Design a Perfect Country - Summer Camp for Teens
In this dynamic 5 day camp we will look at and discuss elements necessary to create YOUR ideal country. We will consider everything from political structure to magical abilities.
Agatha Kenar JD
Average rating:
4.7
Number of reviews:(301)
What's included
5 live meetings
6 hrs 15 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. On the FIFTH day, students will present their perfect world and we will discuss their choices. Learners need to email their MAPS and their BULLETPOINTS SHEET the night before final class. This can be hand drawn or using programs I will present. This class is primarily about conceptualizing and discussion.Class Experience
US Grade 8 - 11
This is an imagination heavy class, and hopefully discussion heavy as well. As the week progresses, students will gradually build the foundation of their own ideal country. I require a 10” x 14” or similar piece of art paper, where we will all begin with an outline of 3 islands that will comprise the country. I will also provide a written questionnaire and as the week goes on, offer parameters including choices of population size and climate, options for political systems/ anarchy? Touch of magic is "allowed" as long as it doesn't solve age old questions of food and water and general stability and wellness. On the fifth day, the students will present their country and we will have a chance discuss their choices, including all pros and cons and any unique elements! My teaching style is relaxed, easygoing but ambitious. We will cover a lot of ideas, but without stress.
Learning Goals
Inevitably there is discussion of perfect land use and perfect political systems and perfect energy sources - people don't always agree and this makes things interesting. This series is an opportunity to truly imagine the learner's own perfect world and put words on some of the elements. Is it a pastoral society? Ruled by voluntaryism? Democracy? Throw in some unexpected twists and we are able to imagine the impossible. Or possible?
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum5 Lessons
over 1 WeekLesson 1:
People and politics! Who do you want on your island and why?
During our first lesson, we will discuss what the idea of a perfect country may entail for you. What are your influences? I will ask you to think about the population of your perfect world, which will be in the form of up to 3 islands. And how will decisions be made? We'll take a look at various political systems and how they may apply to your situation. Would you consider writing a constitution for your country? 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Climate, land use, and infrastructure
Today we will discuss climate, land use, and infrastructure of your country. How much land if any will be left wild? How will the weather influence the infrastructure? Will kids, if any, go to formal school? If so, what kind? 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Food, economics, and currency
Today the lesson will cover the details of survival and interaction when it comes to food and other necessities of life. Will there be farms? Factories? Hunting and gathering? 75 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Overall culture and magic
Today we can discuss any magic elements that you may want to toss in for fun. These elements cannot be fundamental to survival but rather beautiful or entertaining experiences or things. For example, in one class, all the students were interested in some sort of otherworldly phosphorescence which enabled people to speak to animals an hour once a month. There are no limits! We'll also get deeper into aesthetics as well as discuss the role of art, music, and literature in the country. 75 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
There will be room for everyone to participate at their own pace and in their own way. No requirements to read out loud or answer questions on the spot. Am available to meet outside of class for 15 minute meeting with each child.
Pre-Requisites
N/A. Just a curious mind.
Supply List
Please have pencils, stiff art or poster paper - 10’’ x 14’’ or so. A range of thin tipped permanent markers. Can also use a program like inkarnate or sketchpad for simple design.
Joined August, 2019
4.7
301reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I’m an award-winning documentary filmmaker, I have a law degree from Lewis and Clark I. Portland, Oregon as well as an MA in Environmental Studies from Umea University in Sweden. I’ve been an activist for “a better world“ for as long as I can remember; change comes slowly. A great start is to envision a “perfect world” and then think about how to make it real.Reviews
Live Group Course
$150
for 5 classes5x per week, 1 week
75 min
Completed by 48 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-16
3-9 learners per class
