Intermediate

Intermediate (7th and 8th grade)

Computer Programming: Students are introduced to the basics of computer programming starting with the BASIC language. During the two weeks, students write programs to find roots of quadratic equations, plot parabolas and higher order polynomials, and calculate simple series. The emphasis is on applying programming to real world math problems. Although BASIC is not a modern computer language, it is perfect for middle school students who have never programmed before and is great for teaching them the logic behind programming. In a very short amount of time, the students can write programs with graphics. At the end of camp, many students request a copy of the BASIC compiler so that they can continue the fun at home.

Creative Writing: This course provides creative writing instruction in poetry, drama, fiction, and nonfiction. Students write in class and out of class, from prompts or on the subject matter of their choosing, and receive feedback from the instructor, with many opportunities to share their work with their classmates. Students write a combination of short and longer pieces, and many choose to share their work at the camp-closing talent show.

Environmental Science: This course involves a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the interaction of humans and the planet. Our emphasis will be on developing foundational knowledge of chemistry, ecology, economics, and social issues which can then be applied in the application and integration of scientific principles in environmental case studies. Students will also participate in an ongoing tick research program.

History: The history course focuses on many interesting, important, and complex events in the United States and highlights various debates over religious views, economic power, political rivalries, and race and gender dynamics, for example that played roles in those events. Topics vary from one year to the next and include the Salem witch hysteria, conquering the American west, the role of gender in society, and the Civil War.

Mathematics: This course involves the basic principles of algebra, solving first- and second-order algebraic equations, plotting graphs of polynomials, learning the conic sections, and an introduction to the trigonometric functions. This course stresses applications to real world problems, such as engineering, data encryption, and facial recognition algorithms.