3D Modeling and Animation
(Grades 5-8)
This course uses techniques in modeling, material generation, and key framing with 3D Studio Max. Components of the course include modeling (deformations), material generation, key framing (morphing), and rendering with video output for playback on a computer. 3D Studio Max (sometimes called 3DS Max or just MAX) is a 3D computer graphics and animation software program.
BCA Makerspace Invention Lab
(Grades 6-8)
Young "Makers" will be introduced to the design process for the purpose of creating a new mechanical product, toy or game. Students will brainstorm, sketch, 3D model, and then mockup and test their rough designs. Final prototypes will be built with the assistance of common hand tools and supplies plus the use of our 3D Printing and/or Laser Cutting technologies. Lab projects can include the new and unique creative designs of individuals or student groups. Past projects have included puzzles and board games as well as simple toy models and product innovations.
Be a Smart Leader: Emotional Intelligence
(Grades 5-8)
Ever wonder why some kids “seem” more confident and have good people skills?
This class will examine emotional awareness as well as applying and managing emotions. By developing these three key skills individuals are more likely to build self-confidence and personal growth. Emotionally intelligent people usually experience better health, more happiness and improved learning capacity. Utilizing basic psychology and the study of human behavior the class will partake in role playing activities, analyze movie scenes and other assorted learning activities to show how all people develop emotional intelligence. The final goal is for students to attain a greater sense of individual enlightenment, passion and well-being.
CAD & Lego Designs
(Grades 5-8)
Students will use solid modeling, an efficient method, as an introduction to the design process. Students learn basic sketching skills to develop designs, drafting techniques, and use Autodesk Inventor Professional software to design and model a Lego piece. Students will also utilize sophisticated software features, and descriptive geometry to increase design efficiency that will optimize design editing. Students will create their own Lego design and will learn about 3D printing technologies. In addition students will receive a customized 3D printed version of their Lego.
Cool Chemistry
(Grades 6-8)
This laboratory hands-on course will excite students when they learn how and why various chemical phenomena work. They will perform mini experiments to see why fireworks display so many colors, investigate what colors make up ordinary ink, experience the power of atmospheric pressure, learn what makes light sticks work, watch how you can boil water at room temperature or in a paper cup, and many others! Each session will begin with a brief lesson describing the scientific principles that will be witnessed that day before conducting the fascinating experiments. This chemistry class will be sure to create a reaction!
Crazy Biology
(Grades 5-8)
In this course we will take a look at the wild world of biology, looking at the basics of this life science as it pertains to the world of the most bizarre and interesting organisms on the planet!
Create Your Own Business
(Grades 6-8)
Students will work collaboratively in cooperative groups to create their own businesses. Students will acquire understanding of the cost, licensing and advertising aspects of entrepreneurship. Students will design a product or create the service for their business. Students will tackle issues pertaining to name, location and type of business. They will also identify the best method to sell their products and services. Participants will enhance writing, analytical, speaking, public presentation, marketing, interviewing, Microsoft Office Suite and general business skill sets.
Creating Cool Websites
(Grades 5-8)
For anyone curious about creating a Web site, this class is the ultimate starter kit. Whether you're building a sophisticated commercial Web site or just creating an online spot to call home, good Web site development is about a lot more than just HTML nowadays. Students will spend lots of time exploring the nuances of xhtml and cascading Style Sheets (CSS) as they implement them on their own web sites.
Creative Writing
(Grades 6-8)
This introductory writing workshop focuses on the reading, discussion and revision of students’ short fiction and poetry. Students will be introduced to models of fiction and poetry and will use these models to develop their own creative pieces. Students will enhance their storytelling skills and learn how to capture a reader’s attention while finding their own, unique voice. Topics covered will include character, setting, point of view, imagery, and poetic forms. Students will collaborate to compile an anthology of student writing composed during the course. No prior creative writing experience is necessary.
Critical Thinking: Reading, Writing, and Games
(Grades 5-7)
Critical thinking is important for everyone. We all use thinking processes constantly and we should be able to consider problems, reason and debate in a logical way. Students will practice reading and writing techniques to help them to problem solve and think more critically, plus learn ways to do so while playing games.
Design. Make.Test: Creating through Engineering
(Grades 6-8)
This will be a hands on, exploratory class where students will work through an iterative process to build solutions to unique challenges. Topics such as critical thinking, designing through failure, and the encouragement of unique solutions, will becritical course objectives. Students will sketch, prototype, build, test, redesign and test again, through instructional format that fosters creative problem solving using science, technology, engineering, and mathematical thinking.
Designing Public Policy
(Grades 6-8)
Do you want to fix a problem in society? Learn concrete research skills and effective use of online sources to design a public policy. Students will learn about the processes, including problem analysis, stakeholder analysis, evaluation of options, choice of policy instruments, allocation of resources and construction of programs, as well as methods of monitoring and evaluation. They will also learn about written tools including op-eds and white papers. The course is organized into modules the students can navigate. Students will be guided by the instructor who teaches public policy for Syracuse University.
Do You Love to Debate?
(Grades 6-8)
This summer course develops the debate skill sets which include public speaking, note taking, research and listening. Students will learn how to execute impromptu and persuasive speeches. Debate has the potential to impact most aspects of a student’s life as it provides an exceptional chance for students to cultivate and become proficient at life skills of oral communication and critical thinking.
Flash Fiction and Creative Writing
(Grades 6-8)
Flash Fiction or Short Shorts must do two things: define a MOMENT in time and create UNEASE. In this course of study, students will read a variety of flash fiction works from American and International authors. They will analyze the stories for central ideas, and support their ideas with evidence from the stories in discussion. Students will also write and edit their own “flash” stories.
Honors Algebra
(Grades 6-8)
This course emphasizes the development of problem solving skills, all of which are important for the SAT. Topics covered include linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, exponents, radicals, and polynomials. Knowledge of pre-algebra, including operations with positive and negative numbers, is expected.
Honors Geometry
(Grades 6-8)
This is a formal Geometry course offered to students who have a strong aptitude in mathematics. Topics covered include angles, parallel lines and transversals, triangles, polygons, circles, perimeter and area, similarity and congruence, trigonometry, solids, surface area, and volume. The emphasis of this course is the development of problem-solving skills related specifically to problems in two or three-dimensional space.
Intermediate Java Programming
Grades 6-8
Intermediate Java teaches the object-oriented paradigm of the Java programming language. Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed Introduction to Java.
Introduction to Java Programming
(Grades 6-8)
Introduction to Java Programming introduces students to computer programming techniques using the Java Programming language. Students will learn the structure, syntax, and the object-oriented programming paradigm of Java.
MathCounts Training Camp
(Grades 58)
MATHCOUNTS® is a math enrichment and competition program for middle school students that takes place through a series of fun and engaging contests, at the school, regional, state, and national levels. This course is designed to introduce, motivate, and challenge students as they develop strong math skills for the competitions. The class will cover contest skills including teambuilding, communication, and rapid response, as well as the MATHCOUNTS® topics: Counting, Probability, Statistics (Mean, Median, Mode), Patterns, Pythagorean Theorem, Area, ThreeDimensional Geometry, Proportions/Ratios/Percents, Algebraic Equations, and Number Theory.
Mock Trial
(Grades 6-8)
Students in the Mock Trial course develop a greater understanding of the law and of the trial system in the United States. The course prepares them for middle school mock trial tournaments based on criminal cases. Topics include: basic knowledge of an attorney’s responsibilities and of court procedures, preparing an assigned case from both the prosecution and defense positions, assuming the roles of witnesses and attorneys, and presenting the case in the mock trial during the final class.
Model UN
(Grades 6-8)
Do you like to debate? Do you like international issues? Then Model UN is for you! In this course we will learn about the current state of world affairs and how to argue and debate these issues using Model UN procedures. Students will use web resources to research the United Nations and other international bodies, as well as international issues. If you like learning about and debating international issues, this class is for you!
Non-Routine Problem Solving
(Grades 5-8)
Students learn how to solve problems in number theory, logic, algebra, and geometry. Students work with experienced coaches and instructors in small, collaborative teams. They improve their problem-solving abilities by tackling challenges that involve creative thinking; they also learn strategies that can be applied to any kind of research. They are prepared to proceed beyond MathCounts to local, state, national, and international math competitions.
Physics
(Grades 6-8)
What is the key to measurement? How can we find the speed of an object without a speedometer? How can we find the weight of a person on different planets? How can the speed of sound be measured? How is electricity related to magnetism? How can a lens focus light on a piece of paper? Students in the physics course will explore these and other questions through calculations and hands-on activities.
Pre-Algebra
(Grades 5-7)
In this course we will explore mathematical concepts to prepare for algebra studies, including algebraic expressions, integers, equations, inequalities, decimals, fractions, ratios, proportions, percents, probability, area, and volume.
Probability
(Grades 7-8)
This course offers an introduction to probability, from a theoretical and an experimental perspective. Students learn about dependent, independent, and mutually exclusive events, and solve both routine and non-routine problems. Students conduct experiments, interpret and analyze data, note patterns that emerge, and compare their results with those predicted by theory. They also learn ways to display the data and to determine rules for the probability of the outcome.
Public Speaking
(Grades 6-8)
Dread speaking in class, giving speeches and oral presentations? This is the workshop for you! Improve your skills and confidence by becoming a better orator and learn techniques for writing and giving persuasive speeches and debates.
Read Like a Detective and Write Like a Reporter!
(Grades 5-8)
Do you want to be a movie or book reviewer, a blogger or just get a jump start on open-ended SAT responses? In this course you will learn how to read closely, like a detective, in order to write clearly! You will read a variety of texts that you choose and practice skills that help you identify facts, opinions, supportive details and structure. You’ll analyze central ideas, supporting ideas and claims. Then you’ll write a summary, like an investigative reporter! First, you will practice writing summary statements with a central idea on the meaning of the text you choose. Later, you will learn to explain your central idea based on your close reading of the text and write two points with examples that support it. Finally, you’ll end your response in a clever way, a clincher that circles back to the main idea in a clear last sentence that wraps it all up.
STEM-Career Exploration
(Grades 6-8)
What do you want to major in? What kind of job do you want? This course will provide a research path to finding out what concrete steps students will need to be take in order to reach your life goals of college and career. The course is focused on STEM Careers (Science Technology Engineering Math).
The Big History Project
(Grades 6-8)
Where did we come from? What causes change? Where are we heading?
Big History takes on these questions that originate with the dawn of time, and gives students a framework to tell the story of humanity’s place in the Universe. It’s more than a history course. Big History helps students see the overall picture and make sense of the pieces: it looks at the past from the Big Bang to modernity, seeking out common themes and patterns that can help us better understand people, civilizations, and the world we live in.
Writing for Literature
(Grades 7-8)
Using various genres, this class will teach you the skills and techniques for analyzing, discussing, and writing about literature. Students will respond to the works both through class discussion and in-class writing. You will then get individual feedback to improve your writing skills. This is an ideal class for students who want to improve their writing or who want to get some experience with the kind of writing found in the new SAT.
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