JANUARY
TERM Course Catalog 2025
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
January Term enables our community to live the mission and core values of our school by exploring new passions, interests, and interdisciplinary ways of learning about the world and ourselves Through a modified schedule and course offerings outside of the regular curriculum, January Term provides teachers and students a space for experimentation, investigation, and reflection.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE AND SCHEDULE
January Term consists of two sessions of 8 or 9 days. Each day includes three 90-minute blocks scheduled around homeroom, community time activities, and lunch Classes meet in a single block (90 minutes), double block (three hours), or all day. Classes meet for a single two-week session (8 or 9 days) or a month-long double session (17 days). School arrival and dismissal times are consistent with other terms of the year.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
90-MINUTE, 2-WEEK CLASSES
Abstract Painting
Explore color, form, and space through acrylic paint
Caroline Santa
Non-representational art allows the artist to communicate in personal or alternative ways In this course, we will look at a variety of abstract artists throughout history, including present day Students will create their own abstract paintings with acrylic paint. All levels of experience are welcome.
Aliens!
Explore the UFO in American culture and society
Casey Hedstrom
UFOs, aliens, flying saucers, UAPs, extraterrestrials, little green men. When it comes to these otherworldly visitors, are you a skeptic or a believer? Are those lights in the sky just a product of the Cold War imagination, or might they be something more? To help us make up our minds, we will explore the place of the alien in American popular culture and society We will read contact narratives and conspiracy theories as primary sources, and find possible explanations in science fiction including 1950s comic books and television shows like “The X-Files” At the end of the course, we will dream up our own alien creatures and perhaps take a second look at the night sky
The Armchair Strategist
Strategize your way to victory!
Julien Gurvich ’27, Siegfried Liu ’27 & Casey Hedstrom
“The Armchair Strategist” course will take a sneak peek into the past to explore how different nations took warfare strategy into their own hands. This class aims to provide the opportunity for students to utilize specific strategies in a historical context through board games and roleplaying activities. Students will cooperate through teamwork to progress towards their common goal through research and strategy.
The Art of Tattoos
Explore different tattoo styles with art and technology
Avery Nortonsmith & Maggie Sawyer
Are you curious about the history and culture behind different tattoo styles? In this class, you'll create your own drawings and explore what they might look like in different traditional tattoo styles Each day, we'll learn about a different school of tattoo design, then you'll get to practice drawing in that style We'll also learn how to integrate technology and augmented reality to prototype tattoo designs superimposed on photographs Finally, we'll explore the effect of skin tone on color and shading and discuss the history of design and illustration as they relate to body art.
Art Studio
Create, explore, and grow as an artist
Members of the Art Department
This open studio art course invites students to explore their creativity and artistic vision through self-directed projects. Students will have the freedom to pursue their artistic interests with guidance and support from the instructor The course emphasizes independent exploration, encouraging students to develop their technical skills and creative process at their own pace Students will set personal goals, document their progress, and have opportunities to share their work in class critiques Students may also have the opportunity to help department members set up our new art spaces
Bioethics: Life's Toughest Choices
Balancing innovation, morality, and Human Rights
Dan Taboada
We will explore the complex moral dilemmas arising from advances in science and medicine From genetic engineering and cloning to end-of-life decisions and healthcare access, students will examine real-world cases that challenge our understanding of ethics, responsibility, and justice. Through debates, discussions, and case studies, students will develop critical thinking skills as they analyze different perspectives, question societal norms, and grapple with difficult choices that impact individuals and communities alike. The course emphasizes thoughtful, open-minded exploration of diverse viewpoints while encouraging students to reflect on their own values and beliefs By the end of the course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the ethical challenges shaping the future and be empowered to contribute meaningfully to important global conversations
Biology of the Senses
Test your senses and learn how you work
Bob Lynam
This course will investigate how sensory input is received from the environment and how this information is processed and organized by the brain It will involve both classroom lectures and lab activities to support these concepts Videos related to class discussions will also be assigned There will be one weekly assignment to be done outside of class
Blue Zones
Discover secrets of longevity and happiness
Jenna Ellsworth & Vandita Sinha
Do you want to live a long and happy life? In this course, we will examine the unique regions of the world known as "Blue Zones," where you find the highest concentration in the world of centenarians people who live to age 100 and beyond. What makes residents of Blue Zones live long, happy, and disease-free lives?
Can any region become a Blue Zone, and how? We will explore the environmental, social, and lifestyle factors that contribute to longevity By the end of the course, students will create actionable plans to incorporate healthy practices into their own lives and become future advocates for systematic changes to promote health, quality of life, and longevity
Botanical Watercolor
Explore plants through watercolor
Caroline Santa
Science and art are intertwined in numerous ways, one of which is their connection to observation
Botanical illustrations can be used as a tool for scientific research and they can be appreciated as standalone works of art. In this class, we will observe a variety of plants, learn about their properties and anatomy, and practice illustrating them with ink and watercolor. This class can be approached from both a scientific and/or an artistic lens. You’re encouraged to be as creative with your painting process or as pragmatic as you’d like. We will be discussing basic color, compositions and watercolor techniques. All experience levels are welcome (or no experience!)
Bringing in Lunar New Year
Explore how LNY has become an auspicious tradition at GFS
Ivy Zhao & Yi Li
In this enhanced course, you will learn how to organize school-wide events for special occasions, such as celebrations and assemblies You will also explore the traditions of Lunar New Year with opportunities to collaborate across school divisions, departments, and external organizations, taking initiative to create a meaningful impact As part of this course, we will produce our first Lunar New Year micro-movie within the GFS community We invite talented individuals interested in filmmaking or directing to join our team
The entire process will be celebrated with two mini field trips, traditional brush painting workshop, and a New Year feast. We’re also seeking enthusiastic students and faculty to join us in forming GFS’ first-ever Lion Dance team and dive into this vibrant tradition!
Bucks and Budgets
Learn the basics of personal finance
Matt Daniel & Aaron Preetam
In this course, students will be introduced to the core concepts of personal finance that they will most likely encounter in their adult lives Students will learn through active participation and group activities to: build household budgets, read credit card statements, calculate mortgage payments, understand different investment asset classes such as stocks and bonds, and many other useful financial topics A successful outcome is for students to develop an interest in further pursuing financial literacy so that they are well-prepared for financial independence
"To Build The Impossible Set"
Build a set piece for “Man of La Mancha”
AJ Tvarok
If you ' re a person who likes challenges, working in a collaborative setting, and getting a little dirty, this is the course for you! This course will teach you how to problem solve, use power tools, and build. We will be building at least one set piece for the US musical “Man of La Mancha.” No experience is necessary; you will learn everything to use all the tools safely and efficiently Each student will be trained to use tools such as the chop saw, screw guns, band saw, jigsaw, and pneumatic stapler We will collaborate to solve various problems and to create something new
C is for Cra y
Explore cra ing techniques and your own creativity!
Kayla Ashcro
Let's make cra s! Weave pot holders, embroider a pillow, macramé a plant holder, create a stained glass picture This is an active class that is about using your hands and exercising your creativity There are many techniques and mediums to explore
Chamber Music
Perform chamber music
George Atanasiu
For students looking to explore music in a small group setting, this ensemble experience will be open to strings and piano, and provide opportunities for students to delve deeply into music in an intimate chamber setting. Performance opportunities will be explored as part of the experience.
Chinese Cinema
Experience Chinese culture through movies
Yi Li & Ivy Zhao
This course will immerse students in a rich exploration of Chinese culture and history through the work of Chinese-language filmmakers We’ll explore splendid scenery and iconic modern cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, as well as art, music, and Chinese cuisine Our aim is to expose students to a side of Chinese society that they will not have encountered before, and we will consider issues such as inequality, censorship, education, and the imbalance of economic development Cultural activities, such as kung fu, brush painting, folk dance, as well as visiting a local gallery featuring traditional Chinese paintings, will be woven into movies for students to understand and experience the specialties of Chinese tradition.
Code Blue, Paging You: Intro to Healthcare Professions
Explore careers in healthcare
Grayson Graham ’25 & Caroline Fosnot
This course is designed to serve as an introduction to various careers in healthcare. Alongside experts in fields from prehospital medicine to nursing to medicine and more, we will learn about various healthcare careers; gain hands-on, applicable skills; and develop our understanding of the basic sciences in healthcare
We hope that students will emerge from the class having solidified an interest in healthcare. Additionally, we hope students feel as if they have resources and the knowledge to progress through the next chapters of their life toward that career
Comic Book Studies: It's Not Just For Jokers
Read and discuss comics and film adaptations
Jules Levy ’25 & María Alvarez
This course is all about comic book appreciation from the creation, to reading, to movie adaptations, to the logistics of comic book science Students will ponder what makes a comic “good” or “bad” through reading and discussion of different superhero comic books They will also create their own characters and story ideas. We will share the love of comics and all that they have to offer.
Community Teaching Fellowship
Tutor at Lingelbach Elementary School
Anne Ross
Enjoy working with elementary school children? Want to get to know one of our neighboring schools? Join this course to student-teach at Anna L Lingelbach school in Germantown! GFS students will be placed with classroom teachers to support reading and math instruction or contribute to good play on the playground Students will learn from the work of classroom teachers, mentor young students, and contribute to the educational and socio-emotional learning goals of the school We will travel to Lingelbach each day, using the transition time to consider the inequality of resources in the United States’ education system and reflect on our experiences
Cookies & Bookies
Sample picture books and related foods
Behnaz Varamini & Devra Ramsey
In this literary and culinary course, we will make and eat food inspired by picture books. We will create versions of recipes with the young reader in mind. This course is for the young at heart, those who wish to read picture books, and students who are eager to create.
Cryptography
Learn to encode and decode secret messages
Jess Zeldes, Danielle Saranchak & Benedict Tessler ’25
In this course, we will explore some basic forms of cryptography We’ll start the first two weeks with simple ciphers and decoders We’ll post secret messages to each other in public that only we can understand! The second half will be dedicated to a short introduction to number theory and digging into RSA encryption (That’s the encryption your computer uses ) Eventually, we’ll be able to send more complicated messages that are nearly impossible to break Throughout the course, we’ll uncover clues to a final puzzle that hopefully we’ll be able to solve by the end of the course!
Pm fvb jhu iylhr h jvkl sprl aopz, aolu aopz jvbyzl pz aol vul mvy fvb!
Dance Dance Revolution
Dance, move, and unite through music
Jared Lazorko & Eva Porter
Students will engage in an energizing dance fitness class featuring local rhythms and Latin and international music We’ll take the "work" out of the workout by mixing low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness party Students will learn about different rhythms (and their moves) worldwide, such as Flamenco, Bachata, Afrobeats, Salsa, Cumbia, Zamba, Reggaeton, Step, Hip Hop, and more! Every week, they’ll have the opportunity to collaborate in small groups to create their own choreography
Drawing from Observation
Learn to draw what you see and see what you draw
Megan Culp
Using direct observation of subjects, we will explore drawing in a variety of media. This class will be centered on the practice of sustained observation and drawing in order to build your technical skills and develop the capacity to attend to visual contexts more closely than ordinary looking requires.
Eastern-Western Orchestra
Merging Chinese traditional with Western instruments
Sarah Liu ’25, Chi-hsuan Tu ’25, Kelly Ding ’25, Muyan Liu ’25, Ivy Zhao, Rebekah So & Yi Li
In the course, students will be introduced to a variety of Chinese traditional instruments, including Guzheng, Pipa, Erhu, Dizi, Tanggu, etc. They will learn about the history of these instruments and learnto play the instruments. They will also be introduced to the unique Chinese music notation and will be able to fluently read and play basic scores. Students with prior music experiences with Western instruments are also welcome to explore the versatility of merging Eastern and Western music All students will rehearse and perform in the form of a Chinese orchestra, where they’ll be practicing pieces for Lunar New Year performances Other genres and styles of music willalso be rehearsed and practiced
Elevator Pitch and MORE!
Formulating a concise, meaning, and powerful proposal
Dean Harvey ’25, Sam Bekelman ’25, Alayah Campbell ’25, Riya Mainigi ’25, Coralie Lyford ’25 & Aaron Preetam
Students in this class will use design thinking to solve a persistent or recurring problem and be able to convey the solution to an investor in 30-60 seconds Students will learn how to identify and monetize pain points and how to examine and evaluate business plans Through practicing the art of the elevator pitch, students will learn to present their ideas concisely and respond to questions from potential investors
Exploring Quiz Bowl
Come play trivia and learn facts!
William Kessler ’25, Becky Lu & Alex Levin
Did you know that GFS' Quiz Bowl team is nationally ranked? Do you love trivia but don't know how to make use of all of your knowledge? Do you want to be in rooms full of other people who are as enthusiastic as you about competitive trivia? Do you religiously watch “Jeopardy!” shout out the answers to an empty room, and make your parents say, "Hey, you should go on ‘Jeopardy!’"? Come play Quiz Bowl with us! Show us what you know, and we'll learn new things together!
Fever Dream
Read and discuss contemporary Latin American short fiction by women
Callie Ward & Sam Sullivan
Over the past decade or so, there’s been a wave of female Latin American writers published in English translation They’re writing about similar stuff: misogynistic violence in Latin American countries, bodily autonomy, other human rights/social justice issues, ecological destruction, the internet/social media, and more They’re also responding to these issues in similar ways in terms of style/genre, with many elements of horror and true crime some have been referred to as “Latin American Gothic” One recent novella in particular, Samanta Schweblin’s “Fever Dream (Distancia de Rescate)” recasts in eerie psychological terms the large-scale poisoning caused by toxic agricultural practices. This J-term course will focus on Schweblin’s novel. Given that the text will be taught in English translation, the course welcomes Spanish learners and speakers alike! Students will gain familiarity with the long tradition of spectral and weird short Latin American fiction We will read closely and consider the historical context that gives rise to Schweblin’s work, play with our own attempts at writing in her vein, and, time permitting, explore some more short fiction by her contemporaries
Figure Drawing and Artistic Anatomy
See and draw the human body
María Alvarez
In this course, we will learn the fundamentals of figure drawing We will learn human anatomy from an artistic perspective and practice working from artist mannequins, statuary, and live (clothed) models We will learn the proportions of the human form and how to represent the planes and angles of the human figure. Attention will be given to gesture drawing, a variety of poses, and longer sittings. Students can have any figure drawing background, from absolute beginners to advanced.
Film Festival Workshop
Plan our student-run film festival
Ryan Stumacher ’25, Albert Yao ’25 André Robert Lee & Sarah Kappel
The eighth annual Philadelphia Youth Film Festival (PHYFF) is a student-run film festival, hosted by GFS and set to run on Saturday, 2/22/25 This festival is run by current seniors
Ryan Stumacher and Albert Yao, as well as a dedicated team of student leaders in the club Students have various roles such as publicity, event coordination, sponsorships, submissions and judging, workshop speaker coordination, etc This J-Term class is a hands-on, collaborative workshop where student leaders, staff, and faculty advisors work together to plan and execute the tasks needed to make PHYFF a successful
event. This course is encouraged for all current members of PHYFF and is also open to students new to the club who are interested in participating in this year ' s festival
Food Blogging
Unleash your inner food writer
Meg Cohen Ragas & Casey Hedstrom
In this course, you will learn to write creatively and eloquently about your favorite fare, whether that be pizza, mac and cheese, or beef bourguignon! We will read some of the premier food writers, including Mark Bittman (The New York Times), Jeffrey Steingarten (Vogue), Calvin Trillin (The New Yorker), and Ruth Reichel, and collaborate on the creation of a class food blog, where we will post reviews, trend stories, favorite recipes, odes, and other celebrations of the culinary arts. A visit to The Frosted Fox bakery, a cheese tasting, and a potential group cooking or baking project will complete the experience. A great choice for food lovers and aspiring writers alike!
From Fiction to Law: Feminist Responses to Gendered Violence
Learn about how survivors use storytelling
Willow Spilzak ’25 & Robin Friedman
In this class, we hope to teach students about the different ways storytelling has been used to advocate for survivors We endeavor to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexity and the multiplicity of the ways women ’ s bodies are a site of violence while highlighting how writers and legal scholars have created new narratives of power We plan to orient the class around activist responses, focusing on contemporary literature and modern history
From the Floor Up: Learn to Break!
Learn to breakdance
Alexander Guevarez
Recognized as an Olympic sport in 2024, breakdancing is the world’s first and most widely performed hip-hop dance in the past half-century. This course will focus on its history and practice, exploring breaking and breaking-adjacent (Capoeira, martial arts) forms as we learn the fundamentals of toprocking, footwork, freezes, and a selection of power moves Topics include the evolution from upright movement to dynamic floor routine; the relationship between these aesthetic developments and other expressive forms (MCing, DJing, graffiti) within early hip-hop; the institutional settings in which breaking emerged and expanded; the influences and worldviews that inform breaking’s pioneers and their audiences; and breaking as a social formation imbricated by class, race, and gender We will also view breaking as a global
phenomenon across a range of media and venues, from the 1984 film classic “Beat Street” to the 1998 video game “Bust a Groove,” from the Silverback Open Championships to the Red Bull BC One
El Gran Palacio
Design & create Spanish projects
Gabrielle Loperfido
This course is open to all students with 0-5+ years of Spanish Plan a travel adventure to a Spanish-speaking destination, watch “Masterchef Jr” in Spanish, create and play interactive games in Spanish, become a teacher’s assistant in the Spanish Middle School classroom, and read your favorite book in Spanish Bring your creativity, your own ideas, and your love of the Spanish language The sky's the limit!
Le Grand Palais
Tes idées, Tes Pensées, Tes Créations!
Luisa Knowles
What mystifies you about the Francophone world and the French language? Bring your passion and ideas to this class, where you can immerse yourself in the project of your choice. This course is open to all students with 0-5+ years of French experience Research your next Francophone travel destination, watch and critique French films, learn to speak French, create interactive games in the French language, become a teacher’s assistant in the French Middle School classroom, and read your favorite book in French The sky’s the limit Tout est possible dans le Grand Palais!
Graphics and Game Programming Using Processing
Graphics, games, programming, oh my!
Matt Zipin & Ben Russo ’25
Have you ever heard of Processing, the graphics-oriented programming language? Maybe not, but you can do amazing things with it, from drawing basic shapes to manipulating every pixel in your favorite music video! We’ll learn the basics of the Processing language and explore its vast possibilities with lots of mini-projects. The course will culminate with an open-ended project that students can work on either individually or in groups, that can focus on anything from mathematical equations to graphic design to video game animations Best of all, no previous programming experience is required (although it won’t hurt)! Some experience is helpful, but no coding plus a willingness to learn is also fine
Independent Project
Kasey Henderson
Whether you ’ re looking to feed your passion, follow your curiosity, or discover something brand new, completing an independent or group project is a great way to be in the driver’s seat of your education. You will receive encouragement, structure, and feedback from a faculty guide, but you will be responsible for communicating your goals, evaluating your own progress, and assessing your results at the conclusion of the course Projects must be designed to fit into the timeframe of a single J-Term block (two weeks for 90 minutes daily) If you are interested in completing an independent or group project, email your project proposal to Kasey Henderson for approval Approved proposals will demonstrate depth in at least one of these design elements: Multidisciplinary Content; Experiential Learning; Global, Local, and/or Human Context; Complexity & Challenge; and Products or Artifacts of Learning
Introduction to Poetry: A Workshop
Write your first poems or hone your cra
Emi Wong-Shing ’27 & Sam Sullivan
This course is an introduction to poetry for beginners and veterans alike. We will spend the class reading, writing, and sharing our work. Students will be introduced to poetic movements, formal strategies, and workshop procedures.
Jantangle
Learn and practice Zentangle
Devra Ramsey
Zentangle is a form of mindful meditation We will explore and practice different patterns (tangles), and you will emerge with beautiful evidence of your detailed and focused time with pen, pencil, and paper This class will be a community who share the space and do cooperative zentangle Doing zentangle yields beautiful results, but no artistic talent is necessary!
Laser Lab
Laser-cut designs on wood and acrylic
Sarah Zwerling & Avery Nortonsmith
Create and design jewelry, photo etchings, and decorative objects on wood and acrylic Use Adobe Illustrator to produce intricate designs, cut shapes, and etch photographic and drawn images with a laser cutter. Come ready to sketch on paper, research designs for inspiration, and experiment with new technologies for imagemaking!
Life is a DRAG!
Play with the art of DRAG: past, present & future
Beth Quinn, Jake Miller & André Robert Lee
“Life is DRAG!” is an exploration of the history of drag and drag performance and its influence on society
In this class, we will consider drag's intersection with pop culture, fashion, activism, identity, queer liberation, and more We will consider the ways drag forces us to accept what we don't yet understand how it has and continues to be an agent of change and how the art of drag performance intersects with the personal and communal search for identity Join us for screenings, guest speakers, live performances, and yes...wigs!
Lupin
Discover the mysterious world of the Gentleman Burglar
Sam McIlvain, Luisa Knowles & Andrea Barrows
Spend J-Term discovering the mysterious world of Arsène Lupin, the gentleman burglar. We will read an abridged version of the original work by Maurice Leblanc, “Arsène Lupin, le bouchon de cristal,” watch the contemporary series featuring Omar Sy, “Lupin,” and play our own mystery games all in French This course will be conducted entirely in French and is open to anyone with experience in French at level 2 or above
Magic Camp
Dazzle your friends and family
Alex Levin & Matt Zipin
One of life’s great joys is learning to perform sleight of hand and other forms of magic Imagine learning to astound your friends and family with nothing more than a deck of cards or a few coins! In this course, incredible magicians will present a short routine for the class and teach relatively easy magic tricks. A er the magicians' visits, we will practice their tricks and practice other tricks and some stage patter. Our course will culminate with presentations of our prestidigitation skills across the campus. Next stop: Vegas!
Make a Wooden Bowl
Try turning, get dusty, create art
Rachel Fuld, John Ceccatti & Andrew Westerhaus
In our class, “Make a Wooden Bowl,” students learn to use the lathe to turn a wooden bowl Students learn how to set up and adjust the lathe for each step: shaping with the scraper, sanding the exterior with four different grits of sandpaper, hollowing out the interior with the scraper, sanding again, and finally finishing with food-safe oil The students begin shaping a pre-cut poplar bowl blank For the subsequent bowls, they chose their wood (cherry, walnut, sassafras, sequoia, ash, or poplar) and cut the blanks, learning to use the band saw. Students who complete two or more bowls are asked to donate one for the Empty Bowl Dinner at Arcadia University, an event in November to raise money to alleviate food insecurity and homelessness.
Maker Space
Design, build, and innovate your ideas
Members of the Computer Science & Digital Media Department
The “Maker Space” course provides students with an opportunity to design and build projects of their choosing using a variety of tools and materials With access to resources such as 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics, and traditional art supplies, students are encouraged to bring their ideas to life through hands-on learning and experimentation Students will set personal goals, document their progress, collaboratively troubleshoot, and have opportunities to share their creations to the class Students may also have the opportunity to help department members set up our new maker space
Mindful Fun
Explore "flow" activities for mental well-being
Greta Ham
Are you interested in mindfulness but struggle to just sit still, let alone meditate? This course will explore different activities that are useful for mindful engagements. We will sample a different one each day (e.g. paint by number, crocheting, jigsaw puzzles) so that students may find one that works for them. We will also explore some of the science behind the benefits of mindfulness.
Mojo Dojo Casa House: Exploring Masculinity
Destroy the patriarchy, imagine what's next
Randy Mower & Eric Aurelien
The class is open to all gender identities! Are you "Kenough"? Portrayals of masculinity are everywhere In this class we will explore gender via texts, videos, podcasts, and social media to dissect contemporary masculinity During class, students will work introspectively and have time to journal as well as work in small groups that will lead to full class discussions The goal of the class is for students to have more depth and breadth in what masculinity means in the modern world, and how they can be better equipped to navigate it.
Mural Making
Learning about the mural making process
Jared Wood & Lilliana Greene
We will walk around Germantown, see famous murals downtown, perhaps visit Amber Arts for a studio talk, or have Felix St. Fort, Ernel Martinez, or Kear give a presentation to our class.
“Paradise Lost”: The Poem, The Movie!
Read passages of "Paradise Lost" + filmmaking
Becky Lu, Alex Levin & Callie Ward
"Of Man's First Disobedience, and the Fruit
Of that Forbidden Tree, whose mortal taste
Brought Death into the World, and all our woe "
Thus begins John Milton’s “Paradise Lost,” a religious epic that dramatizes, in verse, the fall of man and Satan’s response to said fall Though John Milton would hate this fact, many readers of the poem feel Satan is the most compelling character! If you would like to learn more about man ’ s “Disobedience,” “Death,” and “Woe,” come join us as we read through this revelatory text from 1674. We will attempt to make an experimental film of this seemingly unfilmable text!
Pickleball
Learn and apply the fundamentals of pickleball
Tracey Spinka, Vinnie Rigoglioso & Aaron Preetam
This course will introduce students to the game of pickleball Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the game, its rules, and the unnecessarily complicated scoring system, along with the
fundamental skills needed to enjoy this delightful hybrid of ping pong and tennis. Whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience, this course will help you enhance your pickleball skills and hopefully have fun while doing it (Students signing up for this class should be aware that we will be playing outdoors in January)
Play, Pause, Progress
Develop leadership and mindset through team sports
Sam McIlvain
Using various ball-related games, with restrictions imposed to place specific demands on the players, the athletes will encounter challenges and then discover and discuss possible solutions for different or more successful outcomes. Each class will focus on one key concept (e.g. communication, adaptability, persistence, confidence, courage, goal-setting) and will follow a whole-part-whole methodology (restricted game with minimal instruction; journal writing/discussion about they experienced; return to restricted game(s), then progressing to free play). The athletes will be assessed on their participation, effort, and analytical and creative problem solving
Power Hour
Advanced fitness and weight training
Tom Myran & Matt Sheehan
This physically vigorous course is designed to help students develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle through personalized fitness routines Students will learn the fundamentals of physical fitness, including strength training, cardiovascular conditioning, flexibility, and core stability Each student will set individual fitness goals and follow tailored workout plans to improve overall endurance and strength The class incorporates various activities, such as weight training, aerobic exercises, and functional movements, focusing on both technique and consistency. Through regular assessments and progress tracking, students will gain a better understanding of their physical capabilities and how to achieve personal growth.
Punner’s World: Constructing Crossword Puzzles
Construct a series of thematic crossword puzzles
Nichole T. Rustin
Students who love word puzzles and wordplay will research and construct a series of crossword puzzles that are thematic and increasingly difficult We will explore the history of crosswords, including looking at gender, race, and region
Reflections: A Memoir Workshop
Explore and create memoir in various media
Joe McGeary & Kayla Ashcro
In this course, students will explore a timeline of memoir through various media From the nineteenth century to modern celebrities, we will experience memories of ourselves and others through writing, video, song, audio, and architecture These experiences will guide the telling of our own stories through various media: art, oral storytelling, and short-form writing
Rockestra: Live in Concert
Make a band and put on a show
Jiaray Shi ’25, Sam McIlvain & Brian Bersh
Do you play guitar, keys, bass, percussion, or drums? Or sax, trumpet, trombone, clarinet? Or violin, viola, cello? Or sing? Or all of the above? Have you ever wanted to be in a band that has thrown them all together? This ambitious class will do just that. Think Philly Soul. The Beatles. Al Green. Aimee Mann. Chicago. Earth, Wind & Fire. Electric Light Orchestra. Silk Sonic. And more! Once we have established the direction from the members of the class (Are we a tribute band? A cover band? Do we play hits from different genres from a specific year?), we will set down to learn the tunes and study the recordings, writing our own parts or copying note for note, as we decide We will then perform a concert of the material we learn Who is up for a Friday night dance party at school? Students may enroll in both sections of this class
Rube Goldberg and the Study of Simple Machines
Collaboratively study and create a complex system of simple machines
Mark Levenstien
American cartoonist Rube Goldberg was an accomplished artist, but he is most known for the creative and complex machine designs featured in his cartoon strips. In this class, we will start small and work our way to constructing a large (and hopefully working) Rube Goldberg machine. By first learning about simple machines and how they work through hands-on activities and demonstrations, we will use the six simple machines to create a masterpiece!
Sacred Earth
Explore connections between religion and nature
John Ceccatti & Campbell McCormack ’25
Religious traditions that consider nature a divine creation also take a theological approach to environmental concerns In this course, students will explore diverse religious perspectives on environmental stewardship, with a special focus on Quaker beliefs Through readings, discussions, and reflective practices inspired by Quaker worship, students will consider how faith can inspire ecological action Using this knowledge, students will develop workshops that relate to the theme of this year ' s Quaker Youth Leadership Conference (QYLC): "Reconnecting with our Roots: Quakerism and the Environment." The course is open to all students, not just those who are planning to attend the conference.
Scavenge, Salvage, Reimagine, Repair
Create art by mending, restoring, and reimagining
Chelsea Koehler & Lilliana Greene
This class will explore modes of art-making that begin with something damaged or discarded. Think: altered books, visible mending, up-cycling, re-making, and restoration We’ll look to various mentor artists for inspiration while walking field trips and thri store visits will help us gather materials
The Science of Self-Care
Explore and practice self-care
Caroline Fosnot, Hannah Farber ’25, Rachel Jiang ’25 & Sarah Liu ’25
Have you ever wondered what self-care actually means? This course will examine the scientifically proven seven pillars of self-care which include topics like mindfulness (psychological), homemade organic skincare (learning new skills), haircare science (applying knowledge to everyday practices) and how personal nutrition (nourishing your physical body) affects one ’ s overall sense of well-being. Hands-on exercises such as organic product formulation and ingredient queries, haircare science and chemical reactions that occur to change the appearance of different types of hair, and mindfulness exercises will be introduced through textbooks, lectures, lab time, and discussion. Come to this course if you want some much-needed winter self-care skills!
Scrappy Sustainable Sewing
Sew a bucket hat with scraps!
Kate Garrity, Becky Lu & Gabrielle Loperfido
The fabric industry creates over 92 million tons of textile waste each year! Learn how you can help reduce that number by using fabric scraps to create a new textile that you will then use to sew a one-of-a-kind bucket hat Functional, fashionable, and sustainable!
Sewcialism For Beginners
Sew your own fabulous pajama pants!
Kate Garrity & Becky Lu
Want to learn how to sew and make your own clothes? Longing to spend time in community with other makers? In this course, students will learn the basic concepts of clothing construction and will create a simple pair of pajama pants with pockets.
Sports Business and Management
Explore the wide world of sports!
Julian Abbell ’25, Nate Otto ’25 & Matt Sheehan
Want to explore the many facets of the world of sports? In this student-led course, we plan on exploring sports journalism, front office management, analytics, strength and conditioning, and a few more fields that are potential career paths in sports If you think you have an interest in working in sports in the future, you don’t want to miss this opportunity to learn more about what those jobs may entail!
Stories from the New Yorker
Read and write short stories
Joe McGeary
This is a course for folks who love creative writing and love to read stories, especially stories about the city Students will read selected short stories from the New Yorker from the 1930s to the present, with an eye to the way these stories reflect cultural changes in the U.S. and also reflect innovations in the short story. Students will also do various creative writing exercises with the goal of producing a completed short story. Included will be such authors as John Cheever, Ann Beattie, Zadie Smith, J.D. Salinger, Yi Yin Li, and many more
Surf(science)ing
Waves, boards, storms, materials, engineers, and history!
Mark Croxford & Michael Koehler
Without science, getting barreled would be impossible (for most of us)! Starting with the history and the boards that have been effectively used for hundreds of years, we'll investigate the how and who of board design, how storms and bathymetry affect wave structure, the science of riding and performing on a wave, how advances in materials led to innovation, the engineers and board shapers that creatively challenged the status quo, and how wave forecasting modernized such that the hour of a swell's arrival can be predicted all while preparing ourselves to be surfers with daily exercises and practices.
To Infinity and Beyond
Make marvelous mathematical masterpieces
Jess Zeldes & Kate Jones
Do you dream of Toruses? Wonder how to fold space? Do you ever dream that you are an ant wandering aimlessly along a Torus? Ponder how to fold space? Imagine what exists beyond the finite? Then this course is for you! We will explore fascinating mathematical marvels, from the practical: How do you cut a bagel into interlocking rings? To the fantastical: Can you make a tetrahedron fly? We will construct models, conduct experiments, and make a few mathematical messes while playing around with topics in number theory, geometry, and topology Expect lots of hands-on activities partnered with big questions and fascinating snacks
Uke Jam!
Play the ukulele, build musical community
Anne Hess, Miku Shiota & Hayley Varhol
A jam session is a gathering of players who love to create music together. This is a class for those who LOVE to play ukulele and want to jam. Join us as we explore the power and fun of communal musicking! We will take a look at and learn to play and sing different songs modern, classic, originals, etc. We may improvise some songs as well! Several mini-performances (coffeehouse-style) and sing-alongs are planned throughout the session This class is intended for people who have at least some experience playing If you know a handful of chords and are willing to learn, you are ready to jam Ukuleles are provided
Understanding Financial Crime and Ethics
Investigate and research white-collar crime
Stefan Ackerhalt ’27, Caryn Miller & John Ceccatti
This course is an overview and introduction to financial crime, also known as white-collar crime The class will cover three different case studies (Enron, FTX, and Madoff) and end with a project where students research and present their own case studies in small groups More broadly, aspects of finance, law, ethics, and criminology will be discussed We will debunk the stigmas and assumptions surrounding white-collar crime and focus on analyzing the motivations and effects of white-collar criminals
Understanding Hitchcock: "Master of Suspense"
Watch, discuss, and write about Hitchcock's films
Alexander Guevarez & Adam Hotek
In this blast course in the filmwork of Alfred Hitchcock, we will take account of his status as a master auteur and classic, meta-classic, and post-classic Hollywood filmmaker par excellence. In addition to discussion of key films, some consideration will be given to readings drawn from the extensive secondary literature about Hitchcock and the significance of his work
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
3-HOUR, ALL-DAY & MONTH-LONG CLASSES
African American Music
Listen to, write about, perform and celebrate the music
Chris Coyle, Nichole Rustin & Caryn Miller
This meaningful, inspiring course is intended for both non-musicians and musicians Using a wide variety of source material, students will develop a foundational understanding of how and why this music came to exist in the United States We will piece together musical and cultural timelines and make important connections between styles/artists/events Students will also collaborate to produce our final project, a digital journal. They will choose topics of interest, then research and create reflective/editorial/musical writings, music recordings, or graphics for inclusion in the journal. The finished journal will be shared with the US community. Other activities include eye-opening cultural stories, film/media sessions, visits from guest artists, and a hands-on “jam” class.
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Altar Your Perspective: Walking Sacred Spaces
Explore sacred sites throughout Philadelphia
Campbell McCormack ’25, Jake Miller & Mark Levenstien
Why are churches, synagogues, and mosques designed and built the way they are? What do they reflect about people, practice, and culture? What makes a place “sacred”? And why do we “do” religion at all? This course will delve into the concept of sacred spaces across various religious traditions, blending theory with personal reflection and daily field trips in and around Philadelphia Students will explore key religious theories that define sacredness examining how spaces are used and experienced as holy The course will also focus on the role of architecture and design in shaping how we interact with sacred environments as we visit and analyze temples, mosques, churches, shrines, and natural landscapes considered spiritually significant
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
Another World is Possible
Imagine, build, and inhabit sustainable communities
Geo O'Donnell & Sam Thacker
The journey to a sustainable future can feel overwhelming and unattainable, yet there are people making progress all around us This class will explore the practices and ideologies that people are using to build life-sustaining societies and how we can live with intention while we work to create a better tomorrow We will study texts, be visited by guest speakers, go on excursions, and listen to podcasts as we dive into radically dreaming a new way forward All participants (students and teachers) will co-construct a meaningful group learning experience focused on developing skills to collaboratively tackle complex challenges of today and of the future.
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Are You Ready for the Summer?
Investigate the American summer camp through sociology and experience
Maryanne Rawlings & Rob Goldberg
Gather round the (imagined) campfire as we discuss, play, and sing our way to discovering the fascinating history, rituals, and relevance of summer camp What is it about summer camps that keeps kids returning year a er year? Why the communal singing, the scary stories, the mandatory swim test? Why the rivalries between cabins?! And why has camp long been a favorite setting for teen coming-of-age and horror films? Who invented summer camps, and for whom? What function do they play in American childhood?
This month-long course begins with the premise that summer camps have always been a reflection of our hopes and dreams for kids, a microcosm of American culture and notions of class, race, gender, and sexuality Camps have been vehicles for exclusion and harmful stereotypes but also havens for marginalized communities Expect to analyze rituals and learn about camps past and present; get ready to tell stories and play outdoor group games Field trips into nature and an existing camp in New Jersey will help us recreate elements of the camp experience Finally, this course is for anyone those who have never attended a summer camp, those who attended for years, and everyone in between. Are you ready for the summer?!
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
The Current Supreme Court Term
Examine this year ' s blockbuster cases
Andrew Malkasian & Ted Oxholm
This challenging course examines cases currently pending before the U S Supreme Court Students will gain an understanding of the court’s jurisdiction and procedures and will select several of the currently pending cases for in-depth examinations This will involve reading the legal briefs, the oral argument transcripts, and the critical precedential cases Students will be expected to master the complex law involved in their case largely through their own investigation; the law will not be taught to them The culmination will be mock Supreme Court arguments in which all students will serve both as counsel (in their own case) and justices (in the other cases). All who are prepared to read complex and lengthy texts, enjoy precise logical thinking, and are academic self-starters are welcome.
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Engineering Design Challenges
Design, build, compete, debrief, next challenge
Tracey Spinka & Bob Lynam
In this class, we will learn by building stuff There will be a variety of design challenges, and, for each challenge, you will be given some background for context as well as parameters that include design specs (maximum or minimum dimensions, weight restrictions, etc.), permitted materials, and how the product of the challenge will be tested and evaluated. You will work in small groups to design and build your projects, then we will gather as a class to test them and perhaps even compete. We will also do a “post mortem” debrief on the projects to see what lessons we can learn about the strengths and weaknesses of our various designs Accept the challenge!
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
Exploring and Documenting Waterways from GFS to the Atlantic Ocean
Appreciate these o en under-appreciated phenomena
Michael Koehler & Mark Croxford
By van and by foot, this class explores waterways from Philadelphia to the Delaware Bay and on to the Atlantic Ocean We will learn about the structure of the waterways themselves as well as the attendant ecosystems, culture, and history While returning to absolute gems we aspire to find new ones this includes the tidal marshes in the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge, the wetlands of South Jersey
bordering the Delaware Bay, the lakes and creeks adjacent to the Delaware River, and even suggestions from students We may venture to a Quaker settlement on the Rancocas Creek, a meetinghouse on the Cohansey River, or eat seafood at a diner on the edge of a reedy marsh
This is a 2-week, all-day course
From Sketch to Story
Design characters and make your own comic
Lani Okewole ’25, Shelby Allen ’25 & María Alvarez
This course will be about making comics. Students will learn how to design characters, write storylines, and the mechanics of a successful comic We want to introduce the process of making comics in a fun and digestible way for anyone of any skill level, making comics more accessible We will be open to digital and print mediums
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Fungus Among Us
Eat, identify, and imagine your way through the fantastic world of fungi
Sam Thacker, Vandita Sinha & Julia Garrido '25
In this interdisciplinary look at fungi, you will cultivate, cook, and preserve mushrooms; design and grow your own mycelium sculptures; learn about the biological, ecological, and medicinal significance of fungi; create a tincture from turkey tail mushrooms; visit an urban gourmet mushroom farm; consider different cultural orientations toward fungi; learn the basics of mushroom identification and foraging; create a guide to local edible mushrooms; visit a mushroom farm; explore mycoremediation using fungus to remove toxins from the environment; and imagine how the world might look if we thought of it in terms of mycelial networks This will be incredible! It is a good fit for those who are ready to engage fully with a challenging, fun group learning experience including serious engagement with texts, reflective writing, and artistic production.
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
A Germantown Almanac
Create an immersive Germantown document
Sam Sullivan & Robin Friedman
An almanac is a handbook that contains a hodgepodge of information of general interest They are created to provide a time-sensitive snapshot of a place to aid farmers, sailors, astronomers, and parties seeking descriptive data. Our course aims to produce a Germantown Almanac, modeled tongue-in-cheek-ily on
early American almanacs. We need student naturalists, poets, historians, musicians, reporters, and epicureans to help us achieve our goal We will spend time walking around our special neighborhood in search of talkers, environmental data, artistic inspiration, and snacks We will conduct interviews with important Germantown figures, gather and document urban flora and fauna, create maps, conduct reviews of historical literature, write poetry, and make photographs of the houses and sites where Germantown giants have spent their time Students should expect to walk and create, taking visits to gardens, arts institutions, houses of worship, radio stations, restaurants, stores, and politicians’ offices Every student will bring their unique talents to bear in creating documentation of their experiences for our almanac.
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
Giant Cardboard Sculpture: Parade of Species
Create creature sculptures to celebrate biodiversity
Geo O'Donnell & Jared Wood
Do you like to build things? Do you dig creating sculptures? Would you like to spend some time making something with your hands? Does the incredible biodiversity of the planet fill you with awe? Do you want to celebrate that? Then you should sign up for “Giant Cardboard Sculpture”! In our workshop, you will build a large-scale work out of cardboard and then possibly cover it in paper mache, possibly paint it, possibly decoupage it, etc. This is a course with a singular focus that will hopefully be both calming and generative. No prior sculpture or cardboard experience is necessary; remember, in the beginner's mind, there are many possibilities.
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
It's Easy Being Green
Investigate urban sustainability from global to local Kate Jones & Adam Rosenblatt
This course explores Philadelphia’s built environment and how policies have shaped city life. We will explore campus, Germantown, and the city to see examples of how urban design can promote or limit quality of life. We will investigate how water management has changed watersheds and discuss plans to help resolve existing problems We will also examine transportation sustainability and the steps that local and city groups are taking to promote public transportation Finally, we’ll consider the role of green spaces in cities and current efforts to expand access At the course ’ s end, we will offer our ideas to the Germantown Sustainability Committee to bring design features to the GFS campus and community that promote local greening and sustainability
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
Language of Film
Explore visual movie language
Greta Ham
We will explore how film communicates in ways other than dialogue, e g editing, scene composition, lighting, etc Students will learn how to critically analyze the messages which are communicated in a nonverbal manner and how they, as viewers, may be manipulated through such means They will gain facility in looking at and analyzing film, and familiarity with different forms and techniques of filmmaking Students will create a still-image film/story
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Lights, Camera, Action!: Make a Movie
Write, shoot, and edit a short film
Lyla Conley ’25, Charlotte Berman ’25, Annie Fleming & Andrew Malkasian
Have you always wondered how movies are made? Have you always wanted to make a film yourself? Are you interested in learning screenwriting, film editing, or another component of the filmmaking process you ' re curious about? In this production-based class, we will learn how to make a film from start to finish, and will collaborate to make a movie
This is a 90-minute course in the first two weeks and a 3-hour course in the second two weeks
The Magic of Fantasy
Explore and create fantasy
Madeline James
From Alice’s Wonderland to the Wizarding World, fantasy worlds and stories routinely ignite our collective imagination and weave their way into the fabric of our culture, but what role does fantasy play there? How has it evolved as a genre? And, why isn’t it taken seriously in spite of its powerful, popular draw? We will consider these questions and more as we survey the building blocks of early fantasy, contemporary giants of the genre, and fantastic worlds within picture books. Throughout the class, you will also work to bring your own fantastical world to life through writing, illustration, or other creative means. Bring your artistry, a scholarly lens, and a zest for dragons!
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Our Films, Ourselves: The Adventure of Cinema
Watch films, discuss films, write a film review
Ryan Stumacher ’25, Callie Ward & Adam Hotek
“I laughed I cried It became a part of me ” -Line from “Saturday Night Live” skit
Does film have the ability to make us roar with laughter or cry like a baby? Can film radically transform our lives? Diego Luna once stated that “cinema is a mirror that can change the world,” while Jean Luc-Godard wrote that “cinema is the most beautiful fraud in the world” Is the subtext of the SNL joke that it may be fraudulent to think that film does produce the most intense feelings that one can experience? Is it fraudulent to think that film is the ultimate mirror of our lives and ourselves? If this subtext is true, then what happens when we watch a film?? In what ways do we “read” films; and in what ways do films “read” us? In this class, we will entertain these questions by looking at clips of various films. We will learn to pay close attention to formal cinematic elements as we analyze the language of film: how this medium tells a story and creates certain emotional and atmospheric effects Come for the revelations Stay for the popcorn
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
The Outsiders
Unplug, get out, and go deep
Matthew Young
In this course, students will propose, plan, prepare, execute, and debrief a significant three-day outdoor adventure (e.g., hiking, climbing, biking, etc).
This is a 2-week, all-day course
Rugby: Playing Around with Gender and Sport
Play rugby and investigate gender in sports
Maggie Sawyer & Jared Lazorko
In rugby, the rules are the same for men and women. Why isn't this true for all sports? How does gender impact different people's experiences with athletics? In this course, you will study how gender and sex have historically affected people playing sports of all kinds. You will also learn essential rugby skills through daily low-impact physical activity! Finally, we will reflect on and discuss our own experiences related to gender in sports, and we will imagine what the future of sports might look like No prior rugby experience required! Students may take this J-Term course more than once! ~33~
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Sociocultural Anthropology: Rites, Rituals, and Making the Familiar Strange
Explore what makes us human
Madeline James
Are spirits real? Why do we give gi s? How do we construct and maintain social norms and relationships? And, how do people make meaning out of the world around them? In this class, we will seek to make the familiar strange by interrogating our ways of being in and perceiving the world. We will observe social spaces, learn about ethnography, conduct interviews, and investigate a social or cultural phenomenon of your choosing From food to sports to illness, anthropologists study it all!
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
Sound Effects, Scoring, and AI for Film
Experiment with adding sound to video
Andrew Westerhaus & Shawn Hennessey
Unlock the magic of storytelling through sound in this course designed for aspiring filmmakers, musicians, and audio buffs. Through hands-on projects, this course will explore how music and sound effects shape our experience of film In the first half of this course, students will create music for film, learning the fundamentals of film scoring, including melody, harmony, and rhythm, and how these elements influence emotional storytelling We will also explore new generative technologies, like Suno (AI music) and Neural Frames (AI video), discovering how cutting-edge AI tools can assist in sound creation, music composition, and audio editing In the second half of the course, students will learn about Foley techniques by creating and manipulating sound effects for movie scenes
No experience is necessary; students will gain experience with Logic Pro audio so ware. Class activities will include audiovisual analysis, collaboration, close listening, group discussion, audio creation, and sharing student work. By the end of the month, students will have a portfolio of original audio work and a deeper appreciation for the integral role sound plays in cinematic storytelling
This is a month-long, 90-minute course
"You're gonna need a bigger boat"
Watch and analyze monster animal movies
Adam Rosenblatt
In this course, students will watch eight monster animal films to better understand how pop culture defines human perceptions of wildlife. We will analyze classic films like “King Kong,” “The Birds,” and “Jaws” as well as newer releases like “Snakes on a Plane,” “The Grey,” and “Crawl.” Students will investigate how each film exploits and amplifies human fears of nature and wildlife while writing short screenplays that capture their own take on monster animal movies
This is a 2-week, 3-hour course
SCHEDULE OF ALL CLASSES
Course Requests: Students will request their top choice for each block in the Schedule of All Classes, noting one or two backups. Students will be placed in their top choice unless that course is overenrolled; overenrolled courses will be enrolled by lottery.
Month-Long Classes (January 6-30)
Period 1 Another World is Possible Are You Ready for the Summer?
The Current Supreme Court Term From Sketch to Story
Language of Film Lights, Camera, Action!: Make a Movie (S1 P1 + S2 P2 & S2 P3)
Sociocultural Anthropology: Rites, Rituals, and Making the Familiar Strange
Period 2 Fungus Among Us Sound Effects, Scoring, and AI for Film
Period 3
African American Music
The Magic of Fantasy
Session One Classes (January 6-16)
Period 1 Art Studio
Code Blue, Paging You: Intro to Healthcare Professions
Dance Dance Revolution
Eastern-Western Orchestra
Film Festival Workshop
Jantangle
Laser Lab
Mural Making
Period 2
Paradise Lost: The Poem, The Movie!
Pickleball
Punners World: Constructing Crossword Puzzles
Reflections: A Memoir Workshop
Sports Business and Management
To Infinity and Beyond
Understanding Hitchcock: "Master of Suspense"
Aliens!
Bioethics: Life's toughest choices
Community Teaching Fellowship
El Gran Palacio
Elevator Pitch and MORE!
Figure Drawing and Artistic Anatomy
From Fiction to Law: Feminist Responses to Gendered Violence
Le Grand Palais
Magic Camp
Mindful Fun
Mojo Dojo Casa House: Exploring Masculinity
Power Hour
Rockestra
Scavenge, Salvage, Reimagine, Repair
"To Build The Impossible Set"
Uke Jam
White Collar Crime
Period 3
Art Studio
Biology of the Senses
Blue Zones
Bringing in Lunar New Year
C is for Cra y
Cookies & Bookies
Cryptography
Dance Dance Revolution
Figure Drawing and Artistic Anatomy
From the Floor Up: Learn to Break!
Introduction to Poetry: A Workshop
Make a Wooden Bowl
Maker Space
Play, Pause, Progress
Sewcialism For Beginners
Surf(science)ing
Periods 2 & 3 It's Easy Being Green
Giant Cardboard Sculpture: Parade of Species
Altar Your Perspective: Walking Sacred Spaces
Our Films Ourselves: The Adventure of Cinema
Session Two Classes (January 21-30)
Period 1
Aliens!
Art Studio
Biology of the Senses
Bucks and Budgets
Chamber Music
Cookies & Bookies
Cryptography
Fever Dream
Lupin
Maker Space
Pickleball
Sacred Earth
Stories from the New Yorker
The Science of Self-Care
Understanding Hitchcock: "Master of Suspense"
Period 2 "To Build The Impossible Set"
Abstract Painting
Chinese Cinema
Comic Book Studies: It's Not Just For Jokers
Drawing from Observation
Exploring Quiz Bowl
Food Blogging
Laser Lab
Life is a DRAG!
Mojo Dojo Casa House: Exploring Masculinity
Mural Making
Punners World: Constructing Crossword Puzzles
Reflections: A Memoir Workshop
Rube Goldberg and the Study of Simple Machines
The Science of Self-Care
Period 3 The Armchair Strategist
The Art of Tattoos
Bioethics: Life's toughest choices
Blue Zones
Botanical Watercolor
Food Blogging
From the Floor Up: Learn to Break!
Graphics and Game Programming using Processing
Jantangle
Make a Wooden Bowl
Rockestra
Rube Goldberg and the Study of Simple Machines
Scrappy Sustainable Sewing
The Science of Self-Care
To Infinity and Beyond
Periods 2 & 3
Engineering Design Challenges
A Germantown Almanac
Lights, Camera, Action!: Make a Movie
Rugby: Playing Around with Gender and Sport
"You're gonna need a bigger boat"
Periods 1, 2 & 3
Exploring and Documenting Waterways from GFS to the Atlantic Ocean
The Outsiders
INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL
Designed to support exploration and interdisciplinary ways of learning about the world and ourselves, January Term supports a suite of cultural and language immersion travel courses for students in grades 9-12. Participation in each of the following courses is o en competitive and determined by advanced application and committee decisions Each program carries a separate fee, and financial assistance is available to qualified applicants Students enrolled in winter sports are advised that participation in January Term travel may impact playing time and/or the ability to use the winter season to fulfill Athletic requirements
Costa Rica: Science and Community
Students will spend nine days in the rain forest of Alajuela Province designing and executing original experiments under the supervision of university faculty and also engage in community activities with high school students from our partner school, Liceo Rural Valle Verde Then the trip will shi to two sea turtle research sites on the pristine Pacific coast, where students will be immersed in ongoing community-based university research collecting data on several species
Granada, Spain: Spanish Language and Cultural Immersion
Students will spend three weeks in Granada, Spain living with a host family and studying at the Centro de Lenguas Modernas (CLM) at the University of Granada Being in the heart of Andalucía, renowned for tapas, flamenco, and the Alhambra, will give students the opportunity to refine their language skills while taking leveled classes at the CLM, explore Spanish culture, history, and cuisine through group excursions in and outside of Granada, and become part of a family in their homestay, shared with another GFS student
This trip is designed for students in grades 10-12 enrolled in any level of Spanish who are looking to connect authentically and profoundly with a Spanish-speaking city and its people. Students will receive a certificate of program completion that may be used for college credit.
Italy: Experiencing the Classical World
This trip to three major cities in the Classical world will allow students to explore places referred to in the poetry, history, and mythology we read in our Latin and Greek classes, and see their influence on the Italian Renaissance. We will fly to Venice and take a vaporetto to central Venice, spending two days exploring the sites in St. Mark’s Square and along the canals, the Basilica of St. Mark and the Bridge of Sighs. We will then travel to Florence for another two days, visiting the Accademia to see Michaelangelo’s “David” and then the Uffizi Museum, walking along the banks of the Arno We’ll take a guided tour of the Duomo, Ghiberti's famous Baptistery doors, and the Piazza della Signoria the political center of this Renaissance city The trip will finish in Rome with a tour of central Rome including a guided tour of the Colosseum and Forum Romanum, and the next day at the Vatican Museums, St Peter’s Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel The
trip will allow students to get a feel for each city, offering striking examples of the Medieval, Renaissance, and Classical periods
Tlaxcala, Mexico: Mexico Exchange
Students travel to Tlaxcala, a provincial capital and a safe and prosperous city of 90,000, about 75 miles east of Mexico City. They will visit long-standing partner school Escuela Secundaria Técnica No.1 "Xicohtencatl Axayacatzin" and stay with host families for one month. Participant families serve as homestay families in Philadelphia when Mexican students from the same school visit GFS during the month of April
Winchester, UK: Winchester College Exchange
Germantown Friends School and Winchester College established an international travel exchange for students and faculty in 2013. While the exchange had been paused during the pandemic, we were excited to reinitiate the program in the 2022-23 school year. This year we will continue the program and anticipate that four GFS juniors or seniors will travel to Winchester College in England while four Winchester College students will visit GFS
MAJOR INDEPENDENT PROJECTS
While the success of January Term centers upon innovative learning through vertically mixed grade 9-12 classes, in certain rare circumstances students in grades 10 or 12 may seek to embrace January Term’s philosophy through thoughtfully cra ed independent projects. Individuals interested in pursuing such independent project work should seek guidance from their grade dean or the January Term Director prior to the course interest deadline
Minor Independent Projects, lasting one block internal to the school day, may be proposed as described in the Independent Project Course Description above