discussion of reproduction or sexual matters will take place during this class. All questions raised by students in this regard will be directed to parents.

Little Artists 2 (6-9 year olds)

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Course Description: Come and explore the JOYS OF ART! We will have fun creating advanced multi-step projects using a wide variety of media. We will work on both individual and group projects.

The projects will be on a three year rotation.

Beginner Art Skills (6-9 year olds)

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Course Description: In this class we will learn basic art skills and how to use them in our art work. We will study the elements of art: line, shape, form, value, space, color, and texture. We will also study the principles of art: rhythm, balance, contrast, proportion, gradation, harmony, variety, and movement.

This class will be on a three year rotation. The format will be the same each year, but the content will change.
Children ages 6-9.

Ballet (ages 6-9)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Class Description: Come and learn this beautiful style of performance dance for beginners. Younger children will learn the basics of the ballet style of dance, including terms, poses, dance positions, common ballet moves, ballet barre and center exercises, and stretching. The children will also learn a routine putting different ballet positions and moves together. There will be 2 performances for families: one at the end of the first Semester (Advent performance), and another at the end of the year VIA Extravaganza.

Class Materials: Pink cloth ballet shoes (flat/basic, not pointe or demi-pointe). Split sole bottoms work nicely versus full leather sole on bottom. Cross straps also offer more support than a single strap on shoe top. Costumes or costume pieces for each performance (2 per year). Approximate cost per semester for costumes is $30-$50, but possibly more.

Latin for Little Ones (6-9)

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Course Description: This class will be a gentle introduction to Latin. Students will learn vocab and beginning grammar concepts through chant, song, stories, and fun activities! We will work through one chapter per week, with some homework assigned for additional practice at home.

Supplies:
Song School Latin Book 2 with CD (Student Edition) (available from Classical Academic Press for $28.95)
pencil

Children ages 6-9.

Choir

Tutor: Katrina Gaspar and Maria Doty

Course Description: This is an introduction to vocal music performance, including basic reading of music, tonal patterns, rhythm development, and basic music terminology. This class will provide an environment to make a joyful noise for God. There will be exposure to various types of music, with an emphasis on pieces that help live out the Catholic faith.
$10 Fee for binders and music.

Our World (ages 6-9)

Tutor: Jen Kellar

Fall Semester:

Course Description: It’s never too early to learn how literature draws you in and sends you out into the world! In this course for 6 – 9 year-olds, we will explore some great children’s literature that will take us around the world. The books chosen are classics. We will explore the moral of the story, what the author says and what the author implies, the artistry of illustrations, the historical, geographical, and cultural aspects of the book’s location (and maybe bring in some dishes from different cultures?) We will also be doing a craft/art project/snack or some other activity that goes along with the story.

Spring Semester:

We will explore:
Topography – seas, rivers, the Great Lakes, mountain ranges.
Land forms - What is an island? An isthmus? A peninsula?
The difference between mountains/hills/plains/plateaus
Lines of latitude and longitude – and how they help us find locations on the map
Some of our classes would include reading books during class, some land formation hands-on activities and map work.

Supplies: The students will need a 8X8 baking pan and 2 large playdoh containers of blue and 2 large playdoh containers of green for each student.

Phy Ed 3-6

Tutor: Katrina Gaspar & Maria Doty

Course Description: This exercise time will be used to develop gross motor skills. We’ll focus on the basics of athletic activities like running, throwing, catching, kicking, and more.

Family Study Hall

Tutor: you! Talk to us about how you can help!

Course Description: Mom school time.

The lunch room is reserved for quiet, family study time, or Mom School following morning announcements until lunches, and then again after lunches through the end of the VIA day. This is roughly 9 - 11:30 and 12:30 - 4.

If you need Mom visiting time please respect those working with their children by conversing in the lobby or out in God's nature.

Phy Ed 4th-6th

Tutor: Katrina Gaspar and Maria Doty

Course Description: With an emphasis on taking care of the bodies God gave us, this course will break into general fitness concepts like working on coordination and strength. We’ll spend time looking at a variety of physical activities and develop skills accordingly.

Language Arts

Tutor: Serena Hedman

Course Description: This full-year class will focus primarily on exposing students to quality, age-appropriate literature with the intention that they will grow up loving good books. Works will be selected from multiple genres; possible genres include historical fiction, contemporary realistic fiction, fantasy, and poetry. This course will also focus on teaching literary analysis such as narrative structure, character development, and theme.

Supplies: Literature list coming soon.

IEW Narnia, Reading and Writing

Tutor: Julia Johnson

Course Description: This language arts class is created for grades four through six. We will read energetic, age appropriate literature to spark writing quality sentences and paragraphs. We will focus on the writing process and aspects of Andrew Pudewa’s Institute for Excellence in Writing. Students will also enjoy journaling, Caught’ya Grammar, Daily Oral Language, Grammar Ball and Mad Libs.

Course materials:
IEW Following Narnia Volume 1
Colorful pens!
Pencils
Spiral Notebook
Folder
The Magician's Nephew by C.S. Lewis
$5 for word walls, posters and extra enhancing materials to decorate our IEW classroom

Exploring Art Media   (grades 4-6)

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Course Description: This class is a survey coarse intended to expose students to a variety of art media. We will spend approximately three weeks on each. Fall and Spring semesters can be taken independently.

Fall semester: elements and principles of art, pencil, charcoal (conte, soft, willow vine), pastels (soft and oil) mixed media
Spring semester: color theory, colored pencil, water color (pans, tubes, pencil, liquid). Acrylic.

This class will be on a three year rotation. The format will be the same each year, but the content will change.

Ballet (ages 9-12+)

Tutor: Jennifer Meyer

Class Description: Come and learn this beautiful style of performance dance for beginners. Younger children will learn the basics of the ballet style of dance, including terms, poses, dance positions, common ballet moves, ballet barre and center exercises, and stretching. The children will also learn a routine putting different ballet positions and moves together. There will be 2 performances for families: one at the end of the first Semester (Advent performance), and another at the end of the year VIA Extravaganza.

Class Materials: Pink cloth ballet shoes (flat/basic, not pointe or demi-pointe). Split sole bottoms work nicely versus full leather sole on bottom. Cross straps also offer more support than a single strap on shoe top. Costumes or costume pieces for each performance (2 per year). Approximate cost per semester for costumes is $30-$50, but possibly more.

Shakespeare, Music, Poetry, and Art Appreciation (grades 4th-6th)

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Class Description: This class will focus on four elements that often fall to the wayside during busy homeschool weeks: Poetry, Art Appreciation, Music Appreciation, and Shakespeare study.

Poetry: We’ll spend fall semester reading the poems of Emily Dickinson. We’ll learn about her life and become familiar with her poetical style and expression. Spring semester poet is TBD.

Art Appreciation: We’ll cover the works of three artists throughout the year: da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Cassat We’ll read biographies of the artists, and each week linger over one of their pieces, discussing what we see, what stands out, details about the subject, etc.

Music Appreciation: We’ll cover the Romantic and Modern Eras of music using the SQUILT curriculum (SQUILT stands for Super Quiet Un-Interrupted Listening Time). We’ll listen to pieces from each era of music, learn about composers, and discuss concepts such as instrumentation, rhythm, tempo, and dynamics.

Shakespeare Study: I’ll be using Ken Ludwig’s How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare for this part of the course. His approach involves memorizing passages of Shakespeare’s works while also understanding what the words in those passages mean and where they fit into the context of Shakespeare’s story. We’ll learn about Shakespeare, his life, and why, as Ludwig says, “he is the cause of creation in other writers.” Continuing with the suggested order in Ludwig’s book, we will start the year with Macbeth . I will be sharing some wonderful retellings of the plays as we study them.

We’ll spend approximately a quarter of our class time on each element, give or take depending on what we are doing that week. Little to no homework will be assigned.

Supplies: A one-inch binder with four dividers for handouts. Pencil or pen. Colored pencils/markers for occasional class work when we illustrate poems or draw an artist’s work. $5 class fee to cover printing costs.

Religion: Life of Christ

Tutor: Jenna Montedonico

Class Description: We will study the life of Christ, incorporating history and geography, learning how Jesus was a real person in a real time and a real place. We will read, study, and compare the Gospels within their historical contexts.


Please note: This class will begin Sept. 20th

Latin I (grades 4-8)

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Course Description:
As Catholics, the Latin language is part of our faith heritage. Since over half of English words have Latin as their root, learning Latin enables students to interact with and participate in the world around them on a deeper level, particularly in the Liturgy.

This introductory Latin course will develop a firm foundation of grammar, vocabulary, and translation skills with the goal of recognizing core elements and the basic patterns of Latin sentences. Students will learn a number of Latin prayers; not only how to say them, but also what they mean in the original Latin. Students will also be introduced to elements of Roman history as well as Latin in the modern world. Class time will focus on learning new vocabulary, grammatical concepts, and translation practice. Weekly homework will include vocab practice and workbook assignments.

Course materials:
    Latin Alive! Book 1 (student edition). Classical Academic Press (classicalacademicpress.com) has it for $24.95.
    A folder or binder to store handouts,
    Loose leaf paper or notebook with perforated pages for classroom work,
    Index cards and storage box for vocabulary flashcards.

Conversational Spanish I

Tutor: Ana Grace Plotts

Course Description: Learn to speak Spanish the way all people learn their native language - by using it. We will discuss, listen, celebrate, play and eat our way through the Spanish language. We will immerse ourselves in the faith, culture, and daily life of the Hispanic people. In addition to in-class participation, there will be outside time required for specific online tools, and outside speaking/hearing opportunities.

Supplies Needed:
*Students will need access to a computer at home to use Duolingo 10-15 minutes per day.
*Post-it Notes (5-90 sheet pads of 5 different colors)
*lined paper in a three ring binder or a folder
*Carson Dellosa – Skill Builders Spanish I Workbook, for Grades K–5
*Carson Dellosa – Skill Builders Spanish II Workbook, for Grades K–5

Conversational Spanish II

Tutor: Ana Grace Plotts

Course Description: Learn to speak Spanish the way all people learn their native language - by using it. We will discuss, listen, celebrate, play and eat our way through the Spanish language. We will immerse ourselves in the faith, culture, and daily life of the Hispanic people. In addition to in-class participation, there will be outside time required for specific online tools, and outside speaking/hearing opportunities.

Supplies Needed:
*Students will need access to a computer at home to use Duolingo 10-15 minutes per day
*Post-it Notes (5-90 sheet pads of 5 different colors)
*lined paper in a three ring binder or a folder
* Carson Dellosa, Skill Builders Spanish I Workbook, for Graces 6-8
* Carson Dellosa, Skill Builders Spanish II Workbook, for Grades 6-8

Interactive Science

Tutor: Nichole Moudry

Course Description: Interactive Science: In this year-long course the students will have hands-on experiments and activities to learn about the amazing world God created for us. Planned units include, but not limited to: pond study and microscopic organisms, light and color, astronomy, chemistry lab experiments, bridges, atmospheric phenomena...oh there are just so many things to learn! There will usually be one at home assignment per week to reinforce what we are learning in class, but this shouldn't be terribly time consuming. (Just plan one block of time some other day of the week for Science)

Supplies Needed: 3 ring notebook, colored pencils, pencil, Lab Fee of $10

Sewing: The Single Stitch

Tutor: Kate Bestgen

Course Description: The Single Stitch class will be the first of two optional semesters. The first semester will focus on the basics of hand sewing, fabric types, stitch names and applications, as well as the practical application of these principles. The information and skills covered in this semester course are essential! Once your student has mastered the skill of hand sewing they can create anything they can imagine with a needle and thread. This is also the most practical form of sewing as it doesn’t require machinery or power and is very portable. Come learn how to fix and create with fabric the way Anne of Green Gables or Laura Ingalls Wilder would have!!

Projects:
● Sewing samplers (practice stitches)
● Patching clothing (outfit fixes)
● Light darning (fixing holes in socks or knit fabric)
● Small quilting sampler

**DISCLAIMER**
● Students will be responsible for bringing items from home such as clothing and or socks with holes.
● Parents will be expected to provide materials for the class such as small amounts of quilting cotton, thread and needles (thimbles are optional but recommended)
● This class features needles, scissors and other sharp objects therefore pricks, pokes and minor cuts may occur

Prerequisite: Interest in sewing

Drama (grades: 1-3)

Tutor: Jen Kellar

Course Description: In this year-long course for 6 – 9 year-olds, we will enjoy games and activities that develop self-confidence, memorization skills, team work and help us learn how each person plays a role in an ensemble, and an awareness of how thoughts and actions are connected and portrayed in a dramatic production. As we develop and advance our skills in the first semester, we will then be putting those skills into practice in the second semester production of a short, one-act play, skits, or short scenes, dependent upon our number of students and skill levels. Our hope is to perform a short play, Catholic in nature and style, from the compilation of plays “Praise Him with Your Very Life: A Collection of Plays” by Mother Mary Francis, P.C.C. Alternatively, we may work in tandem with the older class and the performance of a play written by St. Therese of Lisieux.

Supplies: The students will need an 8 ½ X 11 journal, coloring pencils, a pen and pencil, and an imagination and a listening ear for each and every class! A parent or sibling will be asked to assist in the production in the second semester with line memorization and practice, as well as practical details of the play (including costume and prop collection or design, assistance with stage building, painting or the like, or help on the day of the production).

Drama (grades: 4th-12th)

Tutor: Jen Kellar

Course Description: Drama does not have to be a bad thing! In its proper place, the skills necessary for a good drama can help us to understand ourselves, each other, and the narratives that others tell with their lives. In this year-long course for 4 th through 12 th graders, we will be introducing the techniques used in every theatre production. Why is theatre important for your student? It helps us express ourselves through stories about others, we learn how to laugh at ourselves in a healthy way, to learn how to work as a team, to develop our emotions in a disciplined and masterful way, and to learn about and present a caricature of someone else’s thoughts, feelings, words, and actions, which helps us to understand one another more empathetically.

Fall Semester:
During the first semester, our classes will involve learning the following: what theatre is; observation; creating an ensemble; movement & space; environment; character development; objectives and tactics; focus and concentration; utilizing the voice; listening and reacting; and stage directions and blocking.

Spring Semester:
The play’s the thing! Dependent upon our student skill level, and utilizing all the skills we have developed in the first semester, we will present either short skits or a play based on the writings of Mother Mary Francis (taken from her compilation of plays entitled “Praise Him with Your Very Life: A Collection of Plays“) or from the writings of Saint Therese’ of Lisieux ( Joan of Arc or another of her shorter plays).

Supplies: The students will need an 8 ½ X 11 journal, coloring pencils, a pen and pencil, and an imagination for each and every class! A parent or sibling will be asked to assist in the production in the second semester with line memorization and practice, as well as practical details of the play (including costume and prop collection or design, assistance with stage building, painting or the like, or help on the day of the production).

Piano Lessons

VIA is blessed to have two wonderful, piano tutors this year:

Piano Lessons with Diana Anderson (4th - 12th grades)

Tutor: Dianna Anderson

Course Description: All skill levels welcome and adapted to. Lessons include learning a classical-style technique, basic principles of music theory appropriate to the student, and learning to read notes through studying the different songs.

Piano Lessons with Mary Margaret Bolin (6 years of age through 12th grade)

Tutor: Mary Margaret Bolin

Course Description:These fun and engaging piano lessons for beginners will include learning proper technique, music theory basics, and reading music.

Supplies Needed:
Beginner students will need the Piano Adventures Lesson Book Primer Level and Performance Book Primer Level. A blank composition notebook will be needed as well. Students from last year will continue from where they are at in their books.

Older beginners would either start at the same level and move to the next quickly, or start with the Level One-Performance Book-Piano Adventures Faber. They should also bring a blank Composition Notebook.

Cost note:: As you will see on the registration form there are two different costs listed for these lessons. Younger students (shorter attention spans) will have 20 minutes lessons while the older ones will have 30 minutes.

High School Literature and Composition

Tutor: Mary Amery

Course Description: This course will be an opportunity for high school students to explore a variety of literature including, novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. In addition to reading the selections, we will spend time in class discussing themes, literary structure, and the works themselves. Short composition assignments will accompany each selection and will range from analyzing the works to reaction paragraphs and original compositions. This course presumes no previous instruction in literary analysis or formal composition, though students should be able to write down their thoughts and be willing to do some typing as we build skills leading to short 1-page papers. Active participation is class is encouraged. Selections will be finalized once the student make-up of the class is known or by August 1, 2023 and forwarded to parents. Library and used books are acceptable.

Materials: coming soon!

IEW Writing and Grammer

Tutor: Susan Steinke

Course Description: This course will build confidence in writing through the methodology taught in IEW Bible-Based Writing Lessons. Each week will start with journaling prompts aimed at increasing creativity in writing, followed by short grammar exercises before we start the IEW lesson. There are wonderful literature selections suggested by this textbook that I plan to incorporate. Stay-tuned for that list. Books should be available from your local library or inexpensively from used-book websites. As time allows, we’ll use these literature selections as a starting-point for seminar discussion, and as a basis to solidify the five-paragraph essay.

Next year's class (2023-2024) will move on to Advanced U.S. History-Based Writing Lessons (the next step on the IEW plan). This could then be followed with IEW Classical Rhetoric through Structure and Style (2024-2025) OR the College Prep Writing Course offered by VIA.

Supplies List:
*IEW Bible-Based Writing Lessons Student Book
*1 inch binder
*divider tabs (3)
*loose-leaf paper (to be put in binder)
*composition notebook (for journaling)


Literature Selections to be announced shortly.

Biology

Tutor: Sherry Zeisel

Course Description: This comprehensive survey of biology applies a solidly Catholic perspective to everything from evolution to life issues in a way that no homeschool biology course has yet attempted to do! In the first semester, students will learn the background of biology, with units on ecology, cell biology, and biochemistry, and then move on to a survey of the five kingdoms of organisms. The second semester is devoted entirely to human anatomy and physiology. The two together form the complete high-school level course. The course includes video lectures, extensive notes, homework and answer keys; no textbook required! In-class time will be devoted to labs and “office hours” with the tutor.

Course materials: Students will need access to a computer for daily video lectures. Lab supplies are covered in the supplies fee.

Prerequisites: At least one high-school level science course, such as general or physical science. Biology is commonly done in 10 th grade, but can be done earlier if the student has completed the prerequisite.

Physical Science

Tutor: Nichole Moudry

Course Description: This year long course will explore the scientific laws that God created to govern the physical world. My goal is that by understanding the incredible way things work together the students become more convicted that there is no other explanation for our existence than a Divine Creator. We will cover a variety of topics from hydrology to electromagnetism. Some homework will be necessary to leave enough class time for labs and experiments.

Materials: Apologia Exploring Creation with Physical Science 2nd Edition book. Please note that there is a 3rd edition out so it may have to be found used.

Chemistry

Tutor: Nichole Moudry

Course Description: This high-school level course will cover an entire year of chemistry from the laws of thermodynamics, atoms and molecules, balancing chemical equations, stoichiometry, polyatomic ions, acid/base reactions, and the list goes on... During class time we will go over the material, do experiments, and sometimes have quizzes. This course will require homework and the students will need to set aside time each day to work on chemistry. They will need to read the text, take notes, and complete assignments at home. All homework will be clearly defined each week. Parents will be required to grade their work as the students will need immediate feedback and then given an opportunity to correct their work. Details will be provided on this. By having the work graded at home, it also allows me to go over topics that they have trouble with in a timely manner. This class will be a complete high-school level Chemistry course.

Supplies:
Book: Apologia - Exploring Science with Chemistry textbook and test/solutions 2nd edition (I have several copies available),
3-ring binder - 2" preferred, loose leaf paper, dividers,
Calculator with scientific notation capabilities
Pencils and Colored Pencils
Lab Fee of $15

The Art of Valuation: Logic, Econ, and Investing for Life (grades 10-12 or tutor approval)

Tutor: Pat Weber

Course Description: The Art of Valuation is about assigning value to thing - investments, your energy, and time. The class will start with gaining an understanding of logic - both fun, practical logic and formal logic, followed by understanding how things in the world are valued. With a solid foundation of logical reasoning and what it means to value something we'll move on to tackle topics including labor, currencies including crypto, commodities, insurance, investing, and much more.

Topics in this class could easily fit in a homeschool highschool credits for logic, social studies, and macro & micro econ.

Supplies Needed: Coming soon.

Prerequisite: A maturing mathematical mind. Contact tutor for a discussion of whether your student is ready for logic. Some evidence your student is ready would include successful completion of geometry or Algebra II, or enjoyment of logic puzzles.

Guys Book Discussion - The Screwtape Letters (grades 10-12 or tutor approval)

Tutor: Pat Weber

Course Description:
Is Free Will a blessing or a curse?
Why does God allow evil?
What are other people thinking about in church?
Does the Devil ever use good and truth to his own advantage?

If any of these questions interest you, come dive into (fallen) human nature with us! We’ll have fun this semester looking in the mirror and exposing some of Satan’s tricks as we read through C.S. Lewis’ Screwtape Letters. The outside class work will be easy reading assignments of typically two of Screwtape’s letters each week - each letter is only ~4, small pages of easy reading - and often a family dinner-table type question.

We'll also discuss the effectiveness, both pros and cons, of Lewis' writing style.

As with all homeschooling it is up to the school (parents) to assign credit, but this course commonly could be counted towards Lit and/or Theology credits.

Supplies Needed: Each students should have a PERSONAL copy of The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, any printing.

Acting (grades 7-12)

Tutor: Amy Bittner

Course Description: This class is intended to provide young actors with an overview of the concepts of acting, the basic techniques of acting, and a brief look into dramatic literature. We will look at physical form, vocal techniques, and creating a character, as well as some beginner information about the world of Theatre. During this course students will investigate voice, movement, text, improvisation, and performance with the goal of improved performance skills and theatrical understanding.

Thomistic Moral Theology

Tutor: Christy Bauman

Course Description: Using some of the writings of the great Doctor of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas and our late Holy Father, Saint John Paul II. We will explore the true meaning of Freedom, and what Beatitude is. We will not be going over all of the do's and don'ts of a moral life as much as giving ourselves a framework for making decisions.

Grades: 7th-12th
Course Materials: Coming soon

The Catholic Reformation

Tutor: Christy Bauman

Course Description: What is the difference between the Catholic Reformation, English Reformation and the Protestant Reformation? Who were the key players in the Catholic Reformation. These are just some of the questions that we will look at throughout the semester. Some of the saints that we will look at during the semester are St. Thomas More, St Teresa of Avila, and St John of the Cross.

In the beginning of March, students will not be meeting in person, Christy is expecting child #6. During this time the students will have required reading and Christy will stay in touch via email with more detailed assignments or presentation details that will be required of the students.

Supplies: Books used will be Heroes of the Catholic Reformation by John Pearce ( students DO NOT need to purchase) and A Man for All Seasons ( this book NEEDS to be purchased for the class).

Art

Tutor: Julie Leighton

Drawing -all levels (7-12 grade)

Class Description: This class is open to all levels from beginner to advanced. Students will work at their own level and pace. Lessons will be catered to meet each students individual needs.

Supplies needed:

*9”x12” pad of sketch paper. (higher quality drawing paper for final drawings will be provided by tutor)
*Set of drawing pencils
*Blending stumps (a variety of sizes)
*Gum eraser (also called “art gum”)
*plastic eraser (Factis extra soft)
*Kneaded rubber eraser (Generals)

The Beauty of Watercolor

Class Description: Come experience the joy of this delightful medium! This class is open to both beginner and intermediate levels. Tutor will work with each student at their own level and pace. We will work with three different types of water color paint: liquid, pans, and pencil. We will learn the techniques for each.

Cost of supplies $30.

Amazing Colored Pencil

Class Description: Come experience the beauty of color! Colored pencil is an amazing versatile medium. Students will learn the techniques needed to create painting-like works of art.

Supplies needed: 9” x 12” table of colored pencil paper (Recommend brand: Strathmore)
Prismacolor Premier colord pencils (24 count set)
Colorless blender. Most are sold in packages of two. (option to purchase a single from tutor)
Bottle of baby oil (generic)
Box of cotton swabs (generic)

Prerequisites:Basic Drawing or equivalant, basic drawing skills.

Astronomy

Tutor: John Leighton

Course Description: Coming soon!

Supplies: coming soon!

Theology of the Body (9th-12th grade class)

Tutor: Jenna Montedonico

Class Description: What do our bodies have to do with theology?

From the beginning, we are created in the image of God, male and female (cf. Gen 1:2 ). We don’t just “have” bodies; we are bodies. Our body makes present our soul. “The body, in fact, and only the body, is capable of making visible what is invisible: the spiritual and the divine.” ( TOB 19:4 ). The design of our bodies reveal to us what it means to be human: we are created out of love, by love, and for love; we are meant to give ourselves as a gift to others.

Not only do our bodies reveal who we are, but our bodies reveal who God is. It is the communion of love between a man and a woman in marriage–love that is free, total, faithful, and fruitful–that most primarily images the communion of love of the persons of the Trinity. Written into the nature of our procreating bodies, Marriage is the primordial Sacrament. The Sacrament of Marriage makes visible the invisible God. Marriage is God’s original design for how holiness enters the world.

Finally, Christ not only becomes man and dwells among us, but He uses the image of Marriage to reveal His spousal love for His Church. This is the foundation for the whole Sacramental order. So, what do our bodies have to do with theology? Everything! The Theology of the Body is the study of God through the “great mystery” of the human body.

In this class we will ponder who we are, why we are created male and female, the purpose of marriage, authentic love, how we find happiness, and vocations, all through the study of the Theology of the Body. This full-year class is designed for 9th-12th grade youth (and mature 8th grade students who are strong readers). We will use the new curriculum “Called to Be More” by Ruah Woods Institute as our guide to study the concepts of Saint John Paul II’s masterwork Theology of the Body. We will also read excerpts of Saint John Paul II’s original text: “ Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body” by John Paul II (Please note: This is a dense theological text, best suited for strong readers). This work for this class will be primarily reading and discussion, with an end-of- the year written project.


Required Texts:
Called to Be More by RuahWoods Institute (details for this online course will be sent to registered students prior to the beginning of class)
Man and Woman He Created Them: A Theology of the Body By St. John Paul II

Life Organization, Virtues, and Study Skills

Tutor: Jen Kellar

Course Description:In the Life Organization, Virtues, and Study Skills Course, students will learn how to order their surroundings, strengthen their study habits, develop goal setting practices, and become aware of and utilize stress management techniques. We will examine and apply the virtues to our work throughout the semester: what the virtues are and why God has given them to us. Each of these topics is essential in life! These skills will assist your student in decreasing stress and anxiety as well as helping to enhance the student’s ability to think, learn, process, and grow.

This course includes:
*Virtue knowledge and use in daily life
*Setting goals
*Making plans to achieve those goals
*Self-reflection
*Learning styles
*General organization – and project work at home!! (e.g. how to clean your bedroom and make it stick 😉 )
*Time management
*How to use a calendar
*How to set a schedule
*Motivation techniques
*Taking notes
*Testing strategies
*Why these things matter in general and in their own lives

This one semester course is designed for 6th–10th graders. We will be utilizing the Victus Study Skills System (through Institute for Excellence in Writing – IEW) as our primary curriculum. A student workbook and a planner are included in the cost and will be distributed the first day of class, unless a student comes in late to the course or registers late. Limit 15 students. 11 th and 12 th graders may join if they have difficulty with organization and time management!

Geography -Overview

Tutor: Jen Kellar

Course Description: Using the Memoria Press Geography III set, we would be exploring all of the continents and get a wide lens perspective of the countries located in the continents; the culture, history, topography, landmarks, and other vital information to help build a solid knowledge of the world for the student. Some general information on the map of the world is essential prior to joining this course. This course would be available for students grades 7 – 12.

Supplies: coming soon!

Algebra II

Tutor: Shelly Westrich

Course Description: Algebra II will be taught using the Math-U-See program.

Supplies: Math-U-See Algebra II workbook, instruction manual (one per family to check answers), test book, and a notebook or folder with loose-leaf paper for taking notes.

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Applied Art

Tutor: Jenni Fuchs

Course Description:Updated Description: Would you like to do art but feel like you’re not very artistically talented? Or maybe you’ve done a lot of art but want to try something new and different? Either way, Applied Art is for you - it’s creative and fun art for any ability! You can keep the projects for yourself or give them as gifts. Everyone who tries it is hooked! Fun and creativity await! Possible projects include:
Paint pouring projects such as blooms, swipes, chameleon cells, chain pulls, balloon dips, reverse dips, 3D w/glue guns, glow-in-the-dark paint art, etc
String art
Resin art
Alcohol ink projects

Links to projects I’m considering for the class can be found here: pinterest

Supplies: coming soon!

Spanish I

Tutor: Ana Grace Plotts

Course Description: Spanish 1 This is a fun and interactive beginner Spanish course. We will discuss, listen, and play our way through the Spanish language, immersing ourselves in the culture and daily life of the Hispanic people. Students will learn fundamental vocabulary and grammar concepts. In class, we will speak as much Spanish as possible. In the beginning this will be limited, but as the year progresses, students will be able to speak more and more Spanish.

Students are expected to practice Spanish 30 minutes, 4 times per week with a variety of homework including online tools, workbook, reading assignments, and videos.

Supplies Needed:
*Post-it Notes (5-90 sheet pads of 5 different colors)
*lined paper in a three ring binder or a folder
*Practice Makes Perfect Basic Spanish, Third Edition: Beginner

American Sign Language 1

Tutor: Kathy Michael

Course Description: This class will introduce students to American Sign Language and the culture of Deaf people. The class will focus on building ASL vocabulary and dialogue needed for everyday conversations. This will be a fun and interactive class where students will be challenged to communicate using ASL. Along with learning ASL vocabulary, students will learn the importance of non-manual markers such as facial expressions. Students will also be introduced to the rich history and culture of the Deaf community. During the semester we will invite a Deaf person to one of our classes to give students the opportunity to learn first hand what it is like to live in a Deaf world. If you are looking for a fun and interesting way to learn another language this may be the class for you!

American Sign Language 2

Tutor: Kathy Michael

Course Description: In this class we will continue where we left off last year. We will start the year reviewing what we learned in ASL 1 and then continue building our ASL vocabulary in order to have even more complex conversations in ASL. Along with learning ASL vocabulary we will continue to build our knowledge of ASL grammar, sentence structure, and non manual markers. As the semester progresses we will challenge ourselves by spending most of the class time communicating only in ASL with the goal of comfortably communicating in ASL. Along with learning to fluently converse in ASL we will continue to learn more about the culture of the Deaf community. The class will be taught in a fun and engaging manner.

Prerequisite ASL 1 or previous experience with ASL 1 (with tutor’s approval)

American Sign Language 3

Tutor: Kathy Michael

Course Description: This class is intended for students who have completed the American Sign Language 1 & 2 courses.

Prerequisite ASL 1 and ASL 2 or previous experience with ASL 1 & ASL 2 (with tutor’s approval)

Public Speaking (8th-12th grade)

Tutor: Kathy Michael

Course Description: Why take a Public Speaking Class? Effective Communication is vital in all areas of your life, both personal and professional. Acquiring public speaking skills allows you to share your thoughts and ideas with others, build confidence and credibility and give you the ability to connect with others. In this class we will learn about effective communication skills, both verbal and non verbal and hopefully overcome any fears related to speaking in public. Students will accomplish this by learning memory and delivery techniques as they write and present five speeches; self introductory, narrative, expository (demonstration), persuasive, and impromptu. The students will also have the opportunity to critique speeches in a relaxed atmosphere. In this class we will also incorporate some public speaking games as having fun is key to learning! You won’t want to miss this class!

Fee: $25 for the book. I will order the books to save on shipping. If you have a sibling in the class you can share a book. Please bring a binder for additional handouts.

Sewing: The Running Stitch

Tutor: Kate Bestgen

Course Description:The Running Stitch class will be a year long course. The first semester will focus on the practice and principles of hand sewing, patching and some garment fitting. We will also learn names and applications of individual stitches as well as fabric types, weaves and uses. These foundational principles will give your student a leg up in their sewing journey, allowing them to pick their materials and patterns to properly suit their sewing needs. The second Semester will be focused on machine sewing skills. This will include mapping out their personal machine, learning their machine settings and how to use them and learning the stitches and what they are used for. Your student will also learn how to read patterns, tips for sewing efficiently and more as they bring their sewing ideas to life!

**DISCLAIMERS**
● Machines used in this class MUST be made within the last 20 years, be in working order and have a correct and complete owners manual!! They must also have at least the ability to straight stitch, back stitch, zigzag stitch! Please do not bring machines that are made as children's toys or are miniature!
● Parents will be responsible for purchasing the fabric, thread, closures (buttons, zippers, hooks & eyes, etc.) and patterns for the class.
● Students will also be practicing patching and darning and should bring items from home to be patched/mended/darned (ex. T-shirts, pants, socks or knit fabric) as well as an item they would like to refashion or fit for themselves or a family member

Projects
(1st Semester)
● Sewing samplers (practice stitches)
● Patching clothing (outfit fixes)
● Light darning (fixing holes in socks or knit fabric)
● Small quilting sampler
● Fitting or refashioning an existing garment
● Personal Lookbook (4-5 ideas for 2nd semester projects which will help the student decide on their patterns and fabric for the upcoming semester and will be reviewed to check the difficulty level of the project)
(2nd Semester)
● 2-3 completed projects based on the students' Lookbook (these may include simple quilts, clothing items, stuffed animals, accessories, etc.)

Prerequisite: Interest in sewing

United States History

Tutor: Dr. Chuck Chalberg

Editorial comment from the VIA administration: Dr. "Chuck" Chalberg is a priceless. If you want more than checking a box for your MN High School graduation U.S. History requirement, this is the place for you. Dr. Chalberg is a national treasure. Your students will not just learn what happened in U.S. History, but why! What were people thinking? Why things worked, and others failed. Don't miss a chance to expose your student to this great opportunity to expand their ability to learn how to think. Dr. Chalberg's 30 years of teaching and acting out history at Normandale and around the country as Teddy Roosevelt, G.K. Chesterton, Rickey Branch, make the discussions in class truly come alive.

Course Description: American History from the Age of Exploration to the Civil War and Reconstruction. The heart of the course will focus on 1) the road to the American Revolution, the revolutionary era itself and its aftermath and consequences; 2) the road to the Civil War, the war itself, and the aftermath and consequences.
Supplies needed: A Land of Hope by Wilfred McClay

Algebra I, II, Trig, Pre-calc

Tutor: . Let us know if you have a need here.

Course Description:

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