July 11 – July 21, 1:00 – 4:00 PM, Grades 6 through 8, Cost: $144 for one week, $260 for both weeks. This course offers a gentle introduction to fundamental computer science concepts using the Python programming language. Emphasis will be placed on developing problem-solving skills to create software programs and several hands-on activities will be incorporated throughout the course to reinforce concepts and promote active learning. Key concepts that will be covered include variables, expressions, decision-making, loops and functions. This course will help establish the foundation for students to participate in CS competitions in high school. No prior experience is necessary and beginners are encouraged to attend. Week 2 will pick up where week 1 leaves off. Note this camp does not meet on Friday afternoon. Instructor: Trent Tormoehlen
July 11 - July 15, 1:00 - 4:00PM, Grades 6 - 8, Cost $180. Do you love a good mystery? We will explore the history of fictional mystery, from Edgar Allen Poe to Sherlock Holmes to Agatha Christie to Maureen Johnson. We'll also delve into some real-life mysteries from history, such as Roanoke, the Salem Witch Trials, the disappearance of DB Cooper, Oak Island, and Amelia Earhart. What goes into a good mystery? How do you piece together information to solve a mystery? In addition to reading mysteries, you'll get to try to crack a mystery and write one yourself. Get into sleuth mode for this camp!
Instructor: Courtney Corcoran
July 11 – July 21, 1:00 – 4:00 PM, Grades 6 through 8, Cost: $144 for one week, $260 for both weeks. Students will build and program a robot using Vex IQ parts to conduct specific tasks. Students will gain several valuable skills from this camp. They will learn the basics of a computer programming language that drives the robotics. They will be asked to solve complex problems and will have to think creatively to build their robots to complete the assigned tasks. Students will also learn to work in teams and be asked to communicate their ideas to their teammates and instructors. Instructor: Jim McCarter
July 11 - July 15, 1:00 – 4:00 PM, Grades 5 - 7, Cost $180. Create your own game using Unity! 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, 3D 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. Students will work in pairs or teams for most of the program.
Instructor: BlackRocket Instructors