Why join BHLC?

(K-1st grade)

In this class, we’ll take a grand tour of the universe to explore the biggest bangs, the blackest holes, the funkiest planets, and the superest-supernovae. We might even try to talk to some aliens. Class time will involve lots of hands on activities and craft projects. Learning outcomes will focus on understanding the basic structure and constituents of the universe, as well as the scientific processes used to study them. Join us on our adventure, because space is definitely the most awesome place!

—Taught by Craig R.

(7th-12th grade)

Video Game Narrative Design will explore the narrative design of video games, how stories are constructed, put together, and the important role of a video game writer. Students will be required to create and write their own video game narrative, as well as follow along playing a specific video game. The homework will revolve around playing the game, making notes what they learned that week through their play, and creating their own pieces for their own worlds from week to week. Students will present their own ideas to their classmates, as well as their instructor, as the class continues throughout the semester, with a final result cumulating into a completed narrative design.

-Taught by Nathan S.

(4th grade)

Assumptions? Conjecture? Random guesses? Not for Sherlock Holmes(chooler). In this class we will engage our skeptical science brains in the pursuit of that which is true and interesting. We'll ask questions, hone our critical thinking skills, and explore the scientific method as a way of finding answers. Over the course of the semester, students will design, conduct, and present their own original experiment. Though not a requirement for this class, assistance will be available to students wishing to enter their projects in the Fayette County Science Fair.

-Taught by Hannah H.

(4th-5th grade)

We will dive deep into the world of mythology and legends- studying stories that span the globe (including, but not limited to Greek, Egyptian, Native American, Buddhist, Norse, and African myths). By the end of the semester students will be able to identify some common themes and elements of myths and legends and use that knowledge to craft their own mythological stories. We will examine what these stories tell us about a culture and people and why they are still told and enjoyed today. On this epic quest you should be prepared to complete readings provided for you at home.

-Taught by Melissa R.

(K-1st grade)

Yoga is not only good for little ones' minds and bodies-- it can also be a lot of fun! In this class, we'll explore the playful side of yoga and creative movement, doing poses and exercises inspired by animals, trees, and tools (such as wheels and plows). We'll do breathing exercises that calm the nervous system, and that kids love to do-- exercises like balloon breath, volcano breath, bumblebee breath, and lion's breath. We'll incorporate games, songs, and storytelling, too.

-Taught by Arwen D.

(7th-12th Grade)

Throughout history, music has been one of man’s greatest forms of communication. In this class we will explore the basic language of music in order to enhance our ability to read, compose, and enjoy music of any genre. In addition to learning the musical alphabet, students will learn music notation, scales, time and key signatures, etc. We will dissect famous works, explore lyric writing and musical styles and each student will get plenty of practice composing their own original music.

-Taught by Kristin T.

(5th-7th grade)

What on earth is a gizzard? Who has an exoskeleton? How is the digestive system of a fish different from the digestive system of a fetal pig? Where is the mouth of a starfish? In this class we will “dissect” an earthworm, grasshopper, starfish, perch, frog and fetal pig using paper models; learn about some of the unique features of each animal; and learn the basics of animal classification. Students will play games, watch some videos, cut and color their specimens, and discuss similarities and differences.

-Taught by Celia T.

(Pre-K)

Wonderful and colorful patterns occur everywhere around us! We will learn about animals and ecology as we identify examples of patterns in nature- from fish scales to lemur tales. We’ll make pattern prints and art, use our bodies to find patterns in dance and song, and have lots of fun with our friends.

-Taught by Melissa R.

(1st-3rd grade)

An active and hands-on class where we will get messy and have fun as we learn about atoms and molecules, elements, chemical reactions, states of matter, and more! Students will practice using the scientific method, accurately measuring solids and liquids, and working in groups. We will also make time for open experimentation - maybe even a bit of potion brewing! Fluent reading and writing skills would be useful but not required for participation. Most experiments will use harmless household ingredients but students must be able to follow instructions and refrain from grabbing, drinking, or dumping their concoctions as necessary.

-Taught by Hannah H.

(4th-6th grade)

We will dive into the works and world of the Bard of Avon using methods from the book How to Teach Your Children Shakespeare by Ken Ludwig. Rather than reading entire plays, we will practice reciting and acting out select passages and scenes from several plays including A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, and Romeo and Juliet. Students will become familiar with the poetry and literary elements that make Shakespeare unique. Most importantly, they will learn that Shakespeare can be fun!

-Taught by Kelly S.

(k-1st grade)

In this class, we will explore science, technology, engineering and math! We will be learning about the strongest shapes, properties of matter, surface tension, magnets, some simple coding, and more! At the end of the semester, we will put some of the things we've learned to work by having an egg drop competition!

Taught by Kim B.

(4th-6th grade)

Hands on approach to exploring the joys of food preparation and meal planning. We will spend the majority of class time in the kitchen and making our meals to eat during the lunch break. A variety of foods will be presented and the students will learn about the origins, traditions and cultural significance of what they prepare. The goals of the course are to spark an interest in food within the students and a greater understanding of where our food comes from, what it means to us, and to cultivate a feeling of competence in the the kitchen. Although each child will be encouraged to try each food they prepare, it is okay to still send a lunch from home 'just in case'. As always, a high level of engagement will be asked of each student, and suggestions and curiosities are warmly welcomed!

-Taught by Carrie W.