Using real-world buildings and other edifices as inspiration, campers will start the week by defying gravity to build the tallest skyscrapers and strongest bridges. Then, they will move onto air resistance and density and study how different types of planes, boats, and cars operate, seeking out unique ways to build them all and optimize their designs. Students learn how engineers have to build with earth's forces in mind; from gravity, to air resistance, to friction, to buoyancy and even centripetal force, students will be learning how scientists both work against and with those forces in their designs.
As the week continues, our engineering challenges get even more elaborate! Campers will be faced with tasks that combine their knowledge of physics with ingenuity and an ability to work together within a budget! Students will learn how to use air resistance to create windmills and helicopters as well as fight against that force when they create rockets and planes. They will even learn how to keep a top spinning as they create their own toy that uses centripetal force. The camp finale will be a demonstration of campers’ final invention, an egg drop – whose team will succeed and get their precious cargo to safety, and who will crack under pressure?sing real-world buildings and other edifices as inspiration, campers will start the week by defying gravity to build the tallest skyscrapers and strongest bridges. Then, they will move onto air resistance and density and study how different types of planes, boats, and cars operate, seeking out unique ways to build them all and optimize their designs.
As the week continues, our engineering challenges get even more elaborate! Campers will be faced with tasks that combine their knowledge of physics with ingenuity and an ability to work together within a budget! The camp finale will be a demonstration of campers’ final invention, an egg drop – whose team will succeed and get their precious cargo to safety, and who will crack under pressure?
Minors: In addition to the "Major" activities, students participate in “Minor” labs that allow them to explore another science discipline. These may include Engineering, Forensic Science, Astronomy, Cardiology, Environmental Science, Ocean/Marine Science, and other topics (offerings vary based on teacher expertise). On occasion, a "Minor" may even be upgraded to a second "Major"!
Enrichment Activities: In the afternoons and evenings give campers the opportunity for informal science learning, as well as leadership and problem-solving training through workshops, experiments, guest speakers, and recreational activities. Students will also attend a mid-program excursion to a local science venue.
