Michael teaches "Forensic Chemistry," for 9-11 campers, and "Jumping into Jeopardy," for 7th and 8th graders.
What's your class like? Can you describe it for us?
"Forensic Chemistry" is a class in which we look at techniques for analyzing evidence, such as fingerprints, blood, and DNA, and look at different chemical reactions. For the final mystery, they are challenged to identify twelve unknown solutions using their chemistry knowledge.
In "Jumping into Jeopardy," we play trivia games, word games, and other activities that deal with a variety of subjects. The campers use their knowledge to prepare trivia questions which will then be used in a game of Jeopardy with the counselors on the last day.
What's something about you someone might not expect if they didn't know you well?
I took a lot of dance classes in college.
What made you want to come back and teach this summer?
The students are very fun to work with. I enjoy trying to keep them on their toes but usually I end up learning something from them.
Do you have a favorite memory from past years?
Making ice cream with liquid nitrogen.
What do you think is the most difficult part of the job?
The campers all have a really wide range of experiences. Sometimes it's difficult to pitch the material at the right level and not make it too hard or too easy for the students.
What do you think is the most rewarding part of the job?
No papers to grade! That and a lot of very enthusiastic students.
What do you think of gifted education?
Just because kids are bored doesn't mean kids are lazy. It's all about finding what engages them. It's not always easy to know what challenges them.
Given infinite supplies and opportunities, what sort of class would you teach?
The History of Italian Cooking. We'd have to travel to Italy, of course!
What's your biggest pet peeve?
Students who give up without trying.
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