Courses at the CTY Program in Hong Kong are offered to students in 5th-6th grades and 7th-10th grades. All courses are taught in English. 5th-6th Grade Courses Inductive and Deductive Reasoning
Reasoning, logic, and critical thinking skills are the building blocks of intellectual inquiry. This course focuses on developing these skills through problem solving, puzzles, and exposure to a wide range of topics in mathematics. Students learn to distinguish between inductive and deductive reasoning and examine the roles played by each in mathematics. What is the next term of the sequence 1, 5, 12, 22, 35? How do these numbers relate to triangular and square numbers? The students’ introduction to inductive reasoning begins with a search for patterns in data and creating recursive and explicit formulas to describe those patterns. Students master material by considering puzzles, algebraic and geometric concepts, patterns, and real-world questions that can be answered using induction. As they move on to topics in deductive reasoning, students learn to use a system of logic to draw conclusions from statements that are accepted as true. Students encounter a variety of classic problem types as they explore symbolic logic, truth tables, axiomatic systems, matrix logic, syllogisms, Venn diagrams, knights and knaves problems, and Euler circuits. Emphasis is placed on the importance of proving conclusions using valid arguments and developing the ability to recognize fallacious reasoning Sample texts: Materials compiled by the instructor; a supplemental text such as The Number Devil, Enzensberger. Introduction to Robotics
In the field of robotics, computer science and engineering come together to create machines that can perform a variety of tasks from manufacturing microchips to exploring Mars. In this course, students develop familiarity with computer science concepts. For example, they explore topics such as algorithms, sequential control flow, and Boolean operators. Students also survey basic principles of mechanical engineering, such as simple machines and locomotion; and basic principles of electrical engineering, such as circuits and sensor feedback. Using LEGO® robotics equipment, they work together to construct, program, and test their robots in an object-oriented programming environment. For their culminating project, students design, build, and program robots to complete a complex task. The project demonstrates the basic computer science and engineering principles that underlie everything from the space shuttle to the average home toaster. Students gain a foundation in computer programming and engineering that will become increasingly important in the highly technical twenty-first century. Sample text: Materials compiled by the instructor. Lab Fee: $100 (This fee is greater than for other courses due to higher material and equipment costs.)
Science and EngineeringHow do simple machines work? How can a concrete boat float? How do you build the strongest bridge with the lightest building materials? Physics, the science of matter and its motion, helps answer these questions and more. In this course, students explore basic physics and engineering concepts such as principles of mechanics; electricity and magnetism; waves and optics; and thermodynamics. They learn through hands-on activities and projects reinforced by lectures, class discussions, and practice exercises. Students might participate in a catapult design challenge to learn about projectile motion or take part in an egg-drop container contest to investigate impulse. To study potential and kinetic energy, they might design and build roller coasters, and they could learn about current and voltage by using a lemon to light a bulb. Students carefully analyze data they collect and write reports about the projects. Students learn how to ask scientific questions, hypothesize, and experiment in order to interpret physical phenomena. By the end of the course, students acquire an understanding of major concepts in physics and an enhanced ability to work in groups and individually to solve problems in the physical sciences. Note: Students in this class should have a strong background in pre-algebra or have completed CTY’s Inductive and Deductive Reasoning or Data and Chance. Sample texts: The Cartoon Guide to Physics, Gonick; The Art of Construction, Salvadori. Lab Fee: $85 Writing and ImaginationWriting is an act of imagination; it builds from the raw materials of life and language. Students in this course read, write, and discuss a variety of genres including poems, short stories, and essays. They are encouraged to approach writing as a craft and to discover the processes and techniques that writers in all genres share. For example, students learn strategies for generating ideas, and they explore the concept and techniques of point of view. This course brings together students and instructors who, as experienced writers themselves, serve as mentors to guide students through the process of creative writing. During writing workshops, both the instructor and peers offer detailed criticism geared toward revision. Through this process of writing, critiquing, and revising, students develop confidence in their own writing and creative powers. Sample texts: Materials compiled by the instructor; a supplemental text such as The House on Mango Street, Cisneros, or Past Perfect, Present Tense: New and Collected Stories, Peck.
Model UN and Advanced GeographyWhether countries are trying to address climate change, contain a rogue nation, or track the spread of a deadly disease such as HIV/AIDS, they often present their concerns to the United Nations to facilitate international cooperation. How the UN achieves its goals is sometimes controversial; nevertheless, understanding the UN and how it works is essential to the study of international relations. In this course, students learn how the UN addresses global concerns. They study the structure, authority, and processes of the UN through readings, discussions, research, and short lectures. They examine how physical, economic, cultural, and political geographies influence and inform policymakers’ decisions. Concurrently, students hone their writing, speaking, and critical-thinking skills and also gain a working knowledge of international relations and geography. Students assume the role of ambassadors for a model United Nations simulation. Each student researches a particular country and determines where this country would stand on issues before the UN. As novice diplomats learning the art of compromise, students negotiate resolutions, learn parliamentary procedure, and build coalitions to represent their countries’ best interests. Students draft position papers and refine resolutions which are presented to a mock meeting of the General Assembly, Security Council, or another UN entity. Sample texts: United Nations Today; An Insider’s Guide to the UN, Fasulo; a major newspaper; an atlas chosen by the instructor. Back to Top
7th-10th Grade Courses
CryptologyInformation is power. Even before the first written word, the need to safeguard information created an ongoing evolutionary battle between codemakers and codebreakers. Cryptology is the study of the codes and ciphers used to create secret writing. In this math course, students begin their journey with an exploration of many early techniques for creating secret writing, such as cipher wheels, the Caesar shift, monoalphabetic substitution, and the Vigenère cipher. They move on to learn about modern techniques including RSA public key cryptography. Delving deeper into modern techniques, students explore how data transmitted by computer can be secured with digital encryption. Discussions about the vulnerabilities of each encryption system enable students to attack and decrypt messages using techniques such as frequency analysis and cribbing. Students apply what they learn to encrypt and decrypt their own secret writing. Though the course’s central focus is on the mathematics of cryptology, the historical context of cryptography and cryptographic devices is provided to further develop understanding of this branch of mathematics. For example, students examine the design and fallibility of the Enigma Machine, one of the most important cryptographic devices in history. Sample text: The Code Book, Singh. Macroeconomics and the Global Economy
Prerequisite: Algebra I. Students who are eligible for CTY Intensive Studies humanities courses may take this course, so long as they have satisfied the Algebra I prerequisite. What are the key indicators of an economy’s performance? How do governments craft monetary and fiscal policy to promote economic growth? What does it mean for a country to have a trade deficit? Analyzing economies at an aggregate level, macroeconomics—the study of economic systems—explores questions such as these, providing a bird’s-eye view of economic activity. Students in this course explore fundamental concepts in macroeconomics including national income, economic growth, inflation, employment, money, banking, financial markets, and the role of public policy. Building upon this foundation, students consider the global economy and issues in international trade and finance. Students examine comparative advantage and balance of payments, along with exchange rates and foreign currencies. By applying mathematical concepts to economic theory, students explore how economists analyze and predict changes in the economy. Through lectures, readings, discussions, simulations, and research, students gain a firm grounding in macroeconomics and an introduction to central concepts in international trade and finance. Throughout the course, they draw from this knowledge to better understand the state of the US and world economies today. Sample text: Macroeconomics, Krugman and Wells.
Fundamentals of Computer SciencePrerequisite: Algebra I or the equivalent. If you are a student in Hong Kong and have completed 7th grade math, then you have fulfilled the prerequisite for this course. No documentation is required. Not a programming course, Fundamentals of Computer Science introduces students to three major areas of the discipline: theory and algorithms, hardware systems, and software systems. In the theoretical component of the course, students learn about algorithms, Boolean algebra, binary mathematics, and the theory of computation. While studying hardware systems, they gain familiarity with the physical components of computers, digital logic, computer architecture, and computer networks. As students investigate software systems, they are introduced to elements of programming languages, compilers, computer graphics, and operating systems. Note: Students apply and illustrate some concepts they learn through work on programming projects. Learning a particular programming language is not a goal of the course. Sample text: Materials compiled by the instructor. Lab Fee: $85
Fast-Paced Upper School Physics
Prerequisite: Algebra II (Trigonometry recommended). This course covers material ordinarily included in a year-long, algebra-based introductory course in high school physics (the usual prerequisite for honors or AP Physics). Topics covered include Newtonian mechanics, wave motion, geometric and wave optics, electricity and magnetism, circuits, thermodynamics, and elementary modern physics. In labs, students learn to measure and analyze error; determine gravitational acceleration; and experiment with refraction and diffraction of light, waves, simple circuit analysis, and the magnetic deflection of electrons. Lab time comprises at least twenty hours of the course contact time. Sample text: Physics: Principles and Practice, Zitzewitz. Lab Fee: $85
Introduction to the Biomedical SciencesThis course is an introduction to human biology and the science of medicine. Drawing upon basic biological and chemical concepts, students explore the intricate anatomical and physiological mechanisms underlying normal human function. Students then investigate homeostatic imbalances that cause diseases. In learning about diabetes, for example, students gain an in-depth understanding of the endocrine system, the pancreas, the metabolism of sugar, and the biochemical effects of glucose. Lab work covers techniques in histology, anatomy and physiology (including dissections), and biochemistry. Additionally, students learn to read critically and respond to articles in scientific journals and the popular media. Note: This course is designed for students who have completed only grades 7 or 8. Students who, by this summer, will have completed grade 9 or higher are not eligible. For more information, please visit the sample course syllabus. Sample text: The Human Body in Health and Disease, Thibodeau and Patton. Lab Fee: $85 Back to top
Creative Nonfiction
Students in this course explore the literary devices and story-telling skills of creative writers and apply them to the crafting of fact-based narratives. Beginning with memoir and personal essays and moving to essays about the world around them, students learn to tell true stories using the traditional tools of fiction and poetry, with particular attention to evocative imagery and the beauty of language. By reading the work of accomplished creative nonfiction writers such as David Foster Wallace, James Baldwin, and Joan Didion, students learn about the interplay of personal experience and journalistic reporting and consider how a writer’s voice and experiences shape a text. Students assess the freedoms and constraints of creative nonfiction by reading and discussing the work of writers who experiment with the boundaries of the genre. In addition to daily reading and writing exercises, students complete four to six major essays. They experiment with literary elements, techniques for organizing essays, creating meaningful transitions, and beginning and ending their works effectively. Students leave the course with a clearer sense of audience and their own authorial voices, as well as a deeper understanding of the strategies and practices of strong nonfiction writing. Note: Students who have completed CTY's Crafting the Essay should not take this course. Sample texts: In Fact: The Best of Creative Nonfiction, Gutkind, ed.; materials compiled by the instructor. Back to top
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