Spring 2024 Ivyclimbers Courses
Register for Spring 2024 Classes
Math Course 1 – Challenge Math for Elementary Students -Level I
This course is designed for students in grades 2-4, who seek learning more challenging mathematics content than they typically encounter in their math classroom, and who would like to build up a solid problem-solving foundation for future math competitions. The content will be organized to emphasize on the proper implementation of the Common core mathematic standards, focusing on conceptual understanding, problem solving, and real-world applications to inspire students to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of mathematics. Brain-teasing patterns, sequences, and puzzles with numbers, shapes and figures, number sense and speed math skills and some mathematic contest (Math Kangaroo, Math League, and others) level problems are included. This course will not only enhance students understanding of mathematical concepts but will also inspire students’ interest in mathematic through solving challenging questions of varying levels of difficulty and type.
Teacher – Dr. Shu Feng
Class Schedule: Monday 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Central Time .
Dates: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/26, 3/4, 3/18, 3/25,4 /8, 4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13
Location: Online via Zoom – meeting room information will be sent to students
Tuition : $600
Math Course 2 – Challenge Math for Elementary Students -Level II
This course is designed for students in grades 5-6, who seek learning more challenging mathematics content than they typically encounter in their math classroom, and who would like to build up a solid problem-solving foundation for future math competitions. The content will be organized to emphasize on the proper implementation of the Common core mathematic standards, focusing on conceptual understanding, problem solving, and real-world applications to inspire students to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of mathematics. Brain-teasing patterns, sequences, and puzzles with numbers, shapes and figures, number sense and speed math skills and some mathematic contest (Math Kangaroo, Math League, AMC8 and others) level problems involving fraction, decimal, percent, ratio and probability, data analysis, algebra, and Geometry are included. This course will lead the students to take the challenge! – Not only deepens students understanding of mathematical concepts, but also inspire students’ interest through solving challenging and thought-provoking problems.
Teacher – Dr. Shu Feng
Class Schedule: Wednesday 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM Central Time
Dates: 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/6, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 4/24
Location: Online via Zoom – meeting room information will be sent to students.
Tuition : $600
Math Course 3 Algebra I
Instructor: Dr. Huajin Zhou
Course Description
his course is recommended for 6th to 7th graders who have mastered pre-algebra and beginning algebra I concepts, including expressions, functions and graphs, and linear equations. We will continue our study in Algebra this semester. The topics we will be covering include factoring, inequality, system of equations and inequalities, radicals, and quadratic equations.
We will refer to the textbook “A-Plus Notes for Beginning Algebra: Pre-Algebra and Algebra I” by Rong Yang. Additional material will be provided by the instructor.
Class Schedule: Tue. 6:00—7:30pm (CT)
Dates: 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23
Tuition: $840
Algebra II
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is the third-semester course of the AMC trilogy: Algebra, Geometry and Discrete Math. The three-year accelerated program is for students who are strongly interested in Mathematics or STEM in general and would like to challenge themselves in the arena of mathematics.
The course is suitable for talented students from grade 6-8 who understand basic arithmetic geometry, and materials covered in Algebra I and Geometry I. Though accelerated, the materials are aligned with the standard K-12 math curriculum. The instructor will guide them through the textbook and basic problems.
The course should be supplemented with problem-solving sessions (guided or self-study), and continued by Geometry II (and Trigonometry).
Instructor: Liping Liu
Class Schedule: Wed, 6:30pm-8:00pm (CT),
Dates: 01/10/2024 – 06/20/2024 (15 lectures, Tentative)
Tuition: $900
READING MATERIALS:
Sandor Lehoczky / Richard Rusczyk, Art of Problem Solving, vol I and II.
Lecture notes by the instructors
American Mathematics Competitions – AMC 8 Course
The AMC 8 is designed to challenge students and encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and mathematical reasoning. While these topics represent the core of the syllabus, the actual questions on the exam can vary in terms of difficulty and the specific concepts tested. This course prepares students for the AMC 8 through reviewing and practicing past AMC 8 exams and working on problem-solving skills through various math resources. The topics include:
- Arithmetic: whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages, ration and proportion, exponents
- Algebra: basic algebraic expressions, solving equations, word problems involving algebra
- Geometry: Properties of geometric shapes, perimeter and area, similarity and congruence, coordinate geometry
- Number Theory: prime numbers, divisibility, factors and multiples, and number pattern
- Counting and Probability: counting techniques and probability of events
Instructor: Dr. Juanjuan Cao
Lesson duration: 10 Lessons
Class Schedule: every Sunday 11:00 AM – 12:30 pm Central Time
Dates: 1/14, 1/21, 1/28, 2/3, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25, 3/3, 3/17, 3/24
Tuition: $600
CS Course 1: Introductory Java Programming – Introduction to AP CS-A Java and Research Methods in Computing
In this course, we will explore the basics of programming in the Java language. This course should prepare you for the AP Computer Science A exam. Some topics we will study include Variables and Operators, Input and Output, Methods, Conditionals and Logic, Loops, Arrays, Strings, brief Overview of Objects and Classes etc. We will also immerse ourselves in the mechanics of programming – running, testing, and debugging. The book we will be using for the course is “Think Java, How to Think Like a Computer Scientist” by Allen Downey and Chris Mayfield. This class is suitable for students in grades 7-11. Previous experience in computer science is not required.
Research Methods: In addition to learning Java, students will be exposed to research methods and principles in Computing on a regular basis. The idea is to imbue students with problem-solving skills that are applicable in science fairs, and contests, and in automating everyday mundane activities of life using tools drawn from Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Digital Forensics.
Instructor: Dr. Karpoor Shashidhar
Class Schedule: Sunday 5:30-7:00pm Central Time
Dates: 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19,2/26, 3/5, 3/12,3/19, 3/26, 4/2,4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30(total 14 classes)
Tuition : $840
CS Course 2: Introduction to Python – Introductory Python Programming and Research Methods in Computing
In this course, we will explore the basics of programming in the Python language. Python is an interpreted, high-level, general-purpose, object-oriented programming language. Created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991, Python’s design philosophy emphasizes code readability and is a fun and awesome first language to learn. We start off with basic concepts of programming. Some topics we will study include Variables and Operators, Input and Output, Functions, Conditionals and Logic, Loops, Strings, brief Overview of Objects and Classes etc. We will also immerse ourselves in the mechanics of programming – running, testing, and debugging. The book we will be using for the course is “Think Python: How to Think Like a Computer Scientist” by Allen Downey. This class is suitable for students in grades 7-11. Previous experience in computer science is not required.
Research Methods: In addition to learning Python, students will be exposed to research methods and principles in Computing on a regular basis. The idea is to imbue students with problem-solving skills that are applicable in science fairs, and contests, and in automating everyday mundane activities of life using tools drawn from Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Digital Forensics.
Instructor: Dr. Karpoor Shashidhar
Class Schedule: Sunday 4:00-5:30pm Central Time
Dates: 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19,2/26, 3/5, 3/12,3/19, 3/26, 4/2,4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30 (total 14 classes)
Tuition : $840
Physics AP Physics 1 – College Board
Instructor: Juanjuan Cao
College Board AP Physics 1 is designed to introduce students to the principles of algebra-based
physics. The course focuses on developing students' understanding of key physics concepts and their ability to apply those concepts to solve problems.
The AP Physics 1 exam consists of two main sections:
1). Multiple-Choice Section: This section assesses students' understanding of the course content and their ability to analyze and interpret information.
2). Free-Response Section: This section requires students to apply their knowledge to solve problems and demonstrate their understanding of experimental design.
The exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest possible score. Colleges and universities may grant credit or advanced placement to students who earn high scores on the AP Physics 1 exam.
This course prepares students for the AP Physics 1 exam, the topics will cover:
- Kinematics: Position, velocity, and acceleration, representations of motion
- Dynamics: systems, the gravitational field, contact forces, Newton’s First Law, Newton’s Third Law and free-body diagrams, Newton’s Second Law, applications of Newton’s Second Law
- Circular Motion and Gravitation: gravitational force, gravitational field/acceleration, inertial vs. gravitational mass, centripetal acceleration vs. centripetal force, uniform circular motion
- Energy: open and closed systems, energy, work and mechanical energy, conservation of energy, thework–energy principle, and power
- Momentum: momentum and impulse, representations of changes in momentum, conservation of linear momentum
- Simple Harmonic Motion: period of simple harmonic oscillators, energy of a simple harmonic oscillator
- Torque and Rotational Motion: rotational kinematics, torque and angular acceleration, angular momentum and torque, conservation of angular momentum
Class duration: 10 lessons
Class duration: 10 lessons
Class Schedule: every Sunday 5:00pm – 7:00pm (120 minutes) Central
Dates: 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25, 3/3, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31,4/7, 4/14
Tuition: $600
Course Descriptions and details are at www.ivyclimbers.com
AP Chemistry Exam Review Class A & B
Teaching Schedule: Starts on February 17th and ends on April 20th, with two sessions available. Session A will be held on Saturdays from 7:30-9:30pm Eastern Time, and Session B will be held on Sundays from 7:30-9:30pm. Students can choose one session based on their availability. If there is a need to switch sessions due to unforeseen circumstances, please notify the teacher in advance.
This course will not only review the topics covered in class, but also provide insights from AP exam graders on how to approach and answer Free Response Questions (FRQs) using concise language. Additionally, representative multiple-choice questions will be discussed.
Suitable for: Students preparing for the AP Chemistry exam on May 6th.
Instrutor: Prof. Jie Song
Duration: 10 classes in total, each lasting two hours.
Tuition: $700
Teaching Method: Zoom online classes. If a student is unable to attend both sessions, the teacher can provide video recordings upon notification.
Textbook: The teacher will provide review materials.
Note: It is recommended to register in advance. After payment, the teacher will send out the review materials, allowing students to prepare ahead of time. Due to the extensive materials provided, course refunds will not be accepted after payment.
| AP Exam Review Class | Topics | ||
| Class A(Sat) | Class B(Sun） | ||
| 1 | 02-17 | 02-18 | FRQ-1. Quantum Theory/Solids/ Stoichiometry |
| 2 | 02-24 | 02-25 | FRQ-2. Lewis Structure/VSPER/VB/ |
| 3 | 03-02 | 03-03 | FRQ-3. Intermolecular Forces/Solution/Gases |
| 4 | 03-09 | 03-10 | FRQ-4. Kinetics |
| 5 | 03-16 | 03-17 | Multiple-choice-1 |
| 6 | 03-23 | 03-24 | FRQ-5. Equilibrium & Weak Acid/Base |
| 7 | 03-30 | 03-31 | FRQ-6. Buffer/Solubility/Titration |
| 8 | 04-06 | 04-07 | FRQ-7. Thermochemistry |
| 9 | 04-13 | 04-14 | FRQ-8. Electrochemistry |
| 10 | 04-20 | 04-21 | Multiple-choice-2 |
| 04-27 | Free last-minute Q/A session | ||
| 05-06 | AP Chemistry Exam – Good luck! | ||
Pre-AP Chemistry Spring Class
Suitable for: Students who have no prior knowledge of chemistry and have not yet started AP Chemistry. This course aims to provide students with the foundational knowledge required for AP Chemistry, cultivate their interest in studying chemistry, and help them establish a solid foundation.
Instructor: Prof. Jie Song
Class Schedule: Sundays, 4:00-6:00 PM (CT).
Dates: 01/14-05/26
Duration: 20 classes in total, each lasting two hours.
Tuition: $55 per two-hour class, total:$1100
Teaching Method: Zoom online classes. If a student is absent, please notify the teacher in advance, and video recordings will be provided. WeChat group for Q&A.
Textbook: Electronic versions will be provided. Students can also purchase physical copies if desired.
Assessment: Homework will be assigned for each chapter, and there will be five exams. Exam papers and answer keys will be sent to parents for students to complete within specified timeframes. Any questions will be addressed during class.
Trial Class: A video of a trial class (~50 minutes) can be provided.
| Class | Topics | Class | Topics |
| 1-01/14 | Chapter 1. Measurements and Calculations | 11-03/24 | Chapter 9. Energy |
| 2-01/21 | Chapter 2. Matter | 12-03/31 | Chapter 10. Modern Atomic Theory |
| 3-01/28 | Chapter 3. Elements, Atoms, and Ions | 13-04/07 | Chapter 11. Chemical Bonding |
| 4-02/04 | Chapter 4. Nomenclature | 14-04/14 | Chapter 11. Chemical Bonding |
| 5-02/11 | Chapter 5. Chemical Reaction | 15-04/21 | Chapter 12. Gases |
| 6-02/18 | Chapter 6. Reactions in Aqueous Solution | 16-04/28 | Chapter 12. Gases |
| 7-02/25 | Chapter 7. Chemical Composition | 17-05/05 | Chapter 13. Liquids and Solids |
| 8-03/03 | Chapter 7. Chemical Composition | 18-05/12 | Chapter 14. Solutions |
| 9-03/10 | Chapter 8. Chemical Quantities | 19-05/19 | Chapter 15. Acids and Bases |
| 10-03/17 | Chapter 9. Energy | 20-05/26 | Chapter 16. Equilibrium |
Canadian Chemistry Competition (CCC) Prep Class
Suitable for: Students currently taking AP Chemistry and planning to participate in the CCC competition on April 23rd (not suitable for students taking Honors Chemistry). This course will cover additional topics not covered in AP Chemistry and provide relevant knowledge in organic chemistry. Through practice, students will become familiar with the types of questions asked in the competition. For American students interested in registering for CCC, recommended organizations can be provided.
Main Instructor: Prof. Jie Song
Class Schedule: Saturdays, 3:00-5:30pm (CT).
Dates: 2/24—4/20
Duration: 10 classes in total, each lasting two hours.
Tuition: $70 per two-hour class, total $700
Teaching Method: Zoom online classes. Video recordings can be provided upon notification to the teacher.
Textbook: The teacher will provide review materials.
Note: It is recommended to register in advance. After payment, the teacher will send out the review materials, allowing students to prepare ahead of time. Due to the extensive materials provided, course refunds will not be accepted after payment.
Tuition: $70 per two-hour class, total $700
Middle School Writing and Literature online course
Course Description:
Embark on a tailored academic journey with our Middle School Writing and Literature online course, meticulously crafted to support AP and IB curriculum. Dive into advanced reading and writing, honing skills essential for success in rigorous programs. Our adaptive approach ensures each student’s unique learning needs are met, fostering a personalized academic experience. Equip yourself with the tools to navigate complex texts, craft articulate analyses, and excel in academic writing. Prepare for the challenges ahead with a course designed to empower individual growth within the framework of advanced curricula.
Students will meet via Google meet each Thursday at 8pm beginning January 11, 2024. I will use Google classroom for all class materials and students will be given codes upon registration. Active participation and webcams will be required including printing documents for class. All reading texts will be provided and no purchases are necessary.
Instructor: Ms. Natalie Baba
Class Schedule: Thursday 7:00pm-8:30pm
Dates: 1/11, 1/18, 1/25, 2/1, 2/8, 2/15, 2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/21, 3/28, 4/4, 4/11,4/18,
Tuition: $840
Grades 4-6 Reading and Writing Online Course
Welcome to our Grades 4-6 Reading and Writing Online Course! Join us on an exciting literary journey where students will enhance their reading comprehension, explore academic writing, and develop critical thinking skills. Our engaging lessons are designed to foster a love for literature while honing essential writing abilities for standard testing supporting common core and IB curriculums. From captivating international stories to expressive essays, this course empowers students to become confident and articulate communicators.
Classes meet every Wednesday at 7 pm via Google Meet, providing a consistent and interactive learning experience. Enroll now to embark on a captivating adventure in the world of words!
Instructor: Ms. Natalie Baba
Class Schedule: Wed. 7:00-8:30pm
Dates: 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31, 2/7, 2/14, 2/21, 2/28, 3/6, 3/20,3/27, 4/3, 4/10,4/17
Tuition: $840
SAT Preparation Course
Course Description:
Students will enroll in their level. This online interactive course will focus on the SAT’s Reading/Writing portions with weekly homework assignments. Students will receive the opportunity to learn testing strategies and end this course with a strong command of the SAT test and grammar by practicing previous exams and reviewing tips and tricks. We will analyze our results and delve into the reasoning behind the correct answers. In addition, students will understand reading and writing objectives designed in group activities and assignments to deepen their knowledge about the content. In this course, I will use varied texts and vocabulary lists to understand grammatical components in the English language supporting the SAT design and requirements. In all, this comprehensive course will provide individualized and group instruction to tailor students’ needs and improve test scores.
Students will meet via Google meet each Tuesday at 8:00pm beginning January 9, 2024. I will use Google classroom for all class materials and students will be given codes upon registration. Active participation and webcams will be required including printing documents for class. All SAT reading texts and vocabulary practice will be provided and no purchases are necessary. I will have recommendations provided for those who want to purchase study materials .
Instructor: Ms. Natalie Baba
Class Schedule: Tuesday 7:00 -8:30pm
Dates: 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/5, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/9, 4/16
Tuition: $840
Payment Details:-Payment may be made by Zelle Quick Pay to ivyclimbers@gmail.com
-Payment may also be made via Zellid to @ivyclimbers828
Please include your students name in the payment memo!