Homeschool Days at Foster Community Center meets on Tuesdays in Lansing. We are a diverse gathering of homeschoolers ages 9-19. We offer a full day of class options, a lunch gathering, and opportunities to socialize in the Community Room, Game Room and outdoors.
The homeschool classes at Foster serve families with diverse needs. Therefore most of the classes meet on ALTERNATE Tuesdays. This gives families flexibility. You can choose to focus on classes that occur on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, or classes on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, or both!
For more information contact Patty by email – patvan72 (at) yahoo (dot) com. We have a yahoo group that you can join for abundant information. You can also register directly through Lansing Parks and Recreation by calling 517-483-4233. Registration begins March 22.
Classes that meet on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays
(April 13 & 27, May 11 & 25)
INTRO TO ROBOTICS
(Ages 9-12)
How are robots different from other machines? Are all toys that are sold as “robots” really robots? What are some of the different robotic systems that kids can use? What are the steps in programming a robot? What can you do with a programmable robot, from fun stuff to competitions? Through presentations, demonstrations and group activities, find out the answers to these questions and more. To keep the class affordable for all, this is not a class in which students will individually build and program robots. A materials fee of $4 is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Patty VanLuven. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 10-11 am Foster
YOGA
(Ages 8-17; Adults class)
Know yourself through moving your body, breathing, meditating…in Yoga.
Instructor: Chetna Desai. 4 sessions.
(8-17)
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 10-11 am Foster
(Adults)
$15/Res; $22/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 10-11 am Foster
INTRO TO SEWING
(Ages 9-12)
Learn the basics about a sewing machine including terminology, common tools, threading, basic feet, tensions, etc. Learn basic techniques such as seam and hem finishes. If students have a sewing machine at home they would like to learn on they are welcome to bring it. Primary focus will be on learning to sew a consistent seam. Students will make a pillowcase and a fleece hat and scarf. A $2 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Hanlie Henrich. 4 sessions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 11-12:00 Foster
INTRO TO SEWING
(Ages 13-18)
Learn the basics about a sewing machine including terminology, common tools, threading, basic feet, tensions, etc. Learn basic techniques such as seam and hem finishes, buttonholes, zippers, etc. Students will learn to use rotary mats/cutters. If students have a sewing machine at home or a project they are working on, they are welcome to bring it. Primary focus will be on learning machine and sewing basics. Students will make a drawstring backpack with a zippered pocket, a cargo pocket with button closure and trim to showcase techniques learned. A $2 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Hanlie Henrich. 4 sessions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 1:30-2:30 Foster
JOB INTERVIEW SKILLS
(Ages 13-18)
Students will learn essential job skills to get through an interview. From building resumes to interview prep, you will learn what employers are looking for and how to stand above the rest. A $10 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Diana Oswald. 4 sessions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 11-12:00 Foster
MAKING A SCENE
(Ages 9-18)
Students will meet local film and theater professionals and educators. They will learn about exciting educational and vocational opportunities on stage, in films, and behind the scenes. Want to act, explore digital media, or learn about light and sound tech? Check this out. Even if you aren’t interested in a career in these areas, come and discover who creates those cool scenes for stages, movies and even cell phones! Instructor: Diana Oswald. 4 sessions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res (tentative)
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
POLYMER CLAY
(Ages 9-18)
Come explore polymer clay. We will learn what makes polymer clay so easy and fun to work with as we create several projects each week. A $7 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Beth Ambrose. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
INTRO BICYCLE MAINTENANCE
(Ages 9-18)
Learn basic bike maintenance skills. Bring a bike, if you can (it is OK if you can’t). Also bring outdoor clothing, because this class will meet outdoors at Foster Community Center (make-up classes will be worked out if there is bad weather). A $10 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Parents of students ages 9-10 are encouraged to attend to help assist their child. Instructor: Matt Hill. 4 sessions.
$8/Res; $13/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
Minimum 4; Maximum 8
Classroom: Outdoors (messy!). Does not need to rent a classroom.
ZOO LAPBOOK
(Ages 9-12)
Who works at the zoo? How do they plan what kind of habitat an animal needs? What kinds of animals are at the zoo? As we explore these questions, we will record the many things we have learned and assemble a lapbook based on our new knowledge. A $2 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Beth Ambrose. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 1:30-2:30 Foster
YOUR TECHNO FUTURE
(Ages 9-18)
Students will learn about emerging technology trends that will affect the way we live and work. How will your career and environment be shaped by new opportunities such as alternative energy, nanotechnology, biotechnology and computer-aided inventing? Each speaker will give a general overview of one or more emerging areas, including local educational and vocational opportunities for students. Stay tuned for announcements of specific speakers and topics.
Instructor: TBD. 4 sesssions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 1:30-2:30 Foster
EXPLORING SPICES
(Ages 9-18)
Learn about spices! Possible topics and projects include: growing aromatic plants, learning about the plant sources of certain spices, turning raw, whole plant matter into forms that can be used in cooking, creating aromatic oils, and exploring the ways spices are used in food and healing in some cultures. This class complements the “Mystery of Molecules” classes, but they are not required for this class. A $10 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Dawn Hill. 4 sesssions.
$10/Res; $15/Non-Res (tent?)
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 2:30-3:30 Foster
PYSANKY—
DELAYED TO LATER TERM DUE TO FAMILY ILLNESS
(Ages 9-Adult)
Celebrate spring and learn the traditional art of decorating eggs with wax and dye. These gems of brilliant colors can be created by young and old. Join Jozefa, who has her own eggs in several galleries, in these two fascinating and fun workshops. There is a $3 materials fee due on the first day of class.. Instructor: Jozefa Rogocki. 2 sessions, 2 hours each.
(Ages 9-17)
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27 Tue 12:30-2:30 Foster
(Adults)
$15/Res; $22/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27 Tue 12:30-2:30 Foster
INSIGHT 2—
DELAYED TO LATER TERM DUE TO FAMILY ILLNESS
(Ages 9-18)
This class consists of creative workshops on the topics below. This class is linked to the presentations in the INSIGHT class (which meets 4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1), but students are not required to take INSIGHT to take this class.
May 11th: Sculpture made with natural materials–bring your own materials and join us outdoors at Foster Community Center to make Art in the Park.
May 25th: Paper Making–have fun with this versatile medium, invented in China. We will be recycling, so you can bring your own materials.
There is a $3 materials fee due on the first day of class. Instructor: Jozefa Rogocki. 2 sessions, 2 hours each.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
5/11, 5/25 Tue 12:30-2:30 Foster
April 20, May 4 and 18, June 1
Classes that meet on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays
(April 20 , May 4 & 18; June 1)
INSIGHT 2—
DELAYED TO LATER TERM DUE TO FAMILY ILLNESS
(Ages 12-18)
Looking through a prism at the many facets of the Visual Arts in a series of mult-media presentations and discussions. This class is complemented by the INSIGHT 2 class (which meets 4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25), but students do not have to take INSIGHT 2 to take this class.
April 20: An overview of visual art practice.
May 4: Installation Art–Jozefa will talk about her experiences in this field with examples linked to science and technology, including a project developed in relation to the search for Dark Matter in the U.K.
May 18: Art & Landscape–work by British artists from Constable to Goldsworthy
June 1: Art from China–a historical sweep of the brush. Students will have the opportunity to create a scroll in walnut ink. Instructor: Jozefa Rogocki. 4 sessions.
Instructor: Jozefa Rogocki. 4 sessions.
$12/Res; $17/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
WORLD RELIGION 2
(Ages 12-18)
This class is for returning students who took World Religion in Fall 2009. Students will build on what they learned, and will continue to learn and explore the many world religions. Students will need to complete the assignments they were given by the instructor Fall Term. Please contact the instructor for any questions about the assignments. Instructor: Chetna Desai. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 10-11 am Foster
WORLD RELIGION 1
(Ages 10-18)
Read, Learn, Understand, Explore…the Truths of many world religions, together. Participants will need to buy a class book. Instructor: Chetna Desai. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 11-12:00 Foster
SPRING MIGRATION
(Ages 10-18)
Who is coming and who is going? Follow the changing of the guard in the bird world, as birds head towards their spring breeding ground. Observe and discuss the birds you are now seeing in your yard and surrounding areas. Learn about migration patterns, flyways and rest stops. We will also continue learning about, and refining, record keeping. You do not need to have taken “Tracking Michigan Birds” in Winter to take this class. A $3 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Cathy Worthington. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
GYM
(Ages 9-18)
Students will engage in healthy habit-building activities that teach sportsmanship, encourage team play (even indoors), and help build essential coordination skills. Students will participate in relays, soccer, badminton, bocce ball, bowling, volleyball, etc. Instructor will work with students on proper technique and teach healthy habits. A $10 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Diana Oswald. 4 sessions.
$20/Res; $25/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 12:30-1:30 Foster
DETECTIVE LAPBOOK
(Ages 9-12)
Detectives use several methods of investigation to solve crimes. We will explore some of their methods, such as fingerprints, hair analysis, sketches or pictures, shoe prints and handwriting analysis. We will create a lapbook demonstrating the various things we have learned. This class will have students using various reading, writing and research skills along the way. A $2 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Beth Ambrose. 4 sessions.
$15/Res; $20/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 1:30-2:30 Foster
MYSTERY OF MOLECULES, LEVELS 1 & 2
(Ages 9-18)
How can our sensation-rich world be made of molecules? Come explore how biomolecules shape the properties of spices and foods. Parents: please pick the class section for which your child has the necessary prerequisite knowledge. Please contact the instructor with questions.
MYSTERY OF MOLECULES, LEVEL 1
Focusing on a different sense each week, students will learn how molecular structures affect taste, smell, feel and color. Using spices, sweet and stinky substances, students will learn about biomolecules made by our bodies and plants. Prerequisite knowledge: Students should already understand phase changes, what protons and electrons are, how C, H and O atoms differ, why water can be described as H2O, and that different colors relate to different wavelengths of light. A $15 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Patty VanLuven. 4 sessions.
(Ages 9-15)
$35/Res; $40/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 10:30-12:00 Foster
MYSTERY OF MOLECULES, LEVEL 2
How do molecules help us smell, taste and see? What does that have to do with polymers, isomers, acids, alcohols and ketones? You’ve heard terms like hydrogenation, antioxidants, and flavenoids …what do they mean on a molecular level? Prerequisite knowledge: same as Mystery 1, plus students should already be familiar with some common organic compounds and nomenclature. A $20 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Patty VanLuven. 4 sessions.
(Ages 11-18)
$35/Res; $40/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 1:30-3:00 Foster
HABLEMOS ESPANOL II
(Ages 10-17)
This class is for returning* students who took Hablemos Espanol 1 during Winter Term. Students will get the chance to practice what they have learned from the previous class and continue learning common expressions and elementary conversation. A $10 materials fee is due on the first day of class. *Instructor may give permission for new students with some Spanish experience to enroll. Instructor: Olga Lami-Schimizzi. 4 sesssions.
$20/Res; $25/Non-Res
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 5:30-6:30 Foster
Classes that meet every Tuesday April 13-June 1
INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE
(Ages 7-18)
We will explore aspects of performing, building on what was taught Fall 2009 and Winter 2010. The class will end with an evening performance for guests. New and repeating participants are welcome. A $15 materials fee is due on the first day of class. Instructor: Diana Oswald. 8 sessions.
$20/Res; $25/Non-Res
4/13, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Tue 2:30-4:30 Foster
4/20, 5/4, 5/18, 6/1 Tue 3:30-4:30 Foster
