Maybe algebra was never really your idea of fun, or reading up on the Civil War during history class was torture. But there are plenty of classes offered locally that are off the mainstream education radar and might get you excited about learning. Here are six that will give you hands-on experience trying something new.

Memoirs have empowered readers, acted as a cathartic tool to help writers heal, and provided a glimpse into otherwise anonymous lives. Writers & Books, 740 University Avenue, offers a class called "Leaving the Legacy of Your Heart," which teaches ordinary folks how to write about the extraordinary events and moments in their lives. The class begins September 25 and runs for six consecutive Thursdays, from 2 to 4 p.m. The class will help you tell your story - whether it's aimed at a large audience or intended only for the eyes of a loved one. The cost: $110 for Writers & Books members, $120 for non-members. Information and registration: wab.org or 473-2590.

Even if you can broil, bake, and baste a few things, most of us probably can think about making only muffins or pie with blueberries. The Cooking School, at Tops Market's 3507 Mt. Read Boulevard location, offers a class simply called "Blueberries" where blueberry scones, chicken with blueberry sauce, and blueberry spinach salad are among the specialties you can learn to whip up. The class is taught Wednesday, August 20, from 7 to 9 p.m. and costs $20. Information and other class listings: topsmarkets.com or 663-5449.

Rochester doesn't have coral reefs nearby, but backyard pools, the Finger Lakes, and even a winter vacation to the Caribbean take on new interest if you can snorkel. The Aquatic Center of Rochester, 2725 East Henrietta Road, offers private and group lessons that cover such things as how to properly wear the mask and snorkel, how to skim the surface after you've made it into the water, and how to free-dive below the surface to get a closer look at something down below. Classes, which are held in the heated pool at the Aquatic Center, are $45 per person, $80 per couple. Information: 334-1670 or aquaticcenterroch.com.

If you like to move your body but aren't sure which style of dance is for you, Hochstein School of Music and Dance, 50 North Plymouth Avenue, offers a "Dance Sampler" class - separate nine-week sessions that cover jazz, tap, musical theater, and African dance. The course is designed for the adult beginner and doesn't require you to buy fancy dancing outfits or special props. Just wear something comfortable and get ready to move. The one-hour classes are at 6:15 p.m. every Thursday, beginning September 11. Information: 454-4596 or hochstein.org.

If you're in the mood for some new duds, it may be convenient to head to the mall or thumb through the racks at a nearby shop. But it might be more fun to make something from scratch. Sew Creative, 23 North Main Street in Fairport, offers a one-night class called "Runaround Bag for Beginners," where you can learn how to make your own shoulder bag - complete with zipper and all. OK, maybe it won't replace buying a new shirt, but it may come in handy for the inevitable shopping trips. The class is Thursday, September 25, at 6 p.m.; the fee is $30 plus the cost of materials. You can use Sew Creative's sewing machines during the class, so no lugging is required. Information on this class and others: 388-0230 or sewcreativefairport.com.

If you have a hammer and saw and are in the market for a new table or chair, you could make it yourself. The Rochester Woodworkers Society offers a one-day workshop called "Furniture by Design & Hand Tools in the Modern Shop." Here's where you'll learn to make sure what you do make will work. And the "design" portion of the class will help you build something that isn't just functional, but also beautifully crafted. The workshop is Saturday, September 20, and costs $45 for members and $70 for non-members. Information about this and other classes: rochesterwoodworkers.org.

Maybe driving the SUV is draining your wallet. Or perhaps it just seems like more fun to ride to work on two wheels instead of four. Learn 2 Ride, Inc. offers motorcycle newcomers a chance to learn road safety and practice riding a motorcycle on a closed course at MCC. The course lets you practice turning, starting, and maybe most important - stopping. If you pass the knowledge test and skills evaluation, you'll get your motorcycle license without going through the lines at the DMV. Information: learn2ride.net or 615-7433.