This class is on the history of South Asia (focusing on the area that is present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh) since around the year 1500, shortly before the founding of the Mughal Empire. The first class will be an introduction to the region and a lecture on the Mughal Empire and its contemporaries. The second class will cover the fracturing of the Mughal Empire and the rise of the East India Company in the Indian subcontinent. The third and final class will discuss the British Raj from its formal inception in 1858 to its demise in 1947. Issues I hope to emphasize include the idea of empire in its pre- and post-colonial forms, the history of religion and religious differences in South Asia, the relationship between racism, colonialism, and capitalism, and that between power, colonialism, and knowledge production.

Proteins are the basic molecular machines of our body, and yet their incredible array of functions arise from a startlingly simple DNA code. This course explains how DNA sequences eventually give rise to specific protein structures, how these structures allow proteins to perform their functions, and how we can use this knowledge to engineer proteins for novel applications in science and medicine.


Prerequisites
High school biology and chemistry; AP-level chemistry helpful but not required

An elementary introduction to the Theory of Special Relativity. Beginning with classical Galilean Transformations, we will introduce the concepts of frames, relative velocities, and events. We will then transition into relativistic velocities and develop an intuition for the Lorentz Transformation and its consequences. Lastly, we will cover light cones, the spacetime interval, invariants, applications of special relativity, and basic concepts underlying General Relativity.


Prerequisites
An understanding of high school algebra, and a basic understanding of physics concepts (e.g. position, velocity, acceleration).

Don’t you just hate it when you’re confronted with a German speaker who desperately wants to make small talk with you, but you can’t since you’re only fluent in English, Arabic, Greek, and Klingon? Well, this course is the answer to your problem! Through this class you'll learn basic German vocabulary, grammar, and culture through a primarily lecture-based course that includes plenty of arts and crafts, as well as other activities.

What is Love? Nietzsche calls it in his seminal book Twilight of the Idols the "spiritualization of sensuality," and the "great triumph over Christianity." However, in the Genealogy of Morals, he says that Christ is the "god of love," and that it is only fitting of Christianity to produce this kind of infirm love. How can we reconcile these seemingly contradictory explications of love? This course will focus on investigations of love and Nietzsche's prescriptions and critiques of Christianity and modern values.


Prerequisites
Preferably a copy of Twilight of the Idols, but not required

In this class, we will learn about methods of encrypting and deciphering secret messages. First, we will introduce simple methods of encryption and learn why you wouldn’t want to use these to protect your bank account information! Then, we will explore modern cryptography, discussing the motivation for developing certain methods (like public key cryptography) and the mathematics underlying them. While you will be able to break simple encryption schemes using just pencil and paper, modern cryptography often can’t be broken without extremely powerful computers or the invention of new math. We’ll see that being good at solving puzzles turns out to be extremely useful in cryptography.


Prerequisites
Basic algebra, basic probability would be helpful

There is a poem for absolutely everybody. No matter your interests, literary tastes, and previous experience in poetry, you will find something that delights you. I promise.

In this class, we will look at three incredibly different poems ("Stan" by Eminem, "Porphyria's Lover" by Robert Browning, and "In Mrs Tilscher's Class" by Carol Ann Duffy) and try to explore what makes them fascinating, creepy, and fun. We'll see how three different poets writing in three different contexts about three very different subjects created poems that are all powerfully evocative, unique, and yet all use similar poetic techniques. It's gonna be fun.

This course offers a brief introduction to syntax, the study of grammar and sentence structure in languages from around the world. Drawing on examples from English with forays into other languages, you'll learn about the unconscious rules that dictate how sentences are formed.

What do class scheduling, data routing, sorting algorithms, and choosing 12 donuts from 5 types have in common? All of those problems can be solved using the math learned in this class. We will go over the math that you DIDN'T learn in high school, such as graph theory (the graph coloring problem, stable marriage problem), sums and recurrences, counting (sounds simple but is the coolest thing you'll learn), and probability (hint, it's not what you'd expect). If you're interested in the design and analysis of algorithms, this class is for you!


Prerequisites
No courses required, but a strong understanding of numbers and algebra is preferred.

Most of us speak at least one language, and have the ability to learn more. But has the thought of creating your own language ever occurred to you?
This course will provide you with fundamental linguistics framework and tools to help you create your own language, one that only you can control, develop, and share with others. With the focus on sound inventory, word order, and writing system, we will discuss the most illuminating aspects of human languages that you’ve never realized existed!
Some examples will be drawn from famous invented (fictional) languages including Valyrian and Dothraki in Games of Thrones, Na'vi in Avatar, and Quenya in Lord of the Rings.


Prerequisites
Linguistics background is recommended but not required. Knowledge of any language(s) other than English may be helpful.

In this course, we (i.e. you) will solve interesting questions involving math. Alongside solving problems, we will work on developing a language of proof that expresses both formal and intuitive notions of mathematics.


Prerequisites
We will probably use some algebra, but otherwise a willingness to learn should suffices.

This course is an introduction to the Old Norse pantheon and mythology. We will explore the Old Norse myth as 1) the religious belief of the Vikings in pre-Christian Scandinavia 2) an inspiration for art and literature from medieval to modern time, including Thor movies 3) the root of Nazism, racism, and neopaganism.

After a brief introduction to the main gods and goddesses, we will discuss Old Norse mythology through the following themes: magic-gender relation, different types of magic and powers, heroism and attitude towards death, gender flexibility, wisdom and power struggle. We will conclude with a short writing exercise on a subject of your choice.

* There will be take-home readings.


Prerequisites
This course is designed to be a seminar. Preparation before class and contribution to in-class discussion are absolutely essential.

How can we understand modern hip hop as a kind of poetry? What devices does it have at its disposal to create meaning and connect with its audience? This class examines the structural aspects of rhyme, syncopation, and the interaction between beats and lyrics that produces meaning in different songs. To this end, we will not only be listening to hip hop but also analyzing what is and isn't effective in song writing (and writing in general). A few artists we will listen to: Jay-Z, Lauryn Hill, Kendrick Lamar, Noname Gypsy, Lin Manuel Miranda, Eric B. and Rakim, Mos Def, among others.


Prerequisites
A willingness to participate in group discussion, contributing your own ideas and listening to the thoughts of others.

We will examine the harmonic language in music from the classical and romantic periods through listening and writing harmony exercises.


Prerequisites
Be able to read bass and treble clef.

Three classes focused on techniques anyone can learn to draw what they see accurately and realistically. The first class will focus on lines, angles and proportions: drawing simple geometric objects around us. The other two weeks focus on portraits. All works will be in pencil (2B preferred, HB works too. NO MECHANICAL PENCILS.) Students should bring sketching papers or notebook.


Prerequisites
A willingness to practise during the week for better outcomes

We will discuss how the underlying random motion of molecules gives rise to predictable behaviors, starting with simple examples and working our way up to biological systems. We will provide a basic refresher in probability and algebra. The class will be heavy on hands-on demos.


Prerequisites
Familiarity with algebra will help, as will a curiosity about how the microscopic world really works!

This class is on the work of South Asian-American rap and hip-hop artists, particularly the engagement of these artists with political themes, such as black-brown solidarity, Islamophobia and racism after 9/11, white supremacy, and racial profiling. Artists discussed will include Swet Shop Boys, Heems, M.I.A., Chee Malabar, and others.

Come learn about the LGBTQ+ world history and culture that your AP World teacher will never tell you was queer–from ancient Rome to China's Han Dynasty to the the Wild West and more.

Health spending has reached almost 20% of American GDP. In other words, almost 1 in 5 of dollars spent in the US goes toward health care in some way. Health care is a deeply emotional issue to many and features prominently in national political discourse. This course will apply basic economic principles to gain a deeper understanding of the American healthcare system and health policy.

What is the American Constitution? Why is it the Supreme Law of the Land? How did it come into existence? How has it changed over time? And above all, why should you care, and how does it affect you? Since 1787, Americans have lived under the rule of the Constitution and have fought and died defending it. The Constitution has shaped the course of American and even world history, and other nations have based their own constitutions on our model. During these 50 minutes, let's go over the origins and structure of the Constitution, then cover how it shaped our history and continues to guide us today and into the future.

This course will cover explications of Beauty across the centuries, from Plato to Kant to Nietzsche to Heidegger. Is Beauty related to truth? Is Beauty moral? If so, is it above morality or antagonistic to it? We will also discuss the nature of theater and dramatization, the attempt to make one's life art, and the metaphysics or "reality" of beauty and how it translates into a prescription of how to live our lives.

Have you ever wondered what’s going on inside your brain that allows you to develop different emotions and thoughts while listening to music or playing an instrument? Are you also potentially interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field? In this class, we will discuss the impact of music on the human brain, and more specifically, how it affects the brain during illness and injury- on both a psychological and biological level. You will also learn how important it is to treat a patient as a whole, or in other words, how to establish an emotional connection with people, something that is not taught directly in school. Through videos, group discussions, and interactive activities, you will learn how music positively impacts the brain, and how it exemplifies a critical method in not only being able to connect with others on a deep emotional level, but also, aid in the rate of recovery from illness or injury. In addition, you will be taught how to apply this information to your own everyday life, so that you can improve your future interactions with all people, whether or not you go into health care.

Despite being different languages, English and Latin share a striking number of linguistic similarities. In this class, we will discuss why this is so, focusing first on the two languages' common origin (Proto-Indo-European), and then on their centuries-long contact via French. We will discover the fascinating connection between linguistic and social history, and learn how defeat on an English battlefield forever changed how we speak today.


Prerequisites
Some previous study of Latin or a Romance language will be helpful, but is not necessary for taking the course.

Mathematical induction is a method of proving patterns. For example, you can use it to show that adding up the first $$n$$ odd numbers always equals $$n^2.$$ (Try it! The first five odd numbers are 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9. If you add them, you get 25, which is five squared. This pattern continues forever.)

While it cannot be applied to every problem, it does have various applications throughout math. In this one-hour session, I'll explain what induction is and how it works. The rest of the time will be spent on a brief tour of examples, touching on algebra, geometry, and puzzles. If time permits, I'll introduce structural induction and context-free grammars.


Prerequisites
Familiarity with Algebra I and II: properties of exponents (e.g. $$2\cdot 2^k=2^{k+1}$$), factoring quadratics (e.g. $$n^2+2n+1=(n+1)^2$$), and adding rational expressions (e.g. $$\frac{1-x^2}{1-x}+x^2=\frac{1-x^3}{1-x}$$).

What are grids? We can define them as the familiar rigid rows of squares, but we can also define them broadly as a rigid organized system of structure. As we will come to see, grids represent an interesting dichotomy of both restriction and facilitation etc., in fields as diverse as land-use planning, science and mathematics, art and music, and literature. This class aims to launch into an exploration and discussion about this interdisciplinary concept.

Our knowledge of RNAs, arguably the most important class of biomolecules, has expanded far beyond their role as a messenger. Recent research has shown an incredible diversity of noncoding RNAs, all carrying fascinating and important functions.
In fact, Yale is one of the greatest hubs of RNA research in world. In this class, we explore some of the most cutting-edge findings about RNA.


Prerequisites
Fundamental knowledge of cells, genetics, and molecular biology

What is a "brain network"? How can algebra be used to help us understand mental illness? In this course, you will learn how neuroscientists use mathematics to understand data, design experiments, and interpret results. You will learn how some types of math can be used to tackle problems that neuroscientists grapple with each day. You will discover how we can use mathematical techniques to discover the human "connectome" - the full network of connections in the brain. This course assumes knowledge of mathematics up through algebra; additional themes, such as matrices and graph theory, will be developed during the course.


Prerequisites
Mathematics through algebra

Learn simple folds and techniques for crafting origami figures!

Disney Parks are world-renowned for their engineering feats, but few know about how they are pulled off! The first part of class will be spent discussing Disney’s state-of-the-art fountain system implemented in World of Color, a nighttime spectacular in one of its parks. We will learn about the “imagineering” of the science and engineering that went into it. The second part of class will be focused on one of Disney’s recent innovations, MyMagic+, a platform that attempts to make vacationing at Disney World less stressful. We will discuss its connection to the Internet of Things, and students will debate the potential benefits and consequences of the system and the privacy issues it provokes. During the last part of class, students will work in teams to apply their knowledge to help design a new Disney attraction!

The New York City Subway is the subway with the most stations in the world, and its annual ridership is more than 1.7 billion! When the NYC Subway was first created, though, it was not the conglomerate it is today. This class will explore the historical beginnings of the NYC subway, and how it has grown over time. We will discover the different methods of creating subway tunnels, as well as the electrical and communications systems of subway systems. We will then observe the limitations of different subway systems, and analyze what changes can be implemented to maximize subway efficiency. After this, students will work in small groups to create a new transit system: the New Haven Subway!

Have you ever wondered about what genes are? Or how information from your parents is passed on to you? Or how the environment influences your genes? Or maybe even just why genetics matters?

This class covers some of the basics of genetics including what DNA is, how transcription and translation work, and how heredity (how information is passed on) works. We will also discuss epigenetics, genetic engineering, and what happens when something goes wrong in the form of genetic disease.


Prerequisites
Understanding of basic biology.

Today, North Korea is the only country in the world carrying out nuclear weapon tests. But back during the Cold War, such explosive tests were much more frequent. Why is this the case? In this course, we explore the history of efforts to ban nuclear testing, leading to the creation of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). We then discuss the policies and technologies necessary to detect and deter the testing of nuclear weapons around the globe.

An introduction to mathematical game theory, studying how to use logic and probability to make intelligent, rational decisions in games. Will include discussions of payoff matrices, the Prisoner's Dilemma, the role of randomness in optimal strategies, and other related topics.


Prerequisites
Knowledge of basic algebra.

In this course we will gain a basic understanding of how human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) cause disease and the public health issues surrounding them. We will discuss recent attempts to maintain and treat these infections.


Prerequisites
A Basic understanding of cell biology

Ever feel a little uneasy about the concept of infinity? What is it? Something tangible? A process? An endless void? Many familiar tools we take for granted suddenly stop working, but at the same time, a lot of magical new stuff emerges. Some topics covered include: how to "cheat" when counting infinite things, how to show one kind of infinity is WAY bigger than another, how infinity enables things to get really close to each other (romantic), among many other mind-expanding concepts.


Prerequisites
Most things used in class are defined there, but familiarity with the idea of functions (e.g. $$e^x$$, $$x^2$$) will be helpful.

Almost everyone has some fondness for the Harry Potter books, but we rarely examine them as art in the same way we would more traditional works of literature.

In this class, we will do exactly that: try to explore the themes of the series (in particular how they are resolved or highlighted in Book 7) and see what Harry Potter can teach us, beyond the rules of Quidditch that is.

When I read Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at 12 years old (on the very day it came out) I remember being a little shocked. There was no Quidditch, no classes, some kinda gloomy Dumbledore flashbacks, and a lot of Ron sulking as Harry and Hermione camped in a tent. This was not what I expected. Ten years later, I'm excited to explore the decisions Rowling made, try to understand why she made them, and argue for why Harry Potter is still worth re-reading.


Prerequisites
I'd recommend having read the Harry Potter books.

Without help, many important chemical reactions in industry and in biology are WAY WAY WAY too slow to be useful. Catalysts allow for these reactions to proceed faster, but how do they do it? This class will explore the particular mechanisms of speeding up reactions using a few real-life examples of chemical or biological catalysts. The entire class will be supplemented by demonstrations that will allow students to learn the interesting characteristics of chemical catalysis. These lessons will be further supported through open discussion and small-group collaboration sessions. The class material is applicable to the fields of chemistry, biology, and medicine.


Prerequisites
Some exposure to biology or chemistry. Willingness to share thoughts and observations.

You've probably heard of thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Kant (pretentious people like to throw around their names a lot), but how much do you know about their ideas and beliefs? If you're interested in learning about their philosophies (or if you just want to see what all the hype is about), come to Intro to Philosophy! Think you KANT handle it? Don't worry! This course will be designed to be accessible to everyone, not just those who have had previous exposure to philosophy (and there's more puns where that came from). Hope to see you there!

From the dependable American Sherman tank to the legendary German Tiger tank, armored fighting vehicles had a greater impact on World War II than on any other conflict. Learn how these incredible fighting machines were designed, built, and put to use during humanity's last great war.

This course teaches students about some concepts of physics through the familiar context of Star Wars.


Prerequisites
n/a

Bored in Physics or Calculus class? Learn a fascinating method of classical physics that transforms seemingly impossible problems into straight forward algebra!


Prerequisites
Calculus is required, Intro Physics is recommended.

Want to improve your writing? Ever wonder how something you've read just seems to flow like your favorite song? In this class we won't talk about perfecting your writing but about the art of writing, how to make sentences into songs through syntax and clever word choice. We'll debate the purpose of writing and what the goal of a good writer should be. And we'll learn how to do it all to the tune of Beyoncé.

Are you left-brained or right-brained? Come discover more about how the brain does language and why there are differences between the two sides. Through intros on brain function and language, we'll discuss the ways in which scientists study the brain (e.g. how those pretty 'lit-up brain' pictures are made) and connect them to the frontiers of the field today!


Prerequisites
Some language/linguistic experience preferred, but not necessary.

Every culture has its own style of dance. Come join this class to learn a little bit about the hula, the dance of the Hawaiian people, and the Hawaiian culture! Aloha!


Prerequisites
Positive attitude and open mindedness!

This course focuses on medicine and will be very fitting for those interested in pursing a career in dentistry. We cover the anatomy of the mouth, oral pathology (key diseases and infections), main dental procedures, and dental specialties.

Even if you do not have a specific interest in dentistry, those interested in medicine or science overall will gain a lot from this course!

Learn how emotions, positivity, and optimism can improve your school experience!

Immunology is the study of the body's defense mechanisms against pathogens, and it involves several cellular and molecular role players. This course seeks to explore how T cells, in particular, help orchestrate the thorough, specific, and long-term eradication of foreign invaders.


Prerequisites
Biology

What do you think of when you hear the word “tragedy”? While most people immediately think of sadness, there is much more to the genre. Explore with us the nuances of tragedy through short films, discussions, and interactive activities!

From Riverdance to St. Patrick's Day parades, Irish dancing has spread across the world as both a fun social activity and an extremely competitive art form. In this class, we'll learn few simple steps, as well as some group dances and Ceilis.

No dance experience required, but be ready to get out of your seat and jump around!

How did we come to be? This question resonates throughout history and touches every discipline. Herein, we explore both competing historical perspectives and cutting-edge theories/research from a chemical perspective. Focus will be given to many supposed paradoxes and controversies (i.e. Faint Sun, Levinthal's, ...). The culmination of our work will knock down the wall between kinetics and thermodynamics-- breaking the cardinal rule of chemistry.

Since their inception, the merit of video games has been hotly contested, Educational video games have arisen as a means of validating the learning benefits of the media. While these educational based games may be able to teach basic skills, the true potential of video games lies in their ability to teach higher level concepts.

Do you never want to do laundry again? Be bulletproof? If you answered yes to these questions, then you should learn about nanotechnology! Nanotechnology works with matters at the scale of 1 to 100 nanometers. One nanometer is so small that Shaquille O’Neal, is 2,160,000,000 nanometers tall. This course shortly explores the mechanism/history behind nanotechnology, and focuses mostly on its applications in medicine, electronics, environment, and etc.

In an age where social media is our way of communication, how can marketers target their audience? In this class we learn what martketing is and how social media such as Facebook and Instagram play a new roll in the marketing world.


Prerequisites
None

Do you want to make a difference but aren't sure how to or for what cause? Come learn about Effective Altruism- a movement based on using reason and evidence to do the most good. The world is full of worthy causes, so many that it can be intimidating to figure out how you personally should help. This class will discuss ways you can make a positive impact, now and in your future.

In this hour class, we'll look at the history of oration along with several key components of rhetoric. There will be a few readings of Ancient rhetorical speeches from Greece and Rome (focusing mainly on forensic cases and encomiums). Then some videos of modern speeches from Obama to Emma Watson will follow. The class will end with time to brainstorm a short paragraph speech to deliver to the class.

Philosophy has always questioned what it means to be human. But what if the answer to that question was in our pockets? What if the answer was staring right in front of us and we didn't even know it. The Talos Principle: Life as Defined by Machines takes a student driven approach to answer the questions existentialism has failed to answer because the answer might just be right in front of us.


Prerequisites
A willingness to participate in the class. This class is run by the students.

A train is hurtling toward five people tied to a track - unless you pull the lever. On the other track is a worker who knows the train will not be coming his way and also cannot hear the train due to his headphones. Do you sacrifice the one to save the five? Learn about famous thought experiments from throughout history, including some you've never heard of, and share your thoughts!

Ornithology is the scientific study of birds. This class will be a broad introduction to what's weird, wacky, unique, and awesome about birds. We'll cover evolutionary history (yes, dinosaurs had feathers) and taxonomy, the development and basic physics of flight, and the growth and color of bird feathers. We'll talk about bird behavior: what are the different ways birds find food, find mates, and interact with their habitats? And we'll learn about some amazing birds from around the world that just might be contenders for a "weirdest bird award." Get a taste of Yale's ornithology class in one hour. Bring all the questions you ever wanted to ask about birds!


Prerequisites
You should probably know what a bird is.

Come spend some time just mixing colors and free paint!

If you don't know where to begin or feel like you need an object to paint, suggestions will be provided.

Come make some paper cranes! It will be a relaxing time of paper folding and classical music.

This course introduces the practice of using mindfulness to work through stress. Mindfulness is paying attention in a particular way, and students will be shown how utilize this process in the reduction of their stress as well as throughout their lives.


Prerequisites
none

Rapture, Los Santos, Diamond City, The Citadel—why have so many of the past decade's greatest video games used beautifully realized cities to explore themes of economic inequality and racial division? What can virtual cities teach us about Los Angeles, Detroit, or New Haven? Using Bioshock Infinite's Columbia as a guiding example, we'll look at how video games interpret what it's like to live in a diverse, interconnected space and ask whether games can accurately reflect the world we live in (spoilers: they totally can!).