Session 1
Art
Grades 3-4
June 17 - June 21, 2024
In this course we will be working and creating with various tools and materials. Projects will include drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, printmaking and more. On our last day we will be screen printing our own t-shirts with a design that we've created as a class!
Engineering
Grades 3-4
June 17 - June 21, 2024
Dip your toes into the wonderful world of science and engineering. Together we will discover how to build towers that withstand earthquakes. You'll be a chemical engineer by designing your very own oil-spill-cleaning operation. We will explore everything about trajectory by doing fun Mechanical engineering experiments. Medical and biological engineering will show us where to find bacteria and how to make them visible, why different liquids have different densities, and what all of that means for us. Are you ready for an amazing week of science?
Chemistry
Grades 5-6
June 17 - June 21, 2024
Chemistry is what makes the world go round! We will investigate lots of different types of reactions—what makes them go, how to modify them, why some reactions are similar and others are not. Be prepared to spend the week in the lab so we can discover chemistry ourselves! Specifically, we will learn how to detect if a change is physical or chemical, perform tests that identify certain products of chemical reactions, and learn how to perform lots of fizzing, foaming, popping, and color changing chemical reactions.
Introduction to Advanced Mathematics
Grades 5-6
June 17 - June 21, 2024
This course is primarily designed around several famous mathematical ideas and the underlying mathematical principles that help to support student understanding. Examples include, but are not limited to: The Konigsberg Bridge Problem, Monty Hall’s Let’s Make a Deal Problem, the Probability of Winning the Powerball, Einstein’s Riddle, and the Binomial Theorem. Some of the specific topics covered include: Pascal’s Triangle, Sums of an Infinite Geometric Series, Probability of Independent Events, Logic, and Euler Paths.
Session 2
Greek Mythology
Grades 3-4
July 15 - July 19, 2024
Using George O’Connor’s Olympians, a series of graphic novels highlighting some of Greek Mythology’s best known figures, we will read and analyze the stories together. We will compare the graphic novels with other depictions and do some writing and drawing of our own.
Magical Potions
Grades 3-4
July 15 - July 19, 2024
When science and creativity meld, it’s pure magic! In this class, we will be using science to create some really magical outcomes, and then researching the magic to find out what’s really happening. Through the use of the scientific method, we will experiment with a variety of different chemicals and materials, looking to create that magical concoction! We will also keep a notebook like a real scientist to write hypotheses, record data, discuss correlations, and conclusions. Come ready to be amazed!
Creative Writing
Grades 5-6
July 15 - July 19, 2024
Discover your inner writer while exploring a variety of creative writing formats. Anticipated activities also include adventures like a walking tour of historical sites around Iowa City, readings from adult creative writers, exploration of Writers' Workshop, and collaboration with professional and novice writers. Activities will center around stimulating the creative process, as well as practicing and honing your craft.
Mathematics of Games
Grades 5-6
July 15 - July 19, 2024
Get ready for fun and friendly competition as we learn the mathematical strategy behind playing games! Many mathematical topics will be explored such as probability, statistics, number theory, pattern analysis, geometry, and algebra. We will tackle the math behind games such as tic-tac-toe, Mastermind, Pachici (known in modern times as Parcheesi), Hearts, Risk, Settlers of Catan, Bridge and many, more. Playing games will take on new meaning when fun and mathematical thought come together. Please join us for this active, thought-provoking class!
