Afternoon Classes

Afternoon Classes (12:30 p.m.–3:15 p.m.)

Grade 3

GRAPHICS AND DESIGN

Students discover the elements of graphics and design through investigations of the natural world, art and animation, and the various forms of media. They use computers to create logos, stories, and illustrations, emphasizing the creative process and key concepts of the visual arts.

Grade 4

ROBOTICS I

Using Legos™ to explore the fundamentals of physical science and mechanical engineering, students design and build vehicles and devices that are used in various team challenges. When combined with the Lego™ computer software, students program and transform their creations into working robots that are automated to perform specific tasks.

Grades 4–6

ENJOY JAPANESE! (CANCELLED)

Students will learn basic conversational skills while exploring Japanese culture by playing games, singing songs, learning dances, and tasting authentic Japanese cuisine. Activities introduce students to reading and writing Hiragana characters and let them begin to communicate in situations they might encounter in daily Japanese life.

Grades 4–6

BEGINNING ACTING

Explore Acting!  In this beginning acting class students will be introduced to activities sucha s creative movement, pantomime, improvisation, and scene work and will put all of this to use in creating a simple production.  Students should be prepared to “PLAY” and have a lot of fun expressing themselves dramatically!

Grade 5

ROBOTICS II

As programmers and engineers, students use the Lego NXT™ systems to design and program sensing and moving robots. By working in teams, students develop their skills in communication and logic to devise solutions to various challenges. Students do not need to have previously taken Robotics I to enroll.

Grades 6–8

DIGITAL MEDIA: BEGINNING ANIMATION STUDIO

Learn the secrets of animation in this hands-on, digital media class! In our animation studio, students will become storytellers and animators as we learn the fundamental principles used by the creators of your favorite animated films such as Wall-E, Shrek, Finding Nemo and all the Disney classics. In this program, we’ll learn photography, storytelling techniques and several different types of animation. We’ll compile our projects in the computer to create our own HD movies, complete with music, dialogue and sound effects. If you’re interested in learning animation and you like telling stories, then this is the class is for you.

Grades 7–9

ADVANCED ROBOTICS

In advanced robotics students will become programmers of interactive robotic devices that they create from the ground up.  Utilizing the power of the Lego Mindstorm NXT and Vex robotic systems as a base, students advance their knowledge and skills of engineering, fabrication, programming, and problem solving in a team-oriented environment to construct unique intelligent bots that complete increasingly difficult challenges.  Students learn to use computer-assisted lathes and shop tools to fabricate structural and integrated components.  Out of the box thinking is required!  No previous advanced robotics experience is required.

Grades 7-9

CERAMIC ANIMAL SCULPTURE (CANCELLED)

Within a supportive studio environment, students will gain understanding of the art and science of creating their own ceramic sculptures.  Students apply engineering and physical chemistry principles throughout the creative process.  In studio, students learn the safe use of tools, equipment, and materials as well as multiple construction, glazing, and firing techniques.  Respect tolerance, support, and caring for both individuals in the class and for their work are hallmarks for this classroom community where diversity and originality are prized.  Students from beginners to advanced are welcome.

Grades 7-9

GOOGLEPALOOZA! (CANCELLED)

Using cutting edge online resources, students conduct virtual and real-world explorations.  GooglePalooza adventurers “hangout” with students from other countries, create animations, go on a cross-country scavenger hunt, explore outer space, and much, much more!  Each participant will have the use of a Google Chromebook on loan from CRDG Summer Programs in order to explore the vast library of fun and educational Google apps.  Activities will push the boundaries of 21st century creativity, collaboration, problem solving and entrepreneurship.

Grade 9

A MODELING APPROACH TO ALGEBRA

A modeling Approach to Algebra class will be held in the morning from 8:00 am – 11:45 am.  It will not be offered in the afternoon program.
What mathematics is there in the game of billiards? How can you figure out someone’s height by knowing the length of his or her femur (thigh bone)? What is the best price to ask for a used car you are selling? The answers to these questions all involve algebra. In A Modeling Approach to Algebra, a dynamic lab-type math course for students entering ninth grade, students will conduct mathematical investigations and solve problems that help build understanding of algebraic ideas and techniques and of how algebra is useful in our everyday lives. Investigations will involve practical and interesting questions that may be either applied or drawn from pure mathematics. Students will use modeling to interpret problem situations; understand the goals of a problem; represent, test, and revise various approaches to solving the problem; and report on results.