Gifted

LearningLinks
Individualized Online Courses
for Gifted Students
Center for Talent Development
High School
Credit Courses
www.ctd.northwestern.edu/gll
847/491
-
3782 ext.5
gll@northwestern.edu
2013

2014
Annual Course Catalog
Grades 6

12

Honors Elective Courses

Honors Courses

Advanced Placement (AP

) Courses

Educational Program for Gifted Youth (EPGY)

Independent Study
1
Online courses for academically
talented students
Gifted
LearningLinks
Power Up!
Welcome to Gifted LearningLinks, a dynamic online learning
program administered by the Center for Talent Development at
Northwestern University.
The rigor, individualized attention and independent pace that
online courses provide are ideal for academically talented stu-
dents. Gifted LearningLinks (GLL) offers hundreds of enrich-
ment and credit bearing courses year round for young people in
Kindergarten through grade 12. GLL is designed for indepen-
dent learners eager to pursue their passions and gain access to
advanced subject matter.
Gifted LearningLinks has distinct attributes that set it apart
from other online education programs. Topping the list is the
personalized attention that our students receive from expert
instructors. Students engage in intellectually rigorous course-
work at their own pace in a facilitated independent study model.
They enjoy interaction with like-minded peers who share their
interests and ability.
This catalog highlights the high school credit courses and
other special online learning opportunities available to gifted
students in grades 6 through grade 12, from fall 2013 through
summer 2014. Eligibility guidelines are outlined on page 9.
Review the listing of courses and then visit our website to nd
full course descriptions and sample syllabi. New offerings are
added throughout the year so check the website regularly
for updates.
GLL Family Program, Enrichment and Core Essentials courses
for students Kindergarten through grade 8 are presented in a
separate catalog available online or mailed upon request.
2
Fall 2013

Summer 2014
PROGRAM SESSION APPLICATION
DEADLINE
START DATE DURATION TIME
COMMITMENT
(Hours per week)
TOTAL COST
(Processing fee
and tuition)
Honors
Electives
Year-round The 1st of
every month
The 15th of
every month
Up to 18 weeks 5

7 $630
Honors & AP

Year-round The 1st of

every month
The 15th of
every month
Up to 18 weeks
for 1 credit;
9 months for 2
5

7 $630 1 credit
$950 2 credits
Earth & the
Environment
February or
March only
February 1
or March 1
February 15
or March 15
18 weeks 5

7 $820 + weekend fee

(optional)
Accelerated
Summer Option
Summer June 1 June 15 9 weeks 20

35 $630 1 credit
$950 2 credits
Independent
Study
Year-round On-going Determined by
student and mentor
9 weeks 2

5 $500
Educational Program
for Gifted Youth
(EPGY)
(K
-
GRADE 12)
Year-round One month
prior to start
date
Determined by
Stanford University
15 weeks
6 months
Varies by course $835

$850
Textbooks, special equipment and special lab fees are required for some courses at additional cost.
2
Honors Electives
Grades 6 through 12
18 WEEKS; ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
Academically challenging courses that cover special interest
subject matters not typically available in schools.
See page 3.
Honors
Grades 6 through 12
UP TO NINE MONTHS; TWO HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS
Rigorous coursework in a facilitated independent study model
for students that are highly motivated, self-disciplined learners.
See page 4.
Advanced Placement (AP

)
Grades 9 through 12
UP TO NINE MONTHS; TWO HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS
AP

courses are authorized by the College Board. GLL provides

access to AP

courses that may not be offered at the students

school or present a conict in scheduling.
See page 6.
Gifted LearningLinks
at a Glance
Accelerated Summer Option
Grades 6 through 12
NINE WEEKS JUNE 15

AUGUST 17, 2014

Students complete a one-or two-credit course in a compacted
timeframe of nine weeks during the summer. Course selections
are posted online the rst week of March.
See page 8.
Educational Program
for Gifted Youth (EPGY)
Kindergarten through grade 12
THREE MONTHS
Computer-based mathematics and language arts courses devel-
oped and administered by Stanford Universitys EPGY. University-
level course credit is available.
See page 8.
Independent Study
Grades 3 through 12
NINE WEEKS: NO CREDIT
Students propose a topic of interest to them and are matched
with an online mentor who has expertise in the eld.
See page 8.
3
Business
201. Entrepreneurial Experiences
Using the fundamentals of business math,
discover what it takes to establish and operate a
successful business. Through case studies, read-
ings and writing, learn to research a companys
earnings and apply that type of data when
designing a small business enterprise.
English and Writing
202. Playwriting 101
From William Shakespeare to Amy Herzog,
playwrights script dramas and comedies for live
performance. Students read published plays,
view performances and practice writing to
develop their own skills as a playwright.
204. Effective Essay Writing: Writing for Test
Preparation, College Applications & Beyond
Essay writing, class assignments and college
applications all demand planning, preparation
and practice. Learn the structure and purpose
of essays by reading and analyzing a variety of
well-constructed pieces.
205. American Society through Crime Fiction
There are crimes of passion and crimes of logic.
The boundary between them is not clearly
dened.Albert Camus. Use literary criteria
to interpret this popular genre and gain insight
on human behavior and societies. Read from
a selection of crime ction and related articles,
including works by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and
Agatha Christie.
206. Geek Lit
Robert A. Heinlein wrote that science ction is a
realistic speculation about possible future
events, based solidly on adequate knowledge
of the real world, past and present, and on
a thorough understanding of the nature and
signicance of the scientic method. Explore
and discuss the signicance of classics such as
Neuromancer, Dune, Enders Game, Child-
hoods End and more.
Humanities and Social
Sciences
207. The Inuence of Art & Architecture
Explore how art, architecture and philosophy
have inuenced beliefs and worldviews through-
out history. Read works by authors such as
William Fleming, Peter Watson and Nigel Spivey
and participate in virtual eld trips to study arti-
facts housed in museums around the world.
208. Censorship
What can (or should) be censored? Who is
(or should be) the authority? Explore the
rationale and circumstances that lead to
restraint of information, thought and behavior.
From banned books to technology lters, learn
about the control exerted over the messages
and information we receive in our daily lives.
209. Covert Actions: An Overview of the
United States Intelligence Community
Formed to protect our nations security, U.S.
intelligence is a community of agencies and
organizations that collect, analyze and distribute
information in response to government leaders
questions and needs. Delve into the history and
development of U.S. Intelligence, taking a criti-
cal look at the structures, actions, failures and
challenges of this facet of government.
210. Politics, Media & Society
Reect judiciously on current events impacting
American society. Develop critical thinking skills
by analyzing and evaluating the news media
landscape. Consider multiple viewpoints while
learning to integrate new ideas and perspec-
tives into your opinions.
Math
211. Gaming: Is It Really Up to Chance?
Go beyond basic probability and combina-
torics through the study of games of chance.
Governments everywhere utilize the lottery to
raise money. How effective is it? Cover math
concepts, solve various levels of equations
and learn math programming while studying
random trials based on games of chance.
212. The Mathematics of Social Choices
Students design experiments to consider impor-
tant questions about social issues. Through case
studies, apply math to real-world social situations,
analyzing consequences, costs and benets.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA I
Science
213. Mysteries of the Brain: A Journey into
Neurological Disorders
The brain can be a source of seemingly strange
and bizarre behaviors. Examine the inner work-
ings of the mind in an effort to unravel unusual
neurological disorders.
214. An Introduction to Epidemiology
Epidemiology is the study of factors used to
investigate, analyze, prevent or contain a dis-
ease. Through case studies learn why outbreaks
occur, how scientists study epidemics and the
important role research plays in making public
health decisions.
215. An Introduction to Nanoscience
Nanoscience is the study of the extremely tiny.
Through readings, labs and simulations, partici-
pants gain an understanding of the importance of
nanoscience and how the research is applied to
information technology, medicine and other elds.
216. Forensic Science Investigations
Popularized on television, forensic science
plays a large role in solving crimes. Students
use social and physical science that includes
microscopy, chromatography, DNA and genetic
evidence to conduct forensic investigations.
217. Exploring Genetics
Over time, improvements in technology and
techniques have allowed scientists to unravel
the mysteries of DNA. Learn from a variety of
resources, including computer simulations, labs
and case studies. Explore how genetics impact
human life and evolution.
218. Medical Microbiology
Bacteria and fungi have gained a bad reputa-
tion for causing disease, but research shows
that many species benet us, including helping
to digest food and ward off illness. Use case
studies, simulations, lab activities and inde-
pendent research to explore the relationship
between microbiology and human health.
Honors
Electives
Courses
Grades 6

12
Access special interest honors
courses often not available in
schools.
Courses bear one high
school credit.
Time commitment is 5

7 hours
per week.
Gifted LearningLinks
4
NEW!!! Earth Science
Includes optional weekend
in Northwestern Universitys
Earth Science labs
Grades 9

12 only
219. Earth and the Environment
Explore the Earth as a dynamic, evolving planet.
Learn about the internal and surface processes
of the Earth, as well as the role that humans play
in shaping the environment. Virtual activities
involve problem solving, online discussions and
laboratory experiences.
Students explore how scientists investigate the
Earths interior using seismic waves, the history
of the earth and global tectonics, mountain
building, earthquakes and volcanism, biogeo-
chemical cycles of the earth, climate history and
human inuences on the Earth.
Optional Opportunity:
Students are invited to work hands-on in
Northwestern Universitys state-of-the-art
earth sciences laboratories. They discover
the methods that researchers employ to nd
answers for questions dating back millions of
years. The June weekend event is optional and
will incur an additional fee.
PREREQUISITES OR CO
-
REQUISITES: ALGEBRA II,
TRIGONOMETRY
NOTES: REGISTER EARLY TO ENSURE PLACEMENT.
COURSE START
-
UP IS IN FEBRUARY OR MARCH, 2014
ONLY. EIGHTEEN WEEKS FOR ONE HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT.
Technology
220. 3D Animation in Java
Learn how to use Java graphics and program-
ming techniques to make new, engaging
computer games. From simple, full-action
games to multiplayer 3D games, explore the
computational literacies in this standard
computer programming language. Using
Greenfoot, IDE and Java 3D, students
develop game projects.
PREREQUISITE: CTD COMPUTER GAMING ACADEMY II
OR PYTHON OR INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION
221. 3D Graphic Modeling for Games,
Illustrations & Animated Short Features
From movies to medicine to architecture, 3D
graphic modeling allows people to manipulate
characters and items modeled after real struc-
tures. This course utilizes concepts and tools
that professionals apply to create games, 3D
illustrations, animated shorts and videos.
222. Interactive Web Design with PHP
and MySQL
PHP and MySQL are free and powerful tools
used to create dynamic and interactive web
sites. Learn about elements of programming,
graphic design, media editing and information
management. Experiment with the web tools
used to build blogs, wikis, online chats, shop-
ping and social networking web sites.
PREREQUISITE: EXPERIENCE WITH HTML OR WEB
EDITING SOFTWARE
223. iOS Programming I
Learn to program apps for the iPhone, iPod,
or iPad. Topics include the XCode develop-
ment environment, the Objective-C language,
and basic graphics and user interaction. Upon
completion, students will be able to program
simple animated interactive games.
NOTE: ALL PROJECTS IN THIS CLASS WILL RUN ON
XCODES BUILT
-
IN SIMULATORS. TO UPLOAD TO AN
ACTUAL DEVICE, STUDENTS WILL NEED TO REGISTER
WITH APPLE FOR A $99 ANNUAL FEE.
224. iOS Programming II
Formal and advanced techniques for iOS
programming are explored including the
Model/View/Controller programming model
and object-oriented design. Students use
storyboards to construct multi-screen applica-
tions and learn to apply data structuring and
navigation tools.
PREREQUISITE: IOS PROGRAMMING I
NOTE: ALL PROJECTS IN THIS CLASS WILL RUN ON
XCODES BUILT
-
IN SIMULATORS. TO UPLOAD TO AN
ACTUAL DEVICE, STUDENTS WILL NEED TO REGISTER
WITH APPLE FOR A $99 ANNUAL FEE.
225. Graphic Design

Develop skills required for graphic design
through communication projects including
posters and books. Engage in design chal-
lenges, enjoy virtual eld trips to museums and
visit with professionals in the eld. Learn Adobe
Creative Suite and web-based equivalents.
English and Writing
301. English Vocabulary I Honors:
An Etymological Approach
Build a foundation comprised of Latin and
Greek stems, making it possible to understand,
remember and utilize thousands of English
words. Knowledge of Latin and Greek leads to
advanced English vocabulary.
302. English Vocabulary II Honors
Continue expansion of vocabulary gained in
English Vocabulary. I
PREREQUISITE: ENGLISH VOCABULARY I HONORS
303. Literary Analysis Honors
Explore universal themes by reading and
reecting upon major works of literature
in the genres of ction, poetry, essay and
drama. Through thoughtful analysis and
written responses, students expand their
critical reading and writing skills.
304. World Literature Honors
This comparative study of literature from
around the world and throughout history
includes selections from classic and contem-
porary works. Explore multicultural literature
through critical reading and writing assignments.
305. Creative Writing Honors
Good reading leads to good writing. Read
and identify the components of various literary
genres that can serve as models for your own
original compositions.
306. Journalistic Writing Honors
Journalism continues to transition but demand
for good reporting skills remains constant.
Learn about the legal and ethical issues that
journalists face regularly and enhance your
critical thinking and writing abilities.
Honors
Courses
Grades 6

12
Accept the challenge of
demanding course work in a
customized study format.
Courses oear two high schooI
credits unless noted otherwise.
Time commitment is 5

7 hours
per week.
Gifted LearningLinks

= Creative Studies Course
5
307. Expository Writing Honors
From non-ction books and feature articles
to school research papers and business memo-
randa, expository writing informs the reader
about a selected topic. Expository writing also
inuences oral presentations including academic
lectures and policy speeches. Read and write to
master oral and written expository styles.
Humanities and
Social Sciences
308. U.S. History Honors
Learn about American history from early explo-
ration and colonization to contemporary times.
Discover how the United States evolved and
what makes it unique in the world.
309. World History Honors
Explore recurring themes of the human exper-
ience common to civilizations around the
globe, from ancient to modern day. Multimedia
resources, primary source documents and other
tools provide the opportunity for in-depth study.
310. International Relations & Conicts
Honors: 20th & 21st Centuries
Analyze past and current conicts in Eastern
Europe, Africa and Asia as you assess individual,
national and international responses to global
events.
311. World Religions Honors: An Exploration
of Belief Systems Around the Globe
Study symbols, myths, doctrine, ethics and ritual
to learn about and gain understanding of world
religions. Discover how various faiths dene and
seek universal truth.
312. Psychology Honors
Examine theories about personality and the bio-
logical factors that may affect behavior, learning,
memory, psychological disorders and therapy.
Design and conduct experiments, analyze data
and report discoveries about mental and emo-
tional processes.
HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER
313. Introduction to Philosophy Honors
Ethics, religion, knowledge, politics and meta-
physics form the foundation for this study, rang-
ing from pre-Socratic to contemporary times.
314. Introduction to Economics
Gain a better understanding of the individual
behaviors that drive businesses and the national
economy. Micro and macroeconomics are
introduced.
HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT: 1 SEMESTER
315. Logic Honors: Critical Analysis of
Argument
Increase your ability to analyze and construct
irrefutable arguments. Learn to recognize
and evaluate ambiguity, rate an arguments
strengths and reach an informed conclusion.
316. World Theatre Honors
Trace the development of theatre from the
ancient Greeks to the present. Enhance your
critical reading and writing skills and build
appreciation for performance arts.
Mathematics
317. Algebra I Honors
Topics include understanding expressions,
equations and functions, solving inequalities
and graphing equations and functions.
318. Algebra II/Trigonometry Honors
Topics include inequalities, polynomial
equations, rational expressions, complex
numbers, exponents, logarithms, statistics,
probability, matrices and an introduction
to basic trigonometry.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA I
319. Geometry Honors
Study deductive reasoning and mathematical
proofs of all types and gain an understanding
of the mathematics of shapes.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA I
320. Pre-Calculus Honors
Solve application problems involving functions,
from linear to trigonometric, and add vectors,
sequences, series and matrices to your math-
ematical skill set.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA II/TRIG & GEOMETRY
Science
321. Biology Honors
Take an in-depth look at the fundamental char-
acteristics of living organisms and learn about
the nature of scientic inquiry and the scientic
method. Experiment using hands-on and virtual
laboratory experiences.
NOTE: COURSE MAY BE USED AS A LAB SCIENCE
FOR IMSA AND OTHER SELECTIVE HIGH SCHOOL
APPLICATIONS.
322. Chemistry Honors
Using hands-on and virtual laboratory experi-
ences, study key topics, analyze data, draw
conclusions and report results. Scientic
method, chemical foundations, compositions
and reactions, modern atomic theory and elec-
trochemistry are among the topics covered.
Recommended that students take Algebra 1
prior to this course.
NOTES: ADDITIONAL LAB FEE OF $50 IS REQUIRED.
COURSE MAY BE USED AS A LAB SCIENCE FOR IMSA
AND OTHER SELECTIVE HIGH SCHOOL APPLICATIONS.
323. Physics Honors
Apply the universal principles of physics, gain
an appreciation of mathematics and develop
your understanding of the major concepts via
hands-on experiments, virtual simulations and
investigations. Study Newtonian physics, elec-
tricity and magnetism, waves and optics, and
modern physics.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA II
NOTES:
STUDENTS MUST FURCHASE A HANDS
-
ON LAB KIT
FROM QUALITY SCIENCE LABS. CALL 1
-
866
-
700
-
1884
AND ASK FOR THE PHYSICS KIT FOR NORTHWESTERN
UNIVERSITY.
CURSE MAY BE USED AS A LAB SCENCE FR MSA
AND OTHER SELECTIVE HIGH SCHOOL APPLICATIONS.
324. Astrophysics Honors
Learn about the basic structures of the universe
and how they have evolved. Activities include
readings, problem solving and lab work.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA II
325. Environmental Science Honors:
A Case-Based Approach
What tensions exist between human demands
for resources and the requirements of healthy
ecosystems? Work with case studies analyzing
scientic content and authentic data sets. Labo-
ratory and other activities, readings and online
discussion build knowledge and understanding.
326. Neuroscience Honors
Explore topics ranging from the anatomy and
physiology of the brain to mental disorders.
Activities include readings, discussion and
laboratory activities, such as a virtual eye dis-
section and analysis of sleep data.
PREREQUISITE: BIOLOGY
6
Technology
327. Java Honors
An introduction to object-oriented program-
ming. Using the BlueJ integrated develop-
ment environment, implement object-oriented
concepts. Gain experience with classes, objects
and inheritance as you learn the keywords and
constructs of the Java language.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA I
328. Programming C++ Honors
Combine major concepts to produce a game of
your own design, suitable for multiple players.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA I
NOTES:
STUDENTS MUST HAvE ACCESS T A WNDWS
OPERATING SYSTEM.
STUDENTS NEED A C-- CMFLER, NFRMA-
TION ON FREE COMPILERS AVAILABLE ONLINE IS
INCLUDED IN THE COURSE SYLLABUS.
World Languages
329. Latin I Honors Wheelock
Cover the rst 22 chapters of Wheelocks Latin
Grammar and the Accompanying Workbook
and Latin Stories. Begin to master classical Latin
by studying basic grammar and vocabulary.
330. Latin II Honors Wheelock
Continue the work started in Latin I Honors
Wheelock
PREREQUISITE: LATIN I WHEELOCK OR INSTRUCTORS
PERMISSION
331. Latin I Honors Ecce Romani
Stories about the Romans, their mythology and
historical characters help reveal the structure
of the Latin language and provide the basis for
rich vocabulary development. The application
of grammatical knowledge to Latin stories is
emphasized, enabling you to translate Latin
conversations.
332. Latin II Honors Ecce Romani
Continuation of Latin I Honors Ecce Romani
PREREQUISITE: LATIN I ECCE ROMANI OR
INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION
333. Latin III Honors: Literature
A translation-based survey course of Latin
prose that introduces the wisdom found in
unabridged Latin texts including those written
by Caesar, Cicero and others. Consideration of
grammatical, syntactical and semantic usages,
in all their variant forms, encourages application
of critical thinking skills to produce structurally
accurate and uid translations.
PREREQUISITES: LATIN I & II: WHEELOCK OR ECCE
ROMANI OR INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION
334. Chinese I Honors
The four language skills of listening, speaking,
reading and writing are developed as students
participate in activities, engage in guided con-
versation and writing, utilizing familiar vocabu-
lary and structures in this introductory course in
Mandarin Chinese language and culture.
335. Chinese II Honors
Expand your knowledge of the Chinese lan-
guage and culture gained in Chinese I.
PREREQUISITES: CHINESE I HONORS OR
INSTRUCTORS PERMISSION
336. Chinese III Honors
Advance the skills learned in Chinese II.
PREREQUISITE: CHINESE II OR INSTRUCTORS
PERMISSION
337. Spanish I Honors
Guided by the standards of the American
Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages
(ACTFL), Spanish I focuses on the core skills of
listening, speaking, reading and writing. Partici-
pate in conversations and written activities that
include a comprehensive cultural approach to
the Spanishspeaking world.
NOTE: ADDITIONAL LAB FEE OF $50 IS REQUIRED.
338. Spanish II Honors
Continue development of listening, speaking,
reading and writing skills gained in Spanish I
Honors.
PREREQUISITE: SPANISH I OR INSTRUCTOR
PERMISSION
NOTE: ADDITIONAL LAB FEE OF $50 IS REQUIRED.
339. Spanish III Honors
Become more procient in the Spanish lan-
guage through rigorous immersion. Upon
successful completion, students may plan to
take the AP

Spanish Language or Literature

exam.
PREREQUISITE: SPANISH II OR INSTRUCTOR
PERMISSION
NOTE: ADDITIONAL LAB FEE OF $50 IS REQUIRED.
AP

English and Writing

401. AP

English Language & Composition

Read a wide array of ction and non-ction to
strengthen your critical literacy skills. Expository,
analytical, and argumentative writing skills, that
form the basis of effective communication, are
emphasized.
PREREQUISITES: TWO YEARS OF ENGLISH &
A GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
402. AP

English Literature and Composition

Increase awareness of how writers use language
to evoke emotional response by reading
examples from a variety of genres and historical
periods and record your insights in writing.
PREREQUISITES: TWO YEARS OF ENGLISH &
A GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
Advanced
Placement
(AP

)
Courses
Grades 9

12
Enroll in Advanced Placement (AP

)
courses and gain the exibility to
progress at your own pace.
Advanced Placement (AP

) courses are
college level courses for high school
credit. AP

courses offered by Gifted

LearningLinks are reviewed annually by
the College Board and are listed under
Northwestern Universitys Midwest
Academic Talent Search in the College
Board ledger. Courses do not include
administration of the AP

exams.
Students must arrange to take the
exams through a school in their area.
Courses bear two high school honors
credits unless noted otherwise.
Time commitment is 5

7 hours
per week.
Gifted LearningLinks
7
AP

Humanities and
Social Sciences
403. AP

U.S. History
From the rst European explorations of the
Americas to current events and trends, this
college-level course provides an opportunity to
master analytical skills required to understand
and assess American history.
PREREQUISITE: GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
404. AP

European History
Use primary sources, works of art and literature
to analyze, interpret and evaluate historical
materials from the western hemisphere.
PREREQUISITE: GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
405. AP

World History
Use primary and secondary sources to examine
the impact of interactions among, and within, world
civilizations and societies throughout the ages.
PREREQUISITE: GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
406. AP

Government & Politics:

U.S. & Comparative (2
-
Part Course)
Examine the sources of U.S. government
authority and political power, the role of nation-
hood, civil rights, civil liberties, public policy
and the court system. Learn about comparative
politics by studying political frameworks of
other nations.
Course (406A)

U.S. (one high school semester

credit)
Course (406B)

Comparative (one high school

semester credit)
NOTE: STUDENTS MAY SELECT TO TAKE ONE OR
BOTH COURSES.
407. AP

Economics: Micro & Macro

(2
-
Part Course)
Microeconomics examines the behaviors of
individuals and businesses while macroeconom-
ics analyzes the economy as a whole. Topics
include supply and demand, the role of labor,
scal and monetary policy. Students examine
government regulations and the impact they
have on individual choice, standards of living,
competition and world trade patterns.
Course 407A

Microeconomics (one high school

semester credit)
Course 407B

Macroeconomics (one high

school semester credit)
NOTE: STUDENTS MAY SELECT TO TAKE ONE
OR BOTH COURSES.
408. AP

Human Geography
Geography generally focuses on the question
of Where? Human geography tries to answer
the question, Why there? Examine the basics
of cultural change, regionalism and political
organization in this multi-faceted approach to
understanding world geography.
409. AP

Psychology
Understand various theories of behavior and
cognition, participate in research exercises and
study the current practices of psychology in
various contexts. The course culminates in an
experiment that includes the collection, inter-
pretation and evaluation of data.
PREREQUISITE: GRADED WRITING SAMPLE
AP

Mathematics
A graphing calculator is required for all AP

Mathematics courses.
410. AP

Calculus AB
AP

Calculus AB includes analytic geometry,

functions, limits, continuity, the derivative and its
applications, and the integral and its applications.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA II/TRIGONOMETRY &
GEOMETRY OR PRE
-
CALCULUS
411. AP

Calculus BC
AP

Calculus BC includes advanced applica-

tions of integration techniques, innite series,
conics, parametric equations, polar coordinates
and the calculus of vector-valued functions.
PREREQUISITE: CALCULUS AB OR INSTRUCTORS
PERMISSION
412. AP

Statistics
An introductory, non-calculus based college-
level course that emphasizes understanding
and analysis of statistical studies, and the
development of an intuitive sense of statistics
and probability.
PREREQUISITE: ALGEBRA II
AP

Science
413. AP

Biology
Develop practical and analytical skills by inves-
tigating biological phenomena via readings,
tutorial lectures, discussion, and hands-on and
virtual lab activities.
PREREQUISITES: BIOLOGY; CHEMISTRY IS
RECOMMENDED
414. AP

Environmental Science
Study the scientic principles, concepts and
methodologies required to understand the
interrelationships of the natural world.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA I; ONE YEAR EACH:
PHYSICAL & LIFE SCIENCE
NOTE: LAB ACTIVITIES IN THIS COURSE REQUIRE
FIELDWORK.
415. AP

Chemistry
Topics include the structure of matter, kinetic
theory of gases, chemical equilibriums, chemi-
cal kinetics and the basic concepts of thermody-
namics. A combination of hands-on and virtual
labs builds understanding of concepts as
students conduct both quantitative and qualita-
tive analyses of data.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA II & CHEMISTRY
NOTE: ADDITIONAL LAB FEE OF $50 REQUIRED.
416. AP

Physics B
This non-calculus-based physics course offers a
broad foundation in topics such as mechanics,
uid dynamics, wave motion, thermodynamics,
electricity and magnetism, sound and light,
modern physics and nuclear physics.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA II & PHYSICS
417. AP

Physics C: Mechanics and

Electricity & Magnetism (2
-
Part Course)
Designed for students with some prior physics
experience and who are interested in majoring
in a technical science in college.
Course (417A)

AP

Physics C: Mechanics
(one semester of high school honors credit)
Prepares students to take the AP

Physics C:
Mechanics exam.
Course (417B)

AP

Physics C: Electricity &

Magnetism (one semester of high school
honors credit) Prepares the student to take the
AP

Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism exam.

PREREQUISITES: PHYSICS & PREVIOUS OR
CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT IN CALCULUS
NOTE: STUDENTS MAY SELECT TO TAKE ONE
OR BOTH COURSES; SEE 417A AND 417B.
AP

Technology
418. AP

Computer Science A
Topics include object-oriented program design,
the development and selection of algorithms
and data structures to solve problems, and the
AP

Java subset including the standard Java

library classes. Learn to apply proper algorithms
that utilize Java and use readable and efcient
code to satisfy problem descriptions.
PREREQUISITES: ALGEBRA II, JAVA AND/OR
PROGRAMMING C++
NOTE: STUDENTS NEED A JAVA COMPILER FOR
THIS COURSE.
AP

World Languages
419. AP

Latin
Translate Latin passages and discuss literary and
grammatical features within the social, cultural,
historical, and/or political context of the period.
Read the entire Aeneid and pertinent passages
from Homers Iliad and Odyssey in English.
PREREQUISITES: LATIN II WHEELOCK OR LATIN III,
LITERATURE ECCE ROMANI OR INSTRUCTORS
PERMISSION
NOTE: A SCANNER IS REQUIRED.
8
420. AP

Spanish Literature and Culture

(AP

authorization pending; visit GLL online

for status update)
Study Peninsular, Latin American and American
Hispanic literature through global, historical and
contemporary cultural contexts.
PREREQUISITE: SPANISH III
421. AP

Spanish Language (AP

authori-
zation pending; visit GLL online for status
update.)
Spanish language for active communication.
Enhance your understanding of aural/oral skills,
reading comprehension, and composition.
PREREQUISITE: SPANISH III
Gifted LearningLinks
Education Program for
Gifted Youth (EPGY)
Stanford University
Earn college credit through university-level
mathematics courses developed and administered by
Stanford Universitys Education Program for Gifted
Youth (EPGY).
Admission Requirements:
Nationally normed test with score at the 95th percentile
or above.
OR
Talent Search participation (NUMATS).
OR
Admission Portfolio consisting of two teacher
recommendations and a current report card.
610: Introduction to Logic (M157)
PREREQUISITE: PRE
-
CALCULUS
611: Multivariable Differential Calculus (M52A)
PREREQUISITE: CALCULUS C
612: Multivariable Integral Calculus (M52B)
PREREQUISITE: MULTIVARIABLE DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS
613: Linear Algebra (M51A)
PREREQUISITE: MULTIVARIABLE DIFFERENTIAL CALCULUS
EPGY NOTES:
EFCY CURSES ARE CD
-
ROM BASED.
CHECK THE WEBSTES BELW FR FERATNC FRCEDURES AND MRE
DETAILED COURSE INFORMATION.
WWW.CTD.NRTHWESTERN.EDU/CLL/CURSE/EFCY/
AND EFCY.STANFRD.ECU/CURSES/ENCLSH/ENCCALENDAR.HTML
ALL EFCY AFFLCATNS MUST BE SUBMTTED BY MAL. THERE S N NLNE
APPLICATION AVAILABLE THROUGH CTD FOR THE EPGY COURSES.
Students who successfully complete EPGY courses and
matriculate as undergraduates at Stanford University may
use the credits towards their bachelors degrees. Students
attending other colleges and universities are eligible to
apply for the credit.
Gifted LearningLinks
Independent Study
Grades 3

12
Propose an independent study course to pursue
one-on-one with an online mentor.
199. Independent Study: Grades 3

12
Do you have a special interest but cant nd a course to address it?
Paired with a mentor, independent study allows you to create a tailored
course around a subject you are passionate about. To apply, complete
and submit a proposal form (available at http://ctd.northwestern.edu/
gll/downloads/). Well match you with an expert online mentor and your
nine-week individualized study can begin.
Gifted LearningLinks
Accelerated Summer Option
Grades 6

12
The Accelerated Summer Option (ASO) is an excellent option for students interested in completing a one or
two-semester Honors or AP

course in 9 weeks during the summer.

Courses bear one or two high school credits.
Time commitment is 2530 hours per week.
ASO courses available for Summer 2014 will be posted
on the Gifted LearningLinks website in March, 2014.
9
Gifted LearningLinks
General Program
Information
Northwestern Universitys Center for Talent Development (CTD)
is an accredited learning center and research facility that has been
serving gifted students, their families and educators for more
than 30 years. Gifted LearningLinks (GLL) offers online courses
designed to meet the needs of this community and provide a
pathway for individualized learning.
GLL is intended for independent learners who are interested in
enriching, rigorous and engaging coursework.
Courses are ideal for students who want to:
Move qulckly fhrough advanced course maferlal
Take courses af an earller grade level fhan usual
Expand local or home school learnlng opflons
Resolve schedullng conllcfs
Develop an lndlvlduallzed plan lor lnsfrucflon
Explore areas ol lnferesf ln depfh
Eligibility
Applicants in grades 6 through 12 are required to meet the
minimum EXPLORE, ACT, or SAT scores as Talent Search partici-
pants (tests taken above grade level). An alternative is to submit
an admission portfolio, consisting of two teacher recommenda-
tions and a recent grade report. Score requirements vary by
course. Check the Course Reference Chart posted online at the
CTD website. Evidence of prerequisite(s) and/or graded writing
samples should be scanned or faxed.
How GLL Works
Frlor fo fhe course sfarf dafe, sfudenfs recelve a unlque logln
and activation code allowing them to create a password and
gain access.
Course access begins on the ofcial start date.
The GLL experience starts with an online orientation.
(Returning students are welcome to repeat attendance.)
GLL classes are hosted on Blackboard, a web-based course
management system. Syllabi, assignments, timelines, discus-
sion boards, links and more are found on these course pages.
The course management system is available 24/7.
Communlcaflon wlfh fhe course lnsfrucfor and/or classmafes
occurs in a variety of ways, determined by the instructor, the
nature of the subject matter and student preference.
Communication tools may include: course site and discussion
board, e-mail and phone, online class meetings using Skype,
Adobe Connect or other virtual tools, blogs, journals or wikis,
cloud-based tools.
Basic Technology Requirements
Compufer wlfh lnfernef access.
Sfable and rellable sfudenf emall accounf.
Mac or Wlndows plaflorms are mosf compaflble wlfh fhe
Blackboard course management system. Firefox browser is
strongly recommended.
Some courses may require: digital camera or scanner,
microphone and/or headset and Skype account.
Tips for Student Success
Affend fhe onllne orlenfaflon sesslon af fhe beglnnlng ol fhe
course. Parents and school personnel are encouraged to
attend as well.
Fracflce sell-advocacy. lnlflafe confacf wlfh fhe course lnsfruc-
tor whenever necessary and take advantage of their expertise.
Employ flme managemenf. Ensure fhaf you have adequafe
computer access and time to complete assignments.
Crder requlred fexfbooks upon recelvlng your accepfance.
Academic and Performance Expectations
Policies regarding electronic resources, network, intellectual
ownership and academic honesty are posted on our website.
Grades and Accreditation
CTD is accredited through NCA CASI and issues high school
credits. The acceptance of credits depends on each schools institu-
tional policies. If you are interested in receiving credit, CTD strongly
recommends reviewing policies with an advisor or administrator at
your school before applying for a particular course.
Whether or not your school grants credit, you will be issued a
transcript from Center for Talent Development at Northwestern
University indicating your completion of coursework and grade/s.
Evaluations will be emailed to the school upon student request.
GLL has NCAA approval
A pass/no credlf opflon ls avallable.
GLL must be notied of this request in writing by a parent or
school administrator before the end of the rst semester.
Students electing this option must have a grade of C- or
better to earn a pass and receive course credit.
Hard coples ol fhe lnal evaluaflon and franscrlpf are senf fo fhe
home address and to the school, if requested.
Each addlflonal franscrlpf cosfs $5.
Course Transfers and Extensions
Transfer requests must be made in writing via e-mail.
A processlng lee ol $100 ls lncurred fo fransler lrom one course
to another or to modify the start date.
Transler requesfs musf be made ln wrlflng belore fhe 21sf day
of the course.
Sfudenfs can exfend credlf bearlng courses up fo fhree monfhs
with instructor approval if unable to complete the class in the
allotted time. Extension requests must be submitted in writing
and cosf $100 per monfh.
10
Northwestern Universitys Center for Talent Development has been
accredited as a nonpublic supplementary school by the North Central
Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement
(NCA CASI) since 1994 and the National Collegiate Athletic Association
(NCAA) Since 2011. Advanced Placement (AP

) courses are authorized

by the College Board.
GLL in Schools
To help schools provide exible opportunities for academically
talented students who need additional challenges, CTD facili-
tates Gifted LearningLinks in Schools. A 10% tuition discount is
available to school districts and home school groups that enroll
5 or more students for classes with the same start date.
Students may work independently or in small groups. GLL
recommends that school groups identify an in-school staff liaison
to monitor student progress.
Complefe fhe School Appllcaflon Cover Sheef and submlf lf
to gll@northwestern.edu. Request a school code to be used
in lieu of a credit card, check or purchase order at the time of
registration.
Faculty
Center for Talent Development recruits and selects faculty based
on their mastery of the subject matter, teaching experience,
philosophy of teaching and enthusiasm to work with gifted stu-
dents. Every online course has a dedicated instructor. Teachers
plan assignments and select appropriate and personalized learn-
ing materials for their respective courses. They provide instruction,
individualized feedback, and evaluate each students progress.
Application Procedures
CTD welcomes new applicants with qualifying test scores,
returning applicants and admission portfolio applicants.
Determine your applicant type from the three described below.
Minimum requirements are listed here, you may be asked for
additional documentation.
1. New Applicant with Qualifying Test Scores
You have qualllylng above-grade-level EXFLCRE, ACT, or
SAT test scores.
You have new above-grade-level fesf scores qualllylng you ln
additional content areas.
2. Returning Applicant
You are applylng lor a course ln a sub|ecf area ln whlch you
have successfully completed comparable CTD coursework.
You have faken prerequlslfe courses fhrough CTD wlfh GLL,
the Summer Program, or the Saturday Enrichment Program.
3. Admission Portfolio Applicant (For students that do not
meet Applicant #1 or #2 requirements.)
Admlsslon porflollos musf confaln fhe lollowlng lfems:
a. A current report card.
b. Current standardized test scores, if available.
c. Two teacher recommendation forms from teachers familiar
with the students work in the relevant content area. Form
available at: http://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/gll/down-
loads/.
d. Documentation that demonstrates the student is working
1.5 to 2 years above grade level.
e. Other required admission materials specied by course.
Check the GLL Course Reference Chart posted on the website for
specic test scores required for the course you are applying for.
The Admissions Committee reviews applications on an individual
basis. Applications must be paid in full and all supporting docu-
mentation received prior to review. An email will be sent upon
acceptance or denial of the application.
Financial Aid
Need-based lnanclal ald ls avallable.
Submit the rst two pages of your tax return AND
A Statement of Need form. Download from
http://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/gll/downloads.
Explain your familys nancial need, not the students
academic performance, as awards are need-based only.
Early appllcaflon ls encouraged as lunds are llmlfed.
Sfudenfs may recelve lnanclal asslsfance lor only one CTD
class at a time.
No lnanclal ald ls avallable lor lndependenf Sfudy.
Requesfs lor asslsfance lor EFGY courses musf be senf dlrecfly
to Stanford University at https://epgy.stanford.edu/apply-
andregister/epgyapplication.html.
Withdrawals and Refunds
Withdrawals and refunds must be requested in writing.
REFUND
BEFORE
START OF
COURSE
REFUND
WITHIN 21
DAYS OF
START
NO REFUND
AFTER 21
DAYS OF
START
All GLL
courses
Tuition minus
$60 process-
ing fee
50% of tuition $0
EFGY courses have a non-relundable $35 reglsfraflon lee.
There wlll be no relunds lor sfudenfs who are dlsmlssed lrom
the GLL program or for withdrawals after 21 days of class.
Live online information sessions about the
Gifted LearningLinks program are conducted
regularly. Check the website for the schedule
and session details.
11
617 Dartmouth Place
Evanston, Illinois 60208
-
4175
GIFTED
LearningLinks
Any Time.
Any Place.
Any Pace.
www.ctd.northwestern.edu/gll
Center for Talent Development
Northwestern University
617 Dartmouth Place, Evanston, Illinois 60208
-
4175
Phone 847/491
-
3782 ext.5
E-mail gll@northwestern.edu
Fax 847/491
-
3394