What is SEM?

The Schoolwide Enrichment Model (SEM) is widely implemented as an enrichment program [with]... a magnet theme/enrichment approach for all schools interested in high-end learning and developing the strengths and talents of all students. The major goal of the SEM is the application of gifted education pedagogy to total school improvement. The SEM provides enriched learning experiences and higher learning standards for all children through three goals; developing talents in all children, providing a broad range of advanced-level enrichment experiences for all students, and providing advanced follow-up opportunities for young people based on their strengths and interests. The SEM focuses on enrichment for all students through high levels of engagement and the use of enjoyable and challenging learning experiences that are constructed around students’ interests, learning styles, and preferred modes of expression.

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All grade 6 and 7 students spend one period per week (Friday period 6) in a self-selected cluster based on their strengths and interests.  Students were asked to read the descriptions of all clusters and select their top choices.  Students were placed in clusters on a first come, first serve basis.  

Architectural Drawing

Are you interested in learning how to draw buildings and other structures? Would you like to make drawings using drawing tools? Do you enjoy creating design drawings? Do you like sketching buildings? If you answered yes to these questions, this is the activity for you. You will learn about drafting tools and practice sketching different buildings. Using the skills you develop you will learn how to sketch different views of objects. Finally, you will be given the opportunity to draw a design sketch of your own. This activity is for students with or without artistic abilities.

Bling-Bling

Designing appliques and sewing beads on material for applying to clothes, hair scrunchies, and hair bands.

Coloring

Calling all color enthusiasts! Are you interested in a fun, stress-relieving, artistic cluster? Then join the coloring cluster, where you will have the opportunity to create one of a kind works of art. You may choose to donate it to St. Mary's Children's Hospital or sell it to support your favorite charity,

Community

Do you want to know more about the neighborhoods that you live in? (Flushing, Bayside, Whitestone, etc.) Do you want to know how your community got started, who lives there, what famous people came from your neighborhood, or the interesting places to visit in your neighborhood? Do you enjoy visiting historical sites or taking pictures of the interesting things in your community? In this program, you will become an expert of your local community. You will be the “local tour guide,” by exploring the history, statistics, people, place to visit, current events, and businesses of Flushing, Bayside, Whitestone, etc. You will be taking photos, doing research, creating maps and diagrams, and possibly taking trips to the interesting places that our communities have.

Computer Programming

You will begin by learning the fundamentals of database design and programming. Next, you will learn Structured Query Language (SQL), and generate reports using SQL. Once you have mastered SQL, you will be able to create a database of your own choosing and generate reports. Suggestions for your own database include stock market analysis, sports statistical analysis, and statistics related to history, science, fashion and film.

Dance

Have you ever watched So You Think You Can Dance or Dance Moms and wonder how they do those unique moves?  Do you like to perform? Are you constantly creating your own choreography or would like to learn how to? So join me and your fellow Adrien Block students on the dance floor!
Looking for interested and motivated students who would like to take their dancing to the next level.  Our main focus will be flexibility, technique and contemporary dance choreography.  All students and dance levels are welcome.

Design It Yourself

Are you interested in designing your own t-shirt? Join Design-It-Yourself to create that special T-shirt using famous slogans, quotes you love, and designs of your own!  Shirts will be sold to support your favorite charities.

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DJ Beats

Have you ever wondered how Kayne West and Dr. Dre mix beats? Now is your opportunity to do just that. In Beats like Kayne you will learn how to use music and technology to create your very own mix. Using custom and built in sound effects, this class will have you producing for Jay Z in no time.

Doodle Art

Doodle Art/Zentangles are designs that are traditionally made in squares.  They are usually black ink on white paper.  The process of drawing the designs is very calming, similar to coloring.  These can be donated as decoration for children's rooms at St. Mary's Childrens Hospital, or sold to raise money for your favorite charity.

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Drama

Are you a natural performer? Do you like to act? Are you creative and love to design things? If so, Drama is the place for you! The drama cluster is for students who enjoy acting, singing, dancing and working with a group of people! You will learn acting skills, play production, teamwork, theater etiquette, improvisations, learning about Broadway shows, characteristics of an actor and learning Broadway tunes! So come and explore the life behind the scenes!

Indian Culture

Welcome to Culture in India! Come learn about the rich food, dancing, and holiday events that bring the South Asian community together. We can create fundraisers to help women and children become more educated in order to become successful members of society. Indian culture is filled with color, music, and laughter; it will be fun getting to learn about a common culture here in New York as well.

Jazz Band

Jazz Band is for students who play a music instrument or sing. Any woodwind, brass, string, percussion, piano, guitar, etc. instrumentalist and singers are welcome. The word "Jazz" covers a wide range of music so just about any music is possible to use and fair game as long as you are willing to take to a chance on trying something new and have a bit of a free spirit. Bring your ideas for songs to listen to and play. You may discover a creative voice you never knew you had!

Jazz Piano

Can you not survive without music? Does the enchanting sound of the piano touch your very soul? Are you passionate about jazz? Have you ever wondered when and where it began? AMERICA-The motherland of jazz has birthed a tremendous number of talented jazz musicians, composers and performers. No other country in the world can hold this claim. If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of jazz, as well as becoming a jazz performer. this cluster would be a perfect jump-start on your journey! You will learn the fundamentals of this complex style of music through famous jazz piano pieces by celebrated American composers and will learn to play them while grouped with peers according to your level. Possible surprise guests and class field trips will enrich your jazz introduction.

Knitting

Be creative and join our knitting class. All skill levels are welcome. We plan to make scarves, hats, or anything you wish to design. Just have your knitting needles and yarn ready every Friday.

Korean Culture

Who’s the next KPop star? Do you like K-pops or Korean shows? Would you like to visit Korea one day? This would be more enjoyable if you know some basic language and culture. Come to the Korean Class on (Fridays)/once a week to learn more about the language and culture. In the program, you will be involved in various activities, including Korean calligraphy, dance, food preparation (and tasting!) and lots more. You may also have a chance to participate in a cultural program run by a Korean community. Be active, take the challenge, get into the action!

Manga Anime

Do you have an interest in Japanese style animation and Manga books? Illustrate in this distinct style of cartooning using techniques you will learn in this course! We will use the most effective tools to get the job done, such as pilot drawing pens, markers, color pencils,oil pastels, and even watercolor! Learn to effectively combine these art tools to create exciting backdrops for your characters on paper! Course will culminate in creating your own anime multi-panel comic strip!

Marine Science

Marine science is the study of ecosystems in the ocean and the life forms that reside in it. Do you enjoy learning about marine science? Then this is the SEM for you! Topics that are open to discussion include marine biology, our oceans, how we can protect our oceans, and anything else of interest to you.

Newspaper

Calling all writers, artists, editors, photographers, and researchers! We need you to become part of the Adrien Block School Newspaper! We are looking for motivated student writers interested in researching topics of their choice surrounding the school community and the world around us. Students will conduct interviews for articles that will be developed and published. The possibilities are endless with I.S. 25 students as the leaders of this exciting project!

Origami & Calligraphy

Did you ever try making something amazing out of paper? This is called origami, which is the art of paper folding, originated in Japan. In this class, we will create many different kinds of animals, shapes, flowers, etc. using paper. We will also learn how to write in calligraphy, which is the art of beautiful handwriting.

Stock Market

Students will learn about what a company, stock, and stock exchange are. Students will research and choose stocks to invest their imaginary funds and follow the value of the stocks over the course of the semester.

Yoga

Tired of sitting at a desk all day? Join our yoga cluster where you will slow down, stretch and breathe. We will practice positions to help you reduce stress and improve posture (and have fun along the way!)  If you ever thought you’re not flexible so you can’t do yoga- don’t worry about it! Yoga will help improve strength and flexibility from wherever you are to help you feel refreshed, relaxed and rejuvenated.