Workshops target motivated middle school students

Talented students in grades six through eight can engage their interests in a variety of topics, from human anatomy to improvisational theater to math and science, through a series of workshops at Arizona State University’s West campus.

Workshops, presented by ASU’s Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College and its Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy, are scheduled from September to December. Dates for the workshops were selected to coincide with school breaks and early release days at local school districts.

“Our goal is to provide affordable workshops that help middle-school students explore new ideas and concepts while having the opportunity to socialize with academically talented and motivated peers,” said Kim Lansdowne, executive director of the Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy, who will lead one of the workshops. “It’s important for children in this age range to have fun and socialize as well as to be exposed to innovative thoughts and dynamic experiences.”

Fee waivers for the workshops are available on an as-needed basis. Class sizes are limited, with a minimum number of participants required. (Registrants will be notified three days in advance if a class is cancelled.)

The schedule of workshops is:

Playmakers – Improvisation for Inventive Minds
1-4 p.m., Sept. 22, or Nov. 3,  CLCC Building, room L1-04
Instructors: Rebecca Baker and Sabrina Switzer-Wareing
Registration fee: $40
This workshop is designed to explore language power and storytelling space, the fundamentals of stage work and improvisation, and vocal and movement techniques.

Real World Perspectives on Math and Technology
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 2,  CLCC Building, room L1-04
Instructor: Bharat Chitnavis
Registration fee: $75
This will be a highly interactive workshop where you’ll learn about the evolution of math, how it has changed our lives through the centuries, and the impact related to recent technological advancements.

Smarty Pants: Making the Most of Your Brain
1-4 p.m., Oct. 7,  CLCC Building, room L1-06
Instructors: Rebecca Baker and Bret Loucks
Registration fee: $40
Learn about the anatomy of your brain, and discover ways to improve your brain function. View and analyze brain scans and experiment with testing the limits of what your brain can do.

Animating the Senses – Improvisational Theatre for Young Teens (students may attend one or both workshops)
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 12, and/or Oct. 14,  Sands Classroom Building, room 309
Instructors: Rebecca Baker and Sabrina Switzer-Wareing
Registration fee: $75 for each day
These workshops encourage imagination, self-confidence, team play, spontaneity and stage presence though a series of theatre games and improvisational activities.

"I like to move it move it!" Functional Anatomy - Understanding Your Body in Motion
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 15 or Nov. 12,  CLCC Building, room L1-04
Instructor: Andrea Kurelowech
Registration fee: $75
This workshop will explore the basics of muscle movements, the impact of injuries, and exercises used to improve strength. Students should dress in exercise attire to participate in the activities.

Playmakers – Improvisation for Inventive Minds
1-4 p.m., Nov. 3,  CLCC Building, room L1-04
See the Sept. 22 listing for details.

Smart Girls: What’s Right with You
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 6,  CLCC Building, room L1-04
Instructor: Robyn McKay
Registration fee: $85

This workshop for gifted and creative girls will help them build self-esteem and leadership skills, learn about their strengths, learn ways to manage their moods, and envision their futures. Activities include a personal assessment.

"I like to move it move it!" Functional Anatomy - Understanding Your Body in Motion
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Nov. 12, CLCC Building, room L1-04
See the Oct. 15 listing for details.

Hands-On Math: Demystifying the Learning of Algebra
1-4 p.m., Nov. 17,  CLCC Building, room L1-06
Instructor: Kim Lansdowne
Registration fee: $40
Find the fun in algebra! This workshop will use game pieces to set up, solve and check algebraic problems.

The Power of Differences
1-4 p.m., Nov. 17, CLCC Building, room L1-04
Instructors: Rebecca Baker and Bret Loucks
Registration fee: $40

Learn tricks and strategies to deal with the challenges of owning an exceptional brain, including expressing your creativity and finding the unique power gifted individuals have to get things done.

How Advances in Modern Math and Computation Are Affecting Us
9 a.m.-3 p.m., Dec. 4,  CLCC Building, Room L1-04
Instructor: Bharat Chitnavis
Registration fee: $75
Math is cool; learn about the latest developments in a lively workshop exploring mathematics and computation and how these changes are sweeping across all industries.

Students are asked to bring their own snacks, water and lunch (if needed). There will be no access to a refrigerator, microwave or vending machines.

A registration packet may be downloaded at http://education.asu.edu/scholarsacademy.

For more information, email herbergeracademy@asu.edu or call (602) 543-8274. ASU’s West campus is at 4701 W. Thunderbird Road in Phoenix.