Splash! Fall 2010
Course Catalog

How far are we from the conversing machines of the Star Wars or the Terminator series? What’s the secret behind Google Translate? Why is the U.S Defense investing so much in creating automatic translation machines?

Come join us for a hands-on tutorial on Machine Translation and get an overview of the exciting research area called Computational Linguistics.


Prerequisites
Basic probability recommended but not required

This course will introduce you to how easy programming can be. After some basic material you'll see some of the cool things that you can do even with some simple knowledge of programming.


Prerequisites
Only an interest in programming! Note: If possible, please bring your own laptop to use for this class! We will only have a few available.

Ever wondered if programming was what you wanted to do for a living but unsure about it? Take this class and you will find out! We will be going over very basic C++.

NO PROGRAMMING EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Experienced programmers are not advised to take this class because it will be far too basic for you.

Are you a PC user? Did you ever wonder why people seem to enjoy their Macs and never scream at it like some would to a PC? If you are curious on how to use a Mac productively, this course is the right one for you!

Do you find Apple products overpriced? This class will educate you about Apple products. Not only will you be educated, but we will also have a friendly discussion and debate about what opposing sides think.

A group of 4 friends came together to fulfill their childhood dreams and create their own video game, now live and distributed worldwide. Learn what it takes to make your own games. Learn the challenges and obstacles of designing your own world. By the end of the session, you'll have the chance to make your own game, and walk away with a clearer perspective on whether game development is the life for you.

Part 2 of this class is C1207. You can sign up for just Part 1, or both Part 1 and 2.


Prerequisites
A passion for games and a curiosity for life as a designer/developer of games. Those with higher levels of programming knowledge will have the chance to create a prototype of a game. Others will fully design one. If possible, please bring a laptop with you for this class. We only have a few for loan. Thank you!

Are you interested in learning how your information is kept secure and hidden across the internet? In this class, we are going to learn two specific techniques (RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography) for hiding information and also how these techniques could theoretically be broken. These techniques have been widely adopted and used throughout the world.

For the first part of the class, we will discuss some mathematical foundations necessary to understand the techniques above. Then, we will apply these concepts to cryptography. If we have time, we will also discuss some advanced research topics in cryptography and computer security.


Prerequisites
Algebra 2. No previous knowledge of number theory or cryptography is necessary. We will talk about the necessary math at the beginning of the class.

How to use computers to understand biology? In particular, we will discuss the modern day challenges of understanding biological mysteries. You will also learn how to discover relationships between genes using computational techniques.


Prerequisites
Basic mathematics and biology

Ever felt annoyed with the Equation Editor in Microsoft Word? Don't know how to send a text email with bunches of equations? Wanted to number the equations and bibliographies in your essay for reference? LaTeX would be your best choice if you want to generate academic and/or professional documents. LaTeX is widely used by journal publications in the fields of mathematics and physics. You can also use LaTeX to typeset your personal statement and CV to make them look professional. It is easy to learn and ready to typeset!


Prerequisites
None.

The 3D graphics in your favorite Pixar movie or video game came not from the paint on an artist's brush, but from computers crunching numbers. We've learned how to mimic everyday and extraordinary objects and scenes with frightening realism (though people are still hard to imitate -- why?). In this course, we'll run through some of the basics underlying how realistic graphics are generated by computers.

Why does an animated movie take so long to render when video games can run in real time? What's so great about a graphics card? Is linear algebra really good for anything? (If you're not asking yourself that now, you will in college.) Learn the answers to these questions and more.

This is a continuation of C1169 (Game Development, Part 1). Do not sign up for this section unless you have also signed up for C1169.

In this portion, you will have a chance to implement what you've designed in the first portion.


Prerequisites
More passion for development! In this class, you'll be helping with artwork, game balancing, story creation, or hands-on programming. If possible, please bring a laptop with you for this class. We only have a few for loan. Thank you!

Do you consider yourself 1337-in-training and want to know more about how the Internet works?

Come learn about TCP/IP and many of the protocols that make up the Internet, including HTTP (for the web), SMTP (sending email), and POP (receiving email). You’ll also learn how the Internet is laid out, why the speed of light matters, how your data packets get to Japan or Australia, and why sending email or IMs is like sending a message on a postcard!

This will be a step by step workshop on how to create a complete website by leveraging the popular WordPress Software. From domain choice, to installation, to themes, and plugins. When this is complete you will have all the information necessary to create a fully functional website.

Basic methods and approaches in AI and their applications. Specific topics that we will discuss will be determined by in-class interest. Topics can include the following: vision, motion planning, classifiers (Naive Bayes or Decision Trees), search space formulation.


Prerequisites
Basic probability, programming is not necessary but if you know it, you can implement the algorithms we discuss afterwards.

Ever wondered what it means when an application prompts you to contact a systems administrator? Who is the systems administrator, and what are they responsible for? Why does it seem like every time something breaks I hear something about a systems administrator? What kind of skills and tools do I need to be a systems administrator?

Do you have a broad computer skillset and want to be able to apply most or all of it?

This class is an introductory (read: high-level) approach to systems administration, geared toward Unix/Linux and networking.

If you are interested in what systems administrators do or what it would be like to be a systems administrator, this is the class for you!

Please come prepared with a list of questions and a curious mind!


Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of Unix or Linux, basic networking skills.

Ever wanted to start your own website but had no clue on where to start? Well then this is the class for you. This class will cover the fundamental basics of web design. We will be using Notepad++ to write HTMl and CSS code for your own personal website. No experience in web design is needed.



Prerequisites
None

This class explains in detail the basic methodology of conceptualizing and building a website using open-source software. In particular, we shall be using Joomla for demonstration; though the instructions can be extended and applied to other engines like Drupal or WordPress. Other useful information, like web hosting and introductory marketing, will also be discussed
Class will be conducted in a seminar-discussion style.

Windows or Mac? Neither. Linux is a growing OS thanks to the development of Ubuntu, the most popular linux distro. In this class we will learn all about Ubuntu and what it offers. This class is an intro course so no background in computers is needed.


Prerequisites
None

ow do you share a secret so that no-one can eavesdrop and find out what it is? How do you sign a message so that whoever receives it can be sure it came from you? The modern solution to these problems was discovered 30 years ago by three mathematicians from MIT and relies on an amazingly elegant yet difficult math problem that is 2000 years old. The result of their work is the RSA algorithm which forms the basis for digital security in today's world, ensuring your online passwords remain secret while also protecting you from "phishing" scams.

We'll go through a brief history of cryptography to show the fundamental weaknesses of classical cryptographic systems. We then go through how the RSA algorithm works and how it is used for public key cryptography and digital signatures. A background in basic number theory (primes, modulo arithmetic) will be helpful but not essential.

In this class, we'll explore the basics of digital post-processing and photo-editing. Correct exposure, balance color, add stylistic effects, or maybe just add a couple dinosaurs to the background of that family portrait?


Prerequisites
An interest in digital photography!

Love videogames? Want to make videogames? This class will teach students what they should focus on in their college career if they want to spend the rest of their days making or working with videogames. Curriculum will lay out four key paths to getting jobs in the videogame industry for programmers, game designers, artists and writers.


Prerequisites
A passion for videogames, and knowledge of one's own skills: artistic, digital, mental etc.

All computer users are at risk from attackers who want to spy on them, steal their information, or take over their computers. In fact, a pretty scary percentage of computers on the Internet have already been taken over by somebody else and are being used as "zombies" to send spam or do other bad stuff.

On the other hand, most people aren't being targeted directly for their on-line activities. But what about those who are?

I've worked on "Surveillance Self-Defense" projects and on teaching computer security to journalists and activists who do have important secrets to keep, and reason to think someone is watching. In this class we'll take an abbreviated look at some of the surveillance techniques that are used for computer espionage, discuss why computer security is so hard to get right, and learn a few of the most practical means of self-defense against electronic surveillance.


Prerequisites
If it's convenient for you to bring a laptop, please do! But it's *not* required for the class.

Learn how to program computers in the Python programming language. We will go over the source code to a few simple games and explain how they work. This is aimed at people who have never programmed before.

For a preview of the games, take a look at the book at http://inventwithpython.com (You do not need to purchase this book for this class.)


Prerequisites
No programming experience needed. Must have an interest in learning to program. Must be able to name all the characters from The Great Muppet Caper.

We drink, shower, cook, and clean with water from our taps every day. Ever wonder where that water came from or how it got so fresh and so clean?

Learn about the engineering processes that make water clean and even get a chance to build your own water filter! This is a more advanced introduction to water quality intended for high-school students to find out how water is purified before it reaches the tap.



Prerequisites
A basic understanding of biology, chemistry and/or environmental science and algebra.

Every year, more objects are integrated with electronics. Crafters have realized this, and begun to use electronic components and engineering techniques to add another dimension to their work. Understanding electronics can be useful in craft, and traditional crafts can bring tools for making amazing electronics.
In this class, we will be creating our own soft electronics. We introduces basic sewing, basic electronics, and then give you a chance to design and create your own project using snap-switches, home-made soft buttons, LEDs and batteries wired together with conductive thread. Feel free to bring your own components, too!


Prerequisites
(none)

So, you have all heard that you need to be "green" nowadays. Maybe there was a class you were at, or maybe your parents were discussing this stuff. We are going to spend some time trying to understand how our lifestyle, the way we live, go to school, go to work and everything else is affecting the planet. Here's what we will discuss:

1. How can you change the way you live to help the planet?

2. What is energy? Why do we care so much about oil? How do we handle our energy needs for tomorrow?

3. What is the deal with recycling and composting? How can we all help?

If time permits, we will discuss related topics.


Prerequisites
In general it appears people in the 9th through 12th grades might enjoy this class. I will leave the requirements open, but only enroll if you are interested in learning more! Bring a lot of energy to the table. This will be a discussion based class, so I will be asking you to think a lot and answer questions - don't worry about being wrong, we will get to the right answer!

We’ll talk about past, present and upcoming space missions to celestial bodies beyond Earth. Starting with our Moon, we’ll do a tour of the solar system covering all the planets, even former ones.

Photographs and science data returned from interplanetary space probes will be presented and discussed, as well as the engineering behind how these distant robotic explorers are made.

Did you know Mars once had rivers, lakes and oceans (and possibly still has microbial life)? Did you know that Jupiter has a Moon with more liquid water than Earth (and nobody knows what could be swimming down there… yet)?



Prerequisites
An insatiable thirst to learn all things extraterrestrial.

We’ll learn about Bernoulli’s Equation and apply this to everyday situations. WIth the help of MythBusters and water guns, you’ll be able to blow your friend’s minds with your knowledge surrounding fluid flow.

This is a good class for those thinking about mechanical / aeronautical / astronautical engineering and engineering in general


Prerequisites
Basic understanding of physics

This is Part 1 of a four part series that will take you through the anatomy and creation of a modern day microprocessor starting from the raw materials used for making the chips to the complete assembly of a personal computer . All the sessions will involve videos and interactive discussions.


Prerequisites
Nothing Specific. A basic knowledge of computers!

This is Part 2 of a four part series that will take you through the anatomy and creation of a modern day microprocessor starting from the raw materials used for making the chips to the complete assembly of a personal computer . All the sessions will involve videos and interactive discussions.


Prerequisites
Nothing Specific. A basic understanding of computers.

We’ll learn about Bernoulli’s Equation and apply this to everyday situations. WIth the help of MythBusters and water guns, you’ll be able to blow your friend’s minds with your knowledge surrounding fluid flow.

This is a good class for those thinking about mechanical / aeronautical / astronautical engineering and engineering in general


Prerequisites
None!

This class is going to teach the basics of Rube Goldberg machine design followed by a Rube Goldberg machine team challenge! A Rube Goldberg machine is a deliberately over-engineered machine that performs a very simple task in a very complex fashion, usually including a chain reaction. For a really cool over-the-top example of one, take a look at Ok Go's This Too Shall Pass music video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qybUFnY7Y8w

This class is going to be taught by an awesome team from the Stanford Society of Women Engineers!

Want to edit how your voice or music sounds on the computer? Want to see what the sound waves look like when you sing? In this class, we’ll make an audio sample of you talking, singing, or playing a musical instrument (or if you prefer, use a sound sample that we already have). Then, we’ll see what it looks like on the computer, and add special effects to it! For example: changing pitch, changing duration, flanging, mixing. We’ll also briefly take a look at the math behind the special effects.

An update and explanation of the current construction of the San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge, and also the current tunnel from Fremont to Redwood City for the Hetch Hetchy Water System


Prerequisites
Some awareness of current Bay Area affairs, and an interest in the subject matter.. The class will include slide show presentations and expalnations of complex engineering in simple langauge.

While we all have come to take for granted the instant access to information made easily available through TV, the internet, and cell phones, this was only made possible after the development of the radio. Yet despite the way radio revolutionized the way people communicated with each other and is still an integral part of our lives even now, few people are familiar with the story behind this amazing invention.

This is part 2 of a 2-part course aiming to rectify that. The first part traces the scientific discoveries in electricity and magnetism that made the invention of radio possible. My aim there is to elucidate why the study of science is important, even if applications of the work are not immediately obvious, and hopefully in the process convince you why you are required to take science in high school! This part will tell the story of the engineers who used the earlier scientists’ discoveries to fundamentally change people’s lives by inventing radio. Throughout both, we will meet the human and at times peculiar and eccentric characters who played some role in this innovative technology.

Find Part 1 in the Science section: S1004!


Prerequisites
This is part 2 of a 2-part course (part 1 is S1004 in the Science section), but each course is independent enough that it is possible to only take one or the other if you prefer. However, you will definitely appreciate the subject more if you enroll in both. Also, a solid background in physics and math, especially electricity and magnetism, will probably enrich your experience, but as this is primarily a history course, a technical background is not required.

An overview of current California Green Construction and an explanation of the role of the Construction Manager in this process


Prerequisites
Positive and enthusaistic attitude --materials will be presented in down to earth formats and language

We will discuss basics of airplane design and then put our new knowledge to work in a paper airplane contest.

In this class we will explore how solar cells and batteries work. We will construct different solar cells and batteries using ordinary fruits and compare their performances. Students will gain a basic understanding of the physics behind these devices and hands-on experiences making their own batteries!



Prerequisites
None

In this class, we'll learn the basics of LEDs, solar cells, wireless technology, and even a little bit about electromagnetics so that you can understand and build your own wireless music player and homemade speakers.

This class is going to be taught by an awesome team from the Stanford Society of Women Engineers!

This is Part 3 of a four part series that will take you through the anatomy and creation of a modern day microprocessor starting from the raw materials used for making the chips to the complete assembly of a personal computer . All the sessions will involve videos and interactive discussions.


Prerequisites
Nothing Specific. A basic knowledge of computers!

Why Quiznos has longer lines than Chipotle?

Why Safeway wants to run out of sushi by 2pm?

Why Amazon has free shipping?

Two supply chain experts will reveal how companies create innovative processes to save money and improve service.

We'll walk through exciting and shocking examples and ask you (the student) to improve an actual process at a major company.

This is the final part of a four part series that will take you through the anatomy and creation of a modern day microprocessor starting from the raw materials used for making the chips to the complete assembly of a personal computer . In this session we will take a tour of the Stanford Nanofabrication Facility where the stanford researchers build small chips for their research.


Prerequisites
Nothing Specific. A basic knowledge of computers!

This class will explain how a nuclear reactor controls, contains and converts the energy of nuclear fission. Current and future reactor designs will be discussed, as well as safety, security and other topics depending on interest.


Prerequisites
High school physics.

This class will cover the basics of radio communication, with an emphasis on space based radio communication. Learn about:

-Radio theory
-Antennas
-Time domain vs Frequency Domain
-Digital communication
-How to track and communicate with satellites
-Communication with the International Space Station


Students may get a chance to make their own amateur radio satellite contact.


Prerequisites
-Motivation to learn -Completed beginning Algebra

How do researchers today make sure that astronauts are safe when returning from space? We will find out how to ensure a safe return from space, or when we enter another planet's atmosphere. The course will cover the fundamentals in testing and identification of suitable heat shield materials. Hands-on experiments and interactive questions will relate principles from everyday life to research for space.


Prerequisites

Cancer is a disease that a lot of scientists are trying to fight and cure. Do you want to be at the forefront of a group of hardworking scientists and researchers helping find a cure?

What is cancer? How many types of disease are there? How does it attack the human body? How is cancer detected? How is the disease currently treated?

What does it take to build a career in science, one that helps you fight diseases like cancer?

Let’s find out!


Prerequisites
If you had a class in biology, it will definitely help. If not, let me know and we can try to discuss things in a way that you can understand. Be prepared to come to an "old school" class that has you asking and answering a lot of questions and working with chalk, black boards and your curious mind!

This presentation will describe the major roles of structural engineers, how they fit within the construction industry, what structural engineers typically work with, and how students can prepare for the engineering field.



Prerequisites
None

Computers are pretty handy when it comes to understanding how fluids move around objects.

In this course, we'll take a glance at some of the basic ideas used in computational fluid mechanics (CFD). We'll also see examples of CFD in action, including (but not limited to) golf balls in flight, blood flow in the body, and shockwaves.


Prerequisites
Familiarity with basic ideas of physics (forces, acceleration, etc.) and geometry.

The clock is ticking for global fossil fuel reserves - will we be prepared when they run out? Together we'll analyze America's energy dilemma and consider a variety of emerging technologies that will change the face of energy as we know it. With topics including wind, solar, nuclear, and biofuels, this class will be an excellent primer on alternative energy sources at the cutting edge.


Prerequisites
interest in technology and taking care of the planet!

Come learn how to make an impact on issues you care about. We’ll show you how to develop skills you need to advocate, educate, and fundraise. Topics we will cover include: connecting with politicians, engaging your community, raising awareness, and developing achievable goals.


Prerequisites
None!

Join us to to be inspired and to create your very own handmade cards! Everyone loves to receive thoughtful cards, but everyone REALLY loves to receive homemade cards! This course will cover birthday, thank you, get well and "just because" card types. We will have plenty of card ideas for you (as well as fun supplies!), but students should also feel free to take advantage of this opportunity to be creative. No experience necessary- just a willingness to be have fun! Each student will leave class with a set of cards ready to impress family and friends.

Get a crash course in professional make-up artistry. Perfect the cat-eye. Learn the smokey technique. Turn the apples of your cheeks a flushing pink. Glam your pout. Analyze face shapes. Tap into colour theory.


Prerequisites
NONE

Learn to cook simple recipes in no time. Fast easy and healthy cooking without hassle.

Learn to do some close-up magic with cards, coins, and every day objects. You'll be able to impress your friends!


Prerequisites
None

We will explore some basic science behind the making of ice cream and try some simple recipes. Due to time constraints liquid nitrogen will be used instead of the traditional churn technique. However one goal of this class is for you to make better ice cream at home, so home-accessible methods will be discussed.


Prerequisites
This class requires sampling high-sugar dairy products in multiple batches. If you can't safely consume sugar or dairy you will feel left out.

Love dragons? Love origami? Then this class is right for you! We'll be working on folding one of the most awesome and powerful creatures in mythical folklore. Afterwards, you'll get to paint and decorate your dragon and give him/her scales.


Prerequisites
Some folding experience required as there are several very tricky folds (open-sink fold, crimping, etc). However, anyone is welcome so long they are willing to be patient with the folding.

An introduction to concepts of sustainable living using several contemporary authors’ works to guide discussion. Books discussed include Barbara Kingsolver's "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle", Michael Pollan's "Omnivore's Dilemma” and “Botany of Desire”, Jenna Woginrich’s “Made from Scratch”, Gene Lodgeson’s “Contrary Farmer”and Eric Brende’s “Better Off”. Topics include food origins: choices and consequences, energy dependence and alternatives, lifestyle values and more.


Prerequisites
None

Got a friend's birthday coming up? Want to make them a shiny handmade card? We will go through some of the basics of card making, and spend the rest of the time making cards. Supplies will be provided, and all you need to bring is your creativity.


Prerequisites
Being able use an X-acto knife.

Fan of Nerf Guns but feel it's not hardcore enough?
Then MODIFY IT!!!

This course is an in-depth analysis of various Nerf Guns. We will cover the physics of Nerf Guns and ways to modify and amplify the power and speed of Nerf Guns.


Prerequisites
Ability to use tools (i.e. screwdriver, etc.). Must be able to withstand multiple blasts from Nerf guns.

How to travel throughout Western Europe on a shoestring budget!

This class will also talk about the value of studying abroad and traveling around the world!


Prerequisites
None

Want to make all your dreams come true?

...this course won't guarantee that, but we will be making vision boards! This class will be all about the laws of attraction, both the logic behind it & my own personal experiences. We'll talk about your hopes, dreams, & generally how to live a happy life. The plan is to discuss each of your individual goals & what to do to achieve all of them.

Towards the end of the course, we'll start making your own personal vision boards so you can keep them in mind & in sight every day :)




Prerequisites
-A desire to live a happy life -Creativity -Goals -Dreams -Hopes -Fears

Don't worry, this won't happen to you

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYTcodJ2YQ8


We will learn some basic and intermediate moves for getting from point A to point B across obstacles (anything in between and more upon request).

Wow your friends with these wonderful tasting and artistically presented mocktails. Students will have 5 different types of mocktails to choose from as well as an array of different glass and decorations. After learning some basic recipes you will also be allowed to mix and match and create your own master piece. Welcome to Heady Mixes!

This class will encourage you to think about some ways to find ideas for new businesses and how to get that business started. You'll also have time to develop a business plan with your classmates and present it.

Business is one of the few fields that brings together artists, writers, dreamers, scientists, social butterflies, readers, and mathematicians, so please come, even if you don't think business sounds like it's for you!

Have you ever heard of a building that was alive? How about your walls coming to life when you touch them? Can you even imagine what it would look like? Come see what the most forward-thinking architects are designing for tomorrow’s world. Get a glimpse of how they design it, why, and where it is already being built.


Prerequisites
None

“Lettuce” start our winter vegetable garden! Many vegetables are perfect to start in the winter and some can be eaten as early as January! This hands-on class will teach you how to start your own winter vegetable garden. All students will receive materials (seeds, soil) to get growing!


Prerequisites
None.

What are six ways to make people like you? How do you win people over to your way of thinking? How can you be a leader? This class will shed light on each of these topics!


Prerequisites
None

Fantasy football has become very popular and more than 15 million Americans are involved in some fantasy sport or the other. This class will introduce you to the basic concepts of fantasy football and walk you through the online resources that can be used to make this a fun experience.




Prerequisites
Some basic understanding of football and the NFL. Ability to use computers and browse the internet.

We will learn and brainstorm different ways to bring more happiness and positive energy to our daily lives. With fun activities, we will explore kindness, volunteering, gratitude, affirmations, love, support, meditation, and plenty of other exciting things!


Prerequisites
None! Everyone is welcome. Just bring an open mind and open heart.

In this fun, relaxing class we’ll go over the basics of making balloon animals and then you’ll spend the rest of the time making whatever you want out of balloons! Come with ideas of what you’d like to make— no matter how crazy, you can try to make it!

Do you like chess? Take this class and learn an older game, with simpler rules but far deeper strategy. We'll teach you the basics of go and give you plenty of time to play against each other.

Think you are any good at Magic the Gathering?
This class will show you how to improve your deckbuilding and drafting skills so you can be the champion among your friends.
This interactive session will include hands-on deckbuilding and play practice. Students will get to take home their decks at the end of the class.

All players from beginners to experts welcome.


Prerequisites
Some experience with Magic the Gathering would be helpful, but we will start with the basics

Have you ever wanted to know more about your favorite video games? Have you ever been interested in Japanese culture? This class takes a look at the prevalence of Japanese culture in video games and how it has evolved over the past 25 years. For students interested in learning more about Japanese mythology, religion, or culture this class sets out to broaden not only your understanding and knowledge of Japanese culture, but also its prominent role in the realm of popular video games. The class focuses on Nintendo franchises and expands beyond into many other popular Japanese video game companies. All that is required for students is a desire to learn more about Japan and its culture, or to just better understand Mario, Link, and Kirby as this class takes you through the historical significance and cultural ties of your favorite video games.


Prerequisites
None

Knot-tying is a useful skill that can come in handy almost anywhere, from camping and wilderness survival to cooking and decorating. In this class, we'll go over basic knot terminology, and then practice several versatile knots and their applications.


Prerequisites
None.

A practical guide for ordering computer parts, ensuring compatibility, estimating performance, and designing the system you want. No knowledge of computers is required, and some knowledge won’t hurt.

Students will have limited hands on interaction with that actual computer built during the class, but students will have plenty of hands on time with salvaged parts.

The class is taught with a great deal of energy from myself, and students are able to ask questions at any time. Questions spice up the class.

Bring your bike to a course intended to help both of you align your functions in harmony with nature. We will skim the surface of various philosophies and apply them to bike maintenance in a hands-on interactive practical and whimsical session. We hope to center ourselves and our wheels, adjust our attitudes and our shifters, lean on each other and our brakes. We hope to find the proper position both for ourselves on the bikes and for the bikes in the world.



Prerequisites
Bring a bike that needs to be brought into harmony with you.

This class is for the passionate traveler. The adventurous explorer. And the reckless maverick. This classes discusses a few practical ways you can travel far and wide to exotic places and experience life like never before in such travels. Discussion includes checklists to be taken care of, barriers to consider, logistical and safety issues, and things to do that will help you get the most out of your journey.
Lessons given through personal stories and loads of pictures.

Sure, you can tie a square knot and a bowline, but there's much more out there. Come learn to craft the butterfly knot, the icicle hitch, the zeppelin bend and whatever else we can teach you in 50 minutes.

Learn how to make friendship bracelets of different patterns, sizes, and colors!


Prerequisites
The desire to make bracelets, make friends, or both!

Learn how to play lacrosse from a varsity athlete at Stanford University.You can learn sweet new tricks and get involved in a fun athletic activity.


Prerequisites
none

Are you passionate about social justice issues? Are you unsure about what you can do as a student to raise awareness and funds for a worthwhile cause? Well you've come to the right place.

This course will explore these issues through the lens of HIV/AIDS and a student movement on Stanford campus spearheaded by the largest student-run philanthropic event in the Bay Area - Stanford Dance Marathon. In the first part of the session we will go over the scientific, social, and cultural issues surrounding HIV/AIDS. In the second part, we will describe how we as students have galvanized hundreds of others around a common cause by combining a fun event (a 24 hour dance-a-thon) with educational awareness and fundraising. We hope that you will come away with a sense that you too can effect change in your community.


Prerequisites
-a general interest in social change or issues of social equity (does not have to be limited to HIV/AIDS issues, but we will be using HIV/AIDS as a case study) -a desire to act to further social progress now rather than later -an open mind

Do you know Stanford has LOTSA trees? Do you know trees are among the hardest things to draw? Come learn various kinds of tree drawings~ or just drawing in general, with pencils and charcoals and get your hands dirty~~
(we might go on mini field trips if we have time~)


Prerequisites
a heart for art~

College personal statements are the paper form of a college interview. Lacking the interaction of an actual interview, the personal statement thus requires the student to portray his own desires, passion, quirks, and personality through words. This workshop seeks to help a student hone in on their sense of self transfer that conviction to paper, thus creating a powerful and memorable personal statement essay.

This class will be an informal discussion about taking time off before college. Many students do not realize that it is usually very easy to defer your admission to college for a year or two to work, travel, or do something totally awesome! The benefits can be enormous--you get the chance to learn more about yourself, figure out more clearly what you're interested in, and have some pretty sweet experiences you can't have when you're busy at school! If you're at all interested in taking a gap year, this is the class for you! Taught by 2 Stanford undergrads who took gap years


Prerequisites
none

Learn about what the palms say about you. The more we know about our strengths and weaknesses, the more we can work with them to make our lives better. You may even find out about your hidden potentials!


Prerequisites
Please be open-minded and have fun.

In this short class, hear about the planning and execution of riding a bicycle from one coast to the other. There will be a brief talk (with visuals) of all the equipment one would need, the hardships faced, and the training necessary.

I'll have photographs and videos from my trip which was completed this Summer from San Francisco, CA to Portland, ME (4,844 miles) in three months.

The class will be an exciting lecture taught in a fluid manner so that you may ask questions at any time.

Have you always wanted to learn how to juggle? Have you ever dreamed of leaving people in complete awe from your amazing skills? Then come learn how to partner juggle, juggle balls and rings, etc!




Prerequisites
None, just a willingness to learn something new and exciting.

Have you ever wanted to make your own scarf? Or your own hat or blanket or stuffed animal or ...? You can do all this with crochet!

This class will teach the basics of crochet, and you can start your own scarf in preparation for the winter! Or, for more advanced students, you can start a personal project with guidance from the friendly teachers.


Prerequisites
An optimistic attitude and a willingness to learn and have fun!

This course will guide you through the art of listmaking, teaching tools for organization, but mainly enjoying the fun and silly things we can do with lists!


Prerequisites
Ability to draw checkboxes

Ever wanted to create a crane? A flower? A pig? A star? Butterfly balls? Ninja stars? Or a heart? Well, now you can -- with PAPER!


Prerequisites
A love of paper. And not too much disdain for papercuts.

So you have plenty of digital photos and videos you took over on vacation and birthday celebration. Now what ? Well, you could make a simple movie, give your own soundtrack, and narate your story! We'll use iMovie to create a simple short movie / video.


Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of using Macs and simple digital cameras. If possible, please bring a Mac laptop with you for this class. We only have a few for loan. Thank you!

Nervous about a job or college interview? Not sure what to say or what to wear? Then this course if for you.

In this course, we'll cover everything you wanted to know about interviews, from the best way to prepare to answering difficult questions.

The ACT consists of four main parts: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Seems intimidating, right? However, there is a way to obtain a high score without being a wiz in all (or any) of those categories. By looking at the usual grammar error patterns and math problems that appear on the test, and learning how to read efficiently and analyze the science section by just not thinking (yes, NOT thinking), getting a high score is much easier than you think!

An introduction to getting the most out of your camera, whether it be a compact or a SLR. Topics covered will include composition, depth of field, shutter speed, aperture, iso, and exposure compensation. The course will be very hands on and each student will learn to harness their creative photographic potential. It is recommended that each student brings a camera, but the instructor will supply a camera to be shared for students that cannot bring their own. Each student should bring walking shoes, if weather permits, we will be going outside.


Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses are required.

Much of historical European politics would have made more sense if you were there at the time. This class will give you a chance to recreate those politics. Take command of countries in a simple war game and learn about the balance of power by seeing it play out in action.

Some tips about traveling abroad either by yourself, with a small group, or a large group. Whether you are going on a class trip, mission trip, or flying solo around the world there are certain key aspects to traveling successfully and appropriately.

This is solely based on my 10 days in Australia, 1 month in Nicaragua, 72 days in South East Asia, and a lifetime in Northern CA and other parts of the U.S.

So come learn a bit to make your travel easier, more fun, and hopefully more meaningful by hearing about my experiences and mistakes : )

This is a course designed to improve communications and tactics for novice gamers; as well as improving tactical decision making for those who are interested in competitive play


Prerequisites
Bring a laptop if possible; the teacher will have several computers available for usage. Also, if possible, try to make a steam account ahead of time.

Not your typical time management class!
This is not necessarily a class on how to stop procrastinating. Instead, we will embrace the fact that some students like to procrastinate, discuss the reasons why students procrastinate, and brainstorm healthy habits for procrastinating more productively.


Prerequisites
No prerequisites. All are welcome, procrastinators and non-procrastinators alike.

Have you ever thought of traveling on the Trans-Siberian railroad? Have you ever wondered about the logistics of doing so? Feel like seeing St. Petersburg, Moscow, Lake Baikal, Vladivostok? Perhaps you'll want to learn a little bit of tourist Russian? Stop in to our course, where we'll show, discuss, and explain all things you should know before you set out. Even if you are not interested in going there yourself--but are curious about the journey--this is the course for you! Russia--it's nice.


Prerequisites
NONE

Master Administrators
The time was about 500 B.C.E. To speed communication for a smooth running of the empire that stretched from India to Egypt, a Royal Messenger Service was instituted. Relay stations were placed at intervals equivalent to the distance a horse can run at a moderate speed without collapsing from fatigue, about 14 miles. When a message was dispatched, the relay system operated day and night, making it possible for news to travel 240 miles per day. This time was remarkable when compared to the three months it took for the wagons carrying goods to travel that same route.
To facilitate trade between Persia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean, they dug a canal that linked the northern tip of the Red Sea with the Nile River to the west. From Nile, all ships could thereafter sail north to ports on the eastern Mediterranean. They were master administrators in operating their enormous political enterprise. They had a genius for devising solutions to the problems of imperial statecraft.
In this seminar, we will study the accomplishments of the early kings of Persia, looking at their unique achievements.

In 2005, the Comprehensive Peace Agreement ended a 20-year civil war between Northern and Southern Sudan. As part of the peace agreement, Southern Sudan will have the choice to secede come 2011. How will the results of the referendum affect stability in the region? Is South Sudan prepared to govern itself? How will oil resources be distributed? What effects will this have on Darfur? We will explore potential outcomes and focus on what students and the international movement as a whole can do to prepare.


Prerequisites
None!

If you are a Christian, have you been stumped by your friend's questions challenging your beliefs? If you are not a Christian, can you think of some logical objections to the faith and wonder if/how those objections can rationally be resolved?

This class will be a lecture/discussion allowing you to question and explore the rational basis of the Christian faith.

Seidenstrasse or Silk Road was coined by the German explorer and geographer Baron Ferdinand von Richthofen in 1877 and romanticized by medieval accounts of travelers such as Marco Polo who described the route from Baghdad to China. But the route or routes were in existence from first century C.E. at least and throughout two millennia luxuries and other goods were traded by dauntless traders of these ancient silk roads. The best merchandise, according to one ambassador to Timur, came from China: especially silk, satins, musk, rubies, diamonds, pearls and rhubarb. Rhubarb?! Travel with me on this inhospitable terrain. We will begin our journey with the battle that generated a desire for silk: the battle between the Romans and the Parthians where the Romans got their first look at Silk. We will take a sneak peek into the secretive art of silk making and as a bonus get a peek into the lifestyles of people who rear the precious cocoons. We will carry some gold, religion, furniture and fashion from the west and bring back the riches and spice of the east on our way back to Rome. We will encounter bandits, cross Taklamakan desert, follow the path of parched bones, and stop in oasis towns and the cities of Mediterranean to trade our precious loads and exchange some news.

Come learn about the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the violence there that has affected millions of civilians. As members of Stanford STAND chapter, which focuses on confronting genocide and mass atrocity, we work to bring this humanitarian crisis to an end. We will talk about the history of the conflict, its causes, and what you can do to help change the future.

Gustav Holst's suite The Planets is one of the best known and most beloved pieces in the modern orchestral repertoire, but it is rarely explored in detail. In this class, you'll get the chance! We will discuss the musical and astrological inspirations for the work, and relate the music to modern-day astronomy of our solar system.


Prerequisites
Ability to read music

Read some great poems and learn to write your own!


Prerequisites
None!

What factors led to the success of companies such as Pixar, Disney and Nintendo? Learn and participate in the creative design process in creating an entertainment company's strategy and product.


Prerequisites
Quick mind and creative ideas. Enthusiasm towards digital entertainment.

When you hear the phrase "Learning a foreign language," what images come to mind? Do you see students huddled over their desks, scribbling in workbooks? Maybe grammar quizzes and tables of vocab? If you've used a system like Rosetta Stone, maybe you picture a person in headphones clicking through a computer program.

What if, instead, you saw a group of friends sitting in a circle, laughing, shouting, and gesturing wildly in some kind of crazy charades game, only to realize later that without ever cracking a textbook or learning a grammatical rule, they had accidentally started to speak in another language?

Where Are Your Keys, or WAYK, is a "language fluency game" designed for use in language revitalization movements. When an endangered language is going extinct and its community wants to save it, WAYK provides a way to learn the language at a break-neck pace without having to rely on textbooks or formally trained teachers. It is a distillation of learning techniques from many different fields, packaged into an active and addictive game that you can play with your friends.

In this seminar, we will experiment with this notion of play-based language acquisition and see just how fast we can learn Mandarin Chinese without ever actually studying it. After the workshop, you will be able to "language hunt" for yourself, learning any language quickly and effectively just by interacting with other speakers.




Prerequisites
Whether or not you think you are "good" at languages, and whether or not you have ever learned another language before, there is no skill or training necessary for this seminar besides a willingness to play. You may surprise yourself with just how much you can do!

This class will teach you some essential travel phrases. I have familiarity staying in German, Spanish, French and Thai speaking countries, but we might include more languages. You'll learn essentials like, "Where's the bathroom?" Or, "I'd like water."

The second half of the course will be making your own phrasebook by decorating a cover and binding pages inside of your book.


Prerequisites
Enthusiasm and willingness to be hands-on is strongly recommended.

Classical music is not boring. Believe me (or if you don't, come to the class!). In this class, we will attempt to disprove various misconceptions about classical music. such as that it is sleep-inducing, archaic, inaccessible, etc. Works by Chopin, Beethoven, and Brahms will be featured and performed by your instructor. Focus will be on classical music as a unique form of expression and communication.


Prerequisites
None (class should be of interest both to those with classical music experience and those without it)

Teaching those with out any prior knowledge of the Japanese language how to begin using it effectively.


Prerequisites
Nothing

Three of the last four Oscars for Best Original Screenplay were first time efforts - Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, and Hurt Locker!

In this class you will acquire the tools that will allow you to transform 100 blank pages into a finished screenplay in just 14 days. You will be able to amaze your friends, family, and most of all yourself with a work of staggering genius.

We will review the elements of what makes a compelling story, analyze a popular screenplay, and help you get started on an outline for your first screenplay.




Prerequisites
A love of films and writing. And an imagination bubbling over with unique heroes and villains, story ideas, plot twists, witty dialogue, and satisfying endings. Come to class with a least two ideas for a story in any genre - drama, action, romance, comedy, horror/thriller/sci-fi. We will flesh out the rest.

Ever wondered how speakers of foreign languages and actors that play aliens in sci-fi movies make such bizarre sounds? Want to expand your sound inventory and make some of those sounds yourself? Are you interested in learning how to decipher the flowing Elvish letters from J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings trilogy? Join us for a tour of the basics of phonetics and you can learn a new alphabet on the side!

The class begins with a look at Tolkien's Tengwar, a writing system that is closely tied to the science of speech. Once you know the basic rules of the script, you can learn it in only a few hours of practice. We will then explore the full diversity of the sounds of human language, from the simple places and manners of articulation to clicks, ejectives, and more.

Invented languages are appearing more and more in the entertainment industry--after the success of Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, and Avatar, directors are dealing with a growing expectation that fantasy and science fiction media will put as much effort into the fictional languages spoken in them as they do into other aspects of their setting.

Inventing languages as a hobby and art form has been around for centuries, and people have many different reasons for creating their own. Some make languages to use in works of fiction, while others just want to make a language to better express their unique way of thinking, or communicate in secret with friends.

But how does a person go about creating a complete, original language? This seminar will give you the tools you need to do it yourself. We will investigate a wide number of real-world languages in order to break out of the English “box” and discover just how infinite the possibilities of language really are. For any students who have tried or been intrigued by constructed languages in the past to anyone who simply loves studying how different people express their thoughts, this is the seminar for you.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR: I’ve been “conlanging” for about 12 years now, and recently I was considered by a major TV network to create a language for an upcoming fantasy program. My forays into the conlanging world have fueled my love for linguistics, which I am avidly pursuing here at Stanford. In working with my own languages, I’ve found myself better equipped to learn other natural languages, and I hope that conlanging can do the same for you.



Prerequisites
This course will deal with some technical terminology, but everything will be explained within the seminar itself--no prior study is required.

This will be a course on how to teach personal statement writing applications. Bring ideas, a draft, an outline. We will have discussions how to showcase your life in the best way possible!


Prerequisites
This course will be taught in English. Please bring either: 1) a draft 2) 5-10 ideas about your life that you want to write about 3) an outline or other writing construct Pen/paper/highlighters: try to bring them, we will be taking notes

"Learn Toki Pona Quickly!"

Toki Pona, which means "Good Language" or "Simple Language", is an invented language made up by a Canadian translator named Sonja Elen Kisa. She created Toki Pona to explore her philosophy of simplicity.

It has only about 120 words, but it's amazingly possible to talk about lots of things in Toki Pona, by combining words in inventive ways (for example, using the words for fight-person, love-male, cold-box. bird-parent-ball, air-travel-tool to mean 'soldier', 'boyfriend', 'refrigerator', 'egg', and 'airplane'). However, it's definitely less precise than other languages you might be used to.

Toki Pona is one of a huge number of usable spoken languages that have been made up by somebody (in fact, there's a whole class at Splash! about those languages and the process of inventing a language: L1126, From Sindarin to Klingon to Na'vi and beyond: the Art of Invented Languages).

Toki Pona is probably the second most widely spoken language made up from scratch by a single person who's still alive today. (The first is Klingon.)

Because Toki Pona is so simple and the vocabulary is so small, we can learn a lot of it in a short time and try to have some conversations or translate things.

A step by step guidance on how to plan your admissions

Tips on writing amazing essays

Fatal mistakes that can kill your application

Question and answer session


Prerequisites
none

If you've ever wanted to be a published author, this is the course for you. Taught by a Stanford student who has interned for a major New York publishing house, this course will cover the basics of the industry and the publishing process, from the first submission of a manuscript to the finished novel's release. We will also hold a short pitch workshop, where you will learn how to compellingly present your novel in just a few sentences, and a pitch critique.


Prerequisites
Come prepared to talk about your novel -- to pitch it to the class and to have it critiqued.

Since his first appearance in Detective Comics in 1939, Batman has changed many times in many ways. Through variations in his appearance, behavior, and personality, Batman has served as a bellwether for the zeitgeists of the decades since his creation. This class will explore the correlation between these variations and the societal trends and attitudes they reflected, from the 1930s to the present day, with a special focus on Batman's recent "retro revival".


Prerequisites
A love of Batman and/or experience with comics is a plus, but all interested are welcome! Costumes are encouraged!

One of the ways the Roman Empire's influence is still felt today is in the modern versions of the Latin language that the ancient Romans taught the people they conquered all over Europe.

Many of these modern versions of Latin were then spread around the world by European colonial powers, especially Spanish, Portuguese, and French, which are spoken by hundreds of millions of people. (English isn't directly descended from Latin, but Latin has had a complicated influence on English too.)

This class is about how one language turns into another and how languages change over time, to the point of incomprehensibility and beyond.

We'll focus on the example of how Latin turned into Spanish and Portuguese and some of the huge number of features of the language that had to change for that to happen.

Some of these changes also reveal the difficulties with the idea that learning Latin or Greek is good for your English vocabulary (although it can be...).


Prerequisites
It would be helpful if you've studied a foreign language and are familiar with grammar terms like noun, verb, pronoun, preposition, subject, and direct object. However, it doesn't have to be Spanish, Portuguese, or Latin! Similarly, it would be helpful if you understand the idea of conjugations or "verb forms", or if you understand most of what one of those "501 Verbs" books is getting at.

Friends, Romans, SPLASH students, lend me your voices! I'd like you to join me in making fools of ourselves, as we prepare to knock out an entire Shakespeare play in 2 hours! Come if you love acting, english, or just have a soft spot for the venerable bard. We'll all gather round a table with copy of a play (and some snacks!), trade parts at the beginning of each scene, and dive right into love, death, passion, and downright silliness. Don't worry if you don't have experience with acting or familiarity with Shakespeare--I'll be providing brief plot summaries before we read each scene so that everyone is on the same page--the rest is left to your own creativity! This is your chance to let loose, read some of the greatest literature of all time, and, perchance, to dream.
You may even pick up a few tips from the master!
(For example: Next time someone insults you, you can call him "a knave, a rascal, an eater of broken meats; a base, proud, shallow, beggarly, three-suited, hundred-pound, filthy, worsted-stocking knave; a lily-liver’d, action-taking knave; a whoreson, glass-gazing, superserviceable, finical rogue; a one-trunk-inheriting slave; one that wouldst be a bawd, in way of good service, and art nothing but the composition of a knave, beggar, coward, pandar, and the son and heir of a mongrel bitch: one whom I will beat into clamorous whining if thou deniest the least syllable of thy addition.")


Prerequisites
A set of finely-tuned vocal chords.

This course is specifically designed for students who think that college is a distant dream and unachievable because of the lack of guidance and finances.
We will discuss various paths that will make surviving high school and getting financial assistance for college easier.


Prerequisites
None

Advertisements, whether for products, politicians or ideas, are all around us. Their goal is to influence how we think, who we vote for and what we buy.

In order for you to make good decisions as an informed consumer, citizen and individual, you need to be able to separate fact from fiction.

In this class, you'll learn how to see exactly what advertisers are trying to sell you, and experiment with the critical thinking skills needed to decide what's right for you and what's not, based on facts, not hype.


Prerequisites
None

Have a presentation to do for school and work? Perhaps you are preparing for the college interview and polishing up on your presentation style could give you the extra advantage you need? Planning a research project and have to sell it to a mixed audience? This workshop will give you the abilities to step up your presentation to a performance. Learn to overcome fears, pre-presentation jitters, and avoid common speaker traps so you can focus on the education aspect of your presentation.


Prerequisites
None.

Middle School is that time of your life when you can learn the most. You have more time than high school and you are almost as mature to learn new things and explore new ideas.
Let me show you how to put your middle school years to the best use so you have more relaxed and productive high school years.




Prerequisites
None

What defines right and wrong? Good and evil? What can we take as truth - and how do we know? If you have ever asked yourself these questions and wondered about their answers, you were made to take a philosophy class. Taught by a Stanford Student majoring in philosophy, this class will get your feet wet in the world of philosophical thought, and, hopefully, teach you to question what you can say you really know for sure.


Prerequisites
No prerequisites - just curiosity!

A PG-13 fun talk about invention and innovation using patented toys SLINKY, FRISBIE YO-YO with copy of US patent (It is not rocket science), and a free drawing for attendees for a patented toy.

Join us on the main quad for lunch - either bring your own, or pick up a burrito or pizza from us.

Join us on the main quad for lunch - either bring your own, or pick up a burrito or pizza from us.

In school you're taught to represent numbers in only a few ways. if you want to represent the number of words in the previous sentence you might write "12". However 0xc, or XII or holding up 12 fingers are still just as valid. The goal of this class is to help you understand what numbers really are and why we might choose different methods to represent them. A special note will be made for why computers might want to represent numbers differently from humans!
Topics will include how are the natural numbers defined (made easy!) as well as different representations including...

base 10,
base 2 (binary),
base 3,
base 16 (hex),
base 2i,
2s complement,
IEEE standard floating point (half single and double),
roman numeral, and maybe some other out dated system.

This class will be simplified as much as possible, but will be completely rigorous. I hope to also convey to you the beauty of rigorous mathematics and formal proofs, even if you don't understand the particular details.


Prerequisites
An open mind.

Why do certain harmonies sound better than others? In this class, we'll explore the basic math that underlies most systems of harmony, and learn how to use that knowledge to harmonize your favorite melodies. For the math, we'll derive the basic equation for how a wave moves down a string (or your eardrum) and a beautiful mathematical theory that explains the notes you hear in terms of the shape you make when you pluck a string. We'll move from the fundamental mathematics and physics of how instruments make sounds and how your ears detect them, to the practical knowledge of how to make a simple and pleasant harmony for a tune.

As for strings to pluck harmonically, we'll have a piano and a harp (!) for you to try out.


Prerequisites
Familiarity with musical note-reading, and an ability to carry a tune. Some understanding of basic calculus and ability to identify notes on a piano strongly encouraged.

Your prize lies behind one of three doors. You choose Door #1, but before you open it, the game show host opens Door #3, revealing no prize. Can you improve your odds of winning by switching to Door #2?

In this course, we'll develop an intuitive understanding of probability from scratch. The above question is often called "the Monty Hall paradox," but we'll see that with the right tools, the seeming "paradox" dissolves (as do many others like it). We'll also look at the uses (and misuses) of probability in everyday reasoning, and discover that probability theory lies at the core of science.

Algebra is a lot more interesting than just factoring polynomials! Groups are fundamental mathematical objects that have are ubiquitous in the sciences and our daily life. This class will teach students the basics of groups and their long history filled with some very interesting characters. The way in which groups are used to describe the physical world through symmetries will be introduced through concrete examples such as rotation and crystals.


Prerequisites
High School-level Algebra

Modern math, like language, is the product of a long historical process. And like language, math is so ubiquitous that it’s easy to forget that human beings had to deliberately create it. We will learn about the genesis, evolution, and impact of some of the great ideas mathematicians have had. Topics may include what we have learned about numbers (number theory), shapes (geometry and topology), symmetry and structure (algebra), and functions (analysis). Expect fast-paced mathematical storytelling from a math graduate student: very biased and shockingly incomplete but hopefully fun. We won't be spending a lot of time proving things.

Nowadays information is cheap: just type stuff into google/wikipedia search bar and in seconds you can find any kind of information you want. Problem-solving skills, however, remain valuable as ever before.

Problem-solving does involve creativity, but I do believe one can train him or herself to be a better problem-solver by working many problems and finding patterns in them.

In this class I will share with you some of my favorite brainteasers and demonstrate how problem-solving is involved.


Prerequisites
Elementary algebra, basic Euclidean geometry and an intuitive understanding of infinite series.

Trying to ace the SAT Math sections of the exam? This class will offer a hands-on approach to working through SAT math questions. Will also offer some standard problem solving techniques for math questions found in standardized exams.


Prerequisites
High school math courses or the equivalent.

We will be solving a somewhat popular mathematics problem. It concerns one slightly lighter or heavier ball in a set of twelve, and distinguishing it through some weighings.


Prerequisites
None! This problem can be tackled by sixth grader and college graduate alike. Nevertheless it is a rather difficult problem with a lot of deep analysis and extensions.

What does it mean to *know* something? How do we achieve knowledge?


Prerequisites
Some familiarity with mathematical proof.

In this class we'll cover classical cryptography (encryption) and cryptanalysis (code-breaking), and show how this applies to security on the Internet. All of our examples are simple enough to be done on pencil and paper, so no special knowledge is required. We'll start simple and work our way up to a cipher that was used to protect the secrets of the atomic bomb.


Prerequisites
Basic Algebra

A compass and straight-edge may be insufficient to trisect an angle, but it can be done easily just by making a few folds in the sheet of paper you were drawing on.

Learn how to trisect an angle, fold a hyperbolic paraboloid, and more in this class on the mathematics of paper folding.

The complex numbers are an amazing mathematical object. But they are also an amazingly hard space to deal with. You can’t define a consistent square root, for example – the square root has to take on two different values. And taking logarithms is even worse: a logarithm has infinitely many values to it!

We’re going to study the complex numbers and uncover how they really work. Our exploits will take us through what it means to take the derivative of a complex-valued function, on to a bit about integration, and finally talking about Riemann surfaces. Along the way, I’ll mention interesting things that come up such as the Riemann hypothesis.


Prerequisites
This will be a very difficult class that will move very quickly. You should know calculus, including derivatives, integrals, and Taylor series. You should also know basics about the complex numbers, including that e^(ix) = cos(x) + i sin(x).

You've probably heard that it takes 7 shuffles to completely randomize a deck of cards. But did you know that 8 perfect shuffles will restore a (52-card) deck to its original state? In this class, we'll discuss the mathematics behind card shuffling, and take a look at some card tricks based on shuffling.

How can we communicate securely over the internet? How can we send each other encrypted messages without agreeing beforehand on a precise way to encode and decode the messages? Over the course of this class, we will introduce notions about number theory, prove Fermat's little theorem, and take a peek at one of the most widely used applications of pure mathematics.


Prerequisites
The class will focus on abstract concepts, and be proof based. Experience with proof-based mathematics is a plus; a love for problem solving is a must.

3D computer models in Pixar movies and video games have thousands of polygons for even a simple small object. This class will talk about subdivision surfaces, a technique for taking a coarse mesh of a few points and refining it into a smooth 3D surface.

We'll learn about both the Catmull-Clark and Loop subdivision methods. We will also talk about how the topology of the surface affects the smoothness of the final mesh, but you don't need to know any topology beforehand to enjoy this class.


Prerequisites
Basic understanding of geometry and the Cartesian (x,y,z) coordinate system.

What does it mean to prove that a statement is true? This class will have two components. In the first, I'll introduce an abstract logical system within which we can prove some of the basic formulas you learned in middle school so that we can understand what a very high standard of proof looks like. In the second half, we'll discuss the limitations of that kind of proof: how can you prove that the abstraction you've constructed has anything to do with the world you live in?


Prerequisites
Algebra 1 - you should be comfortable with using variables to represent numbers, and moving them around. Generally - be willing to think abstractly!

Learn to Waltz

This class is combined with P1215. Girls should sign up for this section and boys should sign up for P1215.

Learn to Waltz

This class is combined with P994. Boys should sign up for this section and girls should sign up for P994.

Learn the basics of improv in this awesomely fun class. Learn how to say yes, give gifts, and make your fellow improvisors look good. Actors/improvisors as well as non-actors are highly welcome and encouraged to sign up!


Prerequisites
none!

Juggle with Stanford's Juggling Club, Down With Gravity. We will get you well on your way to juggling 3 balls, or teach you some new tricks if you already know how to juggle. Come for a short performance by our group and then some time for instruction and practice.


Prerequisites
None!

You've seen it in movies like Stomp the Yard and School Daze, now learn how to do it!

Stepping is a dance rooted in the African and African American community but open to all! Come and learn a fun step to take with you everywhere you go.

All experience levels welcome, but be sure to bring it!


Prerequisites
None

An ensemble of Indian classical, folk and modern Bollywood dancing. The fun in the rhythm of Indian music.


Prerequisites
electric port to connect laptop.

This course will teach students about the history and foundations of North American Taiko as well as giving them an overview of basic technique. At the end of this practicum course, attendees will be able to play a full taiko song!


Prerequisites
None. No experience required.

Yes, curling your hair is an art, especially with a hair straightener! Think this is impossible? It's not! This course will focus on how to get the perfect curls with a hair straightener, achieving soft waves, and a great soft shine. Lab included: curling your own and/or the teacher's hair.


Prerequisites
An interest in making yourself look good.

Learn how to play reggae piano!

This class is for the absolute beginner with stringed instruments. (It’s fine if you play a different instrument and this is the first time you ever tried to learn a string instrument.) You will be absolutely bored if you already know how to play a stringed instrument.

We’ll learn how to play a couple Beatles’ songs that you'll be able to play by the end of class. If you don’t know the songs “Eleanor Rigby” and “Let It Be”, listen to it a few times before the day of Splash.

In the adventure of life, you can either do what people tell you to do, or you can listen to your heart and follow it.

This class is about HOW to LISTEN.

If you are an artist of any kind -- songwriter, dancer, painter, writer, cook, scientist -- or just want to be more creative... you will most likely enjoy this class.

We will PLAY with some of these major creative tools...
* Music
* Writing
* Movement
* Voice
... all in an effort to see what your Inner Ear is Hearing, and How to Create what wants to come out of YOU.

How can you Listen to yourself?
Who are You?
What story do you want to tell?
What makes you feel alive?
What makes you angry?
What do you want to change?
How do you want to share your Ideas and Truths with others?

And it will be fun. If it's not fun, we'll do it differently until it is!

Can't wait to see You.



Prerequisites
Come as you are (of course).

Want to learn how to belly dance? It's a fun was to shake stress and get a great abb workout!


Prerequisites
None! We welcome all levels of experience, especially beginners.

From card fanning to card throwing - we’re going rock playing cards this weekend!

Demo of material covered:
http://www.stanfordesp.org/learn/Splash/2010_Spring/Classes/H857/index.html


Prerequisites
None. I'll provide the cards

A discussion and analysis of sales from the point of view of a shoe salesman. The class is not a formal lecture, but there will be lecture elements prior to the discussion. Students should have a firm understanding of what a shoe is, and should have had some experience dealing with a salesman.


Prerequisites
Need to own a pair of shoes.

This course explores prominent art forms from various regions of Latin America. We will examine at various art pieces, present their background and interpret what they mean in a particular culture. Students will also create their own art related to these artifacts and ideas which will allow them to express their own creativity.


Prerequisites
None.

The Physics of the everyday world. How the Earth goes around the Sun, how planes fly, why a pebble and a boulder will hit the ground at the same time.

See how the same equations that govern how the electical circuits in your house work describe the electromagnetic magnetic fields of galaxies, as well as the light coming from both of them.

From projectiles to Heavy Machinery, from light bulbs to particle accelerators. See how this basic starting point of modern Physics influences many aspects of the world. The subject isn't as Classical as it’s name implies.

This open lecture/discussion style class will look to expose students to some of the facts about how we use energy. We will discuss how much energy we use, where it comes from, how much we need in the future, and where we will get it. Recent scientific breakthroughs by Stanford researchers will be highlighted, with a focus on renewable energy production and storage.

Ever feel your heart beat? Ever wonder what it's doing?

Two Stanford meddical students will show you what it all means and how to use a stethoscope. Students will have the opportunity to listen and feel pulses on each other.

We will make some delicious pizza in an outdoor oven over at the Stanford Community Farm (near the golf course). We'll give students a brief tour of the Community Farm and introduce them to pertinent issues in sustainable food and agriculture.


Prerequisites
none!!

What do vaccine-filled tomatoes, pigs that produce environmentally friendly waste, and crops that can defend themselves better against pests have in common? They are all being developed by scientists hoping to improve agriculture. Come learn and discuss how molecular biology is changing the food we eat.


Prerequisites
None required. A little biology background would be useful but not necessary.

Over 10 million people in the US are affected by this disease, but many of us (including scientists) understand very little about what causes it, how we can prevent it, and how we can treat it. Understanding Cancer will introduce you to the basic questions in cancer biology: is cancer one disease, or many? What makes a cell a cancer cell? What causes a cell to turn cancerous? And why is this disease so hard to treat? Finally, students will get to be oncologists for the day, learning to diagnose cancer by looking at slides of patient biopsies. Also, there will be candy!

This course will be an overview of the many sub-atomic particles and there infinite combinations. Starting from the discovery of the electron, this course will give a historical qualitative description of the many particles that we know exist. This course will be very light on mathematics, but topics such as decay time and relativity will be discussed. The main thrust of this course will be to give the students a very general overview of the sub-atomic world, and develop a "period table" of particles in analogy to the periodic table of elements.


Prerequisites
None!

While we all have come to take for granted the instant access to information made easily available through TV, the internet, and cell phones, this was only made possible after the development of the radio. Yet despite the way radio revolutionized the way people communicated with each other and is still an integral part of our lives even now, few people are familiar with the story behind this amazing invention.

This is part 1 of a 2-part course aiming to rectify that. This part traces the scientific discoveries in electricity and magnetism that made the invention of radio possible. My aim here is to elucidate why the study of science is important, even if applications of the work are not immediately obvious, and hopefully in the process convince you why you are required to take science in high school! The second half will tell the story of the engineers who used the earlier scientists’ discoveries to fundamentally change people’s lives by inventing radio. Throughout both, we will meet the human and at times peculiar and eccentric characters who played some role in this innovative technology.

Find Part 2 in the Engineering section: E1005!


Prerequisites
This is part 1 of a 2-part course (part 2 is E1004 in the Engineering section), but each course is independent enough that it is possible to only take one or the other if you prefer. However, you will definitely appreciate the subject more if you enroll in both. Also, a solid background in physics and math, especially electricity and magnetism, will probably enrich your experience, but as this is primarily a history course, a technical background is not required.

Rockets are cool.
So come and learn about rockets!
What Physics and Math goes behind a rocket? Why are rockets so fascinating? What's going on today with rockets?

Live demonstration of bottle rocket included.


Prerequisites
A basic knowledge of Physics is recommended, but by no means at all required. We will cover a broad range of topics ranging from history, practical applications, and of course, Physics! Any and all interested souls should sign up!

You have heard of
$$E = mc^2$$ but what about
$$G_{\mu.\nu} = \frac{8\pi G}{c^4}T_{\mu,\nu} $$?

Learn how fast is fast, and how the speed of light made us change our notions of Classical physics, space time and the very nature of the universe.

For many people, scientific curiosity includes a desire to reach and exceed the limits of human understanding of our universe. What are those limits? How can you reach them? How can you participate in expanding them?

This course has two roughly equal focuses which will be intertwined in the lecture and discussion. The first is understanding what are today’s frontiers in physics - what are the biggest, smallest, quickest, slowest, heaviest, brightest, darkest, coldest, hottest, simplest, and most complex objects and processes under study today? What types of questions do we ask and experiments do we perform to understand these phenomena?

The second focus is on identifying the steps you can take from today in highschool through college, graduate school, and beyond to reach and contribute to expanding the frontiers of science.

The course material will be relevant to anyone excited by science or the idea of a research career in the sciences!




Prerequisites
Any prior knowledge of physics will be useful but by no means necessary!

You are under attack! Constantly. Every minute. Every second. Fungi, viruses, bacteria -- they all try to invade your body. The one thing keeping them at bay: your immune system. It works hard to fight them off, and is extremely successful. Find out what cells make up your immune system, how they function, how they protect you from viruses, bacteria, amoeba and other evil pathogens. And how some pathogens fight back...

People have been fascinated by the idea of playing with time for generations. Whether in a Tardis or a DeLorean, or perhaps the Starship Enterprise, our culture is inundated by fictional characters who travel through time as we do space.

Lets meet in the here and now to discuss the there and then. We'll see how fiction portrays time travel, and what science has to say. Einstein teaches us that time is not so absolute as we might think, and modern physics proposes tantalizingly plausible universes full of higher dimensions, and closed time-like curves.

Join us on our quest through time, as we study the future, the past, and paradoxes of all varieties. Go home and tell your friends that you are an expert in temporal mechanics.

Have you ever wondered why your dad makes your dog howl when he tries to sing? Have you ever tried to form a rock band, or watched a rock band perform, and tried to figure out why certain songs "work" and certain songs don't? This class will try to address those questions. From rhythm to harmony to why blues are offbeat, this class will attempt to make the science behind song clear to both experienced musicians and newcomers alike. Students are encouraged to bring their instruments, and depending on class interest there may or may not be a performance segment at the end of the class.


Prerequisites
An interest in music.

Explore the world of DNA and cell components as we extract DNA from strawberries! Learn about the function and structure of DNA and take home your own piece of strawberry DNA - that you extract yourself!

Ever wondered where that lunch you're having came from? What about the light bulbs in our lamps, and the fuel in our cars? Your T-shirt didn't simply pop out from the factory- it was once made of something else. Come find out about the story of things as they were, before we knew them.


Prerequisites
An open mind and heart