MIDDLE SCHOOL MINIMESTER ICGL
Course Catalog
PROGRAM GOALS
The Isdell Center for Global Leadership (ICGL) Middle School Minimester program supports Pace Academy's mission to create prepared, confident citizens of the world by taking students out of their familiar classroom environments and allowing them to learn about global issues in real-world settings.
The program's emphasis on immersive and experiential learning around socially relevant topics supports the growth and development of students' global competencies.
GLOBAL MINDEDNESS
The Middle School Minimester program develops global mindedness by helping students understand both the wider world and their place in it, and by encouraging them to take action on global issues.
Students will:
Develop curiosity about the world around them through the discovery of new things
Be able to pinpoint significant global issues and know how to identify plausible responses.
Understand and appreciate a variety of perspectives around a topic.
Gain an understanding of the connections between local and global.
CULTURAL AWARENESS
The Middle School Minimester program develops cultural awareness by helping students identify their own cultural expressions, practices and value systems and then recognizing those expressions and values in others.
Students will:
In a safe environment, increase their confidence within their own cultures.
Demonstrate empathy, respect and appreciation by developing genuine interest in others' experiences and traditions.
Be able to explain why certain values and beliefs are shared, and understand the importance of empathy and respect when interacting with those who do not share the same values or beliefs.
Learn and apply the target language, where possible.
ENGAGED CITIZENSHIP
The Middle School Minimester program develops engaged citizenship by supporting students as they learn to connect with community organizations, communicate ideas and collaborate to make the world a better place.
Students will:
Gain an understanding of how to learn from other communities.
Develop a deeper awareness of the systems and structures that impact communities.
Experience themselves as part of a broader community.
Recognize that they can help develop solutions to community-based issues.
LEADERSHIP SKILLS
The Middle School Minimester program develops leadership skills by helping students learn how to take appropriate action, individually and collaboratively, in response to a local, regional or global issue.
Students will:
Collaborate with other communities to overcome real-world problems.
Engage with with a wide spectrum of leaders to understand various leadership styles and their benefits, giving particular attention to cross-cultural practices.
Recognize leadership qualities in others, and identify the qualities they possess or can cultivate to solve global problems.
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
Chemistry of Food & Global Cultures
Lisa Dubovy and Indira Guevara
Delve into the delicious world of food chemistry in this hands-on course! Food chemistry involves combining different ingredients to create fun and tasty chemical changes In this course, we'll dive into the science behind what makes food taste so good and learn how four key components fats, salts, acids and heat play a role in cooking across different cultures Join us as we investigate these components, experiment with their effects and experience the cultural significance of cooking methods from around the world. This course is perfect for students interested in science, cooking and global cultures Get ready for a flavorful adventure that combines chemistry with culinary arts!
Culinary Journey Through Atlanta
Patrick J. Campbell and Ryann Smith
Explore the vibrant world of food in Atlanta and its rich historical context! Over the course of five days, we will embark on a culinary journey across the city, uncovering the stories and significance behind Atlanta’s diverse food landscape Throughout this immersive experience, we will explore topics including food access, cultural heritage, sustainability and entrepreneurship. Highlights of the week will include visits to historic sites like Sweet Auburn Market, where we'll learn about Atlanta's culinary roots, and a trip along the Atlanta BeltLine to discover innovative urban farming initiatives. Each day will be filled with engaging activities and hands-on learning opportunities that connect food with community and culture Whether you are passionate about Atlanta's history, interested in social issues, or simply love trying new foods and exploring different cultures, this Minimester is for you!
Effective Leadership in a Complex World
Graham Anthony and Whit Whitmore
Middle School is a critical period of personal and social development, and introducing leadership concepts at this time has multiple benefits, especially in today's complex world The Effective Leadership Minimester course will engage students in real-world problemsolving by exploring the tools community leaders use to effectively communicate and collaborate to tackle issues within their organizations. With the goal of identifying their own leadership qualities, students will meet a variety of leaders, examine their leadership styles, understand their cross-cultural leadership values and recognize the various qualities needed for effective leadership. Students will participate in multiple excursions to corporate offices and community organizations
Food Security: Local Approaches to a Global Issue
Are you curious about how food travels around the world or why some people have more access to it than others? In this course, we will dive deep into the local, national, and global landscapes of food distribution and security
We'll begin our journey right here in Atlanta, our first classroom, by volunteering with a community partner dedicated to hunger relief Next, we'll embark on thoughtprovoking scavenger hunts at grocery stores and farmers markets to learn about food availability and distribution We'll also learn from and interview experts who are making a difference in the field of food security.
Expanding our perspective, we'll analyze maps to explore global food challenges and investigate why some regions thrive while others struggle By the end of the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding food security and how these challenges affect our environment, culture, future and more Join us to uncover the intricacies of food systems and better understand how we can contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future
Tatum Branaman and Tara Harris
From Seed to Table: Our Food’s Journey
Rob Bethea and Anna Murphy
Have you ever wondered where your food really comes from or how many people and places are involved in getting it to your plate? In this course, we’ll explore the fascinating journey food takes from seed to table Over the course of the week, we will dive into key topics such as agriculture, sustainable farming, the farm-to-table movement, and the industrial practices of grocery stores and restaurants. We’ll explore how branding and package design influence our food choices and how these elements play a role in the food industry Our hands-on experiences will include visits to local farms, farmers markets and grocery stores, giving us a deeper understanding of the complex stages of food production Along the way, we’ll also get our hands dirty by planting, shopping for fresh ingredients, cooking delicious meals, and, of course, tasting our culinary creations! Get ready for a week full of learning, exploring and eating as we uncover the many steps involved in bringing food to your table
Georgia: Culture, Arts & The Future On My Mind
Katie Moss and Pete Pope
Dive into our state’s rich history through creative and critical perspectives. Our journey will include a visit to Eatonton, the hometown of famous authors Alice Walker, who wrote The Color Purple, and Joel Chandler Harris, known for the Uncle Remus stories We’ll explore the Georgia Writers Museum to learn more about their work and its impact. In Atlanta, we’ll visit the Atlanta History Center to discover the city’s multicultural art and heritage We'll also take a fresh look at Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell, exploring its global influence on storytelling and history In addition to these more historical explorations, the Minimester will also focus on modern-day Georgia, including its vibrant art scene. We'll examine how hip hop, theater, music and the film industry reflect the state’s evolving culture Using all of these learning experiences, we will end by asking this important question: How does Georgia’s complex history shape the diverse ways people express their Southern experiences in today’s globalized world?
Global Food Cultures in Atlanta
Jason
Miller and Stewart Tarvin
In the 20th and 21st centuries, Atlanta has emerged as one of the most culturally diverse cities in America. Communities from Asia, South and Central America, Europe and Africa have established vibrant enclaves throughout the metro area, where their rich cultural traditions continue to flourish Join us for this dynamic Minimester as we explore Atlanta’s cultural diversity through the universal language of food! Throughout this course, we will dive into the many opportunities Atlanta offers to learn about different cultures by experiencing their unique food traditions From bustling markets to authentic restaurants, we will learn how various communities use food to express their heritage, bring people together and maintain their cultural identity. Food not only unites people within a culture but also provides a delicious gateway for those outside it to gain deeper understanding and appreciation By tasting, cooking and sharing meals, we will connect with Atlanta's diverse cultural tapestry and learn about the traditions, stories and histories that make each community unique
Refugee Migration: The Most Diverse Square Mile in America
Andy Lopuszynski and Nancy Quintrell
This Minimester is designed to deepen students' understanding of refugee status and its distinctions from other immigration classifications Through critical and empathetic reflection, students will explore the challenges faced by those seeking asylum and gain insight into the complex global impact of refugee migration. Focusing on the local context, students will learn about the historical significance of Clarkston, Ga, a city known for its diverse refugee population and robust support programs that aid in refugee integration into American society. We will examine the various programs in place to assist with refugee matriculation and explore how cultural awareness and humility are essential components of effective refugee service Additionally, students will experience firsthand the impact refugees have had on the local Atlanta food scene, exploring how immigrant communities have enriched the city’s culinary landscape We will visit local restaurants and meet with chefs and entrepreneurs to hear their stories and taste their contributions to Atlanta’s diverse food culture
Philanthropy & Community Building 101
Heather White & The Advancement Team
Join us for an inspiring Minimester where we will explore the powerful world of philanthropy, nonprofits and community building. This course is designed to introduce students to the impactful work of organizations dedicated to making a difference locally and globally Throughout the week, we will visit different types of nonprofits, learn about the importance of philanthropy, and explore how these organizations contribute to solving social issues and building stronger communities. Students will engage in interactive workshops, participate in a communityengagement volunteer opportunity, hear from guest speakers working in the nonprofit sector and participate in hands-on activities that demonstrate the importance of giving back. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of how they can contribute to positive change and become active, engaged members of their communities If you are interested in social justice, community service and learning how to make a meaningful impact in the world, this is the course for you!
International Influence on Atlanta’s Food Scene
Join us for a delicious journey through Atlanta's vibrant food scene, where flavors from around the world come together to create something truly special! In this course we will explore the rich cultural influences that shape Atlanta’s diverse cuisine, focusing on European, African, Caribbean, Hispanic and Asian traditions. Through a variety of activities, including food tastings, discussions and cooking sessions, students will discover how history and culture have combined to create the unique food culture we see in Atlanta today. We will visit local markets, cook authentic dishes, and experience new foods and flavors, all while learning about the stories and traditions behind them This course is perfect for students who love exploring new foods, are curious about different cultures and want to understand how Atlanta's food scene reflects its multicultural roots. Come prepared to taste, cook and learn in this flavorful exploration of global influences on Atlanta's cuisine
Maria Singleton and Kim Zemmali
Worldly Wellness: A Global Perspective
Julie Hampton and Katie Sandlin
In an ever-connected world, the pursuit of holistic wellbeing transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.
This course invites students on a transformative journey to develop a comprehensive wellness toolbox by drawing inspiration from diverse practices around the globe
Through this course, students will uncover the impact of various wellness traditions on their physical and emotional well-being. They will foster a deep understanding of global perspectives and embark on a journey that transcends borders, while broadening their perspective on wellness
Worldly Wellness invites students to create a wellness toolkit that takes the richness of cultural diversity into account, and to engage meaningfully with others.
Seminars and field trips will connect students with experts in holistic medicine, mindfulness, yoga and art therapy
Students will also hear from doctors and Pace Academy’s consulting psychologist to better understand the relationship between traditional medicine, functional medicine and wellness.
FAQs
When do Minimester courses take place?
Middle School Minimesters will run during the school day during the first full week of February (Feb 3-7, 2025)
Which students sign up for a Minimester?
All students who are not traveling on an international ICGL spring Study Tour (Jan 30-Feb 8, 2025) will sign up for a Minimester
How do students choose their Minimester?
In much the same way as our ICGL Study Tour program, students will indicate their top three Minimester choices Priority will be given to eighth-grade students
When do students submit their Minimester choices?
Sign-ups for Minimesters will take place at the same time as Study Tour sign-ups To learn more about Study Tours and Minimesters, please attend the ICGL Parent Zoom Meeting on Sept. 10 at 5:30 p.m. https://paceacademy.zoom.us/j/94683761544.
Sign-ups will open on Sept 10 and close on Sept 17
Is there any cost associated with Minimesters?
No All learning activities, transportation and meals will be covered by the ICGL The Minimester program is part of our students’ regular school curriculum.
Will the Minimesters conflict with extra-curriculars?
No Students will arrive at and be dismissed from school at their regular times
Do Minimester courses change each year?
Some courses will change year to year, and some may be offered for several years Courses that focus on the ICGL theme will be updated to support learning around the topic for the year
How many students will be in each Minimester?
Depending on the number of students who register for ICGL Study Tours, we estimate that there will be between 15 and 20 students enrolled in each Minimester course
How should students choose a course?
Students should read through the course offerings with a parent or caregiver and make sure that their interests and/or curiosities align with the course goals. The ICGL goals and outcomes are targeted and delivered in every course, but some courses highlight global mindedness and cultural awareness, whereas others focus more on leadership development and engaged citizenship We understand a student’s desire to sign up for a course with their friends, but we encourage the students to choose a topic they really want to explore!