Conlanging is a fun way to add richness to worldbuilding projects, get practical experience with linguistic concepts, or make a secret language to talk to your friends! This course is a brief overview of the linguistics behind human languages and what steps are required to make your own. Since there is so much to cover, I aim to not only introduce concepts, but also show you where to find more information on your own.

Have you ever wanted to design and build a language of your own? This class will cover the basic process of turning your idea for a constructed language (or conlang) into something with a real grammar and vocabulary. We'll also be looking into some of the linguistic concepts underlying languages. As part of the course, you'll make your own conlang!

Have you ever wanted to design and build a language of your own? This class will cover the basic process of turning your idea for a constructed language (or conlang) into something with a real grammar and vocabulary. We'll also be looking into some of the linguistic concepts underlying languages.

This course explores the scientific principles at play in everyday baked goods. A few examples: What makes some cookies crunchy and others chewy? Why are there so many types of flour? And what the heck is a "Maillard reaction" anyway? And what better way to learn all this than with some tasty examples.

Have you ever felt the urge to be able to speak or write in a language of your own creation? Whether it's for your own enjoyment, to communicate secretly with friends, or simply to gain a better understanding of what characterizes language, this class aims to teach you about the principles of human languages in the context of artificially designing them. We will cover the sounds of spoken language, writing systems, types of constructed languages (conlangs), and the basics of grammar and syntax. The class will consist of both lecture and discussion portions, including some time for you to work in groups designing or brainstorming ideas. Although you will not have time to create a full-fledged language, you will be introduced to resources and information to help you along your way.

We've all heard the simple explanation for lift based on Bernoulli's principle. But is that really what keeps these 50-ton pressurized metal tubes in the sky? What other properties govern flight? This class will explore the history and engineering of airplanes as well as the science behind the physical laws that govern them. The information will be presented in a lecture format.