Taipei American School Summer Academy Course Catalog | 2023

Welcome from the TAS Summer Academy Director

For over the last 20 years, the Taipei American School Summer Academy Program has filled a need by the TAS community for continued academic growth over the summer months. The course offerings for students in Pre-K through Grade 12 have continued to evolve to support and strengthen the academic interests of TAS students.

During the program’s twoweek or four-week sessions, students have the opportunity for enrichment in core studies, advancement through the curriculum by fulfilling graduation requirements, and the pursuit of passions and interests in new areas of study.

Our summer course offerings include a wide range of math, science, public speaking and robotics options. We also boast an extensive Summer Internship Program that works closely with many of Taiwan’s leading businesses and scientific research institutions.

We hope that you will be inspired by our offerings and find something that will make your summer at TAS Summer Academy rewarding. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Best wishes, Evelyn

Chen

Dr. Evelyn Chen, Summer Academy Director

TAS Summer Academy Team

Summer Academy Director

Dr. Evelyn Chen

Phone:+886 02-7750-9900, ext. 214

Email: chene@tas.edu.tw

Summer Academy Assistant Director

Mr. Ryan Haynes

Phone: +886 02-7750-9900, ext. 224

Email: haynesr@tas.edu.tw

Summer Internship Program Coordinator

Ms. Julie Tuan

Phone: +886 02-7750-9900, ext. 892

Email: InternshipProgram@tas.edu.tw

Summer Academy Office Manager

Ms. Carrie Lin

Phone: +886 02-7750-9900, ext. 115

Email: summeracademy@tas.edu.tw

Summer Academy

IT Manager

Dr. Jason Kiang

Phone: +886 02-7750-9900, ext. 282

Email: kiangj@tas.edu.tw

Left to Right: Dr. Jason Kiang, Ms. Julie Tuan, Dr. Evelyn Chen, Ms. Carrie Lin, Mr. Ryan Haynes

TAS SUMMER ACADEMY at a glance

Courses & Tuition

Lower School courses & Middle School courses

Tuition: NT$44,680 (per session)

Upper School courses

4 week credit courses Tuition: NT$139,154

2 week credit courses

Tuition: NT$69,577 (per session)

2 week non-credit courses Tuition: NT$44,680 (per session)

National Palace Museum Course Tuition: NT$139,154

Summer Internship Program Tuition: NT$16,092

Teaching Assistant Program Tuition: None

Schedules

Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

(8:00 - 12:00)

June 12 - July 7, 2023 (8:00 - 13:00)

Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

(8:00 - 13:00)

Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

(8:00 - 12:00)

June 12 - July 7, 2023 (9:00 - 16:00)

Registration

Registration Opens: February 22, 2023

June 12 - July 7 or July 21, 2023*

*or other dates, depending on internship

Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

TEACHERS AND CLASSES

Outstanding faculty and staff are one of the hallmarks of TAS Summer Academy. All summer teachers are experienced current or former TAS faculty, and are carefully selected to provide a positive, enriching experience for students during the summer sessions.

Since our summer classes typically have fewer students than classes during the school year, students receive more individualized attention. A smaller student-to-teacher ratio coupled with a relaxed learning environment encourages collaboration, deeper understanding, and a love of learning in even the most challenging subjects.

Registration Opens: March 10, 2023

Application Deadline: March 6, 2023

Application Deadline: March 6, 2023

Applications Open: February 2023

Taipei American School

KA & Kindergarten

Grade 1

Grade 2

Grades 2 & 3

Grade 3

Grades 4 & 5

Grades 6, 7 & 8

Grades 6 & 7

Summer Academy Courses

Literacy Explorations

Reading & Writing Summer Workshop

Reading & Writing Summer Workshop

STEM Exploration

Story Writing & Illustration

Reading & Writing Summer Workshop

Engineering & Maker Lab

Public Speaking & Communications

Reading & Writing Extension

Research & Presentation Skills

Story Writing & Illustration

Art Innovation & Technology

Coding Bots Using Python

Collaborative Math Challenge Course

MS Scientific Research

Strengthening Foundational Skills for Academic Success

Four Week Credit Courses All Upper School Students

Approval required Math (Gr. 9-12)

Approval required Science (Gr. 10-12)

Application required

Grades 10, 11 & 12

Two Week Credit Courses All Upper School Students

Non-credit Courses All Upper School Students

Building Competitive Bots

Algebra Preparation Summer Course

Film Production 1

Public Speaking as Performance

Honors Geometry

Honors Algebra 2

Honors Biology

Honors Chemistry

Honors

National Palace Museum (NPM) Docent Course

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Introduction to Scientific Research

Mechanical Engineering

Video Game & Microcontroller Programming

Lower School Courses For students entering Grades KA - 5

Our summer classes for Lower School students offer small class sizes with low student-to-teacher ratios to allow for individualized attention. As in past years, an English for Academic Learning (EAL) teacher will also be available to offer support to varied learning environments. Many of our LS students attend TYPA camp in the afternoon, and we coordinate closely with TYPA to ensure that students transition to their afternoon activities safely.

LITERACY EXPLORATIONS Grades KA & K

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

The KA/K summer school program is designed to meet the needs of young learners. Students will be engaged in a wide variety of learning activities that will help their skill development while also promoting social interaction, independence and a love for learning.

Essential skills that will be covered include developing beginning reading, writing, listening and oral language skills. Students will build on prior knowledge and skills in a way that personalizes:

• The development of beginning and developing reading and writing skills, including sound/letter correlation, consonant blends, sight words, rhyming, creating stories and descriptive language.

• Beginning and developing oral language skills including speaking in complete sentences, speaking with confidence in front of others, using oral language to explain/ describe/direct/ask questions, using correct noun/verb agreement, etc.

READING & WRITING SUMMER WORKSHOP Grade 1

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

The Grade 1 reading and writing summer school program is designed to provide students with a balanced literacy framework that will help build reading, writing, listening and oral language skills. Children will develop a lifelong love of learning, improving their ability to express individual thoughts through independent reading workshops and individual writing workshops.

Essential skills that will be covered include:

• The continual development of the overall literacy skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

• Building a rich and descriptive vocabulary to retell, analyze, identify, discuss and reflect on their studies.

• A study of the main elements of storytelling that include understanding of plot, setting, character and solutions.

All Grade 1 activities may include painting, arts and crafts, reader’s theater, reading workshop and writing workshop.

Session 1 and Session 2 of this course will explore different topics, therefore students who enroll in both sessions will not be repeating the same course.

READING & WRITING SUMMER WORKSHOP Grade 2

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

The Grade 2 reading and writing summer school program is designed to provide students with a balanced literacy framework that will help build reading, writing, listening and oral language skills. Children will develop a lifelong love of learning, improving their ability to express individual thoughts through independent reading workshops and individual writing workshops.

Essential skills that will be covered include:

• The continual development of the overall literacy skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.

• Building a rich and descriptive vocabulary to retell, analyze, identify, discuss and reflect on their studies.

• A study of the main elements of storytelling that include understanding of plot, setting, character and solutions.

All Grade 1 activities may include painting, arts and crafts, reader’s theater, reading workshop and writing workshop.

Session 1 and Session 2 of this course will explore different topics, therefore students who enroll in both sessions will not be repeating the same course.

STEM EXPLORATION Grades 2 & 3

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Students are introduced to basic principles related to Science, Technology, Math and Engineering through daily projects and challenges that will require planning, creating, testing and improving solutions. Students will also spend time engaged in daily written reflections in a simplified Writing Workshop activity.

STORY WRITING & ILLUSTRATION Grades 2 & 3

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to inspire and challenge budding authors as they are guided through the process of writing and illustrating stories. Students will be guided through the steps of identifying engaging and concise stories, writing in a manner that interests and motivates the reader, and illustrating these stories using a variety of art mediums. The class will involve two teachers, one who will focus on the writing process and one who will focus on the art aspect of illustrations. Students will be encouraged to improve their writing and expression through art in this enjoyable and motivating class.

READING & WRITING SUMMER WORKSHOP Grade 3

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This Grade 3 summer program is based on literacy units from the Teachers College Reading and Writing Program, and is designed to provide students with opportunities to take charge of their own learning in reading and writing. Students will also be practicing their speaking and listening skills through whole class and small group work. This course will help students prepare for the Grade 3 English curriculum, where they will continue to build stamina and strategies in reading and writing fiction and nonfiction genres with increased complexity.

In the reading unit, students will focus on strengthening their comprehension skills in reading different genres. Essential skills that will be covered in reading may include:

• Deciding what information is most important to grasp and remember

• Using the text and context to determine the meaning of words

• Understanding the difference between literal and non-literal text such as metaphors and analogies

• Expressing the student’s own point of view about characters or a text

In the writing unit, students will use the writing process across a variety of short- and longer-term writing projects. Essential skills that will be covered in writing may include:

• Organizing writing pieces into a clear beginning, middle, and end

• Using transition words to connect various parts of their pieces and to conclude

• Considering word choice in light of the audience or genre

• Editing for conventional uses of grammar and spelling

Session 1 and Session 2 of this course will explore different themes and topics, therefore students who enroll in both sessions will not be repeating the same course.

ENGINEERING & MAKER LAB Grades 4 & 5

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This dynamic, hands-on course is geared for students’ creative exploration in the fields of engineering and computing. Students will have the opportunity to engage in intensive engineering-rich project development with world-class tools. Each day will consist of a discussion of powerful ideas, minilessons, immersive learning experiences designed to challenge students’ thinking, substantial time for project work, and a reflection period.

Students will enjoy access to a remarkable fabrication lab, a library of books, computercontrolled fabrication tools, cutting-edge electronics, robotics equipment, and craft materials to support their learning.

PUBLIC SPEAKING & COMMUNICATIONS: Grades 4 & 5 Finding Your Inner Voice

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course seeks to develop students’ speaking, listening, and writing skills, and is ideal for students who are interested in building their confidence as communicators! Students will learn the fundamentals of public speaking, active listening, and how to persuasively share their ideas and observations through a variety of different activities. This course is a great opportunity for students to develop their communication skills in a positive, nurturing environment.

RESEARCH & PRESENTATION SKILLS Grades 4 & 5

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to strengthen the non-fiction reading, research and presentation skills of students before entering upper elementary/middle school where these skills are necessary for academic success. Students will engage in a variety of learning activities designed to teach them to understand complex non-fiction texts. Emphasis will also be placed on oral and visual presentation skills that will allow students to present their findings with confidence and effectiveness. They will also learn how to accurately paraphrase their learning into their own words using a variety of note taking strategies. Evaluating the reliability and validity of sources will also be examined in this course.

This course is designed for students with an interest in non-fiction reading and learning. Research will be conducted around topics of interest to the students at their appropriate reading level, so an advanced level of English reading is not required.

READING & WRITING EXTENSION

Grades 4 & 5

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

In this course, the student will be inspired and challenged to read and write in a variety of genres. Some of the genres they may explore are odes, memoirs, fantasy, literary essay, and historical fiction. We will read mentor texts and look at how the literary elements are used, such as foreshadowing, flashbacks, cliffhangers and more. To deepen our comprehension skills, we will have book club discussions, share reviews and work on a story project.

With a focus on the writing process and craft techniques, students may try writing in different genres, using their writing notebooks. Students will publish a variety of pieces. Furthermore, we will have fun investigating the use of punctuation and grammar through a variety of activities. As you can see, students will learn to read like writers and write like the authors they admire. If you love to read and write stories, this class is for you.

STORY WRITING & ILLUSTRATION

Grades 4 & 5

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to inspire and challenge budding authors as they are guided through the process of writing and illustrating stories. Students will be guided through the steps of identifying engaging and concise stories, writing in a manner that interests and motivates the reader, and illustrating these stories using a variety of art mediums.

The class will involve two teachers, one who will focus on the writing process and one who will focus on the art aspect of illustrations. Students will be encouraged to improve their writing and expression through art in this enjoyable and motivating class.

W E R S C H O O L C O U R S E S

Middle School Courses For students entering Grades 6 - 8

Our Middle School summer courses offer a range of enrichment courses in a small class setting. These courses include “introductory” courses, giving students completing Grade 5 a glimpse of what to expect in Middle School, math enhancement as well as technology and robotics courses.

ART

INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Grades 6, 7 & 8

The goal of this course is to help students to think like an artist/designer, learn to come up with new ideas, and use the right tool to bring their ideas to life. In this course, students will learn to create using tools such as Adobe Photoshop, TouchDesigner, Adobe Fresco, Adobe Photoshop, Meshmixer and Blender to work on projects at the intersection of Art and Design. There will be several opportunities for students to work with both analog and digital tools, to transform traditional, physical art forms into digital pieces, and vice versa. For example, students may create physical clay figures then use technological tools to turn them into digital objects; or students may first create digital artwork then print them into physical paintings. Projects will involve the use of 3D scanners, 3D printers, Laser cutters and new media art tools (audio and video). There will also be several opportunities for students to use traditional art mediums, including drawing and painting.

In the first week of the course, students will be exploring different art materials and learning new techniques. In the second week, students will be working on independent capstone projects.

BUILDING COMPETITIVE BOTS

Grades 7 & 8

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 2 only: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Students will be guided through the process of design to create three modules: base & motion, lift, & intakes. There will also be an element of Game Theory and analysis. Students will exit the course with a competitive robot and a thorough Design Journal that will take them right into the Competitive Robotics season.

CODING BOTS USING PYTHON

Grades 6, 7 & 8

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is all about using text-based python to control a microprocessor and sensors. It is an intensive zero to hero program that will take students from beginning coding to an intermediary level. Class size is limited to 12 students.

MS SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Grades 6, 7 & 8

Course Fee (per two-week session):NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to explore science through practical, interactive activities and projects meant to boost creativity, curiosity and imagination, while developing basic scientific analysis and problem solving skills. Key areas of focus will be ecology, biology, chemistry, and physical science, with an emphasis on observation and data collection both inside and outside the classroom. Students who sign up for this class should have enthusiasm for the subject and a keen interest in preparing for success in both Middle and Upper School Science.

ENGLISH READING, WRITING & PUBLIC SPEAKING Grades 6 & 7

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This English Reading, Writing and Public Speaking course is primarily designed to help students prepare for the rigor of English class in Middle School. This course is suitable for students of all levels. For students already proficient in English, this course will extend their ability to read and analyze literary texts, as well as strengthen their oral expression and writing skills, helping to prepare them for academic success in the Middle School English program.

For the reading portion, this course will center on reading a designated novel. As we read the novel, students will be guided in the process of annotating the text, highlighting and labeling literary techniques and examples of figurative language. Each day students will be engaged in lessons that guide them through the process of analyzing the novel. Furthermore, each day will have a grammar focus lesson, where students will learn to create effective sentence structures, identify and understand parts of speech and marks of punctuation.

The writing portion of the course will include daily assignments where students will write in a variety of different genres (some free choice and some assigned). While using their writing notebooks and laptops, students will publish a variety of pieces including personal narrative, fiction and literary analysis.

The public speaking component of the course is designed to be stress free and fun. Some daily activities may include the following: one minute monologues, poetry in two voices and joke telling.

STRENGTHENING FOUNDATIONAL SKILLS FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm

Grades 6, 7 & 8

Building a solid basic foundation in reading and writing skills is important for academic success. In this course, instruction is tailored to the individual needs of each student, and may also include grammar, vocabulary, and other learning strategies. This class has limited enrollment and is geared towards EAL and Academic Support students; however, other students who need additional help in these areas will be considered.

MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH COURSES

PLEASE NOTE:

• Enrollment in a MS Math class requires approval from the relevant Math Department. Please register first, then wait for confirmation from the Summer Academy Office regarding whether approval has been granted.

• Completion of summer math courses does not change the student’s math placement for the next semester.

MATH FUNDAMENTALS Grades 6 & 7

SUMMER COURSE

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to prepare rising Grade 6 students for Math 6 and Enriched Math 6 in the next semester. This course is also appropriate for rising Grade 7 students to cement their knowledge of key concepts covered in Math 6 and to prepare them for Pre-Algebra in the next semester. Some of the topics covered will include:

• Fractions and Mixed Numbers with Word Problems

• Prime and Composite Numbers

• Introduction to Solving Equations (without negatives)

• Variables, Expressions, and Integers

Occasional assessments will be given to help the instructor understand students’ learning so that daily teaching can be adjusted accordingly for students’ needs. The course will also utilize Math games and activities to reinforce students’ understanding of concepts taught.

PRE-ALGEBRA PREPARATION SUMMER COURSE Grades 7 & 8

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm) Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to prepare rising Grade 7 students for some topics in the Pre-Algebra and Enriched Pre-Algebra courses for the next semester. It is also suitable for rising Grade 8 students to reinforce their knowledge of key concepts and operations in Pre-Algebra and will be entering Algebra Foundations in the fall. Some of the topics covered will include:

• Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

• Solving Multi-Step Equations and Inequalities

• Advanced Work in Exponents and Scientific Notation

• Factors, Fractions, and Exponents with Variables

In this course, we will have a strong focus on algebraic concepts and reasoning. Students will have daily homework to reinforce their understanding and learning in Pre-Algebra concepts. They will also be evaluated with assessments at the end of each unit. By the end of the course, students will be more confident about how to deal with integers and applying them into solving equations and inequalities. They will also learn about the factors, fractions and exponents with word problems.

Enrollment in this course requires either completion of the Math Fundamentals Summer Course in Session 1 or permission from the Math Department.

ALGEBRA PREPARATION SUMMER COURSE Grade 8

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Session 2: June 26 – July 7 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course is designed to prepare rising Grade 8 students who are enrolled in either the Algebra 1 or Enriched Algebra 1 course in the fall. Some of the topics covered will include:

• Real Numbers

• Linear Equations and Graphs

• Inequalities

• Rational Expressions

• Polynomials and Factoring

• Radicals

• Relations and Functions

• Exponents

• Quadratic Equations

We will engage in lab-based activities designed to enhance understanding of functions, graphing and slope. A mixture of science and economic applications will provide a strong foundation for algebraic problem-solving, as well as opportunities for solving equations to help improve procedural fluency.

Please note that the two sessions of this course are not identical. Session 2 builds upon what is taught in Session 1. Enrollment in Session 2 of this course requires either completion of Session 1 of this course or permission from the Math Department.

COLLABORATIVE MATH Grades 6, 7 & 8 CHALLENGE COURSE

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Schedule: Session 1 only: June 12 – June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

This course will engage students to work collaboratively to strengthen problem-solving skills and strategies that are commonly seen in math competitions such as the Middle School Mathematics Olympiad, MATHCOUNTS, and AMC8. Topics covered will include the following:

• Number Theory

• Algebra

• Counting

• Geometry and

• Statistics and Logic

Students in this course should have a strong interest and high achievement in Mathematics, be open-minded to using a variety of problem-solving strategies, and demonstrate enthusiasm for math puzzles and logic games.

Please be aware this will be a challenging summer course and is intended for serious math enthusiasts.

Upper School Courses For students entering

Grades 9 - 12

Our Upper School summer courses include a range of math, science, public speaking, robotics, performing and visual arts classes. Through these 4- and 2- week credit courses, students may advance through the academic curriculum and/or fulfill basic

UPPER SCHOOL CREDIT COURSES

PLEASE NOTE:

• Summer Academy credit courses are rigorous and require a significant amount of time for classwork and homework. Credit will not be given for students who miss more than 2 days of class (1 day for 0.5 credit courses).

• For summer credit courses, students will have the option of including their grade from a summer course in their overall GPA or taking the summer course as pass/fail.

FILM PRODUCTION 1 (SAUSART16)

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$139,154

Duration: 4 weeks; June 12 - July 7 (8:00 am – 1:00pm)

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Moderate

This introductory film course will immerse students in all aspects of film production. Students will learn the basics of planning, cinematography, video editing, media analysis, and visual communication. This will be a hands-on, project-based class in which students will produce several different types of films. Projects will include, but are not limited to, micro-documentaries, narrative short films, public service announcements, commercials, montages, and music videos. Students should have the ability to work independently and collaboratively and see a project from inception to completion. Students must obtain a 1TB or larger external hard drive to store and manage their digital assets. Class size is limited.

Successful completion of this course satisfies the Performing/Visual Arts graduation requirement, and will allow students to enroll in Honors Film courses with instructor approval.

4 WEEK CREDIT COURSES

NATIONAL PALACE MUSEUM (NPM) DOCENT COURSE (SAUSSST11A)

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$139,154

Duration: 4 weeks; June 12 - July 7 (9:00 am – 4:00 pm)

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10-12

Homework: Moderate

*By Application Only*

Once again this outstanding class, available only in the summer, will be offered to prepare students to act as National Palace Museum junior docents for our TAS visitors. Students will be required to learn a significant amount of historical and art-related information and be able to speak about these topics with confidence and poise. Students who complete this course will be able to give guided tours of the National Palace Museum to TAS guest authors, visiting speakers, and other special visitors to the school. Given the exciting possibilities that this class affords, as well as the level of knowledge and responsibility required of successful applicants, this class is limited to 10 students who will be chosen by a faculty committee after submitting an application.

Class meets daily from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Successful completion of this course satisfies either the Public Speaking or Performing Arts graduation requirement, but not both.

Interested students are invited to submit an application for this course via the TAS Summer Academy website, or via the following QR Code.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 6, 2023

PUBLIC SPEAKING AS PERFORMANCE (SAUSPSF01)

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$139,154

Duration: 4 weeks; June 12 - July 7 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Moderate

The ability to express, defend and compare ideas is critical regardless of one’s profession or field of study. This course combines the techniques and creative problem-solving skills of both public speaking and theater. Exercises may include exploration of vocal projection, body language, and audience engagement. Students will learn to step into various roles and tap into their imagination to produce speeches, stories, structured scripts, and scene work. They are expected to connect and collaborate with their classmates through interactive lectures, group discussions, and practical exercises. Participants will develop and refine their performance skills to become a more confident, compelling, and dynamic communicator.

Successful completion of this course satisfies either the Public Speaking or Performing Arts graduation requirement, but not both.

UPPER SCHOOL MATH & SCIENCE COURSES

PLEASE NOTE:

• The 4 week summer math and science credit courses are extremely rigorous, moving through an entire year’s work in one month. For that reason, students enrolling in these classes need to seek the approval of the Math or Science Department Chairs, as applicable. Please register first, then wait for confirmation from the Summer Academy Office regarding whether approval has been granted.

• Successful completion of these courses will allow students to advance in the Upper School math or science tracks, but the credits from summer math and science courses do not count toward the graduation credit requirements for Upper School math or science. Students must still complete three full credits of math and science during the normal academic school year, regardless of whether a summer math or science course has been taken.

MATH COURSES

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$139,154

Duration: 4 weeks; June 12 - July 7 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 9-12*

Homework: Heavy

HONORS GEOMETRY (SAUSMAT041)

HONORS ALGEBRA 2 (SAUSMAT070)

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$139,154

Duration: 4 weeks; June 12 - July 7 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 1.0

Grade: 10-12*

Homework: Heavy

HONORS BIOLOGY (SAUSSCI07)

HONORS CHEMISTRY (SAUSSCI11)

HONORS PHYSICS (SAUSSCI22)

2 WEEK CREDIT COURSES

INTRODUCTION TO SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH (SAUSSCI231)

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$69,577

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1: June 12 - June 23, or Session 2: June 26 - July 7

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light to Moderate

The Introduction to Scientific Research course is designed for high school students who are interested in understanding how scientists investigate real-world problems. Students will research, plan, design and test a series of hands-on science projects in all three major scientific disciplines: Physics, Chemistry and Biology. The main goal of this course is to introduce students who have never taken a research course to the research process and provide them with an opportunity to apply a logical approach to scientific questions. This course is ideal for 9th or 10th grade students who are looking for a solid foundation in research methods and data evaluation before they take another research course later in high school or in college.

Successful completion of this course grants 0.5 credit as a Science Elective.

ROBOTICS, ENGINEERING & COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES

PLEASE NOTE:

• Successful completion of any one of the 2-week summer courses below fulfills the Upper School graduation requirement for Computer Science & Robotics (0.5 credit).

• Successful completion of an additional 0.5 credit Computer Science & Robotics course will allow a student to enroll in a Level 2 Computer Science & Robotics course when accompanied by a teacher's recommendation. However, regardless of qualifications or prerequisites, students may not take AP Computer Science or Honors High Performance and Distributed Computing in 9th Grade.

INTRODUCTION TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE: A HANDS-ON APPROACH (SAUSCSR07)

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$69,577

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1 only: June 12 - June 23 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

This course, offered only in the summer, is an introduction to Artificial Intelligence. Students will learn how Artificial Intelligence is transforming and impacting their lives and they will be exposed to exemplary use cases like self-driven cars. This class will also discuss the future of Artificial Intelligence as well as ethical considerations with this new technology. Finally, students will work on individual and team projects to get hands-on experience with Machine Learning and Intelligent Agents using Python. One such project is seeing the road using Computer Vision (which is the basis for self-driven cars).

VIDEO GAME & MICROCONTROLLER PROGRAMMING (SAUSCSR031)

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$69,577

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1 only: June 12 - June 23 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

Video Game & Microcontroller Programming is a first course in Robotics and Computer Science that covers the fundamentals of Java/C++ programming, electronic control systems and physical computing. The course will begin with an introduction to variables, syntax, loops, conditionals, functions, objects, and classes before moving on to a brief collaborative project period in which students will complete a small video game of their own design. In the second half of the course, students will learn computer programming and electronics as they relate to the Arduino microcontroller. Students will learn to use common digital and analog sensors, such as switches, light sensors, pressure sensors, and accelerometers to collect data from the physical world and control actuators such as motors, servos, led lights, pneumatic pistons, stepper motors, speakers, and display panels. This course assumes no prior knowledge of robotics or programming.

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING (SAUSCSR014)

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$69,577

Duration: 2 weeks: Session 1: June 12 - June 23 and/or Session 2: June 26 - July 7 (8:00 am – 1:00 pm)

Credit: 0.5

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

A first course in Mechanical Engineering. Students will learn to use CAD software to study the principles of mechanical engineering and learn to build their designs using our lab’s state of the art CNC (Computer Numeric Control) fabrication capabilities. Students will study, design, and build many common mechanisms as well as study gear design and gear ratios, pulley and sprocket systems, lift mechanisms, projectile launchers, and mechanical arms. Students will learn about transmission of power in a mechanical system including motors, servos, lever arms, springs, and pneumatic systems. Students in this class will be trained to operate and maintain all of the equipment in the lab and learn state of the art fabrication methods, including water jet cutting, aluminum TIG welding, multi axis CNC milling, 3D printing, and lathe operations.

This course assumes no prior knowledge of robotics or programming. However, this class can also be tailored for students already with experience in these fields. Students may take this course in either Session 1 or Session 2, or both sessions.

For students wishing to take this course in both Session 1 and Session 2, the second session of this course will be a continuation of the first: Students will design and build new projects extending their knowledge and skills gained from the first two weeks. For students signing up only for Session 2, the instructor will start teaching design using different methods so students from the first session will also be learning new material.

NON-CREDIT COURSES

Our non-credit summer enrichment courses allow students to prepare for a new subject in the upcoming year, review a previous subject in a relaxed environment, or try out new interests without the stresses of a busy schedule or full courseload to distract them.

Non-credit courses do not count toward graduation credit requirements. With the exception of the Internship Program, non-credit courses are not reflected on students’ transcripts.

DRAWING FUNDAMENTALS & ART PORTFOLIO PREPARATION (SAUSART230) NON-CREDIT COURSE

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1 only: June 12 - June 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Credit: None

Grade: 9-12

Homework: Light

Looking to strengthen your drawing skills? Need stunning observation drawings for your portfolio? This class is tailored to both beginners as well as art students interested in boosting their portfolios. Over two weeks, students explore a different drawing medium each day. While learning how to “see like an artist”, the course covers the fundamentals of sketching, perspective, 2D design principles, and visual communication. Since drawing from life is the best way to learn how to draw, the course also includes figure drawing sessions and outings for plein air sketching. A series of studio problems will invite the artist to push their creative boundaries and explore personal style. Advanced students will be given more complex prompts and pushed to complete more polished drawings ready for a portfolio. Please note this is a non-credit course.

PRECALCULUS / IB MATH PREPARATION (SAUSMAT14) NON-CREDIT COURSE

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1 only: June 12- July 23 (8:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Credit: None

Grade: 11 -12

Homework: Moderate

This course is ideal for rising 11th and 12th grade students who are looking to strengthen their math skills before enrolling in Precalculus, Honors Precalculus or IBSL Math. Subject matter covered in the course may include, but is not limited to, the following:

• Measurement: area, volume, surface area

• Trigonometry Review: trigonometric ratio, unit circle, special angles, solving for sides and angles

• Algebra Review: factoring, rearranging formulae, quadratics, using the graphics calculator

The class will be tailored to suit the individual needs and requirements of each participating student, which will be determined by a survey completed by the student prior to the start of the course. The typical daily schedule will consist of instruction of mathematical concepts followed by practical activities to enhance and reinforce the students’ understanding of concepts taught. Students will have some homework each day, and they will also be evaluated with assessments at the end of each unit. By the end of this two-week course, students will be better prepared for the Precalculus, Honors Precalculus or IBSL Math course in the next school year.

Please note this is a non-credit course. Successful completion of this course does not allow students to advance in the Upper School math track during the regular academic school year.

WRITING FOR COLLEGE & CAREERS (SAUSELT02) NON-CREDIT COURSE

Course Fee (per two-week session): NT$44,680

Duration: 2 weeks; Session 1: June 12 - June 23 and/or Session 2: June 26 - July 7 (8:00 am - 12:00 pm)

Credit: None

Grade: 10-12

Homework: Light to Moderate

The Writing for College and Careers course is designed for students who want to begin practicing the most necessary and common writing tasks in college and beyond. Through this course, students will better prepare themselves for academic success in college, no matter their future major, and build their confidence in telling their stories and pitching their skills to universities and employers.

Session 1 focuses on academic and journalistic writing, teaching students to break down and produce the essential components of a research paper and abstract as well as the most common journalistic styles. Session 2 focuses on career and personal writing, giving students real-world practice with presenting a compelling resume and cover letter and crafting their stories in a personal essay. Students will have the opportunity not only to workshop the most valuable and frequent real-world writing tasks but also to contextualize these tasks with hands-on experiences and class outings.

Please note this is a non-credit course.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The TAS Summer Internship Program collaborates with businesses, universities and laboratories to provide valuable internship opportunities for eligible Upper School Students during the summer.

Summer internships take place during June and July, lasting 4-6 weeks.

Summer positions are 40 hours per week and are unpaid.

FIELDS OF INTEREST

Architecture

Accounting & Tax

Computer Science & Programming

Engineering

E-Transportation

Finance

Luxury Retail Marketing & Sales Scientific Research: Cell Biology

Drug Discovery

Genomics

Immunology

Hospitality

Journalism & Media

HOSTS*

Regenerative Science MORE

tas.edu.tw/summeracademy/internships 886 2 7750 9900 x 892

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM (SAUSINTER)

Course Fee (per four-week session): NT$16,092

Duration: 4 or 6 weeks; June 12 - July 7/ July 21 (or other dates, depending on Internship)

Credit: None

Grade: 11 or 12, with priority given to students entering Gr. 12.

Homework: Light

*By Application Only*

This class is offered as a part of the Summer Academy program, which gives priority to students who are entering their senior year. Students will explore potential college majors and career paths by working in a business, institution or university department focusing on their specific area of interest.

Students enrolling in this course are expected to meet the following requirements:

• Commit to working for four or six weeks (as applicable to Internship) in the greater Taipei area

• Write a resume and “letter of introduction” that will become part of the application packet

• Meet the work expectations and goals established by the student, mentor and Internship Coordinator, including adherence to workplace norms and etiquette

• Submit periodic journal entries / reports to the Summer Internship Coordinator

• Prepare a final summary presentation or report as required

Interested students should visit the TAS Summer Academy website for more information and detailed application instructions, or scan the following QR Code.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: MARCH 6, 2023

Teaching Assistant Program For Upper School Students and Alumni

Every summer, the TAS Summer Academy Program welcomes the assistance of Teaching Assistants, who support the summer teachers as well as gain experience working with children. Although Teaching Assistants are invaluable to the running of TAS Summer Academy, they are not given any monetary compensation for their service; this is an opportunity to help in an educational setting and explore possible future career choices. There have been several Teaching Assistants who have pursued careers in education, and some have even ended up teaching here at TAS.

Upon conclusion of the assignment, Teaching Assistants will receive feedback from TAS Summer Academy teachers which may be used in letters of recommendation from the College Counseling Office.

Teaching Assistants will be chosen from current TAS Upper School students and TAS alumni. All housing and transport costs associated with serving as a Teaching Assistant are the responsibility of the assistant.

Interested individuals are invited to apply online via the TAS Summer Academy website, or by scanning the following QR Code.

Applications will be considered from February on a rolling basis.

Global Online Academy

TAS is a member of the Global Online Academy (GOA), a consortium of independent and international schools that offer courses online. These courses present students with the opportunity to take a wide range of elective subjects and provide them with global connections and modern learning skills. GOA supplements our course catalog for additional learner-centered experiences with peers in different countries. While the workload in GOA courses does vary (roughly 5-6 hours per week), class participation is mandatory, and students are required to do project-based assignments with partners and small groups.

The course(s) and credit(s) will, in most cases, appear on the transcript along with the other classes taken at TAS and will be counted towards the GPA. To register for a GOA course, the student will be interviewed by the GOA Site Director to assess if GOA is a good fit and manageable with the student's overall course and co-curricular commitments.

During the summer, GOA also offers its popular semester courses in an intensive 7-week format for high school students. For GOA’s summer course offerings and schedule, please visit: https://globalonlineacademy.org/student-program/summer-courses.

Enrollment for GOA’s summer courses opens on January 15, 2023. Students interested in taking a summer GOA intensive course should speak with Ms. Sean Huang, GOA Site Director (huangse@tas.edu.tw).

Grading Policy & Credit Earning Procedures For

Upper School TAS Summer Academy Courses

UPPER SCHOOL CREDIT COURSES

At the conclusion of a TAS Summer Academy credit course, students are awarded grades based on their performance in the summer class. There are three different ways in which students receive a TAS Summer Academy grade:

1. A grade appears on the student's transcript. Please keep in mind, a TAS Summer Academy grade does factor into a student’s cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA). TAS Summer Academy grades are also used for placement purposes and/ or to satisfy TAS graduation requirements.

2. A student decides to earn a grade of Pass/Fail. This grade is not factored into a student’s GPA. Generally speaking, a grade of “B” or above is considered passing. A TAS Summer Academy grade of “Pass” is not recommended because other institutions may not see a grade of "Pass" favorably. An incoming school may see a grade of "Pass" as the lowest number passing grade.

3. A student may choose not to have the TAS Summer Academy grade appear on the student's transcript. In these situations, students usually end up choosing to repeat the course they took in TAS Summer Academy during the school year.

During the last week of summer class, students will be requested to advise their teachers which of the above three options they wish to choose.

UPPER SCHOOL NON-CREDIT COURSES

Students taking non-credit TAS Summer Academy Upper School courses will also receive grades for their performance in the summer class. However, these grades will not appear on the student’s transcript, will not factor into the student's cumulative GPA, and no credit will be earned for these courses to satisfy total credit graduation requirements.

The non-credit TAS Summer Academy Upper School course name will be noted on the student's transcript with no credit appearing next to the course name.

VIEWING GRADES AND REPORT CARDS

Grades for Upper School TAS Summer Academy courses will be shown on report cards issued upon completion of summer courses. These can be viewed in PowerSchool (Parent Sign-In). Access instructions are available on the TAS Summer Academy website, and also via the following QR Code.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURE

CURRENT TAS STUDENTS

Registration for: Registration Opens: Registration Method:

Lower School and Middle School summer courses

Upper School summer courses

February 22, 2023

March 10, 2023

Power School (Parent Sign-In)

Power School (Parent Sign-In)

For detailed registration instructions, including payment methods, please visit the TAS Summer Academy website, or scan the following QR Code:

NON-TAS STUDENTS

Registration for: Registration Opens:

Lower School and Middle School summer courses

Upper School summer courses

March 1, 2023

March 17, 2023

Registration Method:

Online Application

Online Application

For detailed application requirements and registration instructions, please visit the TAS Summer Academy website, or scan the following QR Code:

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

Refunds for parent-initiated cancellations will be granted until April 12, 2023. After such date, no refunds will be granted, except under exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of the Summer Academy Director.

TAS may elect to cancel a summer course when less than a minimum prescribed number of students have enrolled. In such event, any TAS Summer Academy tuition amounts already paid will be refunded and/or the student will have the opportunity to enroll in an alternate summer course.

DISCLAIMERS

The information contained in this catalog is accurate as of the date of its publication. However, changes affecting the content of this catalog may occur periodically. We reserve our right to correct or change our policies, rules, regulations, course offerings, and any other contents of this catalog at any time. For the most updated information, please check the TAS Summer Academy website.

Photos showing teachers and/or students without face masks were taken from TAS Summer Academy sessions prior to 2020.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. What are the dates and times of TAS Summer Academy in 2023?

Lower School and Middle School: Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023**

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

(8:00 am to 12:00 pm)

Upper School:

Four Week Courses: June 12 - July 7, 2023**

(8:00 am to 1:00 pm)

Two Week Courses: Session 1: June 12 - June 23, 2023**

Session 2: June 26 - July 7, 2023

(8:00 am to 1:00 pm)*

**Non-credit courses 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

**Classes will still be held on June 22 & 23 (Dragon Boat Festival)

2. How can I enroll my child in a TAS Summer Academy course?

All enrollments for current and incoming TAS students are done through PowerSchool (Parent Sign-in) Step by step PowerSchool enrollment instructions are available on the TAS Summer Academy website, and also via the following QR Code.

3. Can non-TAS students enroll in TAS Summer Academy courses?

Yes, non-TAS students may enroll in TAS Summer Academy courses. Please visit the TAS Summer Academy website for detailed application requirements and registration instructions, or scan the following QR Code.

4. When does registration open for 2023 TAS Summer Academy? What is the deadline for enrollment?

Lower School and Middle School summer courses:

Registration opens on February 22, 2023

Upper School summer courses: Registration opens on March 10, 2023

The deadline for enrollment is May 31, 2023

5. For which grade level classes should I enroll my child? Summer courses reflect rising grade levels. You should enroll your child in a course for the grade level the child will be entering in the fall. E.g., If your child is currently in 8th grade, you should enroll in TAS Summer Academy courses for 9th grade.

6. Can I enroll in the same course for both Session 1 & 2? Will it be a repeat?

For most courses which are offered in both Session 1 and Session 2, different themes and topics are covered. Therefore, yes, you can enroll in both sessions without repeating materials. If course content is identical in both sessions, it will be noted in the course description. Please carefully check the course descriptions.

7. Is school bus transportation offered?

There will NOT be any school bus service offered during TAS Summer Academy.

8. Is lunch provided during TAS Summer Academy?

Lunch will NOT be provided during TAS Summer Academy and the school cafeteria will be closed. Students may bring their own snacks and drinks.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (CONTINUED)

9. Are breaks scheduled during daily summer classes?

Yes, each day students have periodic breaks during their summer courses. Students may bring snacks and drinks to consume during these breaks. Upper School students may leave campus to buy food and drinks off-site (parents must grant off-campus permission).

10. Does TAS Summer Academy offer sports or other activities?

TAS Summer Academy offers only academic summer classes. For summer sports or other activities held on the TAS campus, please contact TYPA.

11. What is the Cancellation Policy?

Refunds for parent-initiated cancellations will be granted until April 12, 2023. After this date, no refunds will be granted, except under exceptional circumstances and only with the approval of the Summer Academy Director.

TAS may elect to cancel a summer course when less than a minimum prescribed number of students have enrolled. In such event, any TAS Summer Academy tuition amounts already paid will be refunded and/or the student will have the opportunity to enroll in an alternate summer course.

12. What are the policies related to COVID-19?

All students will need to comply with TAS' current requirements regarding COVID-19, found here, https://www.tas.edu.tw/about-us/covid-19-community-updates, also via the following QR Code:

13. Will students receive grades for TAS Summer Academy courses?

Report cards will be issued for all students taking TAS Summer Academy courses.

Lower School and Middle School summer courses:

Lower School: Teachers’ comments will be provided for all summer courses. Middle School: Students will receive Pass/Fail grades, along with teachers’ comments.

Upper School summer courses: Students will receive normal grades or Pass/Fail grades (if so elected) and teachers’ comments. Please see the section titled "Grading Policy and Credit Earning Procedures" on page 31 for additional information.

14. Where can I find a student’s report card from TAS Summer Academy?

Report cards for TAS Summer Academy courses can be found in PowerSchool (Parent Sign-In). Access instructions are available on the TAS Summer Academy website, and also via the following QR Code:

All Non-TAS students will receive report cards directly emailed to parents.

15. How do absences affect credit earned for courses? (Upper School only)

As credit classes are very fast-paced, it is expected that students attend each day of class. If a student misses more than two classes during a four-week course, or one class during a two-week course, credit for the class cannot be earned. Please plan accordingly.

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:

Cover design by Jenny Reed, Class of 2023. Special thanks to David Badgely for his kind assistance.

Top: National Palace Museum (NPM) Docent Course (SAUSSST1A); photo

PHOTOS:

credit: Spring Foundation

Bottom left: Video Game & Microcontroller Electroller Programming (SAUSCSR031)

Bottom right: Honors Chemistry (SAUSSCI11)