Summer Institute Middle School

All Students: Grade 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Write It Right helps students develop their writing skills through a series of three assignments. These assignments will range from personal reflections to analytical essays, with one optional short creative piece for those interested. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace, allowing for a comfortable and manageable workload.

Grammar is a key focus of this course, as strong writing is built on solid grammar and mechanics. The class will cover essential elements of American English grammar, including parts of speech and sentence structure. While a basic understanding of grammar is recommended, students of all levels will benefit from the reinforcement and practice the course provides.

In addition to grammar and composition, students will engage in some light reading. This may include short literature pieces or writing samples, serving as models for good writing. By reading effectively, students will gain valuable insights into improving their own writing skills.

Week One Focus:
The first week will focus on understanding different expository writing styles and crafting well-structured paragraphs. Students will complete writing exercises that help them build their skills and begin drafting their essays.

Week Two Focus:
In the second week, students will refine their essays, practicing editing techniques and enhancing writing complexity. The emphasis will be on polishing their drafts and improving their overall style, so students leave the class with a stronger command of academic writing.

All Students: Grade 6

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

Students will unleash their creativity and dive into the exciting world of writing in this hands-on, exploratory workshop. They will explore a variety of writing styles, experimenting with genres like poetry, short stories, song lyrics, fantasy, sci-fi, and creative nonfiction. Whether students are crafting imaginary worlds, writing about real-life events with a creative twist, or experimenting with wordplay in poetry, this class offers something for every aspiring writer.

Each day, activities and exercises will challenge students to think in new ways. They will share their work with a supportive group of peers, receive valuable feedback, and explore inspiring examples from both classic and contemporary writers.

Week One Focus:
Dive into a wide range of writing styles! Try different genres each day, learning the techniques that make each one unique. Through guided activities and group discussions, students will start building confidence and a diverse portfolio of creative pieces.

Week Two Focus:
Students will refine their favorite pieces and push their boundaries by trying new techniques. This week is all about developing the writers’ voice and preparing their work. Students will revise, polish, and share their writing in a culminating celebration of creativity.

All Students: Grade 7-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. I Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Students will unleash their creativity and dive into the exciting world of writing in this hands-on, exploratory workshop. They will explore a variety of writing styles, experimenting with genres like poetry, short stories, song lyrics, fantasy, sci-fi, and creative nonfiction. Whether students are crafting imaginary worlds, writing about real-life events with a creative twist, or experimenting with wordplay in poetry, this class offers something for every aspiring writer.

Each day, activities and exercises will challenge students to think in new ways. They will share their work with a supportive group of peers, receive valuable feedback, and explore inspiring examples from both classic and contemporary writers.

Week One Focus:
Dive into a wide range of writing styles! Try different genres each day, learning the techniques that make each one unique. Through guided activities and group discussions, students will start building confidence and a diverse portfolio of creative pieces.

Week Two Focus:
Students will refine their favorite pieces and push their boundaries by trying new techniques. This week is all about developing the writers’ voice and preparing their work. Students will revise, polish, and share their writing in a culminating celebration of creativity.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

Students will bring their imaginations to life in Fantasy Fiction Creators, a workshop where creative ideas take center stage! This class is all about exploring the art of writing fantasy stories while giving students the freedom to experiment with a variety of creative styles and techniques.

They’ll dive into the essentials of fantasy storytelling, building compelling worlds, creating unforgettable characters, and developing epic plots. Along the way, they will also try out different narrative approaches, experiment with unique perspectives, and learn how to blend traditional fantasy elements with their own personal flair.

Whether a student’s passion is magical realms, intergalactic adventures, or reimagining mythological tales, this workshop will help them craft stories that are vivid, original and uniquely theirs.

Week One Focus:
The class starts by laying the foundation for great fantasy writing. Students will explore key elements like world-building, character creation and plot development while experimenting with different styles and approaches. By the end of the week, they’ll have the beginnings of their own original fantasy story.

Week Two Focus:
This week is all about refining and expanding the work. Students dive deeper into characters’ journeys, add rich details to their world, and enhance the story’s structure. Together, we’ll work toward a polished piece that captures each student’s unique vision, ready to share in a final celebration of creativity.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

Movie Masters students will unleash their inner cinephile and elevate their writing skills. This class is all about refining writing through the exciting exploration of diverse movie genres and short films. The class will dive deep into dissecting character development, plot twists, and even individual scenes for an exhilarating learning experience. The highlight? Crafting a script, where students will put their newfound knowledge to the test! Create vibrant characters and weave them into a thrilling, fully-fledged storyline. Ready, set, action!

Week One Focus:
Explore various movie genres and learn how to analyze key elements such as character arcs, plot development, and scene structure. Students will begin brainstorming ideas for their own original scripts.

Week Two Focus:
Put ideas into action as we start drafting and refining our scripts. Students will focus on bringing characters to life and shaping their stories into a cohesive and engaging screenplay.

All Students: Grades 6- 8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

Zeus is on the loose! Loki’s up to his tricks! Legends Unleashed dives into the timeless tales of gods, heroes and mythical creatures from around the world. Focusing on the epic myths of ancient Greece and Rome, we’ll also venture into the stories of Norse gods, Native American legends, and African folklore for an even broader exploration.

Throughout the course, students will sharpen their analytical, creative and writing skills while investigating the vibrant world of myth. They’ll explore the larger-than-life characters, thrilling battles, and clever tricksters that have shaped these stories and influenced cultures across time. Join us on a journey through the realms of gods and monsters!

Week One Focus:

We’ll kick off with themes including the 12 Olympians, In the Beginning, and Heroes and Monsters, exploring major myths, analyzing their characters, themes, and storytelling influence, while also starting a myth-inspired writing or creative project.

Week Two Focus:

In the second week, we’ll delve into Tricksters, Transformations, and After Death. This week offers students an opportunity to build on their own projects while deepening their understanding of these diverse mythological narratives.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Reading is more than just processing words; it's about truly understanding and engaging with the material. This course bridges the gap between basic reading skills and deeper comprehension, preparing students for success in their classes and standardized assessments.

Throughout this course, students will explore a variety of genres and styles, discovering effective reading comprehension and note-taking techniques that make reading both enjoyable and rewarding. Through guided literature discussions, independent reading activities, and interactive exercises, participants will enhance their critical thinking and analytical skills.

Week One Focus:
The first week will introduce essential comprehension strategies, including close reading, guided discussions, and engaging with poetry. Students will learn how to apply these techniques to improve their understanding and retention of texts.

Week Two Focus:
In the second week, students will build on their skills with advanced note-taking methods and independent reading projects. They will focus on synthesizing their insights and developing their unique analytical perspectives, further enhancing their reading proficiency and enjoyment.

All Students: Grades 6

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

Embark on an engaging two-week journey into persuasive writing! This course will equip students with the art of crafting compelling arguments supported by evidence. Beginning with an exploration of argument, learners will refine their skills in constructing persuasive paragraphs and essays. As the course progresses, students will actively engage in discussions, honing their ability to articulate ideas effectively. The pinnacle of this experience will be a debate, where students can showcase their persuasive abilities. With a focus on effective communication and public speaking, students will emerge confidently equipped to present their viewpoints convincingly. By the course's conclusion, students will have mastered the skills to construct convincing arguments, ready to confidently express their ideas in any context, making learning an enriching journey toward persuasive prowess!

Week One Focus:

The first week will focus on building a strong foundation in persuasive writing by introducing the core components of an argument: claim, evidence and reasoning. Students will practice crafting persuasive paragraphs, engage in guided peer reviews, and participate in mini debates to develop their skills in articulating ideas clearly and effectively.

Week Two Focus:

In the second week, students will expand on their foundational skills by constructing full-length persuasive essays and enhancing their public speaking abilities through structured debates. This week emphasizes refining written arguments, mastering rebuttal strategies, and confidently presenting ideas in a formal debate setting.

All Students: Grades 7-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

In this class, students will embark on a focused study of argument writing. Students will learn to articulate a clear argument and support it with evidence and reasoning by crafting several argumentative paragraphs and at least one multi-paragraph essay. At the beginning of this two-week course, students will start developing their skills by acting as detectives in a fictional crime case. Then, through an in-depth study of current issues, students will continue to refine their ability to develop a strong argument, particularly their skill at supporting their ideas with relevant and sufficient evidence and at fully articulating their reasoning. As they sharpen their critical thinking and analytical skills, students will practice their public speaking and active listening skills by delivering presentations and engaging in mock trials. By the end of this course, students will be able to make a convincing case for whatever they desire, whether at home or in school!

Week One Focus:

The first week will focus on building a strong foundation in persuasive writing by introducing the core components of an argument: claim, evidence, and reasoning. Students will practice crafting persuasive paragraphs, engage in guided peer reviews, and participate in mini debates to develop their skills in articulating ideas clearly and effectively.

Week Two Focus:

In the second week, students will expand on their foundational skills by constructing full-length persuasive essays and enhancing their public speaking abilities through structured debates. This week emphasizes refining written arguments, mastering rebuttal strategies, and confidently presenting ideas in a formal debate setting.

All Students: Grades 7-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Do you remember the part in Disney’s “Cinderella” where the stepsisters sacrifice their toes to fit into the glass slipper? How about Snow White’s sister, Rose Red?

Darker Than Disney is an exploration of the origins and variations of our favorite fairy tales. Students will study the original versions, popular film versions, and renditions of these stories from all over the world. They will also learn about the cultural and historical forces that made these stories relevant and necessary, both when they were first told, and in today’s modern world. The class builds reading comprehension, literary analysis, historical and cultural comprehension and analysis, academic writing, and finally creative writing, as the students create their own version of a classic fairy tale.

Week One Focus:

Classic stories, their literary, cultural, and historical origins, and their different variations.

Week Two Focus:

Building the knowledge, skills, and creativity for the students to create their own version of a classic fairy tale based on their own observations of the modern world.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m.| Fee: $715

Dragons and hydras and basilisks … oh, my! Students will throw everything they think they know about monsters out the window. Do you know a kelpie when you see one, or how to survive an encounter with a basilisk without turning to stone? We didn’t think so.

Students in this class will learn about mythological creatures from a variety of different regions and cultures. They will explore the origins of commonly known “monsters,” and the cultural and geographical forces that gave birth to them. The class will benefit a student’s reading comprehension, critical thinking, cultural appreciation, and comprehension, evaluating and analytical abilities, and academic and creative writing. Students will end the course with their very own Compendium of Beasts, including a monster of their own creation.

Week One Focus:

Mythical monsters of earth and water; what makes a monster?

Week Two Focus:

Mythical monsters of air and fire; make your own monster; finalize compendium

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14- 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

The internet is full of various types of webpages - some well-designed, others not so much! In this course, students will learn to create and maintain webpages through front-end coding. Students will design a layout of a website on paper and then transform the design into code. They will learn design elements like layout, font, color, usage, links to all types of pages, basic structure of all pages, and file structure. Finally, students will learn all the tags that go into websites, including content-related tags such as those used for images, text formatting and divs. Some advanced topics will be touched upon as well, such as cascading style sheets and external style sheets. Through trial and error, students will learn the importance of experimenting with code. Students will give a final presentation of the website they have created at the end of the session.

Week One Focus:

• Introduction to HTML: Students are introduced to HTML basics, creating accounts on CodeHS, and beginning lessons on structuring websites.
• CSS Basics: Students move on to CSS, learning how to style websites, taking notes on key elements, and correcting coding mistakes.
• Project Work: By the end of the week, students begin creating their own homepages, showcasing their understanding of HTML and CSS. They start presenting their projects and give feedback to peers.

Week Two Focus:

• Advanced HTML and CSS: Students work on advanced concepts in HTML and CSS, applying them to improve their homepage projects from Week 1.
• Final Projects: Midweek, students begin working on their final projects, incorporating learned web design techniques. By the end of the week, they present these final projects, demonstrating their web design skills and creativity.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16- June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11| 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25| 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

This course is an introduction to programming Android devices, including tablets and phones. We will be using MIT’s App Inventor, which is an intuitive visual programming environment to build fully functional applications. We will use block-based programming to write programs that exploit the powerful capabilities of modern mobile devices, including sensors, cameras, sound and touch screens in a series of fun and engaging projects. While helpful, no previous programming experience is required.

Week One Focus: Introduction to app creation

• Create basic apps (Hello Codi, Talk to Me and Ball Bounce)
• Create more interactive apps (MLK App and Mood Ring App)

Week Two Focus: Intermediate and advanced app creation

• No texting while driving
• Sound library
• Voice calculator
• Therapist bot
• Personalized app designs and extensions

All Students: Grade 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
This class is for those who have listened to a podcast and thought, "I think I can do this!" or even "I bet I could make this more interesting." This all-out audio production class will write, host and edit our own showstopping podcasts. Students will choose the genre (true crime, comedy, scripted or improv horror/fantasy, or self-help/health), their creative partners, and the contents of the podcast. This class will be both academically and artistically challenging in that we will create a world out of thin air with just our voices and sounds. Together we will become experts on our topics and master storytellers so that our audiences will be captivated by our every word. This class requires students who are willing to perform, research and write creatively to become the best hosts possible. Students will present their projects to each other and be able to build a portfolio around their technical and artistic creations!

Week One Focus:

• Introduction to podcasting: formats, types, examples
• Brainstorming: podcast topics, host skills, mini recordings
• Podcast style selection: naming, scriptwriting basics
• First recordings: intros/outros, group collaboration, research

Week Two Focus:

• Review and feedback: improve first podcasts, recording/editing episodes
• Scriptwriting and recording: episode development, intro/outro music
• Cover art creation: final edits, music/SFX integration
• Final edits and celebration: listening party, critiques and upload

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

• Core Concepts: lists/tuples , functions, dictionaries, turtle package, modular code

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

Week One Focus: Java Foundations

• Computer architecture concepts, Java basics, environment setup, syntax
• Variables, operators
• Input/output, conditionals (if/else, switch)
• Loops iteration
• Arrays, array manipulation

• Methods, functions, parameters
• OPP basics, classes, objects, constructor
• Java Math, random libraries
• Final project, review, apply all concepts

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

This class introduces students to the captivating realm of animation, equipping them with fundamental skills in both 2D and 3D techniques. This hands-on course covers essential principles of movement, timing and storytelling through dynamic visuals. Participants will delve into both traditional and modern techniques, learning to create captivating narratives, characters and scenes. Through a series of engaging projects, students will bring their imaginations to life, while building a solid foundation for expressing creativity in two and three dimensions. Of course, we will also have to watch some animation for inspiration along the way, so grab your laptop and your popcorn and get ready to animate.

Week One Focus: Animation Foundations

• Concepts: 3-act structure, pre-production, stop-motion, 2D/traditional animation, 3D/CGI, Blender
• Focus: Introduction to different animation styles through demos and labs

Week two Focus: Production & Final Project

• Concepts: Group work, project assembly, animation creation
• Focus: Students create a 90-second animation in their chosen style, culminating in a class showcase

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee $845 (includes lab fee)
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $765 (includes lab fee)

Students in this technology-based class will work together in teams using Lego Mindstorms EV3 software to solve puzzles, thwart disasters, forge discoveries, all with the help of a robot they build and program. With the technology skills students will acquire (basic programming, electronic control, mechanics, design engineering), they will be able to create and design amazing robotic creatures while developing teamwork, problem-solving, perseverance and ingenuity skills. The confidence and pride that is built along with the robots last long after the course! Mac laptops are supplied for use during the course. No prior programming or robot experience required.

Week One Focus: Introduction to Robotics and Basic Programming

• What is a robot?
• Building and tasting taskbot
• Light and touch sensors
• Ultrasonic sensor and intro to FLL challenge

Week Two Focus: Engineering Design and Mission Execution

• Engineering design process
• Iterating and testing solutions
• Expanding mission completion
• Final mission prep
• Showcase and clean-up

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: Previous experience of programming in Scratch or a written language, or Harker’s Beginning Robotics Course.

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets). Must have at least one working USB-A port. Must bring a port adapter (if needed) and power supply to class every day.

June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $765 (includes lab fee)
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $845 (includes lab fee)

How can you make a robot smart enough to respond automatically to changing situations or to complete complex tasks without being operated by a human?

Intermediate Robotics uses a mBot Neo robot car as a platform; this is a new car this year with a lot of potential. Students will each have access to a car and will progress at their own pace, learning how to solve a series of tasks that are built on one another. Programming uses an MIT-developed block design environment, similar but not identical to Scratch, to Lego Mindstorms new interface (used in Basic Robotics) and to the VexCode V5 (used in Advanced Robotics), so students can easily progress between the Summer Institute courses.

Week One Focus: Foundational Skills and Basic Challenges

• mBot Neo platform
• Basic movement (turns)
• Sensor integration (obstacle avoidance) and line following
• Problem-solving with sensors (line counting)
• Challenge Day: Multi-sensor tasks (grid navigation, security guard, coal mining)

Week Two Focus: Advanced Challenges and Open-Ended Projects

• Example project (autonomous car, variety gizmos, perception gizmos)
• Customizing behaviors
• Design your own robot

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: Intermediate Summer Robotics or equivalent experience with programming using decisions, loops and functions/methods, and the construction of a robot are required.

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets). Must have at least one working USB-A port. Must bring a port adapter (if needed) and power supply to class every day.

June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $765 (includes lab fee)
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $845 (includes lab fee)

This advanced summer robotics with VEX V5 and Coding Studio class allows students to challenge themselves while building on their previous experiences constructing and programming robots. Small teams of students will design, fabricate and program their robot in competition with other teams in the class. Students will be introduced to the engineering concept of iterating the plan, design, build, test and refine process. Lessons will address practical considerations in developing a functional robot that meets all requirements. Students will attach an electronic “brain,” motors, wheels and sensors to the metal structure that they fabricate from parts in the VEX EDR V5 universe. Programming will be done using VEX Coding Studio that supports both Scratch-like graphical and C++/Java-like textual language representations. Robots will need to perform both independently and under direct control of the team members using a remote controller.

All Students: Grade 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795
June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $715
July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $795

Embark on a hands-on creative journey exploring the fundamentals of visual communication. This course serves as a gateway into the captivating world of design, covering principles such as color theory, typography, layout, image manipulation, and introductory branding. Through engaging hands-on projects using both traditional and digital media, participants will gain practical experience in crafting compelling visuals. Guided by practical lessons, students will apply learned concepts to create designs, fostering a strong foundation in design aesthetics and problem-solving while igniting their passion for creative expression.

Week One Focus: Foundations of Graphic Design

• Introduction to graphic design
• Design foundations
• Color theory
• Typography exploration
• Wrap-up and introduction to logo design

Week Two Focus: Design Project and Presentation

• The design process
• Project development
• Showcase and feedback

All Students: Grade 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop required (no iPads or other tablets)

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

June 30 - July 11 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715

July 14 - 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Students will learn to create their own manga/anime inspired comics and characters similar to the ones in Naruto, Yuri on Ice, Ranma ½, and Bleach! They’ll level up their drawing skills on facial expressions, body language, anatomical proportions and character design. Introduction to basic storytelling, genres, and fundamental comic panel pacing are covered.

Week One Focus: Foundations of Manga Art and Character Design

• Understanding Japanese storytelling, basic character design and comic creation
• Introduction to manga conflicts, plot style, character design, comic jams and creating chibis
• Finish comic jam, explore face views, plot shapes, and start a 1-sheet comic project
• Continue 1-sheet comic, aging faces lesson, and age progression in characters

Week Two Focus: Advanced Techniques and Project Creation

• Anatomy, body proportions, genre elements, and developing a hero-themed comic
• Hands and feet drawing techniques; complete 1-sheet comic project
• 3D shapes and body proportions, body exercises, exploring genres, and hero-themed comic introduction
• Applying 3D shapes to the body, body exercise, and continuing working on hero prompt comics

All Students: Grade 6-8

Prerequisites: None

Laptop or tablet required

June 16 - June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

Interested in fashion, costume design, making cosplays for anime conventions, Disney bounding, transforming outfits, sewing, making new clothes from old clothes, and more? This course may be the perfect fit! All levels of experience are welcome. We will focus on designing outfits and making patterns, emphasizing sustainability in fashion. We will be collecting material (fabric scraps, buttons, etc.) throughout the year with the goal of buying as little new as possible during the summer. All used materials will be thoroughly cleaned in advance of the class.

Week One Focus: Introduction to Fashion and Foundational Skills

Learning how to draw and design outfits using croquis and basic sewing skills by hand sewing, machine sewing, and making small, guided projects. Students will also learn about fashion sustainability.

Week Two Focus: Independent Projects and Showcase

Students will design and create their own projects using skills learned from the previous week with a focus on sustainability.

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

June 16 - June 27 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $795

June 30 - July 11 | 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $715

Embark on an inspiring exploration of art and design in Fundamentals of Art, a comprehensive course that blends technical mastery, conceptual development, and historical insight to help students discover and refine their artistic voice. Whether drawing in graphite, experimenting with watercolor, or capturing the vibrancy of urban landscapes through photography, students will be provided the tools and techniques to bring their creative visions to life.

Students will journey through revolutionary artistic movements from the mid-20th century to today, including abstract expressionism, pop art, minimalism, conceptual art, and the bold visual language of street art. By examining the evolution of artistic perspectives, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how historical movements continue to shape modern artistry. Each session will delve into specific decades, fostering an appreciation for the transformative power of art over time.

With a hands-on approach, students will engage in projects such as exploring color theory, mastering innovative techniques, and creating meaningful works that combine traditional methods with contemporary influences. Peer reviews and group discussions will provide constructive feedback, while individual and group instruction will ensure tailored learning experiences. Suitable for students of all ages and skill levels, this course invites students to explore, experiment and evolve as an artist.

Week One Focus: Foundations and Techniques

• Drawing in graphite
• Color theory and colored pencil techniques
• Painting techniques and watercolor exploration
• Sketching with ink and natural object studies
• Peer Review and midpoint reflection

Week Two Focus: Historical Movements and Contemporary Experimentation

• Exploring abstract expressionism
• Pop art and minimalism
• Street art and urban perspectives
• Photography and video art
• Final presentations and reflection

All Students: Grades 6-8

Prerequisites: None

June 16 - June 27 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $845 (includes materials fee)
June 30 - July 11| 8:30-11:30 a.m. | Fee: $765 (includes materials fee)
July 14- 25 | 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:45-3:45 p.m. | Fee: $845 (includes materials fee)

Ceramic class allows students to get in close contact with clay for their continuous sensory development, artistic exploration and creative expression. Students mainly will use and learn about hand-building methods such as pinch-building, coil-building, and slab-building to create 2D and 3D clay projects. In addition to hand-building, students will also have a chance to try the potter's electric wheel (throwing wheel). More than just a class, this will be a ceramics studio where students are not just following directions but are also encouraged to try new building and under-glazing techniques. Students will share and support each other to complete the assigned ceramic projects.

Week One Focus: Introduction to Ceramics and Basic Building Techniques

• Core Concepts: Pinch building, slab building, coil building, basic design and form
• Projects:
  • Pinch pots (small bowls)
  • Slab trays (textured leaf trays)
  • Slab or pinch mugs (with sgraffito or underglaze designs)
  • Slab box or nerikomi (cube-shaped box)
  • Coil candle holder

Students are introduced to the basics of hand-building techniques, working with clay, and experimenting with the pottery wheel.

Week Two Focus: Glazing, Finishing Projects, and Personal Exploration

• Core Concepts: Glazing, personalization, final design techniques
• Projects:
  • Whistle/bell
  • Personal project
  • Plant a succulent in one of their pottery pots

Students glaze their pieces, work on personalized projects, and complete a planting project before collecting and packing their finished ceramic work.