Splash Fall 2015
Course Catalog

In just eight recording years The Beatles changed the world and popular culture forever. Come find out what happened in those right years and why we're still talking about the Fab Four today!

Music Videos serve various purposes. We will watch/discuss different types of music videos and analyze their cultural impact. Some examples of types of music videos include, storytelling, powerful message, purely artistic, and unrelated to the song.

Do you like comedy? Do you like making other people laugh? Then this class is for you! We will go over the basics of improv comedy and will teach you how to have your friends on the floor laughing. We will do lots of interactive games and activities to teach you the basic "rules" of comedy! No experience required!

This class is for any beginner that wants to get hands-on experience on the pottery wheel. You will be taken through all steps of the process, from wedging the clay before getting on the wheel to trimming a foot. Finished pieces will be fired and mailed to you! The course is listed as 2 hours and 50 minutes, but you are not required to stay for the entire time. We ask that you arrive on time, but you can leave once you are finished and content with your wheel-thrown piece.

This course is designed to expose you to the most influential music of all time: the legendary music of The Beatles.

Do you want to know what it's like to be on a dance team? Are you already on a dance team? Do you enjoy learning dances for fun?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you should come to this workshop! You will have the chance to learn a dance that is similar to what dance teams perform at football and basketball games and learn what it is like to be on a dance team.


Prerequisites
5-7 years of dance experience would be ideal

Are you dying to know how to tie-dye? We can teach you all the different techniques and you will get the opportunity to try out your favorite!

This course will teach students how to use both the darkroom as well as the sun itself to create photograms and cyanotypes without the use of a camera. The course will last 2 hours, but the lesson will probably not take the whole two hours. Students may leave after they've created a print.

Do you love keeping up with the latest designer fashions? Learn the in's and out's of the fashion industry. This course will cover fashion marketing, merchandising, and even tricks of the trade used by today's top designers.


Prerequisites
Creative mindset and a love of fashion

We will learn the basics of recording footage, entering it into the computer, and editing it together into a single artistic piece.


Prerequisites
None

This course will be centered around tips and information about college in general, and specifically what life is like as a student at BC.

This is a casual seminar style course led by the Splash Leaders to answer all your questions relating to the college admissions process, college life, or just any general question about majors, classes, clubs, etc. Take a break from academic classes and spend some time with the eccentric and knowledgeable Splash Leaders gaining all the valuable information you would need to know to be ready for college!

This class will include survival tips for freshman year and discuss the transition to college life including: how to be your best self in college, how to handle difficult situations, and how to live with roommates.


Prerequisites
a willingness to engage in discussion!!

A great lesson on how to decorate, organize, and make the most of your freshman dorm room. Learn about color schemes, bedding, storage bins, and even the best snacks to have in your room.

College is filled with all kinds of new challenges and obstacles, some of these include new social settings. Do you know how to be responsible while partying? What are the realities of college hookup culture? Come find out during a fun and open conversation with 6 freshman, students of the Race, Gender, and Violence course!

Enjoy a break for lunch with your Splash Leader and friends! Please register for at least one lunch period.

Have you ever wondered how trades are actually done? The days of a trading floor packed with people shouting over each other are gone. Computers can do the job much faster and better than we ever could. Do the terms High Frequency Trading and Super Computers interest you? If you said yes to either, or even read this to the end, this course is for you!


Prerequisites
I will try to make this course simple, so all you really need is an interest in the stock market, or even those who are interested in computer science will find this course useful.

Come learn about Complex Numbers, also known as Imaginary Numbers, and some of their remarkable properties!


Prerequisites
Some basic knowledge of Algebra will suffice. Somewhat of a Calculus background is even better.

We will explore this all-important question by way of philosophical reasoning. This means we will be looking at logical arguments for both sides of the debate and, in the end, weighing the relative strength of the arguments.

This course will explore how brave individuals throughout history have mobilized their peers, community, and government to make the world a better place, and how you can too.


Prerequisites
None

Ever wonder how the first time you met someone can have an impact? Are your first impressions of people accurate? Come learn and explore how that initial "hello!" can influence the way others perceive you and you perceive them.

This class will discuss psychiatric labeling, and the morality behind it. It will discuss the pros and cons of using labels to diagnose and treat mental disorders.


Prerequisites
an open mind, and a willingness to participate in discussion

A brie overview of the underlying psychological principles of Pixar's most recent masterwork, Inside Out. You don't need to have seen the movie to take the class, but there will be spoilers for those who haven't seen it.

In this course, you will have the opportunity to read and discuss a few published poems and then write some yourself. The last part of the class will be an optional open-mic forum in which you may read your poetry for the class.

This course will cover the archetypal hero and its journey contrasted against the growing popularity of the antihero in today's culture. We will cover various examples of different literary and film characters, from Sherlock Holmes to Harry Potter to analyze this shift. This class will be discussion based.

We will be exploring modern Russia's stable authoritarianism under Vladimir Putin as well as the country's rapidly-deteriorating relations with the West. More specifically, we will look closely at current events in Eastern Ukraine, Syria, and Russia itself to unpack a complex relationship between the U.S. and Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Topics to be covered will include Russian militarization, media censorship, diplomatic relations, etc.


Prerequisites
Prior knowledge of the Cold War is recommended

This course will cover the basics of the Latin language--case, the 1st and 2nd declensions, the 1st conjugation, and just enough vocabulary to be able to put it all together.

Have you ever wondered where J.K. Rowling came up with the magical creatures and objects featured in the Harry Potter books? Many of those creatures and objects are rooted in lore and literature from all over the world, from Greek and Celtic mythology to Shakespearean plays to Japanese folk tales. Come explore the diverse myths and legends that provided the inspiration for the magical world of Harry Potter!

Students will learn the basics of economics through simulations in which they will decide on how to allocate scarce resources and also practice their bargaining skills!

Come take part in a Model UN Joint Crisis Committee as delegates representing members of President Snow's or President Coin's Cabinet. You will be assigned positions once you arrive to committee. After the explosion of the 75th Hunger Games arena, cells of rebellion have erupted in all the districts of Panem. If assigned to be a member of President Snow's Cabinet, you will be debating how to restore order to the Districts in such a way as to ensure their further allegiance to the Capitol. If assigned to be a member of President Coin's Cabinet, you will be debating how the rebellion can be spread to the other Districts to limit the Capitol’s control. We will go over how to participate in a Model UN Joint Crisis Committee briefly before the debate begins, so no extensive Model UN experience is required.


Prerequisites
Read the four page long background guide that will be emailed to you before BC Splash. Do NOT prepare a position paper, as you will not know your position in committee until arrival.

We wil look at the ice cream company Ben & Jerry's and how they work to maintain a socially conscious company.

Have you ever wondered why you "like" someone when you meet them? Why you are drawn to a friend or partner physically or emotionally?

How we relate to other people is the single most important thing that gives our life meaning. Let's find out why.

***If you're a junior or senior, I highly suggest taking this course as a way to learn about college social dynamics and how to make the most out of the college social scene***

Why study English?
a) I like it
b) I can't stop re-reading Bleak House
c) I want to grow as a person
d) I write better than the eponymous heroine in your average kunstlerroman
e) It's a trap! I thought we wouldn't do multiple choice!

Whatever your answer, this class will expose students to the opportunities, challenges and joys found in studying English at BC. The class will be discussion-based, so please come prepared to participate. Content will be flexible based on students' interests; discussion topics may include group analysis of short literary text(s), curriculum and coursework, classroom culture, writing tips, and other English-y things at the instructor's (and students'!!) discretion. Please come with questions!


Prerequisites
This course is designed for students considering English as a college major or minor, although the only prerequisite is an interest in literature and writing.

We will look at the link between human rights and public health and why both are so important to society today!

This class will examine the culture of perfectionism that's been perpetuated in our country for generations. We'll look at philosophers like de Tocqueville and compare their famous theories to modern realities, like plastic surgery and photoshopping. This course will be largely a group discussion and all perspectives are welcomed and encouraged!

Is goodness simply avoiding evil, or is it something more? Come join us in a discussion on what it means to be "good." From Kant to Kanye, we'll be looking at what modern and classic thinkers have to say. It'll be a real "good"* time!

*warning, be prepared for an abundance of horrible puns

Ever wonder how Superman can stop a speeding bullet? How the Flash can run through walls? How the Hulk's pants always seem to stay on? Well come then, True Believers, to the Physics of Superheroes!
Join us in exploring the strange world of comic books through the even stranger world of Physics!

Learn about climate change and how you can mitigate the effects!

High temperature superconductors represent one of the most exciting unsolved puzzles in modern physics. One amazing property of these materials is their apparent ability to levitate when placed in a magnetic field. In this course, students will get to observe a variety of demonstrations of this amazing effect while learning about some of the physics that causes it to occur.

This class will discuss how sleep effects memory and how this effect impacts our everyday lives!

SPACE! It's (literally) all around us! In October alone we faced: A SuperMoon that turned red, the news that water exists on Mars, AND "The Martian" opening in theaters. Join us as we demonstrate the science of what it takes to get into space using math and a space flight simulator to discuss how launch, orbit around the Earth and further flight is achieved. It's not Rocket Science! (But it is a little).


Prerequisites
Understanding of Basic Algebra. We will be discussing equations and some physics but nothing too advanced.

Join members of the Society of Physics Students at Boston College in this interactive, intellectually stimulating course. Models will be used to demonstrate physical phenomena that are governed by the fundamental laws of mechanics, electricity & magnetism, and thermodynamics. The relationship between each demonstration and its respective governing equation will be discussed to provide insight into the physics of each model.

Positive psychology is the scientific study of how to lead a happy and fulfilling life. Happiness is a very important trait to posses, but it is often difficult to find. Positive psychology takes care of this issue and focuses on the different things that allow people and communities to thrive.

Did you see the movie Interstellar last year? Did you love it? Well, did you know that it was based on real theories by physicist Kip Thorne? In this class, you will learn more about some of these theories on space and inter-dimensional travel, and the interesting way that they are applied to the movie.


Prerequisites
-See the movie Interstellar

Do you love the ocean? Do you love cool animals, like fish, sharks and killer whales? Then this class is for you! We will talk about ocean life in the Galapagos Islands and there will be lots of cool pictures and videos. We will also talk about ocean conservation and what we can do to help save our oceans!

"Drop everything now. Meet me in the pouring rain..." "Loving him is like driving a new Maserati down a dead-end street..." "Baby now we've got bad blood..." Taylor Swift is more than just your typical country-pop icon. I don't know about you...but to her fans, her lyrics demand careful attention and analysis. From them, we gain important lessons about love, heartbreak, and being fearless.

Taylor's lyrics also raise many questions about basic physical and biochemical processes. With what velocity and acceleration does Taylor drop everything? With what force will she collide her Maserati at the end of the dead-end street? What are the biochemical foundations that lead to common disorders of the blood?

We will be using the lyrics of Taylor Swift as a starting point to explore the introductory concepts in physics and biochemistry that make us excited about science while also providing a space for reflection on the role of Taylor Swift in our lives and worlds!


Prerequisites
Please come well-versed in Taylor Swift's lyrics.

Come join our fantastic and knowledgeable Splash Leaders who will lead fun activities, and much more! These Boston College students (Splash Leaders) will even bring you to your first class. Participating in fun small group activities will help you meet other Splash and Boston College students. You will also get a chance to meet back up with your small group for lunch! When you arrive at Splash, you will find out who your Splash Leader will be. This will be the only option offered at 9 AM.

Have you heard about ROTC? Do you know anyone who is in the Army or has served? What are possible career paths within the Army?

Join us for a short lecture and discussion about Student-Cadet life at Boston College, and hear from current students who work hard in academics, athletics, and ROTC in order to learn to become scholar-athlete-leaders. The deadlines for national scholarships are fast approaching, so learn more today. (No harm, nothing to lose)


Prerequisites
Motivation :)

The fitness world is plagued with erroneous claims and misconceptions. Take this course that is routed in science and research to find out how working out once a week and eating right can give you the healthy and good-looking body you've always wanted. For boys and girls.

Learn about the art of sarcasm, from its usage in conversation to its role in literature. At the end of class, one student will be crowned the "Ultimate Sass Master"- so come prepared with a healthy dose of cynicism!

Come learn about CPR from BCEMS! You will learn what to do as a bystander in the event of a cardiac emergency and about the differences between adult and pediatric CPR. Various members of BCEMS will be there to guide you and perfect your CPR compressions.


Prerequisites
N/A

This course will delve into a signature dinner and dessert from every region of Italy and their origins. We will discuss the different dishes and vote on a favorite. The class will end by enjoying a typical Italian dessert.

Ever wanted to find out what it really takes to be "that guy" or "that girl" who can just light up the room and seems to know almost everyone? Opening yourself up to the world is actually a very simple process! The main goal of this class will be the idea that it is all about how you interact with the world - presenting yourself just right, but in a way that best showcases your authentic self. This fun, interactive class will demonstrate the different ways to do this in ways applicable to the world around you! Repeat students welcome.


Prerequisites
An open mind and a desire to be friendly and get connected with a lot of different people!

Come learn from members of BCEMS how to properly treat injuries! We will help you practice basic first aid skills as well as demonstrate some splinting and other skills that EMTs have to learn before getting licensed.

Have you ever wanted to impress your friends with your juggling skills, but you don't really have any? Well, let's change that. In this class, we will learn how to do a simple three ball juggling toss. Learn the basic form so that you can practice and become a master of the art!


Prerequisites
None

You're sitting at home, hungry. The only things in your fridge are eggs, OJ, and celery sticks. You try to distract yourself with some television...only to see Guy Fieri clogging his arteries with some 3,000-caloried, quadruple cheese and quintuple meat sandwich. You can either curse at your parents for being AWOL and not giving you food or you can take this class and learn how to make yummy snacks.


Prerequisites
Required to know who Guy Fieri is.

Ever been called disorganized, absent minded, or scattered? Always losing papers, misplacing your wallet, and fighting against the mess in your backpack or in your room? Learn some tips from a college student that survived high school disorganized

This class will explore Harry Potter from the perspective of a Boston College Student- especially through the "3 Be's" of a BC education: Be Attentive, Be Reflective, Be Loving. The class will be conversation- based, with a brief PowerPoint and a few video clips to help create themes that prompt dialogue. I hope this class will be full of great conversation, childhood nostalgia, a few good laughs, and most importantly, give you an appreciation for both Harry Potter and Boston College.


Prerequisites
The only prerequisite is having read all seven books or to seen all the movies to avoid spoiler alerts!!

If you know the Pokemon theme song by heart, this is the class for you. We offer an introduction to the exciting world of anime (Japanese animation)! We will discuss some themes of the three main archetypes of anime: shojo, shounen and kodomo. We will delve into the rich culture of Japan through this underrated art form.

Germany is often viewed as the land of beer, sausages and fast cars. This course addresses common stereotypes about the country, which is one of the most important political partners of the United States, and examines just how adequate they are. Be prepared to leave this class with tons of new trivia knowledge - or did you know that Germany is home to the world´s biggest postcard?

Do you want to learn how to save and invest money so you can buy that dream house or car in the future? Look no further- this is the class for you!

Pending Description


Prerequisites
Pending Description

Do you like dogs? Do you have any interest in sharks? Well this is the course for you! We'll teach you about some of our favorite breeds of dog and our favorite types of sharks, and maybe even show some awesome videos. This is an interactive discussion-based course with games included!

This class is meant to bring out the child in you by exploring uncommon facts about all things Disney.

Even if you took this class last Spring, there will be new, exciting facts.


Prerequisites
Have an interest in Disney

Do you love the outdoors? Do you like hiking, camping and climbing? Then this class is for you! We will go over the basic knots that you will need to survive in the great outdoors! We will do hands on activities for the entire class. No experience necessary!

Believe it or not, everyone is creative! Creativity can be taught, learned, and practiced in many different ways. After practicing your own creative talents, we will see how groups or individuals can create a unique solution to a problem presented in class. Whoever comes up with the most original and realistic idea will win a prize! Get ready to think outside the box and design a project that you could actually implement in your own community!

Who are you in Doctor Who? Did you know that Doctor Who is the longest running television series in history? This class will explore the social implications of the Doctor's companions. Our main focus will be on the relationships between the companions and the Doctor as well as the message each companion's personality says about real life relationships. The class will have video clips and presentation, but we hope to also engage anyone attending in a fantastic dialogue. Stop on by and let your inner geek out!


Prerequisites
Some knowledge of Doctor Who