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The Arts

Architectural Design (AM):  Architectural design is the expression of ideas in spatial, material, and cultural terms. It can be inspired by a functional need, the structure of a leaf, or a philosophical text alike. The field of architecture blurs boundaries between creative and scientific disciplines and is distinguished by its inherently social and public nature. As we have all been inhabiting architecture through the course of our lives, studying it is really about creatively and critically remembering what we already know. This process is similar to learning a language: it is a two-fold process of absorbing fundamental principles and skills which are akin to grammar while also developing a vocabulary of space, material, and history through which to work. The seminar is taught in a studio format and structured as a series of cumulative projects which engage students in the exploration of ideas for designs that inspire us to see the surrounding world anew. (back to course list)

Creating Worlds: Fiction & Poetry Workshop (PM): (back to course list) Armed with nothing more than a notebook and a pencil (or a laptop), writers can explore imagined worlds, embark on personal journeys, and capture the important moments of life. Whether your goal is to write your first novel before you turn twenty or simply to create a poem that captures a particular feeling you’ve had, this dynamic workshop-style course is a step in the right direction. Led by published authors, the course is flexible enough to allow students to develop skills in the creative writing genres of their choice. Brief readings in fiction and poetry complement imaginative, often field-based writing exercises focusing on important craft issues such as dialogue, imagery, narrative structure, word choice, theme, and storytelling technique. Constructive peer critiques allow young writers to learn from each other and refine their prose or poetry in a tolerant, supportive environment. A reading is held toward the end of the program, and students may submit their work to an Excel literary magazine.

The Personal Essay: Creative Nonfiction Workshop (AM): (back to course list) Thinking about those college essays? Ready to break the cookie-cutter mold you learned in high school English? This dynamic workshop-style course may be just what you need to find your own unique writing voice. Led by a published essayist, this course supplements readings in contemporary nonfiction with stimulating writing exercises on such important topics as argumentation, imagery, word economy, and anecdote. Get beyond the traditional school essay to learn the techniques that will give your writing power and impact. Write about what’s important to you, whether it’s a memory from childhood, a key moment in your life, or a profile of the person who has influenced you most. Constructive peer critiques allow young writers to learn from each other and refine their essays in a tolerant, supportive environment. A reading is held toward the end of the program, and students may submit their work to an Excel literary magazine

Exploring Culture Through Dance (PM): (back to course list) Our bodies are one of our richest means of communication. Dance explores the expressive potential of the human body in movement, refining this universal language into an artistic medium. Dance also has been used for centuries to tell stories, celebrate cultural events and strengthen social bonds. This class explores a wide range of approaches, including African Dance, Hip-Hop, modern dance, jazz, tango, and other techniques. The strictly limited class size allows for individualized and small-group instruction that responds to participants’ experience and interests in developing performance, improvisation, and composition skills. As a complement to their own efforts, dance students enjoy ample opportunity to see professional dance performances at local venues, including a trip to the famous Berkshire dance center, Jacob’s Pillow. The workshop culminates in a dance recital, choreographed and performed by the students and presented to the entire Excel community. Dance experience is helpful, but not required.

No Strings Attached: A Capella (PM): (back to course list) Are you a fan of Rockapella or the Doo-Wop Shop of the 1950’s? The human voice is the most versatile musical instrument on earth. Instruments were invented to imitate all that voices can do; a capella uses voice to imitate instruments. In this new and dynamic course, participants work on vocal part positioning and choreography, hone their musical ear, and learn beatbox, vocal percussion, scat, barbershop, and doo wop. Work on song choice and arrangement using software like Sibelius, and improve your breathing and vocal techniques. Hold a vocal jam session and learn to produce sounds you never thought you could. At the end of the course, students will have the opportunity to compose and arrange an original piece and perform at the final coffee shop.

The Art of Digital Photography (AM): (back to course list) It is no exaggeration to say that the increasing use of digital photography and the digital treatment of images have changed the way we look at the world. A photographer on assignment in a distant country can now snap a picture, retouch it, and send it to the printing press, all within a matter of minutes. This course is a practical introduction to key technical concepts, and to the use of digital cameras and photo editing software. Participants learn shooting techniques and develop an “eye” for the possibilities offered by subsequent digital editing. Students also explore the implications of digital manipulation in an age dominated by the power of the image. This course incorporates a number of projects, including collaborations with other courses, such as Journalism, and culminates in a gallery showing of student work. Students must bring their own digital cameras with a pixel depth of at least 3 megapixels. There is a supplemental fee of $250 for this course.

Inside the Artist’s Studio: Drawing and Painting (AM & PM): (back to course list) There is always room for new discoveries, new inspiration, and new directions for an artist. Students in this course develop and refine their artistic vision as they explore a variety of materials and media. Working with acrylics, watercolor, or charcoal, they create pieces based on subjects ranging from the human figure to still life, from landscape to portraiture. Feedback is individualized through regular critiques, during which students are encouraged to evaluate their own and each other’s work. There are frequent visits to area museums (including the Clark Institute and MASS MoCA in North Adams, and the Mead Museum in Amherst), as well as consultations with accomplished artists. Students prepare a personal portfolio and present selections from their work at a program-wide gallery opening at the end of the session. All art supplies for this course are provided for a mandatory fee of $150.

Inspiration to Runway: Fashion Design (AM & PM)): (back to course list) In this introductory course, students learn the basic skills of clothing design. They begin by learning to communicate design concepts in clothing with style and expression, as well as to consider the social and cultural implications of fashion. Students then have the opportunity to sketch out the designs of their own clothes, including patterns, colors, and cuts. Students make their designs a reality through a series of sequenced projects which the whole program admires in a culminating fashion show. They will need to commit extra time outside of class time to finish projects. Supplies for this course are provided for a mandatory fee of $100.

Music Composition and Performance (PM): (back to course list) Music is a language, a form of communication that operates on several levels. As students bring their various talents and abilities together to compose and perform in a group setting, they discover new ways to speak this language. Music from around the world is used to illustrate varying composition and performance styles. Small, manageable composition exercises are gradually expanded and elaborated; these compositions later combine to provide a basis for group performance and a point of departure for improvisation. The course culminates in a recording session and a concert to be performed for the entire Excel community. No composition experience is needed. The ability to read music is helpful, but not required. Those who sing or play a musical instrument at any skill level are encouraged to enroll.

Intro to Darkroom Photography (AM): (back to course list) Even in this digital day and age, operating a 35mm camera, processing black & white film, and printing photographs are all essential skills for an aspiring photographer. Students in this introductory course learn basic shooting and developing techniques and begin to shape their own photographic style, focusing on people, nature, landscapes, still-life, and architecture. The course culminates in a display of student work at a final gallery opening. Due to the nature of darkroom processing, students need to commit extra time outside of class to finish projects. Students must provide their own 35mm cameras. All photography supplies are provided for a mandatory fee of $150.

Building a Portfolio: Advanced Darkroom Photography Workshop (PM): (back to course list) If a picture is worth a thousand words, then a roll of film is a tale waiting to be told. This course helps more advanced photography students explore their storytelling potential as they prepare an independent photo series project. Seminar time is dedicated to critiques, instruction in the use of flash and tripod, and advanced camera and darkroom techniques. The majority of each student’s work takes place in the field, researching and snapping shots for his or her portfolio, which is displayed at a final gallery opening. Due to the nature of darkroom processing, students need to commit extra time outside of class to finish projects. Students must provide their own 35mm cameras. All photography supplies are provided for a mandatory fee of $150. Prerequisite: students should know how to use a manual camera and how to develop and print black & white film.

Writing for Stage and Screen: Scriptwriting Workshop (AM): (back to course list) Today’s plays, movies, and television shows incorporate the work of a wide-ranging team of artists, actors, directors, producers, casting agents, and technicians. But the script is the engine that drives a quality production and provides its underlying foundation. Broadway plays, Hollywood blockbusters, MTV, sitcoms, and the nightly news are all scripted well before they are produced. Using a workshop format, students develop their own scripts for a play, an episode of a television series, or a short film. They also have the opportunity to watch plays and films by Alfred Hitchcock, David Mamet, Martin Scorsese, and others, paying special attention to the way they are written. This seminar is open to any student regardless of writing experience. Students watch some films that are “R” rated.

All the World’s a Stage: Improv and Stand-up Comedy (PM): (back to course list) Whether you’re the class clown or a young actor wanting to improve your stage presence, this active theater workshop may be the place for you. Beginning with a series of fun dramatic exercises designed to improve your skills and comfort level on stage, this course is an invitation to hours of exciting, unpredictable improvisation. Under the guidance of an experienced improv actor or comedian, you’ll learn and practice important skills such as characterization, movement, and physical comedy. Work up your own comedy routine or join others in a performing improv troupe. Participate in constructive critique sessions where you learn from your peers and instructor in a tolerant, supportive environment. Then, if you like, take to the stage in a final show open to the entire Excel community. Students will have the opportunity to see a variety of stand-up and improve comedy at venues in the Amherst area.

Recycle and Redesign: Turning Junk into Functional Art (PM): (back to course list) We all know the phrase “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”. In this course, we will learn how true that really is. In an age where it is hip to be green, we’ll learn how to transform those garage sale finds into something completely new. Turn those old typewriter keys into a bracelet; use bottle caps to decorate a worn-out chair; make a bird house out of a retired license plate or transform retired t-shirts into handbags. Through vision and creativity, we’ll create unique pieces while providing you with the skills necessary to continue treasure hunting back home. Students share their re-creations with the rest of the campus in a culminating show. Supplies for this course are provided for a mandatory fee of $100.

The Show Must Go On! Acting and Directing (PM): (back to course list) Students become part of a working theatre ensemble, culminating in a theatre production attended by the entire Excel community. While exploring the energy of an ensemble through group work, improvisation, text, and a variety of theatre techniques, the course engages students’ creativity through collaboration as they develop material and a style all their own. As a complement to their own work, ensemble members attend plays presented at the Williamstown Theatre Festival and other professional theatres in the area. Workshops and rehearsals are held each afternoon, and during the second half of the program the rehearsal schedule extends into late afternoons and evenings. This course is ideal for students of all levels of experience who are excited about theatre and ready to challenge themselves in a supportive and energizing environment.

YouTube to Sundance: Video Production Workshop (PM): (back to course list) Making a video may seem as simple as pointing a camera and pressing a button, but it is, in fact, an involved and rewarding process. In this production-oriented workshop, students get a hands-on introduction to video. They practice storyboarding, camera operation, sound recording, lighting, direction, and non-linear editing as they collaborate on a series of video projects. The seminar also explores the hidden language of cinema by looking at a variety of films, from documentaries to experimental shorts. As a final project, students apply their scripting and directing expertise to the production of a series of short videos, which they present at a campus-wide film screening. Students should plan on putting in extra hours for editing, and will watch some films that are “R” rated. There is a supplemental fee of $250 for this course.

The Humanities

Biomedical Ethics: Hot Debates in Modern Medicine (AM): (back to course list) This class touches on the philosophy of science and the critique of biotechnology, and explores a profession where a wrong decision can hasten or even cause death. From the Hippocratic Oath to the Declaration of Helsinki, the medical profession has long practiced under a shared set of ethical guidelines, whereas the emerging field of biomedicine has been compared to the Wild West. Research and debate both sides of controversial topics such as euthanasia, stem-cell research, abortion, homeopathic remedies, cloning and parental selection of specific genetic traits for their offspring. Other topics could include the influence of money on modern medicine, what it means to “do right” by people, and a look at the history of alternative medicine.

Current Events: The American Political Milieu (PM): (back to course list) Are you a liberal, a conservative, or something else altogether? Find out in this dynamic new seminar focusing on the American political scene. Through an exciting new format consisting of up-to-the-minute media broadcasts and extensive seminar-style discussion and debate, learn about American politics while developing your ability to construct reasoned, logical arguments. Stay on top of what’s going on by reading blogs and watching newscasts. Support your own opinions on current events in America by honestly considering the opinions of others. Among other questions, we’ll consider some of the following: Does opinion-driven news and polarized, Hardball-style debate help or hinder the democratic process? What is the role of Internet bloggers in setting the terms of the debate? What powers do lobbyists and corporate interests have in Washington? Is a return to civil political discourse possible, or even desirable, in contemporary America?

Eat Local and Go Green: Sustainable Agriculture and Renewable Energy in New England (PM): (back to course list) In response to such trends as climate change and rising energy costs, Americans and people throughout the world are thinking about ways to change consumption habits. Dairy, livestock, and produce farmers are rethinking growing techniques to be more environmentally friendly and to appeal to the expanding market for locally-sourced products. Entrepreneurs are looking at new, less detrimental ways to provide our energy, and the average citizen is trying to do his or her part through conservation, efficiency, and eco-conscious shopping. Participants in this exciting course will have the chance to debate and discuss these trends in a dynamic seminar format. In addition they’ll get out into the field to see how the issues play out in the real world. Sample the wares of artisan bakers, cheese-makers, and organic vegetable farmers. Learn from local experts about state of the art developments in solar electric and hot water, small-scale hydro, wind power, and “cow power” bio fuel. Visit a nuclear power plant to talk with engineers about safety and spent-fuel disposal.

Film Studies: The Language of Cinema (PM): (back to course list)
The development of any art form is a restless search for new forms of expression. A great innovation may break with past “rules,” only to be adopted later into conventional forms. Today’s cinematic language has been influenced by a combination of artistic, scientific, and economic developments over the past 100 years. This seminar examines the visual language we take for granted when we watch movies. What are the “rules” that make a believable reality on screen? What are the artistic and technological innovations that have expanded the language of cinema? How will the art of moving pictures change with the ever expanding world of new digital technologies? Students watch some films that are “R” rated.

From Troy to Afghanistan: The History of Modern War (AM): (back to course list) The current world political order has been shaped by major international conflicts such as the World Wars, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and on-going strife in the Middle East. This course examines the struggle for land, power, or resources that drives nations into battle, and investigates the political and social ramifications of war. Using role-playing, debate, games, movies, and field trips, students explore military strategies used in major wars and discuss the impact of war on individuals and nations. Visits to local historic battlefields help link past to present and reveal how technology has affected warfare. Finally, students look at current conflicts in the Middle East and discuss their implications for the future.

Sports, Society, and Culture (AM): (back to course list) How does soccer explain post-WWII German society? Why do Canadians love their hockey? What role did baseball play along the road to civil rights. What can Rocky IV teach us about the Cold War? More important than the touchdowns, goals, or statistics they produce, sports create, define, and explain cultures and national identities. Played by billions (and watched by billions more,) sports and their subsequent cultures affect us daily. By referencing such themes as globalization and modernization; nationalism and chauvinism, as well as religion, racism, and gender, students will reflect upon the multitude of ways sport has shaped - and continues to shape - cultures and national identities. With the aid of sports broadcasts, films, and field trips, along with debates and independent research, students will consider the powerful historical, social, and political impact of sport upon society, both on and off the pitch.

Philosophical Enigmas (PM): (back to course list) The current world political order has been shaped by major international conflicts such as the World Wars, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and on-going strife in the Middle East. This course examines the struggle for land, power, or resources that drives nations into battle, and investigates the political and social ramifications of war. Using role-playing, debate, games, movies, and field trips, students explore military strategies used in major wars and discuss the impact of war on individuals and nations. Visits to local historic battlefields help link past to present and reveal how technology has affected warfare. Finally, students look at current conflicts in the Middle East and discuss their implications for the future.

From Belfast to Baghdad: Religion and Conflict (PM): (back to course list) What makes a religion different from a philosophy? All over the world, fiercely committed individuals are ready to die, even to kill, in the name of faith. As a group, we will address the question of whether religion is a platform for the world’s most prominent evil or its only salvation. Topics of discussion include the Catholic Church in the Holocaust, the Protestant churches in South Africa during Apartheid, Islam in the fanatical events such as 9/11, but also in the current genocide in Darfur, and the role of Hinduism in the massacres in India at the end of British colonialism. By studying and comparing the texts, beliefs, and rituals of Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, and Christianity; and through active field trips to places such as Amherst’s Peace Pagoda, or attending a Hatha Yoga class, students consider the ways in which these beliefs have had an effect on history and the ways in which they affect the contemporary world - politically, artistically, and personally.

Language and Rhetoric

From Blogs to Glossies:Print Journalism in the Internet Age (PM): (back to course list) In the Internet Age, content is king. Those who can distill information into arguments, create compelling narratives, and bring subjects to life with vivid, impossible-to-resist prose hold the keys to the future of journalism. In this exciting, up-to-the-minute course, students read and analyze contemporary magazines and on-line news sources, with special attention to the fine art of feature writing. Then they hit the streets to research and prepare their own stories, using interviews, observation, and opinion to explore contemporary life, culture, science, and/or politics. Led by a published writer/journalist, this workshop-style writing course allows students to learn from their peers as they refine their reporting and storytelling techniques. At the end of the course, students create an on-line blog or newsmagazine.

Friends, Romans, Countrymen: Public Speaking and Debate (AM): (back to course list) Speaking in front of crowds is a terrifying prospect for many people, yet few skills are more important in everyday life. Students in this course take the first steps toward becoming effective public speakers as they overcome their fear of speaking in front of small and large groups and learn techniques for engaging their audience. Students discuss and practice formal and informal debating techniques, as they learn about the uses (and misuses) of rhetoric. Over the course of the class they prepare and present several speeches on topics of their choosing using John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, Jr., President Obama, and others as examples. International students choosing this course must have a strong grasp of the English language.

Spanish Language through Pop Culture (AM): (back to course list) This class is for intermediate or advanced level Spanish students who want to practice their language skills and learn about contemporary cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. Instead of studying Spanish from a textbook, in this class we will study how the language is used in day-to-day life in Spain and Latin America. By watching movies and television shows and reading magazine and newspaper articles, students will improve their comprehension of spoken and written Spanish while learning about the cultures in which they are produced. In-class discussions about the materials will allow the students to develop their conversation skills and fluency. By the end of the class students will have a greater confidence in their Spanish as well as a deeper knowledge of the popular cultures of the Spanish-speaking world. At least two years of high school Spanish is required.

French Language through Pop Culture (PM): (back to course list) This course seeks to build students’ confidence with conversation. Similar to Spanish Conversation, this course is designed to help students communicate effectively in French in a variety of contexts. At least two years of high school French is required.

English as a Second Language (ESL) (AM): (back to course list) This course is open to foreign students wishing to acquire English fluency by living and learning in an English-speaking environment. Through a specially designed series of fun and active conversational exercises and games, students learn to communicate effectively with their American counterparts and to participate fully in the life of the program.

Social Sciences

Business and Economics in Today’s Economy (AM): (back to course list) In the fast-paced modern world, business is a pervasive influence on daily life. As the global economy becomes more integrated, businesses can hold as much sway as governments. Small and medium-sized businesses are also key players, providing a growing number of jobs around the world. This hands-on course begins by explaining the economic playing field where firms operate, discussing supply and demand, regulations and free trade, international trade, and currency flows. Through role-playing, discussions, and occasional lectures, the course then considers the practical aspects of business, including accounting, finance, marketing, advertising, public relations, the organization of the firm, corporate leadership and culture, and business ethics. Finally, working together as a team, students have a unique opportunity to put what they have learned into practice by researching, developing, and operating their own small business.

Buy Low, Sell High: Investment Strategies for the 21st Century (PM): (back to course list) Whether you’re mystified by the market or a full-blown stock-ticker reading investment junkie, here’s your chance to put your (fake) money where your mouth is. In this exciting, hands-on business course, you’ll get to know the basics of stock market investing, beginning with such topics as economic indicators, interest rates, and price-earnings ratios. You’ll learn to read the market indices and make informed decisions about bond and equity allocations. Then you’ll jump into the mix with your own fictional portfolio. Invest wisely, and you may get rich quick. Make mistakes, and you may find yourself in the poorhouse. Either way you’ll have fun, and you’ll come out of it with a better understanding of the complex forces driving the world economy.

Order in the Court: Mock Trial (AM): (back to course list) “Do dramatic television images of highly-paid lawyers defending high-profile clients distort the true nature of our legal system? This course separates myth from reality, exposing students to the inner workings of the criminal justice system. They become familiar with the nuts and bolts of criminal procedure through case studies and interaction with legal professionals such as judges, public defenders, prosecutors, court personnel, and correctional workers. Participants then take part in a mock trial courtroom simulation, based on an actual case. Learn all the facts in the case and take turns playing the role of the prosecutor, defense attorney, judge, witness, and jury. By presenting all sides, participants learn to think strategically, problem-solve, and improve their public speaking, while gaining a better sense of the United States Judicial System.

Global Power in the Age of Obama: International Relations Seminar (PM): (back to course list) The era of America going it alone, at least for now, appears to be over. International cooperation is the order of the day, and it’s no wonder. The world faces grave dangers and huge problems, from rogue states, terrorists, and nuclear proliferation to global climate change, overpopulation, resource depletion, and widespread poverty. Through lively discussion, debate, role-playing, case studies, and daily exposure to the latest international news this course aims to provide students with the tools they will need to understand the current international environment. Some of the topics to be considered may include nuclear weapons negotiations with Korea and Iran; international efforts to head off climate change; the power dynamics of oil and energy; the international response to famine, civil war, and other disasters; the U.S. as global policeman; free trade vs. protectionism; sovereignty and national interest; and the role of international institutions such as the United Nations and NATO.

Psychology of the Criminal Mind (PM): (back to course list) What makes someone commit a crime? How effective are the psychological profiling techniques used by crime investigators? Is there such a thing as the Criminal Mind? What role does society play? In this course students examine the criminal mind through case studies and historical data. We’ll look at evidence that both supports and rejects modern theories and discuss criminal profiling as it is portrayed on today’s cinematic crime dramas. We’ll look at traits that connect serial killers throughout history and discover what makes modern-day white-collar criminals tick. A final collaborative project on criminal minds is presented to the entire Excel community.

The Psychology of Personality and Orgins of Behavior(AM): (back to course list) What do you love? Fear? Worry about? Dream of ? How much of who you are is determined by your family? Your gender? Your friends? Your inner drives and desires? Your personality traits? Which human behaviors are considered adaptive, and which cause difficulties? In this course students examine different psychological theories that attempt to explain various aspects of personality and behavior. We look at psychodynamic, behavioral, trait, and multicultural theories, among others, and examine them in the context of students’ own experiences. Readings, discussions, films, experiments, and group activities give students opportunities to explore psychological concepts and evaluate their relevance to their own lives.

Specialized Courses

SAT Preparation: Kaplan (AM & PM): (back to course list) This course is organized and taught by Kaplan, Inc. It concentrates on verbal and mathematical skills, as well as test-taking techniques students need to perform at a high level on the PSAT and SAT-I exams. Materials provided for each student include: Course Lesson Book, Reference and Additional Practice Home Handbook, Vocabulary and Math Flashcards, Diagnostic Skills Testing, and Integrated Online Workshops. The course consists of daily classes and three full-length SAT practice tests. Each student receives an individualized study plan, based on the student’s diagnostic testing and information about the student’s study style and goals. As part of the class, Excel students may continue to study with Kaplan beyond their summer program. Kaplan offers free ongoing national student support at its Centers throughout North America which include libraries and resource rooms for extra practice testing and review. Students are also welcome to attend Center-based classes to make up any missed classes or to review desired sessions, and to use Kaplan’s online resources, until their fall SAT test date. There is a $550 supplemental fee for this course.

Structured Writing (AM): (back to course list) This course is designed for students who have difficulty organizing their ideas and creating logically constructed, coherent, and effective writing. Using innovative, hands-on, active methods for constructing written work, students learn specific strategies to help them organize their ideas, structure their presentations, edit their writing, and produce more effective work. Students focus on the process of writing, not on the mechanics of grammar. Constant interaction with the instructor and feedback on short writings completed during class are key to students’ progress. Enrollment is limited to 8 students. The instructor is a highly trained and experienced specialist in writing instruction. There is a $450 supplemental fee for this course.

Field Biology (PM): (back to course list) Using the ecology of New England as a case study, this field-based course provides an exciting opportunity to develop a fuller understanding of the world around us. Students initially focus on the classification of organisms and techniques for the collection and recording of samples and data. Next, students explore the broader themes of biodiversity, population dynamics, and evolutionary theory, learning how to interpret data within these contexts. As they hike up nearby mountains or wade in local bogs, they have the unique opportunity to understand the effects of local phenomena, such as glaciation and human encroachment, on species’ distribution and abundance. Significant class time is spent outdoors and on field trips.

 

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