AROUND THE WORLD IN 18 DAYS: Mrs. Chetanna and Mr. Rieder

Taste mochi from Japan.  Make African masks. Play fun games from Australia.  Join us as we travel around the world investigating and experiencing art, language, geography, music, history, food, games and daily life from different locations around the globe.

BREAKING NEWS-MIDDLE SCHOOL JOURNALISM: Mrs. Edelstein

Students will take a deep dive into the changing world of journalism. They will discover what journalism is and who is involved in the process. Through the use of fun games and creative projects, students will learn to read the news more carefully, and to look at stories from a print or television news standpoint.

CERAMICS: Mrs. Hargis

A complete course in designing, forming, decorating and glazing pottery.  Learn basic hand building techniques including pinch, slab (tile making), and sculpture.

CHEFS CORNER: Miss Califano

Bon Appetit…discover the fun of being a chef and working in a kitchen with friends.  Prepare fancy hors d’oeuvres, luscious desserts, perfect pasta, amazing pizza, and more.  Students may be exposed to tree nuts, almonds, eggs, seeds, and dairy.  Not recommended for students with food allergies.

CREATIVE WRITING: Ms. Rieder

Create short stories, poems, perhaps the first chapter of your novel and much more.  Respond to a variety of prompts designed to stimulate creative ideas and innovative thinking.

CSI: Mr. Godbold

Everybody loves a good mystery.  Learn to solve “crimes” while applying scientific concepts, methods, and techniques.  Assume the role of a crime lab scientist by conducting forensic lab tests on fingerprints, hair samples, handwriting, and more. Please note: video re-enactments of crime scenes are included.

DIGITAL PHOTO:  Mr. Rieder

Have fun getting just the right shot and angle as you take photos for many fun projects. Use your phone or camera to go on photographic adventures. Students are encouraged to bring a digital camera of their own. Learn how to capture, edit, and enhance your photos.

DRAMA: Ms. Rieder

…and ACTION!! Do you dream of being on the stage or think it would be fun to be in a musical or play? Have fun exploring the many aspects of drama including monologues, mime, scenes, and story theatre. Show everyone your dramatic side through improvisations, movement, and characterizations.

DRAWING AND PAINTING: Mrs. Hargis

Learn the basics of pen and ink drawing, sketching, and perspective.  Have fun using water color, tempera, charcoal, and pastels.  Watch your creativity come to life.

INTRODUCTION TO BLUEGRASS AND FOLK MUSIC: Mrs. Hargis

No prior musical experience is necessary, and instruments will be provided. You will learn basic chords and be playing traditional folk songs by the end of the first week. You may choose guitar, fiddle (violin), mandolin, banjo, or stand up bass. All you need is a willingness to learn and a love of music.

MARINE BIOLOGY: Mr. Kroon

Discover the wonderful underwater world in this class.  Acquire an appreciation and knowledge of the ocean and its inhabitants from the great whales to the tiny crustaceans that they eat.  Includes dissection of marine life and microscope use.

MATH 6:  Mrs. Chetanna

This class is for incoming sixth graders working at grade level as well as seventh graders who need a little extra work or a review on their math skills.  The class will cover arithmetic, rational numbers, fractions and decimals, divisibility rules and math puzzles.

MATH 7:  Mr. Kroon

This class is for Math 6 accelerated, students entering seventh grade, or eighth graders who need a little extra help or review on their math skills.  This class will cover simple and complex equations, angles, triangles, graphing, linear equations, functions, real numbers, Pythagorean Theory, and math puzzles.

PUBLIC SPEAKING: Ms. Rieder

Learn to give impromptu and prepared speeches. Learn the effective use of voice, image, language, and the power of persuasion in public speaking. Learn to face an audience or camera with confidence and make the most of your own natural speaking style.

SCHOOL SUCCESS 101:  Mrs. Edelstein

Learn everything you need to know to get off to a solid start to the school year.  Sixth graders will get the scoop on their new campus–opening locks, using the library, PE uniforms, clubs and activities plus survival skills for organization, test-taking, note-taking and so much more to help you start off great.

WOODSHOP: Mr. Nimick

This class provides an introduction to woodworking.  Learn the care and use of hand tools and various power machines.  Create fine projects for family and friends.

VOLLEYBALL: Mr. Godbold

Passing, setting, spiking, and serving drills along with game play will keep you busy in the Miraleste gym. Mr. Godbold, a former collegiate player and coach, will help you learn the sport while having a lot of fun.

†SPECIAL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT: Students starting after June 20th may not enroll in ChemLab or Mad Scientist as mandatory safety instruction takes place the first three days of school; *$20 mandatory materials fee

ADVANCED SPANISH: Mr. Sanz

Want to improve your Spanish skills while learning about Spanish culture? In Advanced Spanish, you’ll review concepts from your previous Spanish courses and practice your skills while learning about Spanish food, daily life, music, and more! This class is a good fit for students who have already taken Spanish 1 or 2 or students who speak Spanish at home.

AROUND THE WORLD IN 18 DAYS: Mrs. Zarro-Anaya

Join us as we travel around the world, investigating and experiencing art, language, geography, music, history, food, games and daily life around the globe.

BEGINNING SPANISH: Mrs. Scott

Se aprende hacienda—in doing we learn. Have fun learning to speak, read, and write a new language. Develop basic Spanish vocabulary. Very helpful for students who plan to study Spanish in the future.

BROADCAST JOURNALISM: Mrs. Demerjian

Students will learn the basics of interviewing, researching, and how to put together a video story using Final Cut Pro.  They will have access to our own broadcasting equipment including cameras, lighting, microphones, and our green screen.  Students will produce, direct, edit, and anchor news programs that will be broadcast to our school and online community on our website.

CERAMICS: Mr. Barr

A complete course in designing, forming, decorating, and glazing pottery. Learn basic hand building techniques including pinch, slab (tile making), and sculpture.

CHEF’S CORNER: Mrs. Blankenship

Discover the fun of being a chef.  Prepare everything from fancy hors d’oeuvres to luscious desserts.  Make pasta, pizza, tostadas, and more. Students may be exposed to tree nuts, almonds, eggs, seeds and dairy. Not recommended for students with food allergies.

CHEMLAB: Mrs. Kier

Explore the world of chemistry through extensive laboratory experimentation.  Learn about acid-based chemistry, molecular composition and decomposition. Fun experiments may include candy and ice cream making, safely using a Bunsen Burner to read the line emission spectrum in different chemicals, creating chemical reaction poppers, as well as explore the “magic” of polymerization.

CREATIVE ROBOTICS (Two Hour Block): Mrs. Starodub

Join this hands-on Femineers® STEAM two-period block course.  This nationally recognized curriculum was created and designed by Cal Poly Pomona College of Engineering to inspire females in grades 6-12 to pursue STEM careers, but all students will enjoy this engaging course!  Students will develop real-world engineering skills to design, create, decorate and build a finished product using microprocessors, LEDs, motors and sensors.

CREATIVE WRITING: Mrs. Zarro-Anaya

Do you love to write?  This is a class for all you aspiring authors. Create short stories, poems, perhaps the first chapter of your novel, and much more. Respond to a variety of prompts designed to stimulate creative ideas and innovative thinking.

FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR TEENS : Mr. Hay

This course is designed to introduce students to basic personal finance skills that are relevant to the lives of teens. Main topics include but are not limited to: Investing, Borrowing, Money Management, Earning Power and how money works in the real world.KEYBOARDING & MORE: Mr. Hay

Learn to type accurately on the computer with proper finger positions, without looking at the keyboard. You will be introduced to all of the letters and numbers using computer based programs, in addition to various drills to increase your speed. Some Power Point and Excel may be included.

KEYS TO SUCCESS IN 6TH GRADE: Mrs. Scott

Learn everything you need to know about your new school and campus—from finding your classrooms and lockers to organizing your time. Survival skills such as designing a study environment at home to note-taking, outlining and library resource skills will be included.  Learn techniques for increasing your speed and accuracy on tests while reducing anxiety. Have fun while building confidence in your ability to succeed in this next step in your life.

MAD SCIENTISTS: Mrs. Kier

Sharpen up your science lab skills in this science “FUN”damentals course! Review the science methods that we use in a middle school science lab by measuring and making observations, writing a hypothesis, and conducting an experiment to gather and analyze the results! Labs will include finding the density of your favorite candies, making and flying paper airplanes, preparing microscope slides and learning to use a microscope, extracting DNA, navigating the rock cycle, and using science to make smores and ice cream!

MATH 6 INTRO: Mr. Fajardo

This class is for incoming 6th graders working at grade level and coded for regular PVCM 6 in the fall, as well as incoming 7th graders needing additional support. This class will cover whole number arithmetic, writing and calculating rational numbers (fractions and decimals), divisibility rules, number theory, and mathematical puzzles.

MATH 7 INTRO: Mr. Lee

This class is for students coded into PVCM 6 Accelerated or PVCM 7, and 8th graders needing additional support.  This class will cover integer arithmetic, the real number system, order of operations, variables and expressions, equations and inequalities, ratios and proportions, and mathematical puzzles. Incoming 6th graders must be coded for PVCM 6 Accelerated in the fall.

MATH 8 INTRO: Mr. Fajardo

This class is for students coded into PVCM 7 / 8 Accelerated or incoming 8th graders coded for PVCM 8 in the fall. This class will cover solving simple and complex equations, angles and triangles, graphing and writing single and systems of linear equations, functions, real numbers, the Pythagorean Theorem and mathematical puzzles.

MATH WHIZ: Mr. Lee

This class is for students coded into Math 6 Accelerated in the fall.  This class will cover arithmetic and advanced problem solving. Students will test their wits on a variety of brain teasers and mathematical puzzles as well as explore some of the skills needed in math competitions.

PALOS VERDES CAPSTONE: Mr. Sanz

Ready to take the next step as a middle schooler? Do you want to sharpen your skills while developing as a leader on campus? Join PV Capstone where you’ll learn about time management, organization systems, test taking skills, and so much more. Students in PV Capstone will also take time to support their peers on campus with leadership and school spirit opportunities. This course is a good fit for 7th and 8th grade students who want to improve their student skills and want to be involved in on campus activities.

PATHWAY TO PVCM 6 ACCELERATED (Two-hour block):  Mrs. Starodub

This two-period block course is available to current 5th grade students who would benefit from further instruction to prepare for entrance into PVCM 6 Accelerated in sixth grade.  Completion of this course will strengthen students’ mathematical skill base, provide a stronger foundation of conceptual understanding and better prepare students for the fast pace and rigor associated with the accelerated-level coursework.  PVPUSD encourages students to attend this summer program (or enroll in an independent study option**) particularly if the student was not initially recommended by his or her fifth grade teacher for the PVCM 6 Accelerated course.

TEAM SPORTS: Ms. Ruvalcaba

Share the ball, share the fun! Learn team play and its importance to group games such as soccer, basketball, flag football and softball. Play your favorite games and some you haven’t tried before. High level of physical fitness and activity. Team sports are an important component of youth development. Perfect class to have fun, socialize, and get some exercise.

VIDEO PRODUCTION: Mrs. Demerjian

Create quality video projects using Apple’s iMovie and Final Cut X editing programs. Work collaboratively to film and create short films, commercials, movie trailers, sports clips and more. Learn to incorporate custom music (GarageBand) for your projects, add video, audio and special effects to create packages, Public Service Announcements and more.

†SPECIAL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT: Students starting after June 20th may not enroll in ChemLab as mandatory safety instruction takes place the first three days of school; *$20 mandatory materials fee

AMERICAN POP CULTURE OF THE 20TH CENTURY: Mr. Dell’eva

The United States emerged as a global superpower at the beginning of the 20th Century. Throughout the century the United States would grow in influence in areas beyond politics, affecting music, fashion, visual arts and many other aspects of culture around the world. Through this course students will reflect on the history and changing culture of the United States through the examination of various media including art, music, fashion, cinema and television. Through this examination students will become more familiar with how these media helped to create, promote and change American Culture throughout the 20th century.

AROUND THE WORLD IN 18 DAYS: Mrs. Ong

Taste mochi from Japan.  Make African masks. Play fun games from Australia.  Join us as we travel around the world investigating and experiencing art, language, geography, music, history, food, games and daily life from different locations around the globe.

BRIDGE TO ALGEBRA (four-period course): Mr. Broughton/Ms. Kuykendall

This four-period block course is available to students who have completed PVCM 7 and wish to enroll in Algebra 1 in the 8th grade this coming fall. Instructional time will include the additional content in PVCM 7/8 Accelerated that is not covered in PVCM 7.  PVPUSD encourages students to attend this Bridge class  in order to familiarize them with information they have not yet encountered, provide a stronger foundation of conceptual understanding and better prepare for the content associated with the Algebra 1 course. This is a four-period course.

CHEMLAB: Mrs. Acres and Mrs. Cordova

Explore the world of chemistry through extensive laboratory experimentation.  Learn about acid-based chemistry, molecular composition and decomposition. Fun experiments may include candy and ice cream making, safely using a Bunsen Burner to read the line emission spectrum in different chemicals, creating chemical reaction poppers, as well as explore the “magic” of polymerization.

CSI:  Mrs. Acres and Mrs. Cordova

Everybody loves a good mystery.  Learn to solve “crimes” while applying scientific concepts, methods, and techniques. Assume the role of a crime lab scientist by conducting forensic lab tests on fingerprints, hair samples, handwriting, and more. Please note: video re-enactments of crime scenes are included.

CULTURAL DANCE:  Ms. Blosser

What is your cultural background? Some of us are very familiar with it, some not so much. Regardless, we all have one and dance is an element of most cultures around the world that offers insight into the world of its people. In this class, you will learn various dance styles with a focus on learning dances that are a part of your culture and other cultures! (Plus, you don’t have to sit at a desk for a class period!)

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY:  Mr. White

This is a digital photography course designed to provide self-directed, advanced instruction and knowledge of digital photography. Students will use Adobe Photoshop editing software to create digital portfolio projects and individual photos. Emphasis will be placed on basic camera handling skills and proper utilization of natural/artificial light and electronic flash, film speeds, aperture, and lens capabilities. Students are expected to bring their smartphone or digital cameras (6 mega-pixels minimum). Students’ final work will be saved to flash drives (provided).

ENSEMBLE:  Ms. Lewis-Wang

This summer class is open to all instruments: brass, woodwind, and strings. We will play a wide range of music from marching band, jazz, and movie tunes. Instruments are required, and students need to have 1 or more years of experience.

INTRODUCTION TO DEBATE:  Mr. Ellis

Are you tired and frustrated of losing arguments, even when you know you are right?  That may be because you haven’t refined your skills of persuasion.  This class can do just that!  Learn how to change the mindset of those who challenge your intellect. There’s no limit as to who you may influence, convince or persuade to your way of thinking with the debate skills you will learn from Introduction to Debate.

KEYS TO SUCCESS:  Ms. Smith

Learn how to be organized! Get ready for 6th grade at RIS with a class that will teach you the fundamentals of organization, planning, creating a to-do-list, prioritizing what to tackle first, and the basics of studying. Start your middle school career off right!

MATH 6:  Mrs. Ong

This class is for incoming sixth graders working at grade level as well as seventh graders who need a little extra work or a review on their math skills.  The class will cover arithmetic, rational numbers, fractions and decimals, divisibility rules and math puzzles.

PATHWAY TO PVCM 6 ACCELERATED (two-period course):  Mr. Buda

This two-period block advanced math course is available to current 5th grade students who have a very strong math background but did not receive a recommendation to enroll in the accelerated Math 6 course in the fall. This course is not recommended for students who have struggled with math in the past as the fast pace and rigor may likely provide further frustration. Successful completion of this course will better prepare highly motivated math students for the Math 6 Accelerated class, however, the summer teacher does not make a formal recommendation. This is a two-period course.

STEM FUNDAMENTALS:  Mr. Woodward

This dynamic foundation to engineering class is divided into the four fundamentals of STEM: Coding, Gaming, Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and Robotics. Students will learn JavaScript and Python through platforms like Code Combat, Make Code, and more. Create your favorite platform, maze, and scrolling games with the dynamic “Game Salad” and “Game Maker” programs. Learn to design like an architect with the awesome 3D modeling software, “Sketchup”. Build and Operate Lego “Spike Prime” Robots to perform intricate maneuvers using specific Sensors and coding. Explore a world of virtual robotics using “Vex Code” as you program them to navigate through a variety of mazes. All of this and a lot more awaits you in the fun and challenging class of STEM Fundamentals!

VIBING YOGA:  Ms. Blosser

What if you could take a class where the energy is chill, the AC’s cool, and it essentially ends in a mini meditation? Well, you can with Vibing Yoga! In this class, we’ll practice yoga poses and activities to develop focus, reduce stress or anxiety, and enhance our flexibility/strength. Set to great music with meaningful themes each week, this class will help provide a positive outlook in life and self-confidence that comes from emotional and physical wellness.

VIDEO COMM:  Mr. White

Have you dreamed of being a filmmaker? Winning an Oscar? Video Comm is for you! Students will learn about video composition, different types of cameras, filming with personal devices, tripods, shot types, media storage, lighting, audio, and editing in their various projects as well as how to work collaboratively with others producing quality video projects. All video/audio content must adhere to copyright laws in terms of use of other copyrighted material (music, video segments, etc.), saving, and sharing work safely.

VISUAL ART AND DESIGN:  Ms. C. Kim

A great course covering a variety of art skills! Join us as we explore both traditional and non-traditional art forms. We will draw, paint, sculpt, do origami, work with mixed media, and much more! All skill levels welcome. No prior experience required.