Kids on Campus Course Finder

Ages 8-10. Are you ready to take your game design skills to another level? With Unity, an industry grade design software, aspiring game designers will learn level editing, 3-D modeling, intermediate event scripting, and the impact of game play on user experience. Student-created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions LLC.

Ages 12+. Learn how to develop 2-D and 3-D animation for use in presentations and multimedia applications. Generate 3-D models using vertices, edges, and polygons that are manipulated to shape your objects. Imagine the process as working with high-tech Play-Doh. Use animation software, create storyboards to produce animations, and construct interfaces between graphic and animation programs. Learn how to develop 2-D and 3-D animations to import into a 3-D game. 2 weeks

Ages 8-10. Explore techniques in acrylic painting as you learn about color relationships, creating texture, and adding shadows and highlights. Subjects for paintings will come from your close observation and your own imagination. Work with canvas and create finished works that will be ready to hang or offer as gifts.

Ages 8-10. Create basic artificial intelligence (AI) to program a robot using visual and text-based code. Utilize a variety of sensors that help your robot navigate and overcome daily class challenges. With your teammates, apply different coding concepts while using the scientific method to formulate, observe, experiment, test, and modify your robot. You will work in teams for most of the program. No prior experience is required. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. In this class, create basic artificial intelligence (AI) to program a robot using visual and text-based code. Utilize a variety of sensors that help your robot navigate and overcome daily class challenges. With your teammates, you will apply different coding concepts while using the scientific method to formulate, observe, experiment, test, and modify your robot. You will work in teams for most of the program. No prior experience is required. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

End the day with movies and a light snack. All sessions run 4:30–6:30 p.m. A flat fee of $20 will be charged for students picked up after 6:30 p.m. Before classes begin, we will send you information including location. 1 week

Ages 6-8 and 8-10. Fun, exciting, and challenging activities await as you are introduced to a variety of relevant technologies. Build circuits as well as construct and program robotic devices. Use a global positioning system to play a high-tech game of hide and seek. Practice skills such as orienteering, treasure hunting, and waymarking, better known as geocaching. Discover the FUNdamentals of technology. Offered in conjunction with Goldsmith Education.

Ages 6-8. Are you fascinated by the vast ocean and its vibrant creatures? Do you enjoy creating colorful works of art? Learn more about the appearance, habitats, and behaviors of these interesting creatures while using a variety of fun tools to create art projects about marine life. Explore new painting methods, problem solve with friends, and discover more about the mysterious ocean and its inhabitants.

Ages 6-8 and 8-10. Join us on a tour across the diverse habitats found in Maryland, and learn about some of the animals that call those environments home. Live animal ambassadors are featured each day, along with related crafts, hands-on activities, and games. Offered in conjunction with Echoes of Nature Inc.

Ages 6-8 and 8-10. Come with us on a journey around the world of animals. Each day focuses on a different country and some of the animals that live there. Live animal ambassadors are featured each day, along with related crafts, hands-on activities, and games of the country ‘visited.’ Offered in conjunction with Echoes of Nature Inc.

Ages 11-14. Take your drawings to the next level and improve your artistic abilities. Learn about what “draws” people to your favorite works of art, and emulate the same qualities in your own creations! Focus on the fundamental building blocks that all experienced artists use to develop a strong foundation and enhance your own drawings. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Take a trip around the world and discover fascinating and diverse art from different cultures. Learn about the styles, methods, and characteristics that identify art from various regions. Recreate these works of art by exploring different colors, textures, materials, and patterns. Understand the meaning behind some of the world’s most influential pieces of art and how each is made.

Ages 8-10. Want to be able to create delicious cakes, cookies, muffins, and pastries? Under HCC chef leadership, you will learn the basics of baking, including how to read a recipe, measure ingredients, how to cream, whisk and knead, prepare your pans, and judge doneness, as well as practice kitchen safety. This is a hands-on class held in HCC’s culinary arts kitchen. You must wear nonslip, closed toe shoes to class.

Ages 11-14. Begin your rise to the top of the charts with digital music production! Design your own beats or remix a mashup of your favorite songs to become a digital composer and sound engineer. Produce digital music, record sound, make sound effects, and mix their own tracks. No prior music experience is necessary. Student-created soundtracks will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Begin your rise to the top of the charts with digital music production! Design your own beats or remix a mashup of your favorite songs to become a digital composer and sound engineer. Produce digital music, record sound, make sound effects, and mix their own tracks. No prior music experience is necessary. Student-created soundtracks will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions LLC.

Ages 8-10. Begin your rise to the top of the charts with digital music production! Design your own beats or remix a mashup of your favorite songs to become a digital composer and sound engineer. Produce digital music, record sound, make sound effects, and mix their own tracks. No prior music experience is necessary. Student-created soundtracks will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Are you attracted to jewelry? Learn how to turn ordinary beads, metal, and string into stunning wearable art. Use patterns to create colorful bead strands, glass and wire pendants, bracelets, earrings, and more. Practice weaving beautiful friendship bracelets.

Do you have a long commute? Sign up for both Before Care (7:30–8:30 a.m.) and After Care (4:30–6:30 p.m.) at a reduced rate. A flat fee of $20 will be charged for students picked up after 6:30 p.m. 1 week

Begin the day with a light breakfast and a movie. All sessions run 7:30–8:30 a.m. Students arriving after 8:20 a.m. should proceed directly to their classroom. Before classes begin, we will send you information including location. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Use your fingers to pat, push, and pull air dry clay into ceramic art. Enjoy the opportunity to shape your own creations as you work on a variety of projects in this introductory, non-wheel, course Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Come clay with us!

Ages 11-14. Learn to speak a critical language, Chinese! Participants will learn the fundamentals of the Chinese language as we focus on themes of friends, family, foods, festivals, and fashion. Engage in simple conversations with new friends through interactive learning activities. Ni Hao! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Learning to speak and understand Spanish has never been more fun and exciting! Learn the fundamentals of the language as we focus on themes of daily life, such as foods, colors, numbers, animals, and body parts. Explore simple grammar and progress to writing basic sentences and pronunciation. Converse and engage in small dialogues as you increase your Spanish vocabulary. Come join us to learn and hablar español! 1 week

Ages 12+. “Donut” miss this “cereal”ously cool class! Learn how to prepare breakfast food items under HCC chef leadership. Work in the college’s new state-of-the art a la carte kitchen as you develop beginning culinary skills such as sauté methods. Master how to create a chef-worthy balanced breakfast. You must wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes to class. We will “toast” your success upon completing this “egg”stra special class. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Take your stop motion movies to the next level. First, create a story with Stikbots, Legos, action figures, or all three! Then watch your story come to life using special stop motion software that allows you to add special effects and go beyond the typical software on a mobile device. Bring in figures, stickbots, or Legos from home, but all other equipment will be provided. Student-created films will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Turn your creative concepts into a well-structured business operation. From the brainstorming of an idea through production and waste control to actual sales, you will learn the how-tos and how-not-tos of beginning a business. Create a product, sell it, and plan how to use the profits. Bring $5 to the first class for start-up. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Curious about cartoons? Turn your doodles into designs of delight in this fun class. Let your imagination run free as you create colorful comic strips, word bubbles and lettering. Learn basic techniques for drawing people, animals, and inanimate objects. Sketch your own original creations.

Ages 8-10. Turn your doodles into designs of delight in this fun and colorful course. Let your imagination go wild while you hold the pencil and draw your own comic strip complete with color, word bubbles, and lettering. Learn skills to draw people, animals, and inanimate objects. Sketch your own original creations.

Ages 13+. Have you ever wondered how certain artists make their creations? Learn classical drawing skills so you can make drawings look three-dimensional and believable. Whether you’re looking to work from photographs or real life, you’ll be able to create drawings that leap right off the page! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Cloud gaming is the way of the future! Build games you can play everywhere and anywhere using a web-based development tool. Learn in-demand skills like programming events and coding controls for a touch screen or keyboard and mouse. Finish by personalizing levels and characters with your own design. Now you are ready to upload your games to the Black Rocket cloud arcade and play on any mobile device or computer. Games can easily be shared with friends and family! Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Cloud gaming is the way of the future! Build games you can play everywhere and anywhere using a web-based development tool. Learn in-demand skills like programming events and coding controls for a touch screen or keyboard and mouse. Finish by personalizing levels and characters with your own design. Now you are ready to upload your games to the Black Rocket cloud arcade and play on any mobile device or computer. Games can easily be shared with friends and family! Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Cloud gaming is the way of the future! Build games you can play everywhere and anywhere using a web-based development tool. Learn in-demand skills like programming events and coding controls for a touch screen or keyboard and mouse. Finish by personalizing levels and characters with your own design. Now you are ready to upload your games to the Black Rocket cloud arcade and play on any mobile device or computer. Games can easily be shared with friends and family! Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Calling all future coders, programmers, and designers! Learn the basics of coding languages like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS through a series of web projects and design challenges each day and be on your way to becoming the next tech star! Whether you want to be a Silicon Valley CEO or the high school student who just made $1 million dollars for programming in her bedroom, this course has the essentials you need to begin your journey. Projects will be available on a Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Calling all future coders, programmers, and designers! Learn the basics of coding languages like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS through a series of web projects and design challenges each day and be on your way to becoming the next tech star! Whether you want to be a silicon valley CEO, or the high school student who just made $1 million for programming in her bedroom, this course has the essentials you need to begin your journey. Projects will be available on a Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Calling all future coders, programmers, and designers! Learn the basics of coding languages like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS through a series of web projects and design challenges each day and be on your way to becoming the next tech star! Whether you want to be a Silicon Valley CEO, or the high school student who just made $1 million for programming in her bedroom, this course has the essentials you need to begin your journey. Projects will be available on a Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 6-8. This class is for curious young minds who want to take the first steps into the world of programming. Student explorers will use their creativity to solve a series of web-based coding challenges. Each lesson builds fluency in essential digital skills needed for the future. At the end of the class, you will receive access to the interactive learning platform to continue your coding journey at home. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 14+. Learn how to write at a college level! Compose a variety of essays as well as a high school level research paper. Write papers based on self-selected topics. In addition, you will learn how to evaluate reliable research sources, organize information, control language, and critique your writing. 2 weeks

Ages 6-8. Dive into the ocean and see what unique creatures lurk in the deep! Explore the different oceans and seas and learn what makes each special. Discover the various depths of the oceans and how whales, dolphins, sea anemones, eels, jellyfish, and other sea critters survive. Explore coral reefs,
make your own ocean card game, build a fish, create your own ocean display, and find out if sharks are as dangerous as they’ve been portrayed.

Ages 8-10. Are you a budding writer just waiting for an opportunity to hone your skills? Come join us for a week of developing writing styles and techniques not normally learned until much later in school. This interactive class covers writing styles from nonfiction to fantasy fiction and beyond. You will also have the opportunity to learn a bit about the publication process and come away from class with a “book” that has been written, edited, and published by you!

Ages 14+. Explore the world of your imagination and create free verse, blank verse, lyric poetry, character sketches, personal narratives, and dramatic monologues. Learn techniques of journal writing. You will publish a digital literary magazine. 2 weeks

Ages 11-14. Explore the world of your imagination and create free verse, blank verse, lyric poetry, character sketches, personal narratives, and dramatic monologues. Learn techniques of journal writing. You will publish a digital literary magazine. 2 weeks

Crime Scene Investigators Ages 8-10. Learn to apply a variety of scientific techniques to examine surroundings and solve a mystery. Study a crime scene, look for pertinent clues, analyze fingerprints, identify mysterious substances, and use chromatography to narrow your search for the “perp.” This class goes beyond
“Who Done It?” to “How Was It Done?”

Ages 11-14. Design your own decorations, stitch realistic looking food, and create adorable stuffed animals using your imagination, basic hand sewing skills, embroidery stitches, and colorful felt. Learn the skills, tips, and tricks to make projects for every season, yummy-looking food (cookies, donuts, ice cream, fruit, etc.) and cute creatures (pig, dragon, owl, cat, turtle, penguin, etc.) for yourself or friends. Materials provided for this class include patterns, colorful felt, embroidery needles, cotton floss, pins, buttons, beads, and fiberfill (for stuffing). 1 week

Ages 11-14. With the world’s increased reliance on digital data, cyber security is more important than ever! In this class you are all that stands between a group of international hackers launching cyber attacks and world peace. Through a series of challenges, you will learn to apply tools used by professional digital forensics teams to crack codes and use encryption. Working in teams you will have to collect clues, recover lost data, explore the tools of the trade and become the next great cyber spy! Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. With the world’s increased reliance on digital data, cyber security is more important than ever! In this class, you are all that stands between a group of international hackers launching cyber attacks and world peace. Through a series of challenges, you will learn to apply tools used by professional digital forensics teams to crack codes and use encryption. Working in teams you will have to collect clues, recover lost data, explore the tools of the trade and become the next great cyber spy! Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Play the roles of judge, defendant, plaintiff, witness, lawyer, bailiff, or juror in several mock trials. Learn how to make opening and closing statements, how to phrase objections, and how to question witnesses. Pull all your skills together at the end of the week as you participate in a final mock trial based on actual events. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. The drones are here! Let the battles begin. In this hands-on, interactive class you will learn how to safely fly drone robots. Working in teams, you will code your drone to compete in missions that will prepare you for the ultimate team challenge at the end of the week. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 11-14. The drones are here! Let the battles begin. In this hands-on, interactive class you will learn how to safely fly drone robots. Working in teams, you will code your drone to compete in missions that will prepare you for the ultimate team challenge at the end of the week. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 11+ (Grades 6–12). Drummin’ Dragons Percussion Camp will offer percussionists the resources to take their playing to the next level. Through clinics and masterclasses from the area’s leading percussionists and educators, students will be exposed to a wide variety of percussion topics including snare drum, mallet percussion, timpani, drum set, world percussion, improvisation, percussion ensemble, and more! A grand finale percussion ensemble concert will close out the week. Students must bring their own sticks, mallets, and a bag lunch every day. At least one year of percussion is required. Offered in cooperation with The Music Institute of Howard Community College. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Duct tape is like “the Force.” There’s a light side and a dark side and you will see how it holds the universe together. Come explore new uses of duct tape and how it functions as an art. Use duct tape and paper to create 3-D pieces both functional and nonfunctional such as unique clothing, accessories and constructs. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Learning to speak and understand Spanish has never been more fun and exciting! In this movement based class, you will be exposed to theme based play, allowing you to learn Spanish as an interactive and engaging process. Students will focus on themes of daily life, such as foods, colors, numbers, animals, and body parts. Come join us to learn and hablar español!

Ages 8-10. Ecology is a branch of biology that deals with the relationships of organisms to one another and their physical surroundings. E-cool-ogy will let you apply scientific methods to create and analyze animal habitats, research food webs in biomes, and understand the impact of recycling in your community. Use a hands-on method to study how nature and humans interact in your e-cool-ogical community.

Ages 8-10. This exciting hands-on engineering class uses LEGO® Education building materials. Teams will learn the basics of engineering and simple machines. You will be introduced to the concepts of pulleys, levers, gears, and more. From this foundation, you will move on to compound machines, motorized vehicles, and robotic creations. Put your new knowledge to work, creating your own mechanized designs. Teams will creatively solve challenges using concepts learned in class. Last, but not least, you will get the chance to become inventors. Light and sound sensors, pulleys, wheels, levers, and gears are all at your command. Offered in conjunction with Goldsmith Education.

Ages 13+. If you are a rising Algebra II, Geometry, or second-year Algebra I student, this is your chance to cover fundamental concepts in greater depth to get ready for more difficult applications. Topics include operations with positive and negative numbers, families of functions from linear to quadratic to rational and exponential, equations, polynomials, systems of equations, inequalities, graphing, word problems, and radicals. You must have completed an Algebra I course. Additionally, this class is somewhat fast paced and is intended for students who are looking to refresh their basic algebra concepts while gaining a better understanding of the harder concepts. Bring a graphing calculator to class. 2 weeks

Ages 14+. Have you taken Algebra II and need to sharpen your skills in preparation for taking an advanced math course during the upcoming school year? If so, this is the perfect class for you! Review how to solve and graph a variety of equations and inequalities, which includes linear and quadratic. Other topics include system of equations, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, complex numbers, radical functions, rational expressions, exponential functions, and logarithmic functions. Bring a graphing calculator. 2 weeks

Ages 12+. Go beyond the basics of Special Effects Makeup! Learn more advanced techniques such as face painting and latex based special effects. You will have the freedom to create any character you choose. This could include a movie or sci-fi character of your choice. Latex will be used in this course. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Seize the clay! Bring your favorite imaginary or fantasy characters to life with colorful polymer clay. Learn sculpting and shaping tips and techniques to create miniature figurines.

Ages 11-14. Fantasy art evolved out of imagery inspired by Greek mythology, medieval monsters, and the imaginary world of artists. This course is an introduction to the setting, events, and characters found in the Fantasy genre. Experiment and design drawings of magical creatures and scenes from your imagination or reference images, and explore how different kinds of characters respond to adversity and adaptation. Bring your 2-dimensional drawings to life by creating 3-dimensional polymer clay sculptures! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Wizards and dragons and ogres, oh my! Love to doodle dragons and wizards? Take your scribbles to the next level. Use basic shapes and lines to create characters and creatures from Hogwarts, Middle Earth, and beyond. Add the appropriate detail and perspective to make realistic drawings. Practice quick sketches, without overthinking, to capture the essence of your inhabitants. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Don’t get boxed out of the fun, explore the basics of fantasy sports! Learn how to play fantasy football, baseball, and basketball. Explore the different types of drafts including snake, manual, and auction drafts. Learn the strategy behind who to draft first and how to research players to draft. Practice makes perfect, so put your new skills to the test with a mock draft to close out class. 1 week

Ages 12+. Apply your fundamental art skills as you learn to draw the human figure from live, clothed models. Whether you aim to become the next great portrait artist or just find joy in the process of drawing, this course will set you on your path and will give you the tools you need to create a successful “body” of work! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Would you like to take your cake decorating skills to the next level? Learn how to make multiple flowers, leaves, bows, and more out of fondant and gum paste. Paint and accent flowers, cover a cake with buttercream icing and fondant, assemble dried flowers onto your cake and finish your cake with buttercream skills learned in the Fun With Frosting class. Students will need to provide their own un-iced cake on the fourth day of class. Prerequisite: Fun With Frosting class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Love to help out in the kitchen? Now you can learn how to decorate like the pros. Learn how to make frosting from scratch, color your frosting, and pipe frosting through a decorating bag. Decorate cakes, cupcakes, and sugar cookies using a variety of flower patterns, rosettes, dots, basket weave, and shell borders. Students will need to provide their own un-iced cupcakes, cookies and cake. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Muggles, this is your opportunity to get your Hogwarts acceptance letters! Enroll in the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and for one enchanted week experience classes from the Harry Potter series. Learn potion making, care of magical creatures, herbology, quidditch and more! You may even get to try some Three Broomsticks butterbeer. (For those unfamiliar with Harry Potter, there is no alcohol involved.) Bring your imagination each day to explore all that the magical world has to offer! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Are you having trouble finding the “attractive magnetism” between you and science? In this course, you will engage in experiments, scientific inquiry and test your hypotheses. No “matter” what challenges you once had, this week will spark a “chain reaction” into learning fundamental skills that can be applied in any science classroom! 1 week

Ages 12+. If you could redecorate your room, where would you begin? Learn how to work with floor plans, drawing to scale, color matches and trends, moving furniture to suit the space, and historical looks. Create an environment that reflects your personality, interest, and possible career track. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Engineering technology is a great way to introduce a budding young scientific mind to the high-tech world! In this class, teams will work together and become technology experts. Instructors will reinforce concepts of force, measurement, construction, design, and much more. You will be challenged to create unique machines using your knowledge of technology and design. Come learn how to do some amazing things with technology. Offered in conjunction with Goldsmith Education. 1 week

Ages 13+. Learn the basics of the musculoskeletal system and how the body moves. Engage in hands on learning activities to see how muscles and bones work together to protect us and make us move. There will be daily case studies to discuss pathologies, injuries in athletics, and the healing process when injury occurs. This course will make a difference on how you see anatomy! 1 week

Ages 11-14. Want to know about animals inside and out? Explore different phyla in the animal kingdom including sponges, starfish, earthworms, grasshoppers, frogs, and chickens. You will be introduced to basic ecological principles that describe how various physical structures allow an animal to interact with its environment. Using sound laboratory safety techniques, you will learn about both internal and external structures. This hands-on science applications class is meant to be an enrichment opportunity for the inquisitive and focused learner. Due to many dissection activities, you must have a good attitude and strictly observe instructor’s guidelines. You must wear closed-toe shoes to class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Do you have strong opinions? Are you trying to understand today’s world? Learn about controversial issues in society and how to defend and debate your position. Strengthen your critical thinking skills, public speaking skills, and learn how to construct logical arguments. You should have completed sixth grade before taking this class. 1 week

Ages 12+. Known for its efficiency and easy to read program code, the Python programming language continues to grow in popularity around the world. Now a preferred language in the software development community, Python is used in electronic game design, mobile application programming, web development, and database programming. In this introductory level course, you will program simple applications and games while implementing basic computer programming concepts: variables, conditionals, loops, mathematical and logical operations, functions, and simple computer graphics. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Step into the shoes of ambassadors from United Nations member states to debate current issues on the organization’s vast agenda. Become a diplomat representing a nation in a simulated session of the United Nations, such as the Security Council or the General Assembly. Research a country, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems. Use a variety of communication and critical thinking skills in order to represent the policies of your country. Learn how to incorporate public speaking, policy analysis, active listening, negotiating, and conflict resolution to solve international issues. 1 week

Ages 11-14. This class is all about movement! Create images in a sequence that can be activated to show clips like a movie. Although animation often involves advanced technology and high-end computers, an easy way to make an animated movie is to make a flipbook. Learn different traditional hand drawn animation techniques and design a series of pictures, then view the drawings in rapid succession and watch the artwork come to life! 1 week

Ages 8-10. Investigating Invertebrates will take a look at a variety of invertebrates up close with activities and live animals. Explore outside to learn more about the natural history and habitats of insects, spiders, and much more. Engage in mini experiments with hands-on activities that focus upon these amazing creatures. Offered in conjunction with Echoes of Nature Inc.

Ages 11-14. Investigate thermodynamic relations in both chemistry and physics. Examine energy flow and chemical changes that occur during chemical reactions. Study physics as it relates to heat and temperature. Focus on key concepts such as equilibrium, entropy, and energy; heat and temperature; ideal gases, and molar heat capacity; the laws of thermodynamics; reversible and irreversible systems; chemical equilibrium between particles; adsorption of atoms and phase transitions; phases of systems; thermal equilibrium; and rates of equilibrium. Explain how thermochemistry and thermophysics are used in everyday life and how these two areas are closely related. 1 week

Ages 11-14. This specialized writing class concentrates on the sentence, the building block of writing. Learn to identify the parts of speech, study the correct use of verbs, determine subject and predicate, examine phrases and clauses, and construct sentences using proper grammar and punctuation. By means of group editing, you will explore the fundamentals of good sentence structure, bringing clarity to your writing. This course will help you prepare for various standardized writing tests. 1 week

Ages 12+. Java is an object-oriented computer programming language that has been among the most popular languages for a variety of online applications and mobile devices for decades. This course introduces the Java programming language using an objects-first approach. Using programming design tools such as variables, methods, control structures, and classes, you will learn to create simple applications such as a financial calculator and a card game simulator. Prior programming experience is recommended, but not required. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Gain experience programming tools so powerful they seem like magic! Begin by learning an array of core programming concepts with JavaScript by experimenting in a series of digital challenges. Start with programming your first animated memes, then tackle more advanced skills such as interactive 3-D experiences and game creation. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 11-14. Gain experience by programming tools so powerful they seem like magic! Begin by learning an array of core programming concepts with JavaScript by experimenting in a series of digital challenges. Start with programming your first animated memes, then tackle more advanced skills such as interactive 3-D experiences and game creation. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Gain experience programming tools so powerful they seem like magic! Begin by learning an array of core programming concepts with JavaScript by experimenting in a series of digital challenges. Start with programming your first animated memes, then tackle more advanced skills such as interactive 3-D experiences and game creation. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 12-14. Examine the basics of biology and health issues with an emphasis on anatomy and physiology in a college lab setting. Potential doctors and nurses will be intrigued by investigating organic specimens such as the heart, brain, eyes, and kidneys in this course. The marvels of the human body and the power of medical knowledge are the right “prescription” for summer learning. You will also receive CPR training as a part of this course. This is a hands-on anatomy and physiology lab class meant to be an enrichment opportunity for the inquisitive and focused learner. Due to many dissection activities, you must have a good attitude and strictly observe instructor’s guidelines. You must wear closed-toe shoes to class. 2 weeks

Ages 11-14. Have fun creating 3-dimensional art that MOVES! Explore the crazy world of kinetic art and try out a variety of projects. Explore the possibilities and results of art using different media as you complete several movement based sculptures. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Have fun creating 3-D art that MOVES! You’ll explore the crazy world of kinetic art and try out projects like roller-ball mazes, mobiles, pinwheels, wind catchers, and spinning tops. Examine the possibilities and results of art using different media as you complete several take-home projects.

Ages 11-14. Innocent or guilty? Take turns playing prosecutor, judge, and jury in this intriguing introduction to law and the court system. You get to hear cases, present testimony, and decide the verdict in a mock trial. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Make your LEGOs come to life! Bring in your favorite action figures or LEGOs and create a short film with your friends. Whether you want to recreate a scene from Star Wars or design a world of your own, this class brings your dreams to the screen. Students will need to bring in LEGOs and/or action figures from home, but all other equipment is provided. Student-created films will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 6-8 and 8-10. Make your LEGOs come to life! Bring in your favorite action figures or LEGOs and create a short film with your friends. Whether you want to recreate a scene from Star Wars or design a world of your own, this class brings your dreams to the screen. Students will need to bring in LEGOs and/or action figures from home, but all other equipment is provided. Student-created films will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

You provide the lunch, we provide the supervision. From 12–1p.m., students will eat lunch with their peers and watch general audience movies.

All students staying on campus for both morning and afternoon courses must register for this supervised lunch hour. Cost covers supervision and facilities.

REQUIRED: STUDENTS MUST BRING THEIR OWN NONPERISHABLE LUNCHES. NO REFRIGERATION OR MICROWAVE IS AVAILABLE.

1 week

Ages 6-10. You provide the lunch, we provide the supervision. From 12pm-1pm, students will eat lunch with their peers and watch general audience movies. All students staying on campus for both morning and afternoon courses must register for this supervised lunch hour. Cost covers supervision and facilities.

REQUIRED: STUDENTS MUST BRING THEIR OWN NONPERISHABLE LUNCHES. NO REFRIGERATION OR MICROWAVE IS AVAILABLE.

Ages 8-10. In this Black Rocket classic, you will go well beyond the limitations of the traditional 2D game design classes and create an immersive 3D world. Students will learn the physics behind 3D games, explore beginner event scripting, level design, controlling the flow of gameplay, and storytelling. Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family projects are only compatible with Windows devices. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. In this Black Rocket classic, you will go well beyond the limitations of the traditional 2D game design classes and create an immersive 3D world. Students will learn the physics behind 3D games, explore beginner event scripting, level design, controlling the flow of gameplay, and storytelling. Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family projects are only compatible with Windows devices. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. If you love playing video games, this is the class for you! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that shows you the keys to designing your first 2D platformer game. Conceptualization, play experience, level design, graphics, sounds, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we’ll explore. No prior experience necessary, just a desire to have fun. Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. If you love playing video games, then this is the class for you! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that shows you the keys to designing your first 2D platformer game. Conceptualization, play experience, level design, graphics, sounds, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we’ll explore. No prior experience necessary, just a desire to have fun. Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions LLC.

Ages 11-14. Dive into the newest Japanese trends in cartooning and animation: Manga and Chibi. Manga, or comic book art, has a specific characteristic look and incorporates a writing component. Chibi design, also known as super deformation (SD), is an exaggerated style of manga. Combine these two techniques to create original characters, develop a storyline, and lay out comic pages. Practice penciling, inking, and lettering techniques. This course is meant for the student who has some familiarity with these unique comic book collections. 1 week

Ages 13+. Have you ever wondered how the ads you receive seem like each one was meant just for you? Marketing is the way companies devise strategies to get products and services in front of the people most likely to make purchases. In this class, you will discover how businesses target people like you with products and services, and the many ways in which companies do this, both directly and indirectly. Find out how firms use packaging, retail stores, and celebrities to get you interested in making a purchase. Explore how companies use digital marketing, specifically social media, to target you with relevant messaging. 1 week

Ages 11-14. This needlework class will teach you both cross stitch and embroidery skills to create a Black-Eyed Susan, a Maryland state map, and a Blue Crab with the design and four colors of the Maryland state flag. Learn a variety of stitches to create beautiful designs, make decorative items, and personalized gifts. Techniques such as preparing floss, anchoring threads, reading a stitch chart, changing colors, and using a hoop will be covered. Materials provided for this camp include fabric, embroidery needles and floss, patterns, and wooden hoops. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Advance your learning about pet ownership and the many roles veterinarians play. Develop skills in training pets and promoting their good health. Hands-on activities will be provided as you continue to study facts about animal behavior, tricks, and tips. Live animals will visit class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Attention young scientists, discover what makes slime and why it’s so fun to play with! Get ready for a week of messy learning and fun! Explore the chemical reactions from a variety of slime recipes and participate in slimy projects. Put on your lab coats, and get ready for a messy twist on science! 1 week

Ages 8-10. If you love the game Minecraft, and always wanted to design your own world, this class is for you! Learn how to create a custom map, the basics of creating 3D models using a new software to design your very own objects, how to build with Redstone and Command blocks, and create custom textures for you to import at home or share with friends. To access your project at home, you must own a PC/MAC version of Minecraft. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. Parent email address is required to use 3D modeling software. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Take the next step beyond simply “playing” Minecraft and become a true Redstone engineer. Expand your Redstone knowledge by constructing your own carnival with a variety of mini-games, roller coasters, and attractions powered by Redstone. Learn how to use Command and Structure blocks to incorporate them into your builds. Activate your skills and take your Minecraft structures to the next level! You must own a Java version of Minecraft to access your projects at home. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Customize your own Minecraft world and mod the classic game in this one of a kind class. Learn scripting and logic statements as you create your first mods. Students will create a wide variety of new elements, gameplay mechanics, and world generating mods to change the way you play Minecraft. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students must own a Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 8-10. Customize your own Minecraft world and mod the classic game in this one of a kind class. Learn scripting and logic statements as you create your first mods. Students will create a wide variety of new elements, gameplay mechanics, and world generating mods to change the way you play Minecraft. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students must own a Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Customize your own Minecraft world and mod the classic game in this one of a kind class. Learn scripting and logic statements as you create your first mods. Students will create a wide variety of new elements, gameplay mechanics, and world generating mods to change the way you play Minecraft. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students must own a Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Customize your own Minecraft world and mod the classic game in this one of a kind class. Learn scripting and logic statements as you create your first mods. Students will create a wide variety of new elements, gameplay mechanics, and world generating mods to change the way you play Minecraft. Projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Students must own a Java version of Minecraft to take this class. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Take the next step beyond simply “playing” Minecraft and become a true Redstone engineer. Expand your Redstone knowledge by constructing your own carnival with a variety of mini-games, roller coasters, and attractions powered by Redstone. Learn how to use Command and Structure blocks to incorporate them into your builds. Activate your skills and take your Minecraft structures to the next level! You must own a Java version of Minecraft to access your projects at home. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Take the next step beyond simply “playing” Minecraft and become a true Redstone engineer. Expand your Redstone knowledge by constructing your own carnival with a variety of mini-games, roller coasters, and attractions powered by Redstone. Learn how to use Command and Structure blocks to incorporate them into your builds. Activate your skills and take your Minecraft structures to the next level! You must own a Java version of Minecraft to access your projects at home. Tablet, phone, and game console versions of Minecraft are not compatible. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Become one of the 400,000 students around the world in Model United Nations! Assume the role of an ambassador and represent your country to solve current world issues. Throughout the week students will research a world problem, develop solutions, and negotiate consensus with their peers. This program prepares teenagers in core skills such as research, writing, public speaking, problem solving, and conflict resolution. No prior experience is needed. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11+. Think you know it all when it comes to sports? Think again! This course will help you dominate any sports discussion. Find out the history behind some of sports’ greatest rivalries. Learn about the origins and history that shaped the sports world today. Plus, you will find out how teams are created and how they relocate in order to make up your own new franchise! Of course, you’ll also have the opportunity to research and debate the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time). It’s time to become a sports savant! 1 week

Ages 6-8. Spend a week learning about the stories, history, and magic of money through the ages. Examine the art and science behind currency, allowances, wants and needs, banking, investing, and building wealth. Create your own currency and run a model bank. You will learn practical facts about money through hands-on activities that have the potential to build positive lifelong financial skills.

Ages 8-10. Experiment with a variety of materials to create your own unique mosaic masterpieces! Learn about this ancient art form as you study famous mosaic sculptures and installations from around the world. You’ll love this class to “pieces!”

Ages 6-8. Math is more than numbers. It is also word problems and turning those words into numbers. Get lots of practice solving puzzles, playing games, reviewing money decisions, and turning a graph into a piece of cake. You can “count” on enjoying this class and discovering how numbers relate to the real world.

Ages 8-10. Take your problem solving skills to the next level. Improve your skills by playing games and solving advanced math problems using multiplication, division, and basic algebra. Count on good “times” in this class. You should know your multiplication facts before taking this class.

Ages 11-14. Who built Stonehenge and why? Where are the Seven Wonders of the World, and who decided they were wonderful? What happened to the people of Easter Island? How did the Egyptians build the pyramids without using pulleys? These and other mysterious events in history make learning an exciting process and introduce you to intriguing events from the past. This class is a historic version of Unsolved Mysteries and promises to be just as entertaining. 1 week

Ages 12+. Are you interested in theatre? Are you nervous about the audition? Learn about what directors look for and audition with confidence! Develop and practice an age-appropriate 1-2 minute monologue of your choice (a variety of monologues will be provided) and learn tips on how to memorize them. With guidance and feedback from your instructor and your peers, you will turn the written words on paper to a living, authentic performance. There will be an opportunity to perform your completed monologue on the final day. Own your monologue and nail that audition! 1 week

Ages 6-8. Discover the weird and wacky world of science. If you’re adventurous, explore different areas of science with a slimy hands-on project each day. Chemistry Concoctions, Yucky Biology, Phantasy Physics, and much more will capture your scientific curiosity. Enjoy science as you never have before! Please note some science experiments will use food products.

Ages 11-14. Improve time management as well as listening, memory, note-taking, and test-taking skills. Become more confident in handling assignments. An analysis of individual learning styles helps you become more efficient and organized. 1 week

Ages 12+. Through your artist’s eye, examine Vincent van Gogh’s Holland and see his colorful sunflower and landscape paintings. Study Claude Monet’s property in Giverny, France, and delight in his atmospheric water lily series. Learn how to paint like these masters by using color theory, mixing colors, composition, and basic painting techniques. Create your own masterpieces to take home and enjoy. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Volunteer as tribute to immerse yourself into the world of the Hunger Games! You will have the opportunity to create your own character, extend the knowledge and mythos of your randomly chosen district, play trivia games, facilitate and participate in numerous “what-ifs” and come away from the class with a personal portfolio proving you are an expert in this dystopian universe. These are just a few of the activities you’ll experience while learning more about this best-selling series. You must have read at least the first book of the series, The Hunger Games, before attending this riveting class. May the odds be ever in your favor! 1 week

Ages 8-10. Are you a Harry Potter fan? Step into his world as we discover the meanings behind characters’ names, create a textbook for the care and feeding of magical animals, design trading cards, and invent dishes for a holiday banquet. These are just a few of the activities you will use to learn about these popular books. You should have read the first book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, before attending the first class.

Ages 11-14. Painting with pastels creates blended, brilliant, and bold art projects. You will use color, shape, and line to start and then choose chalk or oil pastel to finish. Layering, blending, using simple shapes to make the designs, and working from light to dark are only some of the techniques you’ll practice. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Wave a wand and PRESTO... make things disappear and put on a show. Using simple props and flexible fingers, learn straight, mental, and comedy magic tricks and techniques from a professional magician. Whether it involves cards, coins, rope, scarves, or other gadgets, you will learn secrets of magic from the past, and develop confidence and stage presence as you demonstrate proficiency in performing prestidigitation.

Ages 14+. Learn strategies to manage your money and time as you move from high school to college to your first job. This class will introduce students to thoughtful saving, spending and investing. Lessons will cover the costs of college, budgeting a paycheck, setting financial goals, career planning and the decision-making process to select a bank, insurance, loans, and credit/debit cards. The class concludes with resources to continue learning about financial literacy. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Caring for pets, learning about endangered species, and discovering the duties of a vet are some of the educational, creative, and fun activities in this unique class. Learn animal behavior facts, as well as tricks, and tips on grooming, feeding, and becoming a responsible pet owner. Develop awareness skills, so you may make a difference in protecting animals. Live animals will visit class.

Ages 11-14. Looking for a great enrichment program in science? This class offers exciting, challenging, and creative hands-on learning focusing on electric and magnetic phenomena. You will observe cool electrostatics demonstrations: Van de Graaff generator and Wimhurst machine, measure electrical quantities, perform basic calculations, build elementary DC circuits, electromagnet, and a simple DC electrical motor. Get a leg up on your peers with this progressive science class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Calling all PokeMasters who want to be the designers of the future! Use your Pokemon imagination and bring your ideas to life. Begin by creating your own digital Pokemon-style custom playing card game. Progress onto designing action figures, jewelry, and toys in professional-level modeling software. Learn how to prepare a model for 3D printing and create a design portfolio to showcase your work! No prior experience is necessary and 3D designs will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 8-10. Calling all PokeMasters who want to be the designers of the future! Use your Pokemon imagination and bring your ideas to life. Begin by creating your own digital Pokemon-style custom playing card game. Progress onto designing action figures, jewelry, and toys in professional-level modeling software. Learn how to prepare a model for 3D printing and create a design portfolio to showcase your work! No prior experience is necessary and 3D designs will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Do you want to be well prepared for Algebra 1? If so, this class is for you! After taking this course, you will be able to fully grasp the concepts of the number system and exponents, the foundations of geometry, as well as solving linear equations and evaluating expressions, analyzing functions and equations, and interpreting data. This course is for students who will be taking Algebra 1 or Algebra 1 GT during the upcoming school year. Bring a calculator to class. 1 week

Ages 13+. Without geometry, life is “pointless.” This vital class will give you an idea of the various topics that will be taught in a high school geometry course. Get ready to review the foundations of geometry and expand your geometric reasoning. You will also have a better idea of parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle congruence and similarity, properties of various polygons and shapes, area, perimeter, circumference, and volume. Prerequisite: Algebra 1. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Are you ready for Pre-Algebra next year? If not, this course will help you prepare for the class. You will be able to apply the four basic operations with positive and negative rational numbers represented by fractions or decimals, solve a variety of percent problems, solve one-step and two-step equations and inequalities with real-world problems, find area, perimeter, and circumference of two-dimensional objects, and determine surface area and volume of three-dimensional objects. You will also be introduced to probability. Only students who have taken 7th grade math should take this course. Bring a calculator to class. 1 week

Ages 15+. If you are planning to take the SAT, this updated course will prepare you for both the verbal and math sections. Verbal preparation will ask you to interpret the meanings of relevant words and phrases in context, utilize close reading to increase comprehension, and identify central ideas and themes of a text. Math preparation includes mastery of linear expressions, creating and solving equations, using ratios, percentages and units, problem solving, and data analysis. Students should have completed Algebra II. Test taking tips will be covered. The class simulates a test-taking environment with practice tests and exercises. You must bring a calculator. This course is for high school students.

Ages 15+. If you are planning to take the SAT, this updated course will prepare you for both the verbal and math sections. Verbal preparation will ask you to interpret the meanings of relevant words and phrases in context, utilize close reading to increase comprehension, and identify central ideas and themes of a text. Math preparation includes mastery of linear expressions, creating and solving equations, using ratios, percentages and units, problem solving, and data analysis. Students should have completed Algebra II. Test taking tips will be covered. The class simulates a test-taking environment with practice tests and exercises. You must bring a calculator. This course is for high school students. 2 weeks

Ages 15+. If you are taking the SAT and only need preparation in the math section, you should take this updated course. Math preparation includes multi-step problems with applications in science, social science, career scenarios, and other real-life contexts. Students should have completed Algebra II. Test taking tips will be included. The class simulates a test-taking environment with practice tests and exercises. You must bring a calculator. This course is for high school students.

Ages 15+. Do you want to improve your math score on the SAT? This course will focus on the more difficult problems including solid and coordinate geometry, polynomials, probability, word problems, and logic reasoning. Tips and strategies for solving difficult problems will also be included. Students should have taken Algebra II and Preparation for the SAT Math. Textbook is provided. Bring calculator to class. 1 week

Ages 15+. If you are taking the SAT and only need preparation in the verbal section, you should take this updated course. Verbal preparation includes vocabulary and reading comprehension such as understanding the author’s message, rhetoric, synthesis, and understanding relationships in passages. Test taking tips will be included. The class simulates a test-taking environment with practice tests and exercises. This course is for high school students.

Ages 12+. This course is designed for the artist who is familiar with art fundamentals and desires to explore realism and the freedom of unique mark making and expressionism. Utilize creative problem-solving strategies and innovative thinking to explore dynamic composition and visual narration through storytelling and interpretation. Advanced techniques and concepts will be explored to allow for development of personal choices, control of the creative process, and the freedom of artistic expression. 2 weeks

Ages 8-10. Want to learn the world’s fastest growing programming language favored by Google, NASA, YouTube, and the CIA? Learn how to code with Python to create engaging apps and games. Each lesson takes you step-by-step on a programming path that will let you challenge friends with fun content you create from start to finish! You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Want to learn the world’s fastest growing programming language favored by Google, NASA, YouTube, and the CIA? Learn how to code with Python to create engaging apps and games. Each lesson takes you step-by-step on a programming path that will let you challenge friends with fun content you create from start to finish! You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days

Ages 11-14. Want to learn the world’s fastest growing programming language favored by Google, NASA, YouTube, and the CIA? Learn how to code with Python to create engaging apps and games. Each lesson takes you step-by-step on a programming path that will let you challenge friends with fun content you create from start to finish! You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Returning students can create more advanced projects that build on previous years. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. On your marks, get set, create! Blast off in making your first 3D Mario Kart® and Crash Team Racing® style game! Design your own tracks and customize your karts and characters. Using Unity, a professional 3D game development software, students will combine their creations into a kart racing game to play with friends and family at home. Students can participate in Esports League races against other schools across the country with a chance to have their tracks featured in the Black Rocket master build of the game! Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. On your marks, get set, create! Blast off in making your first 3D Mario Kart® and Crash Team Racing® style game! Design your own tracks and customize your karts and characters. Using Unity, a professional 3D game development software, students will combine their creations into their own kart racing game that they can play with friends and family at home. Students can participate in E-sports League races against other schools across the country with a chance to have their tracks featured in the Black Rocket master build of the game! Student projects will be available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Become a more active, engaged reader with the skills developed or reviewed in this class. As you read a variety of sources, learn to organize information in different formats: highlighting, margin notes, outlining, notecards, etc. Taking effective notes improves your ability to recall information and enhances your ability to study for exams. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Use plot, setting, theme, and character analysis to explore many different kinds of literature. Learn to interpret stories creatively through book talks, story mapping, and discussion questions about social values and author’s intent. Sharpen your critical thinking skills through puzzles, games, and story structure analyses. Learn how authors use inductive and deductive reasoning to craft stories and send messages to readers. Have fun while becoming a critically aware reader, writer, and thinker!

Ages 14+. Learn organizational research and study skills to graduate from high school and go on to college-level work. Improve your time management, memory retention, notetaking, and test taking skills. Review procedures for selecting a topic, developing a thesis statement, and creating an outline. Learn all the necessary steps that lead to writing a great term paper. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Discover the Lua language through a visual block coding system while designing worlds in ROBLOX®, an online universe where you can create anything you dream of. This class combines game design concepts, coding, and fun! Young entrepreneurs will also learn how to navigate ROBLOX’s fast growing marketplace to publish their games. Student-created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Discover the Lua language through a visual block coding system while designing worlds in ROBLOX®, an online universe where you can create anything you dream of. This new class combines game design concepts, coding, and fun! Young entrepreneurs will also learn how to navigate ROBLOX’s fast growing marketplace to publish their games. Student-created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Unlock the power of ROBLOX® Studio, the world creation tool used by real world ROBLOX® developers! Learn how to build 3-D models and create an adventure in your ROBLOX ® world. Bring characters to life with unique animations you design. Student-created projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 8-10. Unlock the power of ROBLOX® Studio, the world creation tool used by real-world ROBLOX® developers! Learn how to build 3D models and create an adventure in your ROBLOX® world. Bring characters to life with unique animations you design. Student-created projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. Compatible with Mac and Windows OS only.

Ages 6-8 and 8-10. Rockets and robotics, what a great combination! Working in small teams, learn how to write a step-by-step program to follow mazes, react to motion, and build simple LEGO® robots. Build and explore machines and mechanisms, discover motor design differences, and study gearing mechanisms. Then, using some of the concepts learned, design your own rocket that you can test and take home, but not before we have our own launch party (weather permitting)! Offered in conjunction with Goldsmith Education.

Ages 8-10. Jump into three-dimensional art by creating projects in four fun materials: paper, clay, mixed media, and metal. Look at historical and current examples, learn new techniques, and think about what makes something art! Projects could include pop-up cards, origami, clay animals and pots, a trick book made from a box, a wire person, and more.

Ages 8-10. Attention young scientists, discover what makes slime and why it’s so fun to play with! Get ready for a week of messy learning and fun! Explore the chemical reactions from a variety of slime recipes and participate in slimy projects. Put on your lab coats, and get ready for a messy twist on science!

Ages 8-10. If you love games like Super Smash BrosT, you will love this class! Using professional development software, customize your own 2D brawler game and configure your own characters. Learn how to balance multiplayer gameplay by modifying variables and editing scripts. Then challenge your classmates to compete on the platform level you designed. Smash Brawler games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. If you love games like Super Smash Bros, you will love this class! Using professional development software, customize your own 2D brawler game and configure your own characters. Learn how to balance multiplayer gameplay by modifying variables & editing scripts. Then challenge your classmates to compete on the platform level you designed. Smash Brawler games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. 1 week

Ages 8-10. This is “nacho” average class! Work in the HCC fundamentals skills kitchen and develop beginning culinary techniques as you prepare and create snacks with heathy options for afterschool, weekend and holiday snacking! “Dip” into how to create diverse snacks that “pop” using flavor enhancements. You must wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes to class. You’ll go “bananas” for this class!

Ages 11-14. Learn the skills needed to become a special effects makeup artist. Sometimes everyday makeup is not enough; you need special effects to design your own magnificent image. You will learn and practice the art of makeup application using proper placement, coloration, and blending to create realistic effects. The final project will be captured in a portfolio-building photo shoot. All materials will be provided. Latex products are used in this class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Have you ever wanted to make decorative items for yourself and to give as gifts? In this creative class, learn skills to make a cupcake pin cushion, a felt needle case, a customized neck roll pillow, and a cross stitch bookmark. Practice the techniques of stitching by hand, sewing with a machine, pinning fabric, making patterns, hemming edges, pressing seams, and following a pattern. You will sew the first day! Level: beginner to intermediate. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Different tests require different test-taking strategies. This course will help you to effectively prepare for true/false, multiple choice, fill in the blank, short answer, and open-ended questions. Learn mnemonic “tricks” for the material that needs memorization. Develop a system for effective study, so you will have ample time to prepare for upcoming exams. 1 week

Ages 12+. Pizza and pasta are even better when you make them from scratch! Under HCC chef leadership, you’ll mix and knead artisan dough, then roll and shape into endless variations and shapes. We’ll provide complementary sauces and pizza toppings. The class will be taught in HCC’s culinary arts kitchen. You must wear nonslip, closed-toe shoes to class. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Do you love being able to wow your friends with random details and mounds of statistics? Compete in team and head-to-head competitions in classic trivia games and quiz show style rounds. History, science, geography, pop culture...the topics are endless and the competition is formidable! Whether you are ready to show off your skills or looking to be in-the-know, this is the class for you! Build confidence and prepare for academic battles with the toughest competitors! 1 week

Ages 14+. The English language has over 171,000 words, but do you know which words you need to know most? Build your word power by challenging yourself with brain ticklers, using a thesaurus and grouping words by their derivation. Add over 100 useful words to your vocabulary by practicing skills and strategies in a relatively painless way. Don’t wait for the SAT test to roll around to improve your word familiarity and usage. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Solve sums and differences while playing hands-on games. Crack the code of place value and numbers. Play games such as Pocket Full of Coins, Four Coin Draw, and Race to $1 to explore concepts of money. Unveil ways to solve math problems using logic and reasoning. Math has never been so much fun!

Ages 12+. Learn how to edit, add effects, and the basics of video production using your smartphone (Android or iPhones required). You will shoot, edit, and add effects to your own video creations, work with software to edit videos, use apps to add effects, and learn the basics of importing and exporting footage to create your own video art or mini story. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Embark on an EPIC adventure in virtual reality! In this cutting-edge class, you will learn the foundations of VR design by creating your own virtual worlds, exploring simulated environments, and crafting memorable 3D experiences. At the end of the week, take home your first cardboard VR headset to show friends and family the new worlds you created. VR projects can be viewed on a website or mobile device. You do not need a mobile device to take the class, but will need access to a mobile device at home. VR projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 8-10. Embark on an EPIC adventure in virtual reality! In this cutting-edge class, you will learn the foundations of VR design by creating your own virtual worlds, exploring simulated environments, and crafting memorable 3D experiences. At the end of the week, take home your first cardboard VR headset to show friends and family the new worlds you created. VR projects can be viewed on a website or mobile device. You do not need a mobile device to take the class, but will need access to a mobile device at home. VR projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 12+. Take the first steps to become an informed long-term investor. Learn how to select growth companies using Better Investing’s easy-to-follow online stock selection tools. Focus on the power of compound interest and examine other financial characteristics of growth companies. Use the Stock Selection Guide to plot prices, sales, earnings per share, and price-earnings (P/E) history to estimate a firm’s potential. Participate in the “Wall Street Challenge” where each student will select and manage a $100,000 (fictional) stock portfolio consisting of a variety of publicly-traded companies. Comfort with ratios, percentages, multiplication, fractions, and decimals is a plus, for this class. 1 week

Ages 12+. Enjoy a week of experimentation and fun while you learn the fundamentals of watercolor! Using traditional methods of art instruction, you will practice the basic techniques of watercolor. Learn more about the color wheel using a limited palette of colors, which not only guarantees color harmony in your paintings, but will introduce you to color; how to mix and how to use it. You will be amazed what you can do. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Become a detective and solve mysteries. Join your classmates in solving a crime from start to finish using fingerprints, secret codes, clues, disguises, and other investigative techniques. Put your skills to the test and unravel the mystery.

Ages 15+. Attention, high school juniors and seniors, have you narrowed down your college choices and planned where to send applications? A good essay can enhance your chances of getting into the college of your choice. By accessing online college applications, you will be able to practice suggested essay topics. Have rough drafts analyzed, proofread, and edited. Get a jump-start and feel confident that your essay represents you at your best. 1 week

Ages 6-8. Every child can code! Develop your skills as a young coder by exploring block coding, JavaScript, and Python concepts while making your own playable mini games. This introductory coding course is designed to get elementary-aged students excited about technology through a series of hands-on and engaging learning challenges. Student-created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 6-8. Develop writing techniques not normally learned until much later in school. This interactive class covers a variety of writing styles and related skills including illustration and publication. You have the chance to write and share stories, poems, and journal entries, and compile them into your own “book.”

Ages 8-10. Do you love movies with exciting special effects, like The Avengers, Star Wars, or Harry Potter? Amaze your friends by swinging a lightsaber or blasting fire from your hands and becoming a master of the illusions used by Hollywood artists to create visual effects magic. Enhance your YouTube videos and create a cool scene to amaze your friends. This class teaches the tools you need. Experiment with visual effects as you learn the dynamics of camera angles, editing, graphic layering, and sound effects. Then watch as your new creations take your channel content to the next level! Student projects are available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. For those taking this class online, a webcam is required. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC.

Ages 11-14. Do you love movies with exciting special effects, like The Avengers, Star Wars, or Harry Potter? Amaze your friends by swinging a lightsaber or blasting fire from your hands and becoming a master of the illusions used by Hollywood artists to create visual effects magic. Enhance your YouTube videos and create a cool scene to amaze your friends. This class teaches the tools you need. Experiment with visual effects as you learn the dynamics of camera angles, editing, graphic layering, and sound effects. Then watch as your new creations take your channel content to the next level! Student projects are available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. For those taking this course online, a webcam is required. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. Find your voice and leave your mark on the world! Whether you are 6 or 60, it’s time to start a career as the next YouTube star. Explore the variety of content and personalities that exist on YouTube and how to find your own niche. Learn the do’s and don’ts of the platform and how to practice good digital citizenship. Develop your on-camera presence, your own channel branding, and professional editing skills. Make a plan for launching your own channel with the content created in class! Student projects will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family.You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 1 week

Ages 11-14. In the digital age, nothing is impossible! Become a master of illusion by learning the techniques used by Hollywood masters to create FX magic. Enhance your YouTube videos and create a cool scene to amaze your friends. This class teaches the tools you need. Experiment with visual effects as you learn the dynamics of camera angles, editing, graphic layering, and sound effects. Then watch as your new creations take your channel content to the next level! Student projects are available on a password-protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. You will work in pairs or teams for most of the program. Offered in cooperation with Black Rocket Productions, LLC. 4 days