May 31, 2001

SMU TO OFFER EDUCATIONAL SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR YOUTH

DALLAS (SMU) -- Southern Methodist University offers a variety of summer classes for students in grades K through 12 in four-day to four-week workshops at the SMU-in-Legacy facility in Plano.

Programs use computers, software, electronic technology, Legos, science, mathematics, art, foreign language and communications. For more information, call (214) 768-7245.

• "Tactics, Terrain and Technology," a new, five-day computer game strategy course, builds strategic critical-thinking and problem solving skills in students entering grades five through eight. Incorporating applications of geography and technology, students work in teams on educational computer games to strategize against other teams of students. Axis and Allies is a computer game that teaches students how to plan for the production and distribution of war materials to maintain and advance their field positions. Age of Empires is a computer game that requires students to study topography in planning communities and in waging war. Civilization is a computer game that teaches students about a balanced economy, including allocating resources among economic, scientific and military needs. The cost of the one-week class is $155.
• "The Sorcerer's Stone: The Search is On!" is a theater and literature adventure course that allows students entering grades four through eight to learn about the first year at Hogwarts School of Wizardry, based on the Harry Potter book series by J.K.Rowling. Students will explore the magical world of Harry Potter and deal with themes of optimism, trustworthiness, wisdom and family. At the conclusion of the workshop, students will play a sport called Quidditch. Cost of the session is $155.
• "How Rude Can You Get?" is a class on social etiquette for students entering grades 7 through 12. Students learn how to host gatherings, write letters, answer invitations, cope with friendship problems, deal with rude adults, respond to bigotry, dress properly and survive a formal dinner. They will discuss proper techniques for civilized spitting, scratching, sneezing, yawning, coughing, hiccuping and other discreet behaviors. This interactive class costs $95, including a luncheon.