Summer Academy - Greens Farms Academy

Make the most of this summer with GFA’s exclusively virtual courses. All courses are open for public registration.

Credit Classes & Enrichment Workshops

June 15 - July 31

GFA's Summer Academy is a great first step to make your summer count with a wide range of for-credit and workshop classes! Join GFA's exceptional faculty virtually in a to get a head start on next school year, learn something new, or earn course credit.

Our expanded for-credit and workshop courses will run online between June 1–July 31 and are open to GFA and non-GFA students alike. Explore the fun class titles including Medical Problem Solving, Video Animation, Fiction Writing, Spanish Language & Culture and more!

This summer we are almost doubling our course offerings through a unique pilot program with GFA's long-time partner Global Online Academy (GOA). GOA's mission is to reimagine learning to empower students and educators to thrive in a globally networked society.

If you have any questions please reach out to our program director Dr. Victor Llanque. For questions about a particular course, email the instructor directly. Non-GFA students looking to receive credit should confer with their school administrators to confirm transferability.

Click here to register for Summer Academy

Course Selections:

Credit Classes

For students entering grades 9–12

Geometry

Dates: June 15–July 31 (closed July 3)

This intensive summer course is designed to provide an accelerated path through the traditional high school geometry curriculum. Focusing on Euclidean geometry, students will examine topics relating to parallel lines, similar and congruent triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, and circles. Students can expect to analyze lengths, areas, and volumes of two and three dimensional figures, and will explore transformations and other manipulations. Particular attention will be paid to introductory trigonometry with right triangles and the study of circles (radians, sectors, arc length etc.). In addition, the development of a mature, logical thought process will begin through a formal introduction to arguments, deductions, theorems, and proofs. Because this course will cover topics that are typically presented in a yearlong course, students should expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per week during the intensive 7-week summer session. Prerequisite: A strong background in Algebra 1 or similar.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Instructor: Joe Steiner, GFA Middle School Faculty & Math Department Chair
Entering Grades: 9-12
Time: 15-20 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Credits: 1 credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1200

International Relations

Dates: June 22–July 17

This online credit course exposes students to ideas from some of the greatest thinkers in International Relations. Readings explore different schools of thought and philosophies that have developed in the field and their divergent assessments of, and answers to, the main problems in the international arena. Students reflect on a series of questions central to the study of International Relations; issues such as war and peace in the modern state system, the growth of the global economy, the role of international law and supranational institutions, and the challenges posed by nuclear proliferation and terrorism. In addition, students will explore the complexity of current affairs through case studies, simulations of international crises, and in-depth analysis of global issues. Throughout the course, discussion is grounded in real world problems, with the primary emphasis on current global issues and their historical background, as well as on concepts and theories. Students will spend three flexible hours per day online, five days per week. Credit courses are offered and available to all current and accepted GFA as well as non-GFA students. Non-GFA students are responsible for ensuring that credit will be accepted by their school.

Instructor: Ward Abel, GFA Director of Global Education
Entering Grades: 11–12
Times: 3 hours per day
Final paper due: Friday, July 24
Credit: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1600 — Includes all required reading material
Prerequisite: Ninth- and tenth-grade history.

Science & STEAM Research

Dates: June 15– July 10 (closed July 3)

For students starting research for an Independent Study project in the sciences, or pursuing a diploma concentration in STEAM, this four-week course is an introduction to the principles and practices of writing and presenting at the college level. Students explore writing for scientific publications and journals, searching literature, statistical design of experiments, scientific writing, and project planning. Each student selects a specific research topic, plans a project, and documents progress in a scientific journal. Students finish the course with a completely written research plan/proposal, which may be applied to further research during the school year. This is a prerequisite for Independent Study in the sciences for GFA students. Students need a computer and all course material will be provided. Credit courses are offered and available to all current and accepted GFA as well as non-GFA students. Non-GFA students are responsible for ensuring that credit will be accepted by their school.

Instructor: Dr. Mathieu Freeman, GFA Director of Research
Entering Grades: 9-12
Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Credit: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1600 — Includes all required course materials

Introduction to Investments

Dates: June 15–July 31

In this course, students simulate the work of investors by working with the tools, theories, and decision-making practices that define smart investment. We explore concepts in finance and apply them to investment decisions in three primary contexts: portfolio management, venture capital, and social investing. After an introduction to theories about valuation and risk management, students simulate scenarios in which they must make decisions to grow an investment portfolio. They manage investments in stocks, bonds, and options to learn a range of strategies for increasing the value of their portfolios. In the second unit, they take the perspective of venture capital investors, analyzing startup companies and predicting their value before they become public. In the third unit, students examine case studies of investment funds that apply the tools of finance to power social change. Throughout the course, students learn from experts who have experience in identifying value and managing risk in global markets. They develop their own ideas about methods for taking calculated financial risks and leave this course not just with a simulated portfolio of investments, but the skills necessary to manage portfolios in the future.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Instructor: Mr. Martocchio, GFA US Math Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

9/11 in a Global Context

Dates: June 15–July 31

September 11, 2001 was a tragic day that changed the world in profound ways. In this course students explore the causes of 9/11, the events of the day itself, and its aftermath locally, nationally, and around the world. In place of a standard chronological framework, students instead view these events through a series of separate lenses. Each lens represents a different way to view the attacks and allows students to understand 9/11 as an event with complex and interrelated causes and outcomes. Using a variety of technologies and activities, students work individually and with peers to evaluate each lens. Students then analyze the post-9/11 period and explore how this event affected the U.S., the Middle East, and the wider world.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Entering Grades: 9-12
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Abnormal Psychology

Dates: June 15–July 31

This course focuses on psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and depression. As students examine these and other disorders, they learn about their symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments. Students also deepen their understanding of the social stigmas associated with mental illnesses. This course may be taken as a continuation of Introduction to Psychology, although doing so is not required.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10–15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Entering Grades: 9-12
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Business Problem Solving

Dates: June 15–July 31

How could climate change disrupt your production and supply chains or impact your consumer markets? Will tariffs help or hurt your business? How embedded is social media in your marketing plan? Is your company vulnerable to cybercrime? What 21st century skills are you cultivating in your leadership team? Students in this course will tackle real-world problems facing businesses large and small in today’s fast changing global marketplace where radical reinvention is on the minds of many business leaders. Students will work collaboratively and independently on case studies, exploring business issues through varied lenses including operations, marketing, human capital, finance and risk management as well as sustainability. As they are introduced to the concepts and practices of business, students will identify, analyze and propose solutions to business problems, engaging in research of traditional and emerging industries, from established multinationals to startups.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Entering Grades: 9-12
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Computer Science II: Java

Dates: June 15–July 31

This course teaches students how to write programs in the Java programming language. Java is the backbone of many web applications, especially eCommerce and government sites. It is also the foundational code of the Android operating system and many tools of the financial sector. Students learn the major syntactical elements of the Java language through objected oriented design. The emphasis in the course will be on creating intelligent systems though the fundamentals of Computer Science. Students will write working programs through short lab assignments and more extended projects that incorporate graphics and animation. Prerequisite: Computer Science I: Computational Thinking or its equivalent.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Entering Grades: 9-12
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Creative Nonfiction Writing

Dates: June 15–July 31

Tell your own stories and the stories of the world around you! This course centers on the art of shaping real experiences into powerful narratives while growing foundational writing skills. Participants will read, examine, and write diverse works of creative nonfiction including personal narratives, podcasts, opinion editorials, profile pieces, and more. Emphasizing process over product, this writing workshop provides opportunities to create in new ways. Students will practice essential craft elements (e.g., voice, style, structure) while reflecting on stories from their own lives, communities, and interests. They will also build a personalized library of inspiring mentor texts, consider opportunities for publication, and develop sustainable writing habits. Both in real-time video chats and online discussion spaces, students will support one another intentionally; feedback is an essential component of this course, and students will gain experience in the workshop model, actively participating in a thriving, global writing community. Creative nonfiction has never been as popular as it is today; participants will experience its relevance in their own lives as they collaboratively explore this dynamic genre.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Computer Science I: Computational Thinking

Dates: June 15–July 31

Computational thinking centers on solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior. It has applications not only in computer science, but also myriad other fields of study. This introductory level course focuses on thinking like a computer scientist, especially understanding how computer scientists define and solve problems. Students begin the course by developing an understanding of what computer science is, how it can be used by people who are not programmers, and why it’s a useful skill for all people to cultivate. Within this context, students are exposed to the power and limits of computational thinking. Students are introduced to entry level programming constructs that will help them apply their knowledge of computational thinking in practical ways. They will learn how to read code and pseudocode as well as begin to develop strategies for debugging programs. By developing computational thinking and programming skills, students will have the core knowledge to define and solve problems in future computer science courses. While this course would be beneficial for any student without formal training as a programmer or computer scientist, it is intended for those with no programming experience.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Fiction Writing

Dates: June 15–July 31

This course connects students interested in creative writing (primarily short fiction) and provides a space for supportive and constructive feedback. Students gain experience in the workshop model, learning how to effectively critique and discuss one another's writing in an online environment. In addition to developing skills as a reader within a workshop setting, students strive to develop their own writing identities through a variety of exercises. The course capitalizes on the geographic diversity of the students by eliciting stories that shed light on both the commonalities and differences of life experiences in different locations. Additionally, we read and discuss the work of authors from around the globe. Students’ essential responsibilities are twofold: to engage in the class as readers and writers and to focus on their development as readers and writers. Both require participation in discussions of various formats within our online community, as well as dedicated time outside of class reading and providing feedback on one another’s work and writing original pieces for the workshop.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Genocide & Human Rights

Dates: June 15–July 31

Students in this course study several of the major genocides of the 20th century (Armenian, the Holocaust, Cambodian, and Rwandan), analyze the role of the international community in responding to and preventing further genocides (with particular attention to the Nuremberg tribunals), and examine current human rights crises around the world. Students read primary and secondary sources, participate in both synchronous and asynchronous discussions with classmates, write brief papers, read short novels, watch documentaries, and develop a human rights report card website about a nation in the world of their choice.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Introduction to Psychology

Dates: June 15–July 31

What does it mean to think like a psychologist? In Introduction to Psychology, students explore three central psychological perspectives — the behavioral, the cognitive, and the sociocultural — in order to develop a multi-faceted understanding of what thinking like a psychologist encompasses. The additional question of “How do psychologists put what they know into practice?” informs study of the research methods in psychology, the ethics surrounding them, and the application of those methods to practice. During the first five units of the course, students gather essential information that they apply during a group project on the unique characteristics of adolescent psychology. Students similarly envision a case study on depression, which enables application of understandings from the first five units. The course concludes with a unit on positive psychology, which features current positive psychology research on living mentally healthy lives. Throughout the course, students collaborate on a variety of activities and assessments, which often enable learning about each other’s unique perspectives while building their research and critical thinking skills in service of understanding the complex field of psychology.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Medical Problem Solving I

Dates: June 15–July 31

In this course students collaboratively solve medical mystery cases, similar to the approach used in many medical schools. Students enhance their critical thinking skills as they examine data, draw conclusions, diagnose, and treat patients. Students use problem-solving techniques in order to understand and appreciate relevant medical/biological facts as they confront the principles and practices of medicine. Students explore anatomy and physiology pertaining to medical scenarios and gain an understanding of the disease process, demographics of disease, and pharmacology. Additional learning experiences include studying current issues in health and medicine, building a community-service action plan, interviewing a patient, and creating a new mystery case.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Microeconomics

Dates: June 15–July 31

In this course, students learn about how consumers and producers interact to form a market and then how and why the government may intervene in that market. Students deepen their understanding of basic microeconomic theory through class discussion and debate, problem solving, and written reflection. Students visit a local production site and write a report using the market principals they have learned. Economic ways of thinking about the world will help them better understand their roles as consumers and workers, and someday, as voters and producers.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Number Theory

Dates: June 15–July 31

Once thought of as the purest but least applicable part of mathematics, number theory is now by far the most commonly applied: every one of the millions of secure internet transmissions occurring each second is encrypted using ideas from number theory. This course covers the fundamentals of this classical, elegant, yet supremely relevant subject. It provides a foundation for further study of number theory, but even more, it develops the skills of mathematical reasoning and proof in a concrete and intuitive way, good preparation for any future course in upper-level college mathematics or theoretical computer science. We progressively develop the tools needed to understand the RSA algorithm, the most common encryption scheme used worldwide. Along the way we invent some encryption schemes of our own and discover how to play games using number theory. We also get a taste of the history of the subject, which involves the most famous mathematicians from antiquity to the present day, and we see parts of the story of Fermat’s Last Theorem, a 350-year-old statement that was fully proven only twenty years ago. While most calculations will be simple enough to do by hand, we will sometimes use the computer to see how the fundamental ideas can be applied to the huge numbers needed for modern applications. Prerequisite: A strong background in precalculus and above, as well as a desire to do rigorous mathematics and proofs.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Race & Society

Dates: June 15–July 31

What is race? Is it something we’re born with? Is it an idea that society imposes on us? An identity we perform? A privilege we benefit from? Does our own culture’s conception of race mirror those found in other parts of the world? These are just a few of the questions that students in this course will explore together as they approach the concept of race as a social construct that shapes and is shaped by societies and cultures in very real ways. Throughout the course students will learn about the changing relationship between race and society across time and across cultures. Engaging with readings, films, and speakers from a variety of academic fields (history, sociology, anthropology, literature) students will explore, research, reflect on and discuss the complex set of relationships governing race and society.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 10-15 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: ½ credit on the GFA transcript
Cost: $1000

Spanish Language Through Culture I

Dates: June 15–July 31

This intensive summer course will give students with no prior exposure to Spanish the vocabulary, grammatical background and communicative skills that they need to jump into Spanish 2 at their schools. Students will master greetings and introductions, daily routines, likes and dislikes, numbers, telling time, question formation and other fundamental communicative functions. Students will learn to communicate using common regular and irregular verbs in the present tense and the immediate future with ir. Students will also develop a broad-based vocabulary related to common settings including school and the classroom, home and family life and others. The primary focus of the course will be to develop novice interpersonal and presentational speaking and comprehension skills. Through synchronous and asynchronous interactions with classmates and instructors, students will practice their budding language skills in a flexible and playful online environment. This course will replicate what is typically a yearlong course, so students should expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per week during the 7-week summer session.

This course is offered through Global Online Academy.

Time: 15-20 hours per week & 85% of the work is self-paced.
Instructor: Global Online Academy Faculty
Entering Grades: 9-12
Credits: GOA credit only. Students can request a placement test to advance into Spanish 2 in the fall, but taking this course will not automatically lead to placement into Spanish 2.
Cost: $1000

Course Outline: Click here.

Enrichment Workshops

Food, Sustainability, and Agro-Ecological Justice

July 20–31
Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 9–12
Price: $800

Do you know where your food comes from? In this two-week workshop, we will examine the complexities of our global food system by considering the economic, environmental, and social implications of food production and access in our own lives. Students will critically examine how industrialization, climate change, and technological advancements have impacted agricultural practices over the past century. We will unpack what modern agro-ecological justice looks like, by considering indigenous farming practices. We will investigate questions around politics, public health, social justice, and the environment, including but not limited to; debates around food sovereignty, GMO crops, organic labeling, and nutrition fads. Students will explore the supply-chain of the food they eat, evaluate the ecological and social implications of their eating habits, and consider ways in which we can collectively reach a more sustainable food future. This course will be held over Zoom. Students will need a computer with video sharing capabilities and access to Google suites. All literature and course materials will be provided electronically. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 10.

Instructor: Julia Roellke, GFA Science Department

Upper School: Analytical Writing Workshop

ONLINE: July 20–31
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 9–12
Price: $800

This two-week course is designed to help students practice and hone their skills in analytical and interpretive writing. The primary emphasis of the course is that writing is a process: we will divide that process into discrete stages so that students will be able to work in-depth on each stage. Students will practice building their arguments about the meaning of a text upon close analysis of the text's structure and language, and each student will receive feedback on their work, both from their classmates and from the instructor. By the end of the course, students will have grown more confident in their ability to make meaning out of complex literary texts and more skilled at persuading others of the validity of their interpretations. This course will be taught online, primarily through Zoom; sessions will be divided between synchronous instruction, small group work, individual work, and one-on-one conferencing with the instructor. Students can expect three hours of total work per day. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Dr. Daniel Jump, GFA English Department

Upper School: Post Chemistry 1 Workshop

ONLINE: July 20–31
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 11–12
Price: $800

Often in the first-year chemistry course, sufficient time can’t be dedicated to the study of a number of chemical concepts that will be explored deeply in AP Chemistry and are covered in standardized exams such as the SAT Subject Test. This two-week course is designed for passionate chemistry students who are considering future science and engineering careers with a desire to complete the full introductory curriculum of a first-year chemistry course. Concepts covered in more detail are solutions and colligative properties, thermochemistry, thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium, kinetics and reaction rates, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and organic chemistry. Hands-on cooperative learning and interactive laboratory investigations are an integral part of this course. The laboratory portion of this course will reinforce concepts and processes discussed in class, as well as provide a tangible experience to supplement classroom material. Some labs will require developing experimental techniques and procedures, analyzing lab results and presenting findings in a lab report. Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning activities support the learning objectives by interpreting models. Teacher demonstrations and assigned student-centered activities are also utilized to aid in concept and real-world application development. Students are expected to demonstrate effective oral and written communication and work efficiently, cooperatively, as well as independently. Students will need a computer and all course material will be provided. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Dr. Mathieu Freeman, GFA Director of Research

The Imitation of Life: A Critical Examination of Three Disney Films

ONLINE: July 20–31
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 9–12
Price: $800

Disney is quite pervasive within our modern culture. Generations of children have been inspired by the creativity, storytelling, and magic of Walt Disney films — in spite of some of their problematic representations. It is no secret that Disney has had a long and complicated history with diversity of all kinds. Perhaps the most common criticism is the way animated Disney films have portrayed gender, racial and cultural stereotypes in the past. This course will examine three live-action remakes of classic Disney films: Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin and The Lion King, to determine if they have moved away from stereotypes and been updated to depict characters and culture in a way that feels more nuanced and more authentic. Students will study these selected Disney animated films alongside their contemporary "adaptations" and use media literacy techniques to deconstruct the meanings and messages within them. Students will also use social media, blogs, texts, podcasts and other resources to analyze what the release of these contemporary live-action films seems to suggest about the relationship between Disney’s outdated cultural depictions and its accountability to our present cultural moment. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Shanelle Henry, GFA Director of Equity and Inclusion

Upper School: Algebra Review for Algebra 2

ONLINE: July 12– July 24
Days/Times: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Entering Grades: 9-11
Cost: $800

This two-week workshop offers a review of Algebra topics for students who will be taking Algebra 2 in the fall. Students review a variety of Algebra 1 topics, including linear algebra, factoring, quadratic equations, graphing functions, square roots and exponent rules. Instruction focuses around each student's individual needs and plenty of practice is available. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Jon Matte, GFA Mathematics Department

Upper School: Learning and the Brain

ONLINE: June 15 – June 26
Days/Times: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.
Entering Grades: 10-12
Cost: $800

Are you curious about how the brain works? Do you want to learn something that you can use to make studying easier, make you a better coach/counselor, or even apply to a future career as an educator? This two-week course will take you through basic principles of neuroscience before diving into case studies to explore the mechanics of learning and memory. Students will have the chance to practice analyzing primary literature, participate in class discussions, and do online virtual labs. All course material will be provided. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Sarah Bryant, GFA Science Department

Upper School: Studio Art Intensive

Dates: June 29 – July 10 (closed July 3)
Time: Monday–Friday, 9:00–12:30
Entering grades: 10–12
Price: $750

This two-week course is designed for experienced art students to further develop their portfolios with a variety of observational works. Techniques in composing, sketching, and painting will be the focus. Live demonstrations will be followed by "studio" time to work, with the instructor available to guide and answer questions. This class will be highly interactive; students will have a lot of say in what they create since they will be setting up their own still life in their homes. There will be opportunities to get to work outside as well. By the end of the course, students will have created several pieces for use in their portfolios. Individual discussions about students' prior work and direction for portfolio development will be available. A supply list will be provided. NOTE: We have reduced the course fee from $800 to $750 to help families cover the cost of supplies. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Lisa Waldstein, GFA Visual Arts Department Chair

Middle & Upper School: Video Animation

Dates: June 22 – July 2 (closed July 3)
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 7–9
Price: $725

“If you can dream it, you can do it!”
— Walt Disney

Bring your wildest ideas to life using your hands, paper cutouts, and a camera! Students in this course will develop storytelling skills to create an animated short film in the comfort of their homes. They will learn the fundamentals of stop-motion animation, and get hands-on experience using their own iPhone/iPad. Then, they will add sound effects to bring their creations to life on the screen. Students will also need a laptop computer, a tripod for their iPhone/iPad, construction paper and scissors. Directions for downloading the app will be provided. NOTE: We have reduced the course fee by from $750 to $725 to help families cover the cost of the tripod and the app. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Sahar Al-Sawaf, GFA Visual Arts Department

Middle School: Pre-Algebra/Algebra 1

This class is full

Dates: June 22–July 2 (closed July 3)
Days/Times: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 6–8
Price: $675

Through games and individualized instruction, this two-week workshop gives students a chance to practice and master the math facts they’ll need for success with algebraic concepts. Students will work on basic number facts; order of operations; integers; fractions, decimals, and percents; estimation; probability; geometry concepts; equation solving; and basic word problems — all designed to set them up for success in next year’s math classes with plenty of practice opportunities. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Trista Giacalone, GFA Mathematics Department

Middle School: Math Grades 5/6

This class is full

Dates: June 22–July 2 (closed July 3)
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 5–6
Price: $675

This two-week workshop is designed to master the necessary math facts for success in Middle School Math. Students review a variety of topics including basic number facts and number sense. Instruction focuses around each student’s individual needs and provides plenty of practice opportunities. Games will keep the math lively and fun! Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Zysnia Linger, GFA Mathematics Department

Middle School: French Language and Culture

Dates: June 22 – July 2
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 5–7
Price: $675

In this introductory course, students will virtually travel and discover the French-speaking world. They will become explorers learning facts, new vocabulary, and grammar as they delve into this world. The aim of this course is for emerging French students to start or continue their French journey by building and reviewing their basic understanding of how the French language works (e.g., pronunciation, sentence styles, questions, and answers). Students will build their French through new content beyond the current Middle School curriculum. At the heart of this virtual class, which will include synchronous and asynchronous teacher and student lead content, students will have the opportunity to discuss and practice in pairs and groups on a daily basis using French. As we research various countries, we will see how the French speakers greet each other around the world discovering differences and common themes. A big part of the French culture is food and students will develop cooking skills by exploring various countries, learning about their spices and specific foods. Food and its evolution will also help students learn the history of the French-speaking world. In addition, students will explore the francophone world through songs, videos, and their own research. These topics will include people, places, animals, and food. Students will create Flipgrid videos and presentations to share their findings. Technology requirements are access to Netflix, Youtube, Zoom, Google slides and documents. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Claire Bouyssie, GFA World Languages Department,

Middle School: Creative Nonfiction Writing

This class is full

Dates: July 6–17
Days/Times: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 6–8
Price: $700

Lee Gutkind, the godfather of creative nonfiction, defines this genre as “True stories, well told.” It is creative, he argues, because the writer uses literary crafts and techniques fiction writers use, and it is nonfiction because the material is true. This two-week workshop offers students the opportunity to improve their narrative writing skills through the exploration of memoirs and personal essays. Each student will also work on crafting a compelling, meaningful nonfiction piece. Throughout, students will learn and practice all stages of the writing process. They will also learn how to enhance their focus, attention to details, memory, observation, and self-awareness skills. Attending this workshop will help students weave strands of joy, passion, and purpose into the fabric of their writing. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Dr. Iman Rasti, GFA English Department

Middle School: Model UN

Dates: July 6–17
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 5–8
Price: $700

Are you interested in politics, diplomacy, or the international community? This course is designed just for you. Over the course of two weeks, you’ll get a chance to dive into these concepts and participate in educational simulations to deepen your understanding of the global community. Imagine a humanitarian crisis, a coup, or a war. How do you respond as a neighboring, or even distant, country? Learn more about the role that the United Nations plays in the global community and its impact around the world. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Ward Abel, GFA Director of Global Education

Middle School: Literature & Writing (Grade 5)

Dates: July 6–July 17
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grade: 5
Price: $700

As students transition from the elementary grades into middle school, they are ready to take on new reading and writing challenges. Developmentally, fifth graders are entering an exciting new realm of inferential thinking abilities. This two-week enrichment course offers rising fifth graders the opportunity to hone their close reading skills and to refine their written responses to texts through group, partner, and independent reading as well as analytical and creative writing exercises. Together, students will read a novel written in free verse style and learn techniques for extracting deeper meaning from its pages. They will also learn how to both annotate the text and emulate it as they craft their own free verse poetry pieces to conclude our two weeks together. Course work will include brief nightly reading assignments from the course text. Classes will meet on Zoom, with exercises on EdPuzzle and FlipGrid; the course text is Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhhà Lai and copies will be provided. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Frances Denote, GFA English Department

Coding in Scratch, Swift, and More

Dates: June 22 – July 2
Days/Times: Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Entering grades: 3–8
Price: $675

In this two-week workshop, students will learn hands-on programming by creating fun games through a variety of challenges. Students will learn the fundamentals of computer language without getting bogged down typing hundreds of lines of code one-by-one. Students will be able to design graphics, then modify real code to get up and running quickly. In addition, students will be introduced to other programming languages like Java and Python. At the end of the course, students will have designed their own games and programs to enjoy and share. A home computer is required and directions for downloading apps will be provided. Minimum enrollment 6; maximum 12.

Instructor: Nicholas Iacobelli, GFA Information Technology Department

Reading Skills Book Club

July 6–31
Monday–Friday, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
Open to GFA Students Entering Grade 4
Price: $1,400

Minimum enrollment is 3; maximum 8. PLEASE NOTE: This course is open to GFA students only.

The summer slide is real! Studies show that students can lose 2–3 months of growth in reading over the summer. This four-week online course is designed to give students extra practice with decoding, oral reading fluency, comprehension skills, and discussion skills in order to prevent that slide. A Fast ForWord license will be assigned to each student in the class and is included in the price of the class. Fast ForWord is an evidence-based, adaptive computer program that is designed to produce language and reading improvements. Fast ForWord targets the reading and listening skills necessary for reading success. This class will be a combination of daily Zoom classes, asynchronous daily Fast ForWord assignments, and independent work. The day will start with a short full class Zoom check-in. Each day students will complete independent online assignments and participate in a small group online Zoom sessions. Independent coursework will include daily Fast ForWord assignments and reading assignments from the course text. Assignments will be posted on Seesaw. Students will need access to a computer or iPad, headphones, lined post-it notes, and the course text, and Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar.

Instructor: Dr. Kelly Raymond

Spelling Skills Book Club

July 6–31
Monday–Friday, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Open to GFA Students Entering Grade 5
Price: $1,400

Minimum enrollment is 3, maximum 8. PLEASE NOTE: This course is open to GFA students only.

The summer slide is real! Studies show that students can lose 2–3 months of growth in reading over the summer. Spelling in the English language is tricky! When do you drop the e, change the y to i, or double the consonant? This four-week online course is designed to give students extra practice applying these spelling skills. Additionally, students will practice oral reading fluency, comprehension skills, and discussion skills in a fun and safe environment. This class will be a combination of daily Zoom classes and independent work. The day will start with a full class Zoom lesson. Students will complete their independent work and then participate in another whole class Zoom. Independent coursework will include daily word study assignments and reading assignments from the course text. Assignments will be posted on Seesaw. Students will need access to a computer or iPad, headphones, lined post-it notes, and colored 5X8 index cards, Megawords Book 2, and the course text, Fish in a Tree by Linda Mullaly Hunt.

Instructor: Dr. Kelly Raymond

Click here to register for Summer Academy

FAQs

Why should I take an online course this summer?

Summer Academy courses at GFA offer students the opportunity to explore subjects that they normally don’t have room for in their schedules during the regular academic year. Many of these courses can be taken for credit on the GFA transcript, which can lighten the academic workload for students during the academic year. Not-for-credit enrichment courses can allow students to sharpen their academic skills ahead of the fall. Online courses provide students the ability to learn at their own pace and can be combined with other summer activities.

Are Summer Academy courses for credit?

Are there any courses for credit for Middle School students?

What is the time commitment of taking a Summer Academy course?

The time commitment will vary by course, so please reach out to individual instructors for more details about this. Students can expect to be in contact with teachers synchronously via video call on a regular basis.

GOA courses are intensive, seven-week courses. Most of them cover a semester's worth of material and expect a 10–12 hour per week commitment from students. Geometry is designed to replace yearlong high school courses, so students should expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per week to these courses. While GOA courses are mostly asynchronous and thus allow for flexibility in schedule, students should plan on logging in to their GOA course multiple times a week to check in, participate in discussions, and share their work.