Whether it’s a for-credit class needed to round out a school schedule or just an academic interest you’d like to pursue, Harker’s Summer Institute is the place to be for a seriously smart summer.
Summer Institute Upper School
Summer Institute allows students to choose from a variety of academic options, including rigorous for-credit high school courses and non-credit opportunities for enrichment and growth.
Most courses are open to qualified students enrolled in any accredited high school. Our dedicated faculty, combined with small classes, great facilities and a positive learning environment add up to a great summer experience!
June 18-July 27, 2018 (Class Sessions Vary by Subject)
Upper School For-Credit Courses
These summer academic courses are equivalent to courses offered during the academic year and use the same texts and materials. Classes are small to ensure quality instruction and retention of course materials. Our teachers (many of whom work at Harker year-round) are caring and professional, and dedicated to providing a quality summer learning experience for each student.
At-A-Glance Course Listing- Algebra 1
- Algebra 1 Honors
- Geometry
- Geometry Honors
- Algebra 2/Trigonometry
- Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors
Algebra 1
Non-Harker Students: Grades 6-12
Harker Students: Grade 9
Prerequisites: Must have an 87% or better in Pre-Algebra; department approval.
Textbook and TI-83/84 calculator required. (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,745
This is an introductory course in algebra and is intended for students who have very little background in algebra. The goals of the course are for students to manipulate mathematical expressions involving variables, integers and the laws of exponents; solve problems that go beyond manipulative skills; demonstrate mastery in algebraic expressions; factor polynomials; solve real-world problems involving the quadratic formula.
Algebra 1 Honors
All Students: Grades 7-9
Prerequisites: Must have a 95% or better in Pre-Algebra Honors; department approval.
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Textbook and TI-83/84 calculator required. (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
Fee: $1,745
This is an accelerated and intensive introductory course in algebra. The goals of the course are for students to: manipulate mathematical expressions involving variables, integers and the laws of exponents; solve problems that go beyond manipulative skills; demonstrate mastery in algebraic expressions; solve and graph equations and inequalities; factor polynomials; solve real-world problems involving the quadratic formula and using the graphing calculator. This course is aimed at students who are capable of quickly learning and understanding an advanced treatment of Algebra 1 concepts.
Geometry
Non-Harker Students: Grades 6-12
Harker Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Must have an 87% or better in Algebra 1; department approval.
Textbook Required (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,745
This course in Euclidean geometry aims to present geometry to students as a problem-solving course. It also aims to help students acquire skills in making logical conclusions and developing their visual spatial skills. By the end of the course, students are expected to: write narrative proofs and two-column proofs; solve problems related to geometry; demonstrate skills in using auxiliary figures to solve geometric problems; list properties of special geometric elements such as triangles, parallel lines, circles, quadrilaterals and platonic solids; construct geometric figures using a straight edge and compass.
Geometry Honors
All Students: Grades 6-12
Prerequisites: Grades 6-8 Must have a 95% or better in Algebra 1 Honors; department approval. Grades 9-12 must have a 90% or better in Algebra 1 Honors; department approval.
Textbook required (books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,745
This is an accelerated and intensive version of the Euclidean geometry course described above and is intended for advanced students only. This course is aimed at students who are capable of a quicker pace and a more advanced treatment of the concepts in geometry. Non-Harker students will be contacted about placement testing in May.
Algebra 2/Trigonometry
Non-Harker Students: Grades 6-12
Harker Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Must have an 87% or better in Geometry; department approval.
Textbook and TI-83/84 calculator required. (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,745
This course aims to further develop the analytical skills of students who have shown competence in doing difficult mathematical problems. The goals of the course are for students to: demonstrate mastery in using a TI-83/84 calculator effectively in solving algebraic problems; show skills in proving theorems, making conjectures and establishing the truth and falsity of these conjectures; graph with ease and state the general characteristics of polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions. This course will prepare students for Pre-Calculus.
Algebra 2/Trigonometry Honors
All Students: Grades 6-12
Prerequisites: Grades 6-8 must have a 95% or better in Geometry Honors; department approval. Grades 9-12 must have a 90% or better in Geometry Honors; department approval.
Textbook and TI-83/84 calculator required. (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018
June 18-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,745
This is an accelerated and intensive version of the Algebra 2 course described above and is intended for advanced students only. In addition, this course places greater emphasis on mathematical proof and induction, and explores variation, analytic geometry, trigonometric relationships and solving triangles. This course is designed to prepare the student for Honors Pre-Calculus.
Economics
All Students: Grades 10-12
Prerequisite: World History 1 or World History 1 Honors
Textbook required
June 18-July 6 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $890
This course will introduce students to the basic principles of economics, including the theory of supply and demand and market theory. These basic theoretical tools will help students analyze current economic issues and their relevance to society and public policy. Classes will consist primarily of discussion developed from readings, films and student reports.
Programming
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Geometry
Textbook and laptop required (books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-4 p.m.
Fee: $1,240
This course helps entry-level computer science students develop their computational thinking skills by applying the basic steps in algorithmic problem-solving and abstraction. Students apply modern software design techniques to strategize and communicate solutions and then develop a program that embodies their solution. Students increase their abstraction skills by analyzing and then decomposing complex problems into smaller, more manageable problems. They store objects in a data structure then manipulate them. Students not only gain an appreciation of elegant solutions but also experience the thrill of obtaining them, as they explore virtual worlds with robots and fashion creatures of their own design while learning basic programming and algorithmic thinking skills. Currently, programming concepts are taught using the Java programming language. Programming is designed to fulfill the prerequisite for students who intend to pursue Advanced Placement Computer Science A.
Advanced Programming
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Geometry with A- or better
Textbook and laptop required (books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 27 | 9 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-4 p.m.
Fee: $1,240
This course helps students develop their computational thinking skills by applying the basic steps in algorithmic problem-solving and abstraction. Students apply software design techniques to strategize and communicate solutions and then develop a program that embodies their solution. They learn to use techniques such as inheritance, methods and recursion to break complex problems down into smaller, more manageable sub-problems. Students not only gain an appreciation of elegant solutions but also experience the thrill of obtaining them.
Using one or more modern programming languages, students explore virtual worlds (Karel worlds, GridWorld and gameboards) while learning object-oriented programming skills such as creating classes, designing and implementing methods, and exploring inheritance. Students expand their programming skills by applying techniques like recursion to solve an adventure puzzle or game. Currently, programming concepts are taught using the Java programming language.
Advanced Programming is a fast-paced course and is a prerequisite for the student who has an intense interest in computer science and intends to follow up this course with Advanced Placement Computer Science with Data Structures (i.e., data structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees and maps). At completion, successful students are qualified for AP Computer Science A. Qualification for AP Computer Science A with Data Structures is subject to the results of the placement exam.
June 18-July 27, 2018 (Class Sessions Vary by Subject)
Upper School Enrichment Courses
These classes (designed just for high schoolers) provide an opportunity for students to expand their knowledge and interest in a favorite subject area. Our dedicated faculty, combined with small classes, great facilities and a positive learning environment add up to a great summer experience!
At-A-Glance Course Listing- Getting Ready for Pre-Calculus: Interpreting Math as a Language and “Intense Algebra”
- Getting Ready for Algebra 2: Connecting the Concrete with the Abstract
- Logic and Problem-Solving
- MORE Logic and Problem-Solving
- Planning and Thriving: How to be Successful in High School
- Creative Writers Workshop
- Expository Writing and Grammar Review
- Driver's Education
Getting Ready for Pre-Calculus: Interpreting Math as a Language and “Intense Algebra”
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 2 and Geometry
June 18-July 6 or July 9-July 27 | 8:30-11 a.m.
Fee: $520
This course is designed to help students strengthen their existing algebra and geometry skills prior to entering Pre-calculus in the fall. Mastery of concepts related to functions and trigonometry often eludes students as they progress through two years of algebra and a year of geometry. Providing students with a focused review of these topics provides them with the best opportunity to feel confident and prepared as they enter pre-calculus. Note: This course is not designed to provide a head-start on the topics covered in a pre-calculus class.
Getting Ready for Algebra 2: Connecting the Concrete with the Abstract
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: Completion of Algebra 1
June 18-July 6 | 8:30-11 a.m.
Fee: $520
This survey course is designed to help students solidify the concepts and skills learned in Algebra 1 and look ahead to their upcoming Algebra 2 class. Students will practice and review their understanding of past skills and be introduced to important new topics and problems that await them in the Fall. Getting Ready for Algebra 2 covers a variety of topics including: graphs, systems of equations, powers and roots, quadratic and logarithmic functions, complex numbers, probability, coordinate geometry, and matrices. Some trigonometry concepts will also be covered towards the end of the session. Lessons, activities and explorations will support deeper understanding of important math concepts and improved math confidence.
Logic and Problem-Solving
All Students: Grades 9-10
Prerequisites: None
June 25-July 6 | 8:30-11 a.m.
Fee: $350
This course is for those who delight in solving challenging math problems and who would like to further develop both their problem-solving and their logical-reasoning skills. Problem solving is the activity of the mathematician, and logical reasoning will frame our activities. Though we will examine how formal math can be used directly to help solve certain mathematical problems, we will find that logical reasoning is not all there is to problem solving. Good problem-solving skills include ingenuity, creativity, and the ability to apply a variety of strategies and techniques. In this course, students will practice using fundamental tools and standard techniques for problem solving, and they will be given the opportunity to develop their mathematical ingenuity through practice on problems in a wide range of difficulty. The mathematical subject areas that the problems are drawn from will be varied… but there are no prerequisites for this course. All you need is curiosity and willingness to use your imagination and intuition!
MORE Logic and Problem-Solving
All Students: Grades 9-10
Prerequisites: None
July 9-July 20 | 8:30-11 a.m.
Fee: $350
This course is a continuation of Logic and Problem Solving. There is no need to attend both sessions of this course as each course stands alone. And remember, the mathematical subject areas that the course problems are drawn from will be varied… but there are no prerequisites for this course. All you need is curiosity and willingness to use your imagination and intuition!
Planning and Thriving: How to be Successful in High School
All Students: Grades 9-10
Prerequisites: None
June 18-July 6 | 8:30-11 a.m.
Fee: $520
This enrichment course is designed to help teenagers reflect on and clarify their goals for high school, map out detailed plans to reach them, and then put their plans into practice. Using real world case studies and videos on time management skills, students will learn how to shape new habits that will produce better results. This practical method will teach students to address stressful situations, sleep habits, social media distractions, etc., by prioritizing and working with intention. Lessons, activities and explorations will support the development of a lifelong skill of planning and thriving.
Creative Writers Workshop
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: English 1 or department approval
Textbook required (books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 6 | 8-11 a.m.
Fee: $570
The Creative Writers Workshop is for students who are eager to spend three intensive weeks stretching their talents in writing fiction and poetry. In these weeks, students will become better at reflecting on the world around them, and will learn strategies for bringing these reflections brightly to life on the page. Students will feed their imaginations by exploring several prompts each day and developing poetry, short stories, scenes and drama. Students will also read and discuss a range of writers and types of writing. The class is run in a supportive, workshop atmosphere, with students sharing and critiquing one another's drafts along with the instructor. By the end of the session, students will be more confident and knowledgeable writers – and will probably have built some meaningful friendships as well!
Expository Writing and Grammar Review
All Students: Grades 9-12
Prerequisites: None
Textbook required (books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 18-July 6 or July 9-July 27 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $890
This course will introduce students to basic rhetorical modes. Using model essays, students will learn to identify effective patterns of writing and to apply those patterns in their own writing. Students will practice paragraph composition using narrative, descriptive and comparative structures. Writing and revision will be emphasized. The course will cover the following grammatical topics: parts of speech, types of clauses, verb forms, verb tense consistency, active and passive voice, subject and verb agreement, pronoun case and agreement, phrases and verbals, dangling and misplaced modifiers, subordination and coordination, punctuation usage. This course will prepare students for the grade 9 English course at Harker's upper school.
Driver's Education
Prerequisites: Minimum age is 15
June 11-June 14 (Monday-Thursday) | 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Fee: $200 (fee includes lunch)
Driver's Education, the state-required course for students to obtain their instruction permit, will be taught by Economic Driving School instructors this summer at The Harker School. The classroom course is four days in length and covers all the material needed for students to pass the written test. All instructors are credentialed school teachers and they have been serving Santa Clara County since 1978.
Registration for AP Chemistry and AP Biology will be invitation only.
Students who requested the corresponding course through their 2018-19 course selection will receive an invitation to register for the required summer course.
The deadline to register for AP Chemistry is Friday, February 23rd.
AP Biology
Enrolled incoming Harker juniors only
Prerequisites: 90% or higher in first-semester Honors Chemistry (including the weighting of the semester exam) or 87% or higher in first-semester AP Chemistry (including the weighting of the semester exam). See below for further clarification
Textbook Required (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 25-July 20 | 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fee: $1,165
This course will cover approximately 30% of the AP Biology curriculum, with the remaining 70% covered during the academic year. Topics will include biochemistry, cell structure and function, membranes, enzymes, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, cellular communication, and ecology. Students will complete several of the required college-level labs including studies of diffusion and osmosis, enzyme activity, cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and ecosystem productivity. Successful completion of the course (83% or better) and instructor approval are required to continue in AP Biology as a junior during the academic year. The AP Biology exam will be taken in May of the junior year.
Rising 11th graders (via Honors Chemistry): To qualify for AP Biology, a student will have completed semester 1 of Honors Chemistry with an overall grade of A- (90%) or higher, including the weighting of the semester exam. Final approval for AP Biology will be based on maintaining strong academic performance and classroom behavior throughout semester 2.
Rising 11th graders (via AP Chemistry): To qualify for AP Biology, a student will have completed semester 1 of AP Chemistry with an overall grade of B+ (87%) or higher, including the weighting of the semester exam. Final approval for AP Biology will be based on maintaining strong academic performance and classroom behavior throughout semester 2.
AP Chemistry
Enrolled incoming Harker sophomores only
Prerequisites: 93% or higher in first-semester Honors Physics (including the weighting of the semester exam). See below for further clarification
Textbook Required (Books will be available to purchase through the Harker Eagle Store as of May 14, 2018)
June 25-July 20 | 8 a.m.-12 p.m. (Group A - Morning) or 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. (Group B - mid-day)
Lunch included in the morning and mid-day classes.
Fee: $1,165
This course will cover approximately the first 25% of the AP Chemistry curriculum including scientific method, atomic theory, stoichiometry, reaction types and the first law of thermodynamics. In addition, laboratory safety and laboratory techniques will be emphasized with college-level labs that reinforce the material being covered in class. Successful completion is required for permission to enroll in AP Chemistry as a sophomore. The AP Chemistry exam will be taken at the end of the sophomore year. Placement in Group A and Group B (Morning and Mid-day) sections of AP Chemistry will be determined by random lottery that will take place on February 26th.
Grade 10: Students who qualify for AP Chemistry will have completed semester 1 of Honors Physics with an overall grade of A (or higher). Final approval for AP Chemistry will be based on maintaining strong academic performance and classroom behavior throughout semester 2.
Summer Lunch
Lunch for an entire session is an option for students. Regular and vegetarian entrees are offered each day and menus are designed to provide healthy, nutritious options.
Eligibility
Boys and girls entering grades 9-12 in fall 2018 are eligible. Most courses are open to qualified students enrolled in any accredited high school; some require prerequisites. High school options include both enrichment and for-credit courses. Students enrolled in for-credit courses should be prepared for rigorous instruction and two to three hours of homework each day. Attendance is crucial and students may miss no more than two days to qualify for credit. Students who miss more than one class period of a three-week course, or more than two class periods of a six-week course, will not be eligible for credit. International students must complete an additional recommendation form and may participate in institute programs if they have strong English skills and meet the class prerequisites.
