2012 Workshop Listings
Workshops at EXPLO at Wellesley are numbered W501-W561. You will sign up for three workshops each session, attending a new one each week of the program.
First-Come, First-Served
Workshops are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Class size, in most cases, is limited to 16 students. On your application you will choose six workshop preferences.The registrar makes every effort to assign you to your top choices. If a workshop is full, you will be assigned to another one of your choices.
| W501 | Archery+ For anyone who's ever dreamed of being Robin Hood, sending arrows into the bullseye every time, now's your chance! Come try the sport of archery, where you'll learn how to handle a bow, aim an arrow, and let it fly true. By the end, you'll know how a real competition is played and scored. No experience necessary. | |
| W502 | Baseball for Boys+ Imagine a stadium full of screaming fans, your team down by one in the ninth inning, and you're up at bat. Here's the pitch, you swing and crraaack! you send the ball flying out of the park! In this baseball workshop you'll learn the fundamentals of how to pitch, hit, and slide into victory.
[This workshop is for boys only.] | |
| W503 | Softball for Girls+ What could be better than a bright summer day and a game of softball? In this workshop, we’ll practice pitching, hitting, and fielding techniques through specific exercises and then put them into practice in competitive scrimmages. You’ll improve your softball skills and be hitting home runs in no time!
[This workshop is for girls only.] | |
| W504 | Basketball for Boys+ Set a pick, block a shot, and hope you don’t get fouled. Whether you run the courts every day or are new to the sport, come work on drills, strategy, and techniques as we practice driving towards the hoop. Who knows? You may be the next LeBron James or Sheryl Swoopes.
[Boys and girls are taught separately.] | |
| W505 | Basketball for Girls+ Set a pick, block a shot, and hope you don’t get fouled. Whether you run the courts every day or are new to the sport, come work on drills, strategy, and techniques as we practice driving towards the hoop. Who knows? You may be the next LeBron James or Sheryl Swoopes.
[Boys and girls are taught separately.] | |
| W506 | Cheerleading+ Tumble, jump, and spring into action as you cheer on the home team. In this workshop you will learn the fundamentals of cheerleading such as toe touches, pikes, and pyramids. So grab your pompoms and get ready to cheer! | |
| W507 | Fencing+ En garde! Are you ready for épées and fancy footwork? You will learn the basic safety, foot stance, and sword techniques of the sport through call and response drills designed to work on attack and defense techniques. So put on your mask and grab the hilt of your weapon — it's time to attack and parry! | |
| W508 | Lacrosse for Boys+ Grab your stick and get ready to play! In this exciting workshop you'll learn to cradle, catch, and throw as you face-off against your opponents. Perfect your ball-handling skills as you race down the turf, while you learn to block and spin your way to the goal. What are you waiting for? It's time to get in the game!
[Boys and girls are taught separately. Students participating in the Lacrosse workshop must bring a fitted mouth guard or purchase one from EXPLO.] | |
| W509 | Lacrosse for Girls+ Grab your stick and get ready to play! In this exciting workshop you'll learn to cradle, catch, and throw as you face-off against your opponents. Perfect your ball-handling skills as you race down the turf, while you learn to block and spin your way to the goal. What are you waiting for? It's time to get in the game!
[Boys and girls are taught separately. Students participating in the Lacrosse workshop must bring a fitted mouth guard or purchase one from EXPLO.] | |
| W510 | Rugby+ Ever pushed shoulder-to-shoulder in a scrum, mauled your opponent, or yelled "With you!" to your teammate for the ball? Welcome to the topsy-turvy world of rugby, where the field is a pitch and the best way to move the ball forward is to pass it backwards. We'll practice lining up for a scrum to gain possession of the ball, how to get the ball away from your opponent — even if that player is on the ground — and how to kick the ball so it sails (or bumps) the furthest down the field. Ready, set... PUNT! | |
| W511 | Soccer: Basic+ Dribble, shoot, pass, kick, score! Come perfect your soccer skills by working with some of our best staff players. We'll do drills, talk strategy, and scrimmage according to skill level. There will be plenty of time to practice your fancy footwork on Wellesley's athletic fields. Next stop: World Cup!
[This workshop is for students who have limited experience playing soccer. Students participating in the Soccer workshop must bring their own pair of shin guards or purchase a pair from EXPLO.] | |
| W512 | Soccer: Intermediate+ Dribble, shoot, pass, kick, score! Come perfect your soccer skills by working with some of our best staff players. We'll do drills, talk strategy, and scrimmage according to skill level. There will be plenty of time to practice your fancy footwork on Wellesley's athletic fields. Next stop: World Cup!
[This workshop is for students who have limited experience playing soccer. Students participating in the Soccer workshop must bring their own pair of shin guards or purchase a pair from EXPLO.] | |
| W513 | Squash+ Step up to the service line, play a drive down the wall, and learn to control the T area. Whether you play squash every day or generally have it served on a dinner plate, join us to practice rallying, talk strategy, and learn more about this fast-paced, athletic game on Wellesley College's squash courts.
[Students participating in the squash workshop must wear non-marking athletic shoes.] | |
| W514 | Competitive Swimming+ Jump into the Wellesley pool and get ready for some competitive swimming! You'll learn the skills you need to shave full seconds off your times with plenty of stroke practice, flip turns, and surface dives. Finally, we'll show off your newfound talents with a mini swim meet.
[This course is for experienced swimmers only.] | |
| W515 | Tennis: Basic+ Watch out Novak Djokovic. Move over Maria Sharipova. Work on your serve, volley, forehand, and backhand shots as we practice drills and talk strategy. Wellesley College's courts are a great place to learn more about the sport or enhance your tennis skills.
[This workshop is intended for students with limited experience playing tennis. You must bring your own tennis racquet.] | |
| W516 | Tennis: Intermediate+ Watch out Novak Djokovic. Move over Maria Sharipova. Work on your serve, volley, forehand, and backhand shots as we practice drills and talk strategy. Wellesley College's courts are a great place to learn more about the sport or enhance your tennis skills.
[This workshop is intended for students who play tennis at an Intermediate level. You must bring your own tennis racquet.] | |
| W517 | Flag Football+ The crowd goes wild as the quarterback passes you the ball. Weaving your way through some fast-moving linebackers, you head down the field. Just a few more yards to go and... TOUCHDOWN! In this American flag football workshop, you'll learn how to rush, intercept, and complete your passes. We'll learn solid offensive and defensive strategies, giving you what you need to take your football skills to the next level.
[This is a workshop is for both boys and girls.] | |
| W518 | Track + Field+ Come learn about jumping, hurdles, dashes, relays, and more, as we practice these track and field events. Sprint your way to the finish as you participate in events that date back to Ancient Greece, but will actually take place on Wellesley College's track. On your mark... get set... GO! | |
| W519 | Ultimate Frisbee+ Ultimate Frisbee is an exciting, non-contact sport played worldwide. It's more than just tossing and catching a disc, it involves skill, finesse, and strategy. As with many other popular sports, Ultimate is a fascinating and fast-paced game requiring creative offensive skills and a strong defense. The simple rules make it easy and fun to learn. Get on the field and come play with us! | |
| W520 | Water Polo+ Dive in to the exciting game of water polo! Find out how to pass, defend and shoot, while showing-off your swimming skills. Along the way, you'll learn the proper "eggbeater" and "scissor kick" techniques in this fast-paced hydro-competition. So, if you're ready for the “swim off,” jump in, and we'll teach you all the basics.
[Though no water polo experience is necessary, students in this workshop must pass a swim test and already be proficient swimmers.] | |
| W521 | Volleyball+ BUMP! SET! SPIKE! You don't need sand on the beach to enjoy this popular team sport. Spend some time with us on the volleyball court where we'll show you how to set, serve, volley, and spike. We'll go over the basic rules, scoring, and strategy so you'll be ready for all the action at EXPLO. | |
| W522 | Canoeing+ Canoeing is the perfect way to explore the serene waters of Lake Waban. You'll master basic skills, practice specific strokes, and understand safety techniques. Whether you prefer a quiet cruise along the shore or an intense cross-lake race, you'll enjoy every moment spent in the water.
[You must complete a swim test during the summer to canoe.] | |
| W523 | Kayaking+ Grab a paddle and brave the waters! Kayaking is a great way to relax and experience the natural habitats of the beautiful Lake Waban. You'll learn to maneuver your kayak effectively, perform specific strokes, and glide fast enough to outpace your classmates in a cross-lake competition. Join us for a week in our fleet of kayaks.
[You must complete a swim test during the summer to kayak.] | |
| W524 | Sailing+ Extended Period Bring up the main sail and get ready to tack. On the waters of Lake Waban, you will learn sailing terms and techniques on EXPLO’s 14-foot Catalina sailboats. Whether you’re a novice landlubber or a skilled sailor, the lake is a calm and delightful place to learn and practice sailing. Come sail away with us!
You must complete a swim test to sail. This workshop meets for an extended period on some days. Students should not expect to participate in the recreational activity periods during the week they are enrolled in Sailing. | |
| W525 | Outdoor Camping Foundations+ Want to learn how to really enjoy the great outdoors? Join us in this friendly introduction to outdoor camping. We'll learn to pitch a tent, build a fire, do basic first aid, and prepare our own campfire meals. On the final day of this workshop, we'll head into the woods for a chance to put your newfound wilderness skills to the test. | |
| W526 | Rock Climbing ($40)+ Get ready to scramble as you race to the top of our indoor rock wall. In this workshop, you'll not only learn how to strategize your way up a rock face, but you'll also gain the safety and technical skills you need to belay a friend to the top. From caribeeners to anchors, you'll work with a professional, certified climbing instructor to learn everything you need to know to be a top-roping pro. Belay on!
[Due to Wellesley College regulations, students must be at least 14-years-old for the first day of this workshop. There is an additional charge of $40 to participate in this workshop.] | |
| W527 | Yoga+ Breathe, stretch, relax. Strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and center your mind, while learning numerous physical postures, the flow of movements and the internal actions of yoga. We’ll learn about the the differences between Vinyasa and Hatha yoga forms and their benefits for mind and body. Beginners are welcome. | |
| W528 | Pilates+ Ready to relax your mind and strengthen your body? Welcome to the art of Pilates. You'll learn to condition your core and center your breathing as you perfect the fundamentals of this mind-body practice. From The Roll Up to The Criss-Cross, you'll stretch and strengthen your way to total body rejuvenation. | |
| W529 | A Cappella+ Think of your voice as an instrument capable of playing nearly anything: a jazz riff one minute, a multi-layered hip-hop beatbox the next, and a barbershop melody a moment after that. We'll translate some of our favorite tunes (whether they're R&B, country, or pop) into a capella arrangements to create layered musical soundscapes rich in tone and tenor. In no time, we'll be blending solos and riffs into a beautiful vocal orchestra. | |
| W530 | Acting 101+ Do you feel destined for the stage, but don’t quite know how to get started? You’ll read and analyze scripts, learn to develop a character, and practice some voice techniques to make sure that you’re heard. You are sure to develop your own style and flair in this dramatically inspired workshop. | |
| W531 | Circus Skills+ Anyone ever told you to stop "clowning around?" Finally, here's a workshop where clowning around is the whole point! You'll learn the basics of juggling, build a character for clowning, and learn to walk on stilts. Before you know it, you'll be ready to join Ringling Brothers or Cirque du Soleil with your hilarious skills and amazing feats! |
| W532 | GarageBand+ Turn your original tune into a real song with GarageBand, an Apple-designed music composition software tool that's used by electronic musicians everywhere. Layer vocals, percussion, even a full brass band if you desire. Both beginners and experienced students will create and critique musical masterpieces of varying complexity. | |
| W533 | Improv+ Improv comedy is fast, exciting, and FUN! Come learn interactive games while making each other laugh. You will learn that there is more to improv than just being funny — you must be an excellent listener, a quick thinker, and a good onstage partner in order to create a comedic spark. We'll create characters from prepared materials as well as from original ideas. | |
| W534 | Intro to Acoustic Guitar+ Have you watched in envy as a friend picks up a guitar and can play along to the newest pop songs? In this guitar workshop you'll put together elementary chords, melody playing and proper hand techniques that will have you playing along to your favorite musicians in no time! | |
| W535 | Non-Traditional Percussion+ Get ready to beat to your own drum! From a marimba to a garbage can, a true percussionist can find their rhythm anywhere. In this workshop, we'll explore “found” instruments that will produce the percussive beats and textures we're looking to create. Can two metal pipes produce music? Absolutely. Will rocks in a bucket create a beat? Definitely. The only question is, can you feel the rhythm? | |
| W536 | Musical Theater: Singing+ Sing and act in this workshop designed to help you develop characters, learn vocal projection, prepare songs, and move like a star. We'll work on scenes from musicals like The Phantom of the Opera and Wicked to help you hone your skills. Warm up your vocal chords, because you're going to Broadway! | |
| W537 | Musical Theater: Dancing+ Can you imagine 42nd Street without the tap dancing, or The Lion King performed by actors who just walked around the stage? In this workshop, we'll learn and practice steps that have helped bring some of the best musicals to life, from West Side Story to Chicago. Get ready — in no time, the footlights will be on you! | |
| W538 | Magic Fundamentals+ Learn the secrets of master magicians and work towards becoming a true entertainer. In this workshop, we'll focus on the basic slight-of-hand techniques needed to pull off some incredible close-up illusions, involving playing cards, coins, and more. You'll develop your own unique patter and routine, and by the end of the week be ready to amaze your friends. | |
| W539 | Stage Combat+ It's all about rolling with the punches when you join this class. You'll learn the art of fake karate, fake kickboxing, and fake street fighting. We'll uncover the secrets to making a fight on the stage look real. But don't worry, no EXPLO students will be harmed in the teaching of this class! | |
| W540 | Hip-Hop Dance+ You've got a great beat stuck in your head and you're itching to move. Look no further! Translate that contagious energy into dance! You'll break down your favorite hip-hop moves and learn the building blocks of hip-hop dancing. So turn up the volume and get ready to MOVE! | |
| W541 | Ballroom Dance+ Whether you've always dreamed of having the perfect steps for an upscale gala or have dreams of performing on Dancing with the Stars, this workshop is the perfect way for you to be introduced to the world of ballroom dance. You'll learn several genres of ballroom dance, including American Smooth and West Coast Swing, while improving your poise, posture, and presentation. | |
| W542 | CPR + First Aid for Child Care ($30)+ In this workshop, you'll work with professional First Aid and CPR trainers and have an opportunity to earn official certification from the American Heart Association. Along the way, you'll also pick up important tips for taking care of children, whether you're taking care of a younger sibling or starting your own babysitting business.
There is an additional $30 fee for this workshop because students will have the opportunity to earn American Heart Association certification. | |
| W543 | Video Editing+ Many filmmakers say that the real magic of the movies is made in post-production. In our Final Cut Express editing suite, you'll discover how to pace the telling of the story, put the emphasis where you want it, and highlight a moment of truth in an actor's performance. Splice footage into seamless transitions and dramatic, plot-changing cuts to create cohesive stories and vignettes from acres of raw stock footage. With all that power, what kind of film will your edits make? | |
| W544 | Cartooning and Comics+ From the political cartoons in the newspaper to daily internet comic strips, cartoons are everywhere. Test your skills for storytelling by drawing a three-frame comic with no dialogue. Imagine the newest cartoon hero and design a world where she reigns supreme. In this workshop, you'll learn the drawing fundamentals of the pros, and walk away with the start of an original comic strip of your own creation. | |
| W545 | Digital Photography: Using Photoshop+ The art of digital manipulation allows you to produce photographs of the impossible. Use the software tool Photoshop to insert yourself into famous paintings, or manipulate a self-portrait so you look like a mythical monster. The possibilities are endless when you have the tools to blend, layer, filter, and manipulate graphics and photos to fit the limits of your imagination! | |
| W546 | Digital Photography: Taking Better Photos+ Got a digital camera but not sure it's living up to its potential? Come learn the techniques for capturing and printing digital imagery. You'll discover the basic functions of digital cameras and learn how to store, access, and edit images. Bring your camera and snap away!
[EXPLO can provide digital cameras for this course, though students may also bring their own from home.] | |
| W547 | Google Sketch-Up+ Ever wanted to design your own furniture? How about create a backdrop for the next big animated movie? Welcome to Google's 3D modeling program — Sketch-Up. Using the same software as engineers and game developers, you'll learn the basics of proportions, geometrics and modeling in three-dimensional design. So get ready to create 3D versions of everything from toys to tables. | |
| W548 | Sell Out: A Competitive Business Challenge+ One mystery item. Two teams. An entire EXPLO community full of potential customers. In this workshop, you'll use your business instincts, shrewd strategies, and a few really good guesses to earn the most profit you can as you sell a real product to the EXPLO masses. The challenge? Well, the opposing team is selling an identical product. Outwit the competition, earn the most profit (to benefit the EXPLO scholarship fund), and at the end of the week you may walk away a winner. | |
| W549 | Graffiti Art+ Criminal activity or artistic expression? You decide, as you look at the long and colorful history of graffiti, from the earliest political cartoons to urban social protest. Design your own "tags" and graphic styles, and experiment with spray paint and other mediums to leave your creative (non-vandalizing) mark. | |
| W550 | Interior Decorating+ Extreme Makeover EXPLO Style! Come learn the basic principles of interior decorating as you create a floor plan complete with material samples and high style. We’ll explore color psychology, Feng Shui, furniture placement, and much more, as you learn what it takes to be a top-notch interior decorator. | |
| W551 | Jewelry Design+ Making beautiful metal jewelry is easier than you might guess! Some wire plus a pair of pliers and we'll have you twisting, coiling, linking, and crimping in no time! Learn the basics of wire jewelry-making as you craft elegant creations you can wear at the end of the week! | |
| W552 | Painting+ Uncover your inner artist and join us for a week of painting. Learn foundational painting techniques, how to take advantage of light and why using color relationships can dramatically affect your work. You will mix colors, build vibrant washes, and experiment with a variety of application techniques, as you create your own masterpieces. | |
| W553 | Sewing Basics+ This workshop is all about learning the fundamentals of sewing. Together, we'll learn how to set up and use a sewing machine to do the stitching on a custom-made pillow. We'll finish off our pillows with hand-stitching and a few flourishes like decorative buttons and other embellishments. [This course is intended for students with little to no sewing experience.] | |
| W554 | Summer Spa: Making Soap and Shampoo+ Your body's largest organ? Your skin. Learn the science behind healthy skin, while mixing up your own spa-inspired lotions and cremes. Once you've hit the mark with a rejuvenating pH-balanced formulation, it'll be time to market your product and offer your treatments to eager clients. | |
| W555 | Just Desserts+ Cupcakes, cookies, crisp, oh my! From mixing the batter to decorating creative confections and creating the perfect petits-fours, you'll discover the delicious secrets to making delectable dessert treats — and get to eat them along the way! | |
| W556 | Rustic Italian Cuisine+ Come and learn the secrets of rustic Italian cuisine as they have been prepared for years in the Italian countryside. You'll create mouthwatering pizzas rolled out by hand, homemade pasta in a robust red sauce and a delectable, traditional dessert to finish off the meal. | |
| W557 | Build It!: Engineering Challenges+ This class is all about wacky design challenges that will force you to use quick wits and creativity. Can you build the strongest bridge constructed of only spaghetti, Styrofoam and marshmallows? How about the fastest (or slowest?) balloon-powered car? Who will win the mystery challenge? May the best engineer win! | |
| W558 | Build It!: Projectile Pros+ Ever wonder how scientists are able to tell where something will land, based on how high and fast it flies? Now you'll know, as you build contraptions to launch objects and understand their trajectories so you can actually take aim at a target. From firing marshmallows to building effective slingshots, you'll learn all about the science of ballistics. Ready, aim, fire! | |
| W559 | Treasure Hunting + Orienteering+ Deep in the woods of Wellesley College on the shores of Lake Waban lies a hidden treasure. After learning the skills of map-reading and orienteering, you and your team will set out on the hunt and compete against others to see who can find it first! | |
| W560 | Strategy Games+ Forget luck! We'll take a look at tuning up your strategies with classics like Monopoly and learn about the new wave of Eurostyle games such as Settlers of Catan. We can't guarantee a win every time you play, but we'll definitely improve your chances. | |
| W561 | Princeton Review: Study Skills ($375)+ Though EXPLO courses are free of homework, grades and tests, they are still a reality of most students' academic careers. Some of us need a little boost to our all-around study skills to get ahead in high school, college and beyond. Students in this 16-hour workshop will participate in exercises and games specifically designed to positively impact grades. Princeton Review's Study Smart teaches students valuable study skills and techniques for reading comprehension, answering essay questions, writing papers, and analyzing information from textbooks. Students will learn to think, listen, write and read in new ways systematically designed to help prepare them for high school level courses.
This special three-week workshop is led by a Princeton Review instructor and is exclusively for our students. Note that this course covers more material than other EXPLO workshops and students who enroll in Study Smart will remain in it for the entire 3-week session instead of changing workshops from week to week. Selecting this workshop has no impact on the morning full courses. The cost of this workshop is $375. |