Super Saturday
Winter 2008: February 2 - March 1
On-line Registration
On-line Registration Procedure
GENERAL INFORMATION about Super Saturday Classes:
The Winter Session of Super Saturday classes will run for five consecutive Saturdays: February 2 - March 1, 2008. With the exception of three classes (noted with asterisks), each class is held on each of the five Saturday mornings for 50 minutes each.
CLASS/SCHOOL LOCATION: Classes are held at O'Neill Middle School, 635 59th Street in Downers Grove.
COST: Each class involves a tuition ($35) plus a material fee (varies from $0 to $20) depending on the materials used. A $10 annual membership fee is no longer required. Instead, we collect a $5 registration fee to cover our overhead mailing, printing, Internet costs.
Class Cancellation: This FRoG Web site (www.dgfrog.org) will contain a notice if severe weather forces cancellation of a day of classes. If a teacher is ill, we will try to get a substitute. If a single class must be cancelled, we will attempt to contact you by telephone. For each cancelled class that cannot be rescheduled, a refund of $7.00 per cancelled class will be credited to you toward payment of future Super Saturday classes.
WAITING LIST: For classes that are already full, you may send us an e-mail to be put on a waiting list. If there is enough interest, we will open another session (same class and teacher, but different hour). Please state which class you desire, and we will respond to it's status.
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9:00 - 9:50 a.m. Time Period
Jr. Chefs I Teacher: Carnegie, Grades: K-2, Cost: $48
In this hands-on class, students create a variety of dishes tailored to their age level and interests. Each student receives a cookbook of class recipes.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in cooking, but without much experience. Please note that peanut products will be used in this class. 1-2 Parent volunteers needed for each class.
-- Go back to class index --Fun with Dr. Seuss Teacher: Fuehrmeyer, Grades: K-2, Cost: $40
If you love Dr. Seuss, this is the class for you. Students hear a different Dr. Seuss story every week and enjoy a related activity. Activities include art and craft projects, puppet shows, and more. Welcome to Seussville. Pre-K 5-year-olds will also be admitted to this class.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys stories and fun activities.
-- Go back to class index --Beginning Spanish Teacher: Von Kerens, Grades: K-5, adults, Cost: $40
In this class, students are introduced to Spanish: basic phrases, parts of the body, colors, numbers, family members, and seasonal words, and more. Students will play some Spanish games and learn to both read and speak basic words. Parents receive materials to enable them to work with their children at home, if desired.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning Spanish. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Our Town Teacher: Sterba, Grades: 1-3, Cost: $42
Through stories, games, and activities, students discover the period of 1832-1892 in the Downers Grove area in this fun new class taught by a docent from the Downers Grove Park District Museum. While listening to fascinating stories about people and events of that period, students draw pictures, create maps, build log cabins and plank roads, create Native American prescription sticks and Civil War crafts, make quilt patterns for the Underground Railroad. They play parlor games and marbles and put on plays illustrating stories and events of the time. Watch our history come alive!
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys stories, crafts, games, and plays.
-- Go back to class index --Mess with Matter Teacher: Bullard, Grades: 1-3, Cost: $42
This exciting hands on class is all about the stages of matter; solid, liquid and gas. Explore all three with fun experiments and exercises. Why does it melt, harden, evaporate? Dress for mess.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys science and experiments.
-- Go back to class index --Introduction to French Teacher: Snyder, Grades: 1-5, adults, Cost: $40
In this introductory class, students explore what it's like to be a French person, what's different (and the same) about how children live in France, and why you might like to travel to France, all while being introduced to the French language. Games, songs, skits, and flash cards are used to teach the basics of French vocabulary and grammar for use in conversations.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning French. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Advanced Chess Teacher: Flores, Grades: 1-8, adults, Cost: $35
In each class, the chess student does a group exercise of 1 to 3 positions which highlights some advanced tactics and strategic plans. The remainder of the class is devoted to play, with the instructor spending time observing each game and offering individualized advice. There is a wealth of knowledge, excitement, and fun to be had in this class - join us in new adventures! Chess sets may be purchased from the instructor ($16) or brought from home.
This class is for the more advanced player familiar with the material covered in Beginning and Intermediate Chess. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Science Discovery II Teacher: Wright, Grades: 3-4, Cost: $45
This exciting class is an old favorite. It provides a hands-on introduction to science. Junior scientists explore concepts by experimentation and observation in a controlled setting. Material covered include experiments with heat, mechanics, light, buoyancy, and electromagnetism. This class is similar to Science Discovery I, but involves a more in-depth study from a scientific standpoint.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in experimenting with his/her world.
-- Go back to class index --Cartoon Creations Teacher: Belonio, Grades: 3-7, Cost: $41
In this class, we will explore the world of animation and comic strips. Students will get to create their own unique cartoon characters and settings. Projects will involve comic strips, animation cels, and flipbooks. It is VERY possible that you may have the NEXT Walt Disney in your family!
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning cartooning.
-- Go back to class index --Manners Matter Teacher: Vosefski, Grades: 3-8, Cost: $42
Manners make impressions. Good manners speak louder than words many times. This life skills class teaches students proper etiquette for everyday life. Including, how to write a thank you note, telephone skills, which fork/spoon to use and when, greetings and salutations, tips to become a good conversationalist and much, much more! This is a special offering by Edith Vosefski, Director, Northern Illinois School of Etiquette.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who wants to increase his/her self-confidence and comfort level in social situations - and have fun.
-- Go back to class index --Pastel Painting I & II Teacher: Boylen, Grades: 3-8, adults, Cost: $45
Learn the techniques Degas, Cassatt and Monet used to create their beautiful pastel masterpieces. Students of all ages will learn how to create wonderful paintings with pastels. You will be introduced to drawing, shading, color mixing and various techniques for creating art with pastels. The final project will be suitable for framing. Each student will receive a complete set of pastels and supplies.
Past students will continue to advance in ability and technique. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Robotics I Teacher: Dunne, Grades: 4-7, Cost: $40
Use the Lego® Mindstorms™ Invention System and laptop computers (both provided by the instructor) to program robots to perform various tasks in this exciting and popular class! Students work in pairs to program robots.
No prerequisite - some prior experience in these areas is helpful, but not required.
-- Go back to class index --Astronomy Teacher: Klicar, Grades: 4-8, Cost: $40
In this exciting class, students will explore the stars and planets through a variety of indoor projects. Students will also do some outdoor sky-watching if weather permits.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested stars and planets.
-- Go back to class index --Codes and Ciphers II Teacher: Miserendino, Grades: 4-8, Cost: $40
Now that you've learned all of the basics to cryptography (the science of secret messages), stump your friends and make sure none will crack the codes that you've learned or created with these methods for disguising messages, some that even real cryptographers use! Learn advanced encryption techniques and even more ways to hide messages from prying eyes, as well as different ways to use the cryptography tools learned in Codes and Ciphers!
Prerequisite - Codes and Ciphers I.
-- Go back to class index --10:00 - 10:50 a.m. Time Period
Stories of the World Teacher: Fuehrmeyer, Grades: K-2, Cost: $40
In this exciting class, young students discover cultures around the world through stories and related activities. Each week, students will hear a new story that represents a different culture and do a project that illustrates an aspect of that culture. This is the perfect age to begin to develop understanding and acceptance!
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys stories and fun activities.
-- Go back to class index --Science Discovery I Teacher: Wright, Grades: 1-2, Cost: $45
This exciting class is all new as of Fall 2007 and provides a hands-on introduction. Junior scientists explore concepts by experimentation and observation in a controlled setting. Over the five weeks, you will take apart (destroy) a computer hard drive, experiment with surface tension, use microscopes and tuning forks, and try some cool mirror tricks.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in experimenting with his/her world.
-- Go back to class index --Play It Again Games Teacher: Sterba, Grades: 1-3, Cost: $42
Do you love board games? Come and have fun making and playing board games that were created years ago. See how they are like the ones you know today. These include race games like Snakes and Ladders and the Royal Game of Goose, games of chance like Ludo and Steeplechase, and strategy games like Nine Men's Morris and Seega. Learn board game terminology and the origin of "Back to Square One." Find out what children learned about the world by playing these games. Make and take home a new "old" game every week.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys playing board games.
-- Go back to class index --Beginning French Teacher: Snyder, Grades: 1-5, adults, Cost: $40
In this introductory class, students explore what it's like to be a French person, what's different (and the same) about how children live in France, and why you might like to travel to France, all while being introduced to the French language. Games, songs, skits, and flash cards are used to teach the basics of French vocabulary and grammar for use in conversations.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning French. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Continuing Spanish Teacher: Von Kerens, Grades: 1-5, adults, Cost: $40
This class continues the Spanish fun and learning. Students expand vocabulary through games, stories, and songs. Students increase their conversational skills. Parents will be provided with simple materials to enable them to work with their children at home, if desired.
This class is for any student who has had a basic Spanish class. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Intermediate Chess Teacher: Flores, Grades: 1-8, adults, Cost: $35
In this class, the chess student is exposed to games from some of the greatest chess players in history. With the games, basic ideas are explored as well as tactics, strategies, brilliant checkmates, the four principles upon which play is built (Space, Time, Force, Pawn Structure), the Center, and the weakest square on the board. There is time after each game is presented for the student to find a partner and play a game. Chess sets may be purchased from the instructor ($16) or brought from home.
This class is for the student familiar with the material covered in our Beginning Chess class. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Visual Training for Architects Teacher: Davenport, Grades: 2-4, Cost: $45
In this fun class, students experience the same type of training as professional architects. Students will explore concepts of positive and negative space, balance and proportion, while creating paper collages and models that allow them to apply the concepts. Students will take home their creations.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who is interested in architecture or art.
-- Go back to class index --Jr. Chefs II Teacher: Carnegie, Grades: 2-5, Cost: $48
In this hands-on class, students create a variety of dishes tailored to their age level and interests. This class is similar to Jr. Chefs I, but is geared to the slightly older student. Each student will receive a cookbook of class recipes. Parents: Please plan to help out at one class.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in cooking, but without much experience. Please note that peanut products will be used in this class.
-- Go back to class index --Lotions and Potions Teacher: Bullard, Grades: 2-5, Cost: $40
In this exciting class, experiment with natural elements to create fun and useful soaps, bath oils, hair gels and more. Invent your own spa science! All recipes use essential oils and creativity. Each week students will take home a personal creation.
No prerequisites.
-- Go back to class index --Bridge Building Teacher: Miserendino, Grades: 3-8, Cost: $45
In this class, students study how bridges are made, learning about different structural designs and the relative strength of each style. Each student will decide on a type of bridge to build from two choices, and then the student will design and build his or her own bridge.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in building and design. Hot glue guns will be used in this class.
-- Go back to class index --Yoga for Everyday Teacher: Beagley, Grades: 3-8, adults, Cost: $35
Learn fun yoga poses, stretching and breathing techniques to increase balance,coordination, and stamina for sports and everyday life. Learn poses for relaxation, focus, and concentration.
No prerequisite - this class is for all students interested learning the amazing world of yoga. All students are asked to bring a yoga mat or beach towel, water bottle, and wear loose clothing. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Airplane Building Workshop I Teacher: Magin, Grades: 4-7, Cost: $50
In this class students build flying balsa model airplanes. They practice the building skill needed to build light, strong, flexible models that really fly. Both gliders and rubber-powered will be assembled and flown. Students learn how to balance and trim for stable flight and how to repair planes when they break. Students take models to the park for long and exciting flights. Basic model building skills (cutting, sanding, wood glue assembly) will be taught. All work with tools will be carefully supervised.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in building balsa airplanes. The focus is on the building and repairing process. Note: Parent assistance are needed to help supervise. Please send us a e-mail if available to help.
-- Go back to class index --Introduction to Chinese Teacher: Hsu, Grades: 4-8, adults, Cost: $40
In this new class learn the basics of the ancient language. After learning colors, numbers and greetings, conversational phrases will be taught. Step into another world. Instructor will have a CD available for purchase after the first week.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning Chinese. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Intro to Calligraphy Teacher: Beirne, Grades: 5-8, adults, Cost: $45
In this hands-on class, students learn the basics of calligraphy, the "art of beautiful handwriting." Students will learn to write the italic calligraphic alphabet - both upper and lower case. Students will make personal cards, write and address letters, and copy a favorite song or poem suitable for framing.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in learning the art of calligraphy. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Java Script I Teacher: Dunne, Grades: 5-8, adults, Cost: $37
The basis of how the Internet works will be covered in this class. It will begin with basics in HTML and XML, then move on to programming in JavaScript.
No prerequisite - some prior experience with the Internet is helpful. If possible, please bring your own laptop computer. It only needs Internet Explorer or Firefox. No WIFI necessary. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Girls Circle Teacher: Turza, Grades: 3-4, Cost: $35
Girls Circle is a model of structured support groups for girls in 3 and 4th grade. It is designed to foster self-esteem, help girls maintain authentic connection with peers and all the women in their community, counter trends toward self-doubt, and allow for genuine self-expression thorough verbal sharing and creative activity. This class meets at a special time 10:00 - 11:50 a.m.
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11:00 - 11:50 a.m. Time Period
Yoga in Motion Teacher: Beagley, Grades: K-3, Cost: $35
Have fun, stretch your body while learning yoga! Games & songs add to the fun. Dress to move, no jeans please. Yoga is a great way to develop focus, awareness, and coordination. This class stresses increased flexibility and balance as students participate in imaginative poses, games, songs, and relaxation. It's a fun and beneficial class for the whole child - body and mind.
No prerequisite - this class is for students interested in having fun and challenge their bodies. Students are asked to bring a yoga mat or beach towel and water bottle.
-- Go back to class index --More with Matter Teacher: Bullard, Grades: 1-3, Cost: $42
This hands on class is more about the stages of matter; solid, liquid and gas. It's just like Mess with Matter, but with additional exciting experiments. Why do things melt, harden, evaporate? Dress for mess.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who enjoys science and experiments.
-- Go back to class index --Continuing French Teacher: Snyder, Grades: 1-6, adults, Cost: $40
For students who've already invested the time in learning the basics of French, this class allows them to go deeper and have more fun. This class gets to the good stuff - more time on games and activities in French! Material will be tailored to the level of the students.
This class is open to any student who has taken one or more French classes. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Beginning Chess Teacher: Flores, Grades: 1-8, adults, Cost: $35
Chess is one of the world's oldest games. Called the Game of Kings, it can be enjoyed and mastered by everyone! In this class, students learn the chess pieces, how they move, how to checkmate, and the 2 very special moves (castling, en passant). Some hands-on exercises will be used to reinforce concepts. Chess sets may be purchased from the instructor ($16) or brought from home.
No prerequisite - this class is for the student unfamiliar with chess or just learning to play. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Math Club Teacher: McGuire, Grades: 2-5, Cost: $40
Can't get enough Math? Discover amazing math all around you. This is not your ordinary math experience! In this fun class, students use non-traditional methods to explore math concepts, coded patterns, including Pentominoes, logic puzzles, games of chance, and other math-related games.
No prerequisite - this class is for students who like math and enjoy some extra challenge.
-- Go back to class index --Introduction to Hula Dancing Teacher: Puanani Hud, Grades: 2-8, adults, Cost: $40
Discover the beauty and stories of the Hawaiian culture. Teacher Shasta Puanani Hud, of the Halau Hula O Puanani, will introduce beginning hula dance moves and stories to take you to a far away tropical paradise.
This class is for students who like to dance and are interested in Hawaii. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Money Money Money Teacher: Beirne, Grades: 3-6, Cost: $40
Why do we need it? Where did it come from? How can I get some? Why is it important? In this class, students will learn about making money, investing money, earning/paying interest, and the options that exist for young people to make their money grow. This class will cover the evolution of money and its uses. Also, "the art of bart -ering", students will participate in bartering sessions.
No prerequisite - this class is designed for any students interested in learning how to manage and grow their money.
-- Go back to class index --Codes and Ciphers I Teacher: Miserendino, Grades: 3-8, Cost: $50
Do you want to stop your little brother from reading your diary? Do you want to feel like a real "secret agent" by passing a coded message between friends? This class will show you many codes and ciphers, from simple letter switching to historic code tools. Students will also learn tips and secrets of breaking many types of codes. Each student takes home a Jefferson Cipher Wheel!
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in keeping or breaking secret messages. Also, we do not endorse passing notes in any classroom setting (except maybe this one).
-- Go back to class index --The Art of Cooking Teacher: Carnegie, Grades: 4-6, Cost: $49
Students explore varied aspects of meal preparation including analyzing and selecting recipes, menu planning and preparation (appetizers, main course, and dessert), and table setting/presentation. Students will choose recipes to prepare, with the emphasis on nutrition, enjoyment, and cooking on a budget. Students will prepare a "meal" for their families on the last class.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student interested in cooking. Please note that peanut products will be used in this class.
-- Go back to class index --Jury Duty Teacher: Flynn, Grades: 4-8, Cost: $37
A practicing attorney will lead students through the American legal system using skits, roll playing, logic, examination of evidence, and more. If you ever thought of becoming a lawyer or were just curious how the courts really operate, then this is the course for you.
No prerequisites for this exciting new course.
-- Go back to class index --Airplane Building Workshop II Teacher: Magin, Grades: 5-8, Cost: $50
Build flying balsa models. Practice building skills needed to assemble light, strong, flexible models that really fly. Both gliders and rubber-powered models will be assembled and flown. Learn how to balance and trim for stable flight and how to repair them when they break. Take your models to the park for long and exciting flights. Basic model skills (cutting, sanding, wood glue assembly) will be taught - and carefully supervised. (6 students max in this class, so register early!)
Prerequisite - this is the next level/different project than Airplane Building I.
-- Go back to class index --Adventures in Architecture Teacher: Davenport, Grades: 5-8, adults, Cost: $45
Discover the architect inside you. Architivities include visualizing an ideal house, studying different architypes (styles), analyzing our surroundings and space relationships, and drawing building plans and elevations. One class session will be devoted to student questions about my experiences as an Architect. Graphing paper, architect's scale and pens will be provided.
No prerequisite - this class is for any student who is interested in architecture. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Special 1 and 2 day classes
Beginning Embroidery Teacher: Eller, Grades: 2-8, adults, Cost: $27
Discover the beautiful art of embroidery. Learn basic embroidery stitches with a variety of yarns and threads, including metallic and iridescent. This needlecraft can be used to personalize jeans, jackets, pillows and more. So many possibilities! We will combine beads in some projects for added visual effect. This class meets 1 day only: Feb. 16, at a special time 9:00 - 11:45 a.m.
No prerequisites. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Fleece Frenzy Teacher: Eller, Grades: 2-8, adults, Cost: $47
Students explore sewing, beading, and quilting in this fun craft class, as they create 3 fleece projects - and they go home with a new friend! Projects include a pillow and a scarf, and students choose an adorable stuffed puppy or monkey which they will dress with a matching scarf or other garment. This class meets 2 days only: Feb. 2, Feb. 9, at a special time 9:00 - 11:45 a.m.
No prerequisite - this class is designed for creative students who are interested in crafts and are comfortable threading a large regular needle. This class is open to adults, too!
-- Go back to class index --Pamper Your Pet Teacher: Eller, Grades: 2-8, adults, Cost: $30
In this crafty class create a special one of a kind pet toy and pet quilt. Learn how to hand sew fabric into special pet pampering treats. Younger students may bring an adult helper to assist them. This class meets 1 day only: Feb. 23, at a special time 9:00 - 11:45 a.m.
No prerequisites. This class is open to adults, too!
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Super Saturday Teachers
FRoG TEACHERS are all experienced with children and knowledgeable in their subject areas, which include math, art, literature, sewing, business, foreign languages, music, chess, computer programming, and more!
Karen Beagley is a yoga instructor trained via the Radiant Child Yoga Program who teaches yoga at local park districts, YMCAs, and school districts.
Kristen Beirne has been an artist for more than 20 years, a calligrapher for more than 6. She is married and the mother of 3 young children.
Lisa Bullard, B.S. in Early Childhood Special Education, is a mother of 3 and a certified teacher with over a decade of teaching experience.
Scott Carnegie, a certified chef in Illinois, has also taught classes for the Boy Scouts.
Bob Dunne has degrees in physics and computer science and has taught these topics to both children and adults for many years.
Alberta Eller, a long-time member of the Salt Creek Quilt Guild, has been sewing since she was five years old and loves sharing it with children.
Josh Flores, chess player for over 30 years, member of the Illinois Chess Association and U.S. Chess Federation, has taught children for years.
Shasta Puanani Hud of the Halau Hula O Puanani
Frank Klicar is a retired National Geographic producer and been an amature astromer for many years.
Richard Magin, professor at U of I in Chicago, is a PhD bioengineer interested in all things aeronautical.
Peter Miserendino, B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from UIUC, is still fascinated with the secret codes he learned as a kid.
David Schneeweis, professor at U of I in Chicago, is a PhD bioengineers interested in all things aeronautical.
Lois Sterba, a teacher for over 30 years, is a docent and tour guide at the Downers Grove Park District Museum.
Lety Von Kerens is a native Spanish speaker who has been teaching Spanish for several years to students in grades K-6 in District 58 schools.
Edith Vosefski, founder and director of The Etiquette School of Northern Illinois, has been teaching for years and believes learning should be fun.
Jim Wright is a lab technician who has worked in metallurgical research, radar electronics, laser physics, bioengineering, and other areas of science.