Introduction to Cubetto + Cubetto’s Insides (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be introduced to their wooden friend for the week, Cubetto! Campers will be exploring and playing with Cubetto and working with his directional board, adventure maps and code blocks. Campers will then open up Cubetto to see what’s on the inside powering all of his movements!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about the wooden robot Cubetto and how he works. Campers will learn how the coding blocks move Cubetto around his adventure map and which blocks make him perform which directional operations. Campers will also be learning about Cubetto’s insides and how the microcontroller inside receives signals from the directional blocks to make Cubetto move!

Cubetto’s Quest (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be making 3D models of one of Cubetto’s adventure map squares and will be introduced to algorithms and how to program simple three block sequences of code to make Cubetto move. Later, campers will be making their own game out of one of Cubetto’s adventure maps, adding their own squares to the map. They will also begin working on an adventure story!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about algorithms. Campers will practice making 3 block sequences to control Cubetto, enabling him to accomplish a task. Campers will also be learning simple concepts of game design and map making alongside learning about storytelling elements, counting, shapes, and colors.

Cubetto’s Functions (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be developing their adventure story and drawing numbers using Cubetto’s directional blocks. Campers will also be introduced to Cubetto’s function block and practice working with sequences that involve that block.

What We’re Learning

Campers will continue learning about elements of storytelling and counting. They’ll be using Cubetto to play out their story, encounter 3D objects on their maps and draw numbers. Campers will also be learning about Cubetto’s function block and the purpose of a function and a loop as it relates to programming. Functions, in Cubetto’s world, allow campers to give multiple instructions to Cubetto using just one block, the function block, allowing campers to move Cubetto more spaces with fewer blocks. Finally, campers will also be learning how to use the function block to make Cubetto do the same thing over and over again, or, in programming lingo, they will learn how to design a loop!

Advanced Functions With Cubetto (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be learning more advanced functions and working with longer and longer strings of blocks to further develop their adventure story. Campers will be introduced to two new blocks, negation and random, as they work to make Cubetto do new and interesting things!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to string together more blocks to make longer algorithms.  Campers will also learn a core coding concept, that of negation. This concept will teach campers that blocks of code can be made to do the opposite of their intended function. For example, using the negation block, campers will see that a right turn becomes a left turn and so on. Lastly campers will be learning about the random block, a fun and interesting block that changes any directional block into random fun!  

Make Your Own Story (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be using all of the skills they have practiced throughout the week to make their own story for Cubetto. Campers will then have the chance to showcase their story with the rest of their class!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to use all of the coding skills they learned throughout the week to craft their own story. They will also learn how to share their stories with a group of their peers!

How Campers Take Home Projects: This is an experiential coding curriculum and campers will not be able to take Cubetto or any of the pre-designed maps home. While campers will mostly be working with the Cubetto robot, there will be a few design projects and writing activities that will be sent home daily if applicable.

Steps for using at home: If you end up purchasing Cubetto, follow the instructions in the kit for using at home!

Videos

• Watch as our youngest learners approach logic and learning how to code with Cubetto!

Books

• To help support your child’s interest in coding head on over to your local library or purchase some great print resources!

Web Resources

• Head on over to Cubetto’s Playroom for some extension activities using Cubetto!
• Don’t own a Cubetto at home? Head on over to Primo Toys and purchase a starter kit!
• Want to take a deeper dive into the educational opportunities provided by Cubetto? Check out and sign up for the Educator’s portal!

Prepare for Adventure (3rd – 4th)

We’re kicking off this adventure with a daring dungeon dive! Campers will be exploring a pre-built Adventure Map to see how a story can be built in a game. Campers will then begin mapping out and storyboarding their own adventure.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning some of the key components of an Adventure Map and how to make a storyboard to plan for their own map. They’ll also be learning about the Hero’s Journey and how it can be used as a guide for the adventure they’ll be crafting.

The Story Begins (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be creating their “Call to Adventure”. Using some teleportation tricks, campers will be building a village where the hero can begin their quest.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning some of the basic Minecraft command codes which can be used to trigger events like announcements, creature creation and teleportation.

The Dungeon (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be creating the “Threshold” of their Adventure Maps — the entrance to the dungeon! Here is where campers will be summoning monsters to challenge the hero. These are no ordinary zombies though as we’ll be using special command codes to craft completely customized creatures.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to use the “summon” command code to trigger unique monsters with custom gear. Campers will also be learning about the difficulty curve and how to make the hero’s challenges just challenging enough.

The Final Challenge (3rd – 4th)

It’s time to build the deepest, darkest part of the dungeon, the “Abyss”! Campers will be building a “boss room” to house the hero’s greatest challenge.  They’ll need to make sure it’s tough, but not too tough!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to summon and customize the boss monsters of Minecraft. Campers will also be practicing building their challenges along a smooth difficulty curve.

Playtesting & Polishing (3rd – 4th)

To complete the Hero’s Journey, the hero will “Return” to the start of the Adventure Map. Campers will be building a way back to the village and creating a conclusion to their story using command codes. What will be the hero’s reward? 

What We’re Learning

To create an exciting end to this adventure, campers will be learning about the circuits and mechanisms of Minecraft, known as “redstone” devices. We’ll also be covering a few more command codes!

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• A tutorial using redstone to create a working grill!
• For a bigger challenge, use redstone to create a swimming pool!

Books

• Ultimate Building Ideas Book
• Minecraft Guide Collection
• The Unofficial Guide to Coding in Minecraft

Web Resources

• A cool resource for everything you need to know about building with redstone
• Minecraft coding tutorials

Terrain Editor (5th – 8th)

Campers will be introduced to Roblox Studio, beginning with the Terrain Tools. Campers will be able to summon a randomly generated terrain using their own parameters and then use a range of tools to customize the details of their world.

What We’re Learning

Campers will begin by exploring the interface of Roblox Studio and learning how to navigate the 3D space of the editing environment. Campers will then be learning about terrain tools that allow them to generate, add, subtract, paint, and otherwise fine-tune a natural-looking landscape.

Basics of Building (5th – 8th)

With a foundational landscape chosen and the whole class having joined one shared Roblox project, campers will begin building the basic structures of their world.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to add primitive parts to Roblox, as well as how to transform those parts with a move, rotate, scale, paint, material, and anchor.

Details & Decorations (5th – 8th)

Now that the rough “outlines” of their structures have been created, campers will begin working on more “fine detail” work. They’ll be adding smaller decorations to their structures, and use decals to apply 2D images to their 3D creations.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning some of the more intermediate modeling tools and techniques, including object snapping, object transparency and the application of decals.

Complex Structures (5th – 8th)

Some designs are a bit too complex to build out of primitive parts in a timely fashion. As a result, campers will be learning about the Solid Modeling tools in Roblox Studio, which will allow them to create all kinds of criss-crossed, zig-zagged and hollowed-out shapes.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the Solid Modeling menu in Roblox Studio; including the “Union”, “Negate” and “Separate” tools. Campers will also be learning how to add lights to their game.

Finalize & Showcase (5th – 8th)

Campers will be putting the finishing touches on their shared world.  They’ll also get the chance to showcase this world to the other campers and staff at their site.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about and practicing presentation skills during their showcase, as well as how to give and receive constructive feedback.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Cool tutorial to build a realistic house
• Some tips and tricks for creating terrain

Books

• The Ultimate Roblox Book
• Master Builder Roblox: The Essential Guide

Web Resources

• A good introduction to creating games in Roblox studio

Basics of Redstone (5th – 8th)

Campers will be introduced to basic redstone components and mechanics. They’ll then be challenged to design and build one of the classic applications of redstone engineering, an automated piston door.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about most of the redstone components available in Minecraft; from their basic functions to their obscure “special features”. They’ll also be learning exactly how redstone signals are generated and transmitted through different materials and structures.

Advanced Components (5th – 8th)

Campers will be practicing building with some of the more advanced redstone components, most notably the redstone comparator. With these new tools, campers will be able to add a “lock” to their piston door, which only opens when a very specific item of their choosing is supplied as a “key”.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the redstone comparator, a component which can detect the “state” of many types of blocks in Minecraft and output a redstone signal of variable strength. It can also be used, as the name suggests, to compare the signal strength of two different sources.

Clock Circuits (5th – 8th)

Moving from individual components to larger circuits, campers will be creating clock circuits which repeatedly flip a redstone signal on and off. Campers will be able to use rapid clocks to create things like an automatic snowball launcher, or slower clocks to create timed auto-farms.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring and practicing building a range of designs for clock circuits. They’ll be learning how to determine and adjust the period length of these circuits. They’ll also be considering the strengths and limitations of various circuits in designing their projects.

Logic Gates (5th – 8th)

Campers will be diving into the fundamentals of computer engineering by exploring and building with logic gates. The first application of these new kinds of circuits will be to build a type of “password protection” onto their piston door — a series of levers that only has one “correct” input pattern to open the door.

What We’re Learning

Logic gates are building block of all modern computers. Each type of gate has a set of rules that determines whether the input signals create an “on” or “off” output signal. Campers will be learning about all the types of logic gates; how to build them in Minecraft and how to create “logic tables” with multiple gates.

Binary Calculations (5th – 8th)

Campers will be tackling their most ambitious redstone project yet, the creation of a rudimentary addition calculator. This calculator operates in binary and will be able to add two 4-bit numbers to create a result of up to 5 bits.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about and practicing using binary numbers, including how to convert between binary and decimal, and how to add two binary numbers. Binary is often thought of as the “language of computers” because it represents the on/off state of a computer’s signals and circuits.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Basics for using Redstone in Minecraft
• Redstone Coding Tutorials

Books

• Coding with Minecraft
• Coding for Minecrafters

Web Resources

• Continue learning binary with these activities and tutorials
• More lessons on logic gates
• Great information on redstone circuits in Minecraft

Parkour Challenge (1st – 2nd)

The first “mini-game” of the week is a parkour course which will have campers running, jumping and climbing across platforms and through obstacles. Campers will also begin working on their week-long project in Roblox Studio to create their very own parkour course!

What We’re Learning

The parkour mini-game will be introducing campers to the basic controls of Roblox where they’ll be practicing using the keyboard and mouse at the same time. In our building project, campers will be learning how to create, reshape and paint basic 3D shapes in Roblox Studio.

Diving for Treasure (1st – 2nd)

In this mini-game, campers will be diving into a vibrant undersea world full of sunken treasure! Campers will be exploring and navigating caves, trenches, shipwrecks, and ancient ruins to find all the treasure.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be practicing navigating a 3D space using different mouse and keyboard controls to move along all three axes. They’ll also be learning the difference between left clicking and right clicking, as different treasures require different types of clicks to collect.

Stunt Driving (1st – 2nd)

Time for an action-packed, stunt-filled race! In our Stunt Driving mini-game, campers will be driving off-road vehicles through canyons, across glaciers and over volcanos. They will also be collecting power-ups along the way to boost their car’s capabilities.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be controlling the direction of their car, as well as the use of power-ups, by following simple on-screen typing prompts. In this way, campers will be learning the position of keys on the keyboard.

Explore the Galaxy (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be blasting off into the stars and piloting their own spaceship! The ship’s control panel will allow campers access to all kinds of tools for exploring the galaxy and interacting with all of the otherworldly things they’ll be discovering.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be piloting their ships using a control panel that has a variety of buttons, dials and sliders for all of the ship’s futuristic tools. By following prompts that show them how to use the control panel, campers will be practicing core computer literacy skills like double-clicking, clicking and dragging, scrolling, and keyboard shortcuts.

Parkour Showcase (1st – 2nd)

Instead of playing a mini-game, campers will be putting the finishing touches on their week-long parkour projects. Later, campers will get to showcase their courses to the other campers and counselors!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to practice the Roblox Studio tools and techniques that they’ve been working on throughout the week’s building sessions. They’ll also get to practice presentation skills and providing constructive feedback during the showcase.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Here is a tutorial to create a car in Roblox Studio

Books

• The Ultimate Roblox Book
• Master Builder Roblox: The Essential Guide

Web Resources

• A good resource sheet to refer to for everything Roblox!

Plan Channel, Start Filming (5th – 8th)

EDMO™ YouTube Stars will be plotting and planning their venture into stardom. First campers will be learning about different types of YouTube content to help them settle on a genre. Then, campers will begin planning their initial video, introducing themselves to the world and diving into the content that will launch them to stardom.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about different genres of web based media including Let’s Play, DIY, Vlog, Haul, Comedy/Sketch, and Challenges. Campers will then be collaborating with others to come up with a theme on which to base their channel. Campers will be using storyboards to plan their first video; creating panels for each phase of their video, an opening/introduction, the content of their video, and a closing/sendoff.

Lights, Camera, Record! (5th – 8th)

Our YouTube Stars will be putting some finishing touches on their storyboards and beginning to  film! Campers will be collaborating on ideas and working on setting a vibe for their channel. They will also be digging in to their channel’s actual content.

What We’re Learning

Campers will begin creating content for their video. Campers will be able to decide who is speaking when, what the vibe of their video will be (silly, serious, educational, or informative), and how they want to cut their final product to make it cohesive, understandable and relatable.

Finish Filming, Start Editing (5th – 8th)

The Stars will be over the moon as they start editing their content. Campers will be learning basic editing concepts, as well as how to make their project cohesive and relatable. The Stars will also dive headfirst into Lightworks, a free editing software with near limitless capabilities. Some campers will also finish filming their work.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be doing an editing exercise to test their perception. From there, they will move on to editing concepts that are relevant to the content they are creating. This will include audio editing tips, how to make L- and J-cuts, and how to fade in and out of audio and video to create seamless videos.

Editing (5th – 8th)

Campers will be diving elbow deep into content, picking, choosing and agonizing over the best pieces of media, the best place to cut, and the best closing line for their videos. The Stars will also be using all of their problem solving skills to create beautiful art.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be using Lightworks and the skills they’ve learned to edit a cohesive, fun video. The use of audio, video, as well as text and light media effects will round out the day.

Finalize, Upload, Showcase (5th – 8th)

Putting the finishing touches on a video is never easy but these YouTube Stars will be doing just that. Campers will be learning how to upload videos to YouTube, how to tag their videos appropriately and how to share their creations with friends and loved ones!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be doing final edits and exporting their videos to .mp4 files. Upon completion, campers will be learning how to upload, tag and caption their videos to make them accessible and archivable for future use. Campers will then be showing their work to the rest of the camp during a Friday Showcase.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week.  Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Top 5 Tips to Shoot Incredible Video with a Smartphone

Books

• Digital Filmmaking for Kids for Dummies by Nick Willoughby
• Making YouTube Videos : Star in Your Own Video! by Nick Willoughby
• Kids Guide to Movie Making : How Kids Can Produce and Direct Their Own Movies That Audiences Will Love by Shelley Frost

Web Resources

• Filmmaking for Kids: Rough, Raw, and Real from The Atlantic
• Websites and Apps for Making Videos and Animation from Common Sense Media
• Getting Kids into Filmmaking by the New York Film Academy

Sculpting the World (5th – 8th) 

Campers will team up to begin planning the layout and mechanics of their Roblox game. They’ll then dive into Roblox Studio to begin sculpting the natural foundation of their game worlds.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be introduced to the basics of Roblox Studio, the editing program used to make Roblox games. Campers will start off learning about the Terrain Editor, which allows them to generate and customize natural-looking environments.

Building Experts (5th – 8th) 

Once their foundations are sculpted, campers will begin designing and assembling the structures, objects and decorations that will populate their new world. From cottages and gardens to skyscrapers and space stations, there’s no limit to what campers might create in Roblox Studio.

What We’re Learning

Campers will start off learning the basics of object creation in Roblox Studio; allowing them to assemble, edit, decorate and fine-tune all kinds of static and dynamic game objects. Campers will also get to learn some more advanced features of Roblox Studio, such as hinges, motors, springs, and more.

Collectibles & Goals (5th – 8th)

Campers will be diving into Roblox’s code, as they begin to implement the rules and mechanics of their game. They’ll be starting off with some basic collectible objects, as well as a high score table that tracks the players’ progress.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be introduced to Lua, the coding language used in Roblox Studio scripts. In creating collectible objects, they’ll be learning about functions, variables, events, and the concept of object-oriented programming.

Obstacles & Power-Ups (5th – 8th)

Campers will be adding more complicated game mechanics to their Roblox projects. Helpful power-ups, hindering hazards and moving objects and platforms are just a few of the features the campers might incorporate into their game worlds.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring even more of the Roblox code base. They’ll learn how to access and edit the health value of a player, the velocities of game objects, the Roblox UI elements, and more. Campers will also learn more fundamental computer science concepts, like loops and conditionals.

Final Touches & Showcase (5th – 8th)

Campers will get a final hour or two to put the finishing touches on their Roblox games. They will then be spending time showcasing each other’s projects to some of the younger campers at their site.

What We’re Learning

In putting the finishing touches on their projects, campers will continue practicing the design and programming skills they developed throughout the week.  Campers will also practice providing and receiving constructive feedback as they explore each other’s projects.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• An intro to coding Lua for Roblox
• More scripting fun!

Books

• Advanced Roblox Coding
• Beginner’s Guide to Roblox Coding
• The Ultimate Roblox Book

Web Resources

• Tutorials for scripting in Roblox

Make the Connections (1st Monday)

Robotics Club campers will be introduced to the Hummingbird Duo microcontroller and to the Ardublock programming environment. Campers will then be connecting electronic components such as LED’s, servos, motors, and sensors to the duo board and running pre programmed code to see how the board and computer can talk with one another! Finally, campers will be coding their own LED sequences and getting to know to the concept of rapid prototyping.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to connect all the electronic components in our Hummingbird Robotics kit to the microcontroller board they will be using to design their robot. Campers will also be learning the basic blocks in Ardublock that they will be using to program these electronic components. Finally, campers will be learning how to code LED’s to blink and how to create different sequences of blinks that turn on and off different colored LED lights!

Defining a Problem + Brainstorming (2nd Monday)

Campers will be kicking off our second week of Robotics Club by self organizing into engineering design teams. Campers will be spending the week working in these teams as they plan, build and showcase a robot that performs a task. Campers will be working to define the task their robot will solve and brainstorming ideas for the design of both their code and their physical robot.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to self organize into engineering teams. Additionally, campers will be learning the first stages of the design thinking and engineering design processes; defining a problem and brainstorming. Campers will also be learning how to brainstorm designs for their robots that will help them solve the problem they defined.

Let’s Make Things Move (1st Tuesday)

Camper’s will be connecting gear motors and servos to the hummingbird duo board and designing code to make them move. Campers will then be participating in a rapid prototyping exercise where they will design a prototype of a winch out of cardboard. Finally, campers will take their prototype and design a working winch using a servo motor!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to write code in Ardublock to control gear motors and servos. Campers will then be learning how to code a motor to turn on and off, speed up and slow down and perform a task continuously. Campers will also be learning how to rapidly prototype a winch and how to code a program in Ardublock that will make the winch work using a servo motor.

Design + Build (2nd Tuesday)

Campers will begin turning their brainstorms into sketches and designs as they begin to construct both the code and their physical robot. Once campers have finished sketching out their designs, they will then be prototyping their robots and beginning to write their code in Ardublock!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the design and building portions of the design thinking process. Campers will learn how to collaborate and choose an idea. Then, campers will learn how to turn that idea from a sketch into a prototype.

All About the Sensors (1st Wednesday)

Campers will be learning how to code their final electronic component – the sensor! Campers will be connecting and coding different kinds of sensors including light sensors, distance sensors and temperature sensors! Using these sensors, as well as other electronic components, campers will be prototyping a piston and designing code for a sensor that will activate the piston when a light turns on when someone gets close to it, or when someone makes a noise!   

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about sensors and the variety that exist throughout the world of robotics. Campers will be discovering that different kinds of sensors; temperature, distance, light, etc, can be coded to perform different tasks in relation to a robot. Some sensors allow for a machine to react to light, while others allow a machine to change direction or turn on or off based on how hot or cold it is. Campers will then be using what they learned about sensors to design a piston and integrating concepts and their knowledge of sensors to what they already know about servos and gear motors!

Build It! (2nd Wednesday)

Campers will begin turning their prototypes into working robots. Campers will be constructing various kinds of robots that will perform a specific task. Campers will then have the freedom to choose a robot that moves, an arm that grabs, or a movable art installation!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the prototyping and testing stages of the design thinking and engineering design processes. Campers will learn how to take their prototypes, constructed from cardboard, and turn them into working robots fit with all the electronic components they will need to perform the task designed. Campers will also be learning how to upload their finished code to the humming board duo board to test and make sure their electronic components work.

Line Tracking Bot Day 1 (1st Thursday)

Campers will be designing and building a smart line tracking car robot! First, campers will be writing the code for the sensors, servos and gear motors involved in making the car successfully track a line of black electrical tape. Then, campers will be prototyping their car in preparation for the final build.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to design and write code that integrates concepts of sensors, servos and gear motors. They will then be learning how these electronic components work together to help a machine, in this case a line tracking “smart car”, perform a task. Campers will also be learning how code for sensors activates motors and other kinds of electronic components and how to debug and test code for sensors and motors. Finally, campers will be learning how to build a prototype of a line tracking “smart car”.

Test Your Robot + Debugging (2nd Thursday)

Campers will be finalizing their designs and testing both their code and their physical robot. After their tests, campers will begin redesigning their robot based on the feedback they collected from the tests. Campers will then either be redesigning their physical robot, debugging their code, or both, as they work to enable their robot to complete its task.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the testing and redesign phase of the design thinking and engineering design processes. Campers will learn how to redesign their robot based on feedback they collect from their tests. Additionally, campers will be learning how to debug code that didn’t work or made their electronic components do something unexpected!

Line Tracking Bot Day 2 (1st Friday)

Campers will be turning their prototype of the line tracking smart car into a working model. Campers will be uploading their code to their bot and testing the cars’ capability of successfully tracking a line. Afterwards, campers will showcase their design, discuss their process and begin planning for their free build in week 2!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to turn their prototype of a line tracking “smart car” into a working robot that successfully tracks a line. Campers will be testing their robot, redesigning any components and debugging their code. Finally, campers will be learning how to share their solutions and speak in front of a group of their peers as they showcase their car.

Redesign + Showcase (2nd Friday)

For our final day of our two week EDMO™ Robotics Club, campers will be putting the finishing touches on their robots as they prepare for the end of the day showcase! During the showcase, campers will be discussing their process and showing how their robot completed the task they designed earlier in the week. Finally, campers will have the opportunity to engage in a plussing session where other engineering teams will give them positive feedback about their designs.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the final stage of the design thinking and engineering design processes; sharing solutions! After campers have redesigned their robots and their code, they will learn how to speak in front of a group of their peers in order to share their process and discuss their successes and challenges. Finally, campers will be learning how to participate in a plussing session where they will give positive critiques about each other’s projects!

How Campers Take Home Projects: Video footage of the robotics showcase that takes place at the end of the camp week will be accessible via a Dropbox link, which will be shared after the final day of camp.  Please note that this is an experiential program and campers will be working in teams using a reusable robotics kit. As such, campers will not be able to take any of the electronic components home, but may take the craft part of their robot.

Steps for using at home: The Hummingbird robotics kit used in this week of camp can be purchased from the Hummingbird website.

Videos

• Check out these cool projects people have made using Arduino
• Tutorial for an Arduino project using Hummingbird

Books

• Getting Started with Arduino
• Arduino Project Handbook
• Arduino Workshop: A Hands on Introduction
• Arduino Programming: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Web Resources

• Arduino Tutorials
  • https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/projects/tags/kids
  • https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/10-great-arduino-projects-for-beginners/
  • https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/how-to/a3099/10-simple-but-fun-projects-to-make-with-arduino-15603196/

Items and Blocks (5th – 8th)

Campers will be introduced to Minecraft Forge and the Eclipse coding environment. They will also be adding their first custom item and custom block to the game.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about constructor methods and parameters. They’ll also be practicing working with special characters, case sensitivity and matching brackets. Finally, they will learn the basics of image editing as they make textures for their game assets.

Crafting Recipes (5th – 8th)

Campers will be inventing crafting recipes for their new game objects! Crafting recipes call for specific items to be placed in a specific pattern; all of which we’ll define just using Java code.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about variables and how to use them in more complicated methods. They’ll also learn more about data types.

Tools and Armor (5th – 8th)

Time to gear up! Campers will be creating custom sets of tools and armor. These items have a lot more data stored in them, so we’ll need to use some new methods to define everything. We’ll also be creating our first 3D texture!

What We’re Learning

We’ll look more closely at a couple of data types, including floats and arrays. To set up how our armor looks while the player is wearing it, we’ll be working with an “unwrapped” texture and learn a bit about 3D modeling and rendering.

Forge Events (5th – 8th)

With a Minecraft mod, you can write code that waits for a specific game event to happen and then have other events occur in response. Using these “Forge Events”, campers will be making a magic wand that waits for the player to click a block, which then transforms the block!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about event listeners, a powerful feature of Java and other event-driven languages. They’ll also begin to use booleans, conditionals and loops.

New Dimension (5th – 8th)

Why just change the normal Minecraft world when you can create a whole new one? Campers will be making use of all their coding knowledge to invent an entirely new dimension in Minecraft!

What We’re Learning

In addition to practicing all coding concepts covered earlier in the week, campers will be learning how to create a new Java class.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Java for Beginners
• More Java 

Books

• Coding with Minecraft
• Coding for Minecrafters
• Java For Kids
• Java Programming for Kids

Web Resources

• Continue learning to code with Minecraft
• Tutorials
• Java 4 Kids
• More Java 4 Kids

Hello, World! (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be making a simple scene with a single animated character. They’ll be able to make their character move, add speech bubbles, and even create some custom sound effects.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the basics of ScratchJr, a tablet-based program for making simple animated scenes and learning basic coding concepts. Campers will begin with some basic coding “blocks” like Move, Speak and Sound Effect.

Change of Scenery (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be adding a second scene to their animated sequence. By adding the same character to the second scene and timing the code correctly, campers will be able to make their characters “travel” to new places!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to create new scenes and backgrounds in their ScratchJr projects. They’ll also be learning how to use code to change the scene and how to make their characters start a whole new script upon entering the new scene.

Dance Party (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be creating a more complex scene. Not only will there be multiple characters, each doing their own actions, but they’ll also be repeating their character’s actions to create an ongoing dance party!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to set up multiple characters in their scene and how to give each character their own script. They’ll also be introduced to “loops”, an important coding concept, that allows code to be repeated.

Chatty Characters (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be creating a conversation between multiple characters. Instead of timing out each message separately, campers will be able to program one character to “tell” another character when they’re done talking and it’s their turn to talk.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about “Messages” in ScratchJr, a form of event-driven programming. In “Messages”. a color-coded message can be broadcast during one character’s script, which can be used to trigger another character’s script to begin.

Write Your Own Story (1st – 2nd)

Using all the skills they’ve learned over the week, campers will be inventing and programming a totally original story using multiple characters and scenes.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to practice the coding techniques they learned throughout the week; including movement, sound effects, scene changing, timing, loops, and messages.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week.  Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Create your very own rocket game with ScratchJr!
• Combine math and ScratchJr in this tutorial

Books

• Coding Games in Scratch
• Coding for Beginners Using Scratch

Web Resources

• More ScratchJr lessons to complete at home!
• Even More!

Trailblazer Treasure Hunt (1st – 2nd)

Kicking off their adventure, campers will be exploring a huge ruin deep in the jungle. They’ll be navigating its hazards in search of artifacts and treasure. They’ll also begin building a “home base” to house their finds — a project they’ll continue working on throughout the week.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning and practicing the basic controls of Minecraft, including moving, jumping, climbing, and using basic items. Campers will also be practicing their 3D spatial reasoning as they navigate the game world.

The Buried Fortress (1st – 2nd)

Our campers’ adventure will be leading them to an ancient stone fortress, buried in the desert dunes. They’ll need to experiment with the fort’s mysterious mechanisms to reach its innermost secrets.

What We’re Learning

Our latest puzzles and challenges will be focusing on mouse proficiency. Campers will be practicing more careful aiming of the mouse, as well as learning the difference between left and right-clicking.

Zeppelin Voyage (1st – 2nd)

Following the clues found in their artifacts, campers will be taking a zeppelin ride over the mountains… but the zeppelin breaks down mid-flight! Will campers be able to craft the necessary replacement parts to get back on track?

What We’re Learning

Campers will be practicing Minecraft’s “crafting” system, which requires placing specific “ingredients” in a specific pattern to create a more advanced item. This has campers practicing menu navigation, left vs. right-clicking and keyboard shortcuts.

Secrets of the Mountain (1st – 2nd)

In a frozen mountaintop citadel, campers will be discovering a library full of mystic scrolls and tomes. These “magic words” will help them traverse the crumbling citadel and find treasures that would otherwise be impossible to reach!

What We’re Learning

As they type out the “magic words” that allow them to access the various treasures in our adventure, campers will be practicing typing and become more used to the placement of various keys on the keyboard.

Museum Grand Opening (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be putting the finishing touches on the “home base” they’ve been working on to showcase all their treasures and discoveries. They’ll also be showcasing their creations for their fellow campers.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to practice the mouse and keyboard controls required to design and build in Minecraft’s “Creative Mode”. During the showcase, campers will be practicing providing and receiving constructive feedback.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week.  Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Building a boat in Minecraft!
• This amazing time-lapse video shows the endless possibilities in Minecraft.

Books

• Ultimate Building Ideas Book.
• Minecrafters Kids Stories.

Web Resources

• Here are some other cool things you can build in creative mode.

Sheep City (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be introduced to the interface and basic controls for Code Kingdoms, the platform with which they’ll be creating Minecraft mods. The first project is a mod called “Sheep City”, which adds an assortment of custom objects to the game.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning some basic coding concepts such as variables and methods. They’ll also learn about the drag-and-drop interface of Code Kingdoms and how to pace their mod projects.

Lucky Blocks (3rd – 4th)

“Lucky Block” is a popular genre of Minecraft mod, which usually adds a single new block to the game, that when broken can trigger one of many random effects. Campers will be inventing and customizing a range of possible effects for their own Lucky Block mod.

What We’re Learning

The “Lucky Block” mod will be introducing campers to random number generators, as well as switch statements, which can be used to execute one out of many possible chunks of code. Campers will also be exploring even more Code Kingdoms methods and features.

Heist and Seek (3rd – 4th)

In this multiplayer mini-game, one player will be hiding a collection of treasures around a village and then the rest of the player’s will be racing against each other to find as many treasures as possible. Both the “hider” and the “seekers” have limited time, so they have to act fast!

What We’re Learning

In building the “Heist and Seek” mini-game, campers will be working with a number of new coding concepts, such as loops, conditionals and timers. They’ll also be exploring ways to automatically assign each player to a random “team”.

The Great Blockish Bake-Off (3rd – 4th)

In this more advanced mod mini-game, players will be challenged to craft as many tasty Minecraft creations as possible. Players will also be getting a chance to occasionally earn bonus points by cooking timed orders for specific dishes.

What We’re Learning

This larger mod has campers making extensive use of the methods, loops, conditionals, and switches that they’ve practiced using in the previous mods. It will also be introducing some new concepts like arrays.

Finishing Touches (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be putting the finishing touches on their custom mod projects. Campers will then showcase their favorite project, demonstrating the custom features they designed and programmed.

What We’re Learning

Campers will continue practicing the various computer science concepts they’ve learned throughout the week as they put the final touches on their projects. Campers will also be practicing giving and receiving constructive feedback as they showcase their projects.

How Campers Take Home Projects: On the last day of camp, campers will be sent home with a slip of paper detailing the username and password for the Code Kingdoms account they used during camp, which will include all their projects.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• Learn how to code in Minecraft in less than an hour!

Books

• Learn to Program with Minecraft
• Coding with Minecraft
• More coding for Minecrafters

Web Resources

• Continue learning to code with Minecraft!
• There are endless amounts of tutorials on coding!

Sculpting the World (5th – 8th) 

Campers will team up to begin planning the layout and mechanics of their Roblox game. They’ll then dive into Roblox Studio to begin sculpting the natural foundation of their game worlds.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be introduced to the basics of Roblox Studio, the editing program used to make Roblox games. Campers will start off learning about the Terrain Editor, which allows them to generate and customize natural-looking environments.

Building Experts (5th – 8th) 

Once their foundations are sculpted, campers will begin designing and assembling the structures, objects and decorations that will populate their new world. From cottages and gardens to skyscrapers and space stations, there’s no limit to what campers might create in Roblox Studio.

What We’re Learning

Campers will start off learning the basics of object creation in Roblox Studio; allowing them to assemble, edit, decorate and fine-tune all kinds of static and dynamic game objects. Campers will also get to learn some more advanced features of Roblox Studio, such as hinges, motors, springs, and more.

Collectibles & Goals (5th – 8th)

Campers will be diving into Roblox’s code, as they begin to implement the rules and mechanics of their game. They’ll be starting off with some basic collectible objects, as well as a high score table that tracks the players’ progress.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be introduced to Lua, the coding language used in Roblox Studio scripts. In creating collectible objects, they’ll be learning about functions, variables, events, and the concept of object-oriented programming.

Obstacles & Power-Ups (5th – 8th)

Campers will be adding more complicated game mechanics to their Roblox projects. Helpful power-ups, hindering hazards and moving objects and platforms are just a few of the features the campers might incorporate into their game worlds.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring even more of the Roblox code base. They’ll learn how to access and edit the health value of a player, the velocities of game objects, the Roblox UI elements, and more. Campers will also learn more fundamental computer science concepts, like loops and conditionals.

Final Touches & Showcase (5th – 8th)

Campers will get a final hour or two to put the finishing touches on their Roblox games. They will then be spending time showcasing each other’s projects to some of the younger campers at their site.

What We’re Learning

In putting the finishing touches on their projects, campers will continue practicing the design and programming skills they developed throughout the week.  Campers will also practice providing and receiving constructive feedback as they explore each other’s projects.

How Campers Take Home Projects: Digital project files will be uploaded to the Camp EDMO™ Dropbox on the last day of the camp week. Once the projects are uploaded, the link and password for this Dropbox account will be emailed to parents/guardians.

Steps for Using at Home: Please refer to the following guide: Using Camp EDMO™ Tech Projects at Home.

Videos

• An intro to coding Lua for Roblox
• More scripting fun!

Books

• Advanced Roblox Coding
• Beginner’s Guide to Roblox Coding
• The Ultimate Roblox Book

Web Resources

• Tutorials for scripting in Roblox

Funny Bones (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be creating a skeleton model with maker supplies such as pasta and table tennis balls. They will then explore the inside of a femur with a model of a bone.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the anatomy of the human skeletal system, including some major bones and bone functions. They will then learn how scientists build and use models and cross-section diagrams to describe their findings.

Bone Builders (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be creating models of muscles and bones to explore what they look like and how they work. They will then build a working hand to test how our tendons help our fingers move.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how our skeletal muscular system functions and how muscles, tendons and bones work together to help us move. They will also learn how our tendons and ligaments work together with our muscles to move our joints.

Flex Your Muscles (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring how muscles contract and relax by building a working bicep model. They will then complete a design challenge to test how our tendons help our fingers move.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how our muscles work and how to keep them strong and healthy. They will also learn how our tendons and ligaments work together with our muscles to move our joints.

Have a Heart (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be building a working model of our beating heart, as well as the diaphragm that controls our lungs to see firsthand how they inflate with air. They will also work together, acting like red blood cells, to see if they can deliver oxygen to parts of a body as fast as our bodies do!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about pressure and how it is the basis for the inflation of our lungs and beating of our hearts. They will also learn about the anatomy of our hearts and how our circulatory system delivers oxygen and nutrients throughout our bodies.

Food for Thought (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be making a messy model of the digestive system to show how we get energy and nutrients from our food. They will then build a brain hat to show the different parts of the brain and what they do!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the steps our body takes to get energy from the foods we eat. They will also learn about the structure of the brain and start exploring the many functions it performs in our bodies.

Field Trip (1st –4th)

Campers will be going on an all-day field trip! Be sure to ask them where they went and what they learned there.

Pump it Up (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be building a model of a pumping heart, and testing their skills at delivering oxygen, just like a red blood cell! They will also be making a wearable chest vest to show where their own heart, lungs and rib-cage are and how they work.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the function of the circulatory system and how red blood cells carry oxygen around the body. They will also learn about the structure of the heart and where it is in our body.

All Day Hike (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be flexing their muscles on an all-day hike! Be sure to ask them where they went and what they saw there.

Animal Anatomy (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring real animal skulls and making a clay model. They will then invent and build their own invertebrate!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the difference between herbivores, omnivores and carnivores, and how their eating behavior is reflected in their skulls. They will also practice comparing and contrasting as they learn about the anatomy of invertebrate animals like snails, insects and squids.

Animal Anatomy (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be exploring real animal skulls and making a clay model. Next they’ll invent and build their own invertebrate!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how the structure of a skull is directly related to its function, and how biologists use this to make inferences about the animals’ behavior. They will also learn about the similarities and differences between vertebrates and invertebrates.

Here are some cool videos:

• Follow the adventures of Chloe and Nurb as they explore different body parts in videos by Kid’sHealth. You can find the videos online here.
• If you’re feeling musical, Kids Learning Tube has some great songs about different organs of the body (and lots of other subjects)! Check out their website here.

Here are some cool books:

• Check out Your Fantastic Elastic Brain by JoAnn Deak and Sarah Ackerley to learn about what the brain does and how it grows over time. This is a great primer on both neurobiology and the growth mindset that we teach at camp! Get it from Amazon here or check it out from your local library.
• If campers want to continue their exploration of the human body, check out DK’s Human Body! (Knowledge Encyclopedia). This is a great reference to have at home for young learners to answer questions about the anatomy and body systems they learned about this week at camp. Get it from Amazon here or check it out from your local library!

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about the body:

• Build a model of our muscles using stretchy balloons to show how they contract and relax. Find instructions here – what could you do to make this model even better?
• Healthy foods help keep our bodies healthy! Nutrition.gov has fun activities and helpful resources to use at home to teach and encourage healthy eating habits. Check out their kid’s corner here.

You’re a Natural(ist)! (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be learning how to be naturalists! They will hone their observation skills on a hike to spot opposite animals in the park. They’ll also practice describing plants and animals along the way.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about ways that naturalists classify plants and animals by where they live, what they eat and how they look. They will also learn how scientists describe plants and animals when they find them.

Field Biology 101 (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be going on a nature hike. They’ll be making field journals and practicing their scientific illustration skills along the way. They will then have an opportunity to practice identifying plants using a partner’s illustrations.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the process of scientific illustration and the basics of plant morphology. While on their hike, they will also start practicing their plant identification skills and learn how to use illustrations and field guides

Plant Pals (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be using leaves to make botanical prints and green chlorophyll paintings. They will then do plant charades to explore the structure of plants in the park.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about plants and how they need to photosynthesize and take in water to grow. They will also learn about plant anatomy and how to use these features to describe plants to others.

Plant Pals (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be using leaves to make botanical prints and green chlorophyll paintings. They will then do plant charades to explore the structure of plants in the park and practice their scientific illustration skills.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about plants and how they need to photosynthesize and take in water to grow, as well as the structures that help them do so. They will also learn about the process of scientific illustration and why scientists use pictures when they find new species.

Sowing the Seeds (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be embarking on a seed dispersal design challenge and building mechanisms to help seeds travel far and wide! Next they’ll map the park by its trails, plants and geologic features.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how and why seeds are dispersed. They will also learn how biologists create and use maps while studying an area.

Urban Animals (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be making raccoon masks and bird feeders, and will have an opportunity to explore the animals that live in our cities and towns alongside us.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about urbanized animals who have adapted to live in urban and suburban areas. They will learn how these animals survive in our cities and what we can do to help make our cities a home for them!

Field Trip (1st – 4th)

Campers will be spending all day on a field trip off-site! Ask your child what they learned and saw there.

Amazing Arthropods (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring metamorphosis and arthropods by building their own metamorphosing monarch butterfly. They will then build habitats out of maker supplies such as PVC pipe, cardboard and twine to create suitable homes for the arthropods that live in the parks.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about what makes an insect an insect. They will learn what metamorphosis means and about the life-cycle of butterflies. Then, they will discover what kinds of places different arthropods like to live!

All Day Hike (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be embarking on an all-day hike and use their five senses to observe organisms in the park. Ask them what they saw, heard, smelled, and touched!

Habitat Helpers (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be practicing their empathy as they design a habitat mosaic to support the animals they’ve learned about this week.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the things that a habitat needs: water, shelter and food. They will also learn how different animals need different types of habitats to survive.

Habitat Helpers (1st – 4th)

Campers will be inventing something to help the animals in their community. They will then practice presenting their inventions to their peers

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the things that a habitat needs: water, shelter and food. They will also learn about the ways that humans can impact habitat suitability for animals, both positively and negatively.

Here are some cool videos:

• Check out this news story from CBS about the work of local field biologists to document the animals on Mount Tamalpais. Learn how they collect data with motion-triggered cameras and how they use that data in their research here, on the CBS website.
• You can learn a lot about plants by watching them grow.  Check out this amazing time-lapse video of a lima bean growing tall!

Here are some cool books:

• A good field guide is a field biologist’s most trusty tool. Check out the Audubon Society’s recommendations for great starter bird books here.
• Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner is a beautifully illustrated exploration of the animals, large and small, that we can find in our backyards. You can find it on Amazon here or check it out from your local library!

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about biology:

• Interested in continuing Backyard Biology at home? Learn how to be a birder from PBS. Follow the steps on their website here to create an easy feeder, watch birds and identify what you see!
• There are 24 species of bat in California, but their nocturnal nature can make them tricky to spot. Building a bat box is a way to attract these elusive mammals to your backyard so you can get a chance to observe them in action. This project requires some carpentry, so adult supervision is definitely required! Find the instructions at the National Wildlife Federation website here.

What Goes Up Must Come Down… (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring the water cycle with fun precipitation games and a water cycle collage. They will also create a water cycle in a bottle to take home!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the steps of the water cycle, as well as states of matter and changes in state. They will learn how these processes are connected and where the water we drink comes from!

What Goes Up Must Come Down… (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be creating a water cycle in a bottle to take home. They will also  build a diorama to describe what the water cycle looks like and how humans can impact it.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the steps of the water cycle, as well as states of matter and changes in state. They will also learn how these processes are connected to each other and to us.

Watershed Detectives (Pre-K – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring how pollution from human activities can impact our oceans, using a watershed model. They will then explore water ecosystems by creating a tiny “pocket pond” with a food web inside.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning what a watershed is and how it affects humans impact on water ecosystems. They’ll also learn about some common water ecosystems and the plants and animals that can be found there.

Watershed Makers (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be exploring watersheds by creating their own watershed models out of maker supplies like aluminum foil, craft sticks and saran wrap. They’ll also explore water ecosystems by creating a tiny “pocket pond” with a food web inside.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning what a watershed is and how it affects humans impact on water ecosystems. They’ll also learn about some common water ecosystems and the plants and animals that can be found there.

H2Woah That Was Fun! (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be exploring surface tension and buoyancy, with a series of fun experiments. They will also create a tornado in a bottle and discover how water moves and sticks together!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the physical properties of water, such as surface tension, buoyancy and viscosity. They will also explore how these concepts affect how we interact with water.

Field Trip (1st – 4th)

Campers will be spending the day on a field trip! Be sure to ask them where they went and what they saw there.

(Dessert) Plate Tectonics (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be exploring plate tectonics with a delicious treat. They’ll also create a diorama of a volcanic island!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about plate tectonics and volcanoes. They will also learn how these processes create islands in the ocean and mountains on land. Finally, they will explore volcanic island ecosystems and the plants and animals that live there.

Searching with Sonar (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring plate tectonics with a delicious treat. Then, they will work with a group to create a model of a seafloor and map it like oceanographers do with sonar technology.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about plate tectonics and the different types of plate boundaries. They will see how these boundaries help shape the ocean floor and how scientists use sonar to visualize the structures there. Campers will also have an opportunity to practice collaborating with a group and representing math with visuals.

All Day Hike (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be going on an all day hike. Be sure to ask them where they went and what they learned!

Paperclip Flotilla (Pre-K- 4th)

Campers will be creating floating boats in this fun design challenge! They will be building rafts to carry as much weight as possible and be wind powered – just like a sailboat!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring buoyancy as it relates to weight and surface area. They will discover how different sizes, shapes and materials affect buoyancy. They will also be talking about wind power and how to harness the energy of wind to use it as transportation!

Here are some cool videos:

• Curious about clouds? They are an essential part of the water cycle. You can learn more about them in this video from FreeSchool, and watch storm clouds forming here.
• Water is a special substance. Learn more about the chemistry of water in this video from Chemistry Now.

Here are some cool books:

• A Drop Around the World is a fun, rhyming tale about one raindrop’s journey through Europe as it moves through the water cycle. There are even helpful hints about where the water is at each step and which state of matter it exists in! You can find this book online here or check it out from your local library.
• Did you know we have explored more of the moon than the oceans? The depths of the ocean are largely unknown and unexplored, but Down, Down, Down offers a glimpse into the animals that live there and what it is like. You can find it online here or check it out from your local library!

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about weather and climate:

• NASA is trying to collect as much data about weather and climate as possible, but they need your help! Check out the GLOBE Observer program to learn how you can contribute to citizen science and make a difference. You can find more information on NASA’s website here.
• A great way to help protect polluted waterways is to participate in beach cleanups! Grab a grownup, some gloves and a good set of tongs, and you can make a big impact on the amount of trash that goes into our oceans. The Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup Day is September 21st. You can check out the Heal the Bay website here to learn more about participating nearby.

Planets and Galaxies (1st – 2nd)

On their first day as Space Squad members, campers will be building a model of the planet Earth and the moon. Campers will then be expanding their horizons by creating a light-up pinwheel galaxy!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about all eight planets of the milky way galaxy, as well as other planetary bodies such as moons, dwarf planets, asteroids and comets. They’ll discover how these bodies can both revolve around the sun and other planets. Campers will then be learning about all things galaxy: how galaxies are formed, what makes up a galaxy and even how they move through time and space!

Planets and Galaxies (3rd – 4th)

For their first day as Space Squad members, campers will be building a model of the planet Earth and the moon to study rotation and revolution. Space Squad members will then be looking at the different planets of our solar system and designing a model of a planet using paper mache! This will be the first chance campers will have to work in their Space Squad Design Teams.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning basic astrophysics concepts like revolution and rotation and how those affect the movement of planetary bodies in our solar system. Campers will also be learning about the discoveries of other planets in far away galaxies and what scientists believe may exist beyond the realm of our own universe. Finally, campers will learn about different features of planets as well as how to collaborate in a team to come up with a group design.

Features of Outer Space (1st – 2nd)

Campers will continue exploring different features of outer space by making a nebula in a jar! Campers will then be looking at satellites, human-made objects in space and will be making a model of the satellite type of their choosing.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about nebulas, the huge clouds of dust that float through space. Campers will also learn how they are formed, where they exist and what scientists have discovered about the most recognizable nebula in our universe, the Horsehead Nebula! Campers will also be studying all different kinds of satellites, how they are made and what their purpose is. They will also learn about Earth’s gravitational pull and how satellites revolve around the Earth much in the same way as the moon does.

Mission to Mars: Space Transit (3rd – 4th)

Our Space Squad teams will be given their ultra top secret mission for the week: designing and developing tools to enable their engineering team to investigate the possibility of humans one day colonizing the planet Mars. The first tasks will be to figure out how to get to the red planet and investigate it, by building a model of a rocket and a rover!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to design and build in a collaborative team. Through the creation of a model rocket, campers will learn the concepts of rocketry,  the forces of flight, and aerodynamics. Campers will also be learning how NASA scientists and engineers designed and built some of the past rover vehicles that were sent to Mars and the purpose of those expeditions. Campers will then be using what they learned in the design of their own rovers.

Space Art (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be making salt dough stars and combining those stars to form a galaxy! Once our Space Squad members have learned all about stars, they will be given a hands-on look at constellations, as they design and make a constellation out of marshmallows!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about stars and how millions of stars form various parts of our universe, such as galaxies and nebulas! Campers will also learn about the different kinds of gases that make up stars, how stars are born and what happens when they die. Finally, campers will discover how groups of stars form constellations and how and why different constellations can only be seen from the northern or southern hemisphere of Earth.

Mission to Mars: Space Suits (3rd – 4th)

Our Space Squad engineers will be designing features of space suits for their adventures to Mars. Campers will design and build a model of a space helmet to help provide oxygen when out in space or exploring the planet. They will then design and make a rocket pack to help get around when venturing out into space!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how astronauts use space suits to regulate the oxygen they need to survive in space. Additionally, they’ll learn how some space suits that astronauts use contain boosters to provide mobility and movement in space. Finally, campers will learn how combustion works in space when there is no oxygen present and about alternative sources of fuel that NASA engineers use to help astronauts in space.

Space Mobility (1st – 2nd)

Our young astrophysicists will be designing and making a rocket! Campers will then test their rocket with an air powered rocket launcher! Campers will also be designing and making prototypes of a rover that can transport astronauts and materials to help scientists collect information about far off worlds.

What We’re Learning

Through the creation of a model rocket, campers will be learning the concepts of rocketry, the forces of flight and aerodynamics. Campers will learn how NASA scientists and engineers designed and built some of the past rover vehicles that were sent to Mars and the purpose of those expeditions. Campers will then use what they learned in the design of their own rovers.

Mission to Mars: Space Tools (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be working in their engineering teams to design space tools that will help them pick up objects on Mars when exploring the planet in their bulky space suits. Campers will then design and build a Geodesic dome, a structure that is lightweight and built to be structurally sound using triangles.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how engineers design and build tools that have helped astronauts study the surface of the moon. Additionally, campers will learn about the surface of Mars, what has been explored and how scientists and engineers are designing tools for human exploration of the red planet. This includes tools for habitation and tools to collect specimens to send back to Earth for study!

Life in Outer Space (1st – 2nd)

On our final day of Space Squad, campers will be designing and making a UFO and a crafty alien friend to come along for a thrilling ride through outer space! Campers will also design and build a space habitat. This habitat can be a space station, a research station in a far off world, or a futuristic home that humans may live in within the not so distant future!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the history of UFOs, otherwise known as Unidentified Flying Objects, and how this history has led some to believe there is life out there in the far reaches of our universe. They’ll also have the chance to learn how to design and make a playful UFO and alien friend! Lastly, campers will see how astronauts live in outer space as they learn about the fundamental items that need to be present in outer space for a space station to support life.

Mission to Mars: Space Habitat (3rd – 4th)

On our final day of Space Squad, campers will continue working in their engineering design teams to finish their geodesic domes. Our Space Squad campers will also be designing and making a prototypes of different types of habitats, such as a space station or research lab that would support life on Mars.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about geodesic domes and other kinds of habitats NASA engineers are currently prototyping that would support human colonization of planets. They’ll also discover the fundamental items that need to be present in outer space and on Mars to support human life.

Here are some cool videos:

• Learn more about our solar system from this amazing video from FreeSchool.
• Check out this awesome video from National Geographic Kids on how the Hubble Telescope works!

Here are some cool books:

• Head over to your local library or purchase the following books to support your camper’s quest for more space knowledge!
  • A Journey Through Space by Steve Parker 
  • The Sun is Kind of a Big Deal by Nick Seluk
  • Exploring Constellations by Sara L. Latta
  • Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover by Markus Motum

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about space:

• Check out these fun activities to continue the space fun at home!
  • Make a cool comet on a stick and watch it fly!
  • For our younger campers try making this awesome moon dough at home!
    
  • Explore the galaxy with this neat spaceship project.

What’s Left Behind (1st – 2nd)

In Gizmos & Gadgeteers, campers will be introduced to spy science! Campers will get a first hand look at some of the neat tools that detectives use to solve mysteries. Campers will then have a chance to practice two ways detectives can collect information about who has been at the scene of a crime: collecting fingerprints and making a bite plate.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the five senses: hearing, touch, taste, smell and sight. They’ll also discover how spy science and investigative tools can enhance these senses to help detectives, spies and investigators solve crimes and uncover mysteries! Campers will learn how to take fingerprints off of a glass using cocoa powder and also how to make a bite plate using teeth marks embedded in an apple!

Uncovering the Mystery (3rd – 4th)

In Gizmos & Gadgeteers, our EDMO Max campers will be entering into a world of mystery! Campers will discover how engineers and scientists work with detectives and spies to design useful tools to help solve crimes, uncover mysteries and catch the bad guys!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about two tools spies and investigators use to solve mysteries. First, campers will learn how to collect a fingerprint from a glass using some cocoa powder. They will then see how all fingerprints are unique and can be a useful clue in an investigation. Campers will also discover how spies and detectives use coded messages and how they can use ciphers to solve them.

Spy Tools (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be introduced to different kinds of tools and gadgets a spy might use to solve a case! They’ll be designing and building a grabber, a tool to help spies reach items in just-out-of-reach places. Later campers will hide their eyes in plain sight by designing a set of reflective spy glasses. A cool trick to enable you to see, but to keep others from knowing where you’re looking!

What We’re Learning

Campers will learn the different kinds of tools and gadgets that engineers design and build to help spies in the field. Campers will learn how to sketch and build spy tools of their very own, as well as how these devices can be used to collect clues without anyone noticing! Finally, campers will get an in-depth look at the eyeball and learn how our sense of sight works!

Spy Tools and Gadgets (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be starting their week long project of designing and building a spy gadget. Campers will brainstorm ideas for their gadget and then will start sketching out those ideas. Later on campers will design and make a pair of super secret spy glasses to hide their eyes in plain sight.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the first stage in the engineering design process, brainstorming. Campers will discover how to brainstorm a list of ideas and sketch out a design for an idea. Campers will also learn how our eye works and how certain gadgets can enhance a spy’s sense of sight!

Collecting and Passing on Information (1st – 2nd)

Campers will be exploring the ways in which spies collect information secretly and how they pass on information to one another without anyone noticing! Campers will be making a hearing device to hear through doors and walls, as well as make invisible ink to pass along hidden messages!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how the human ear works and how sound waves are interpreted by our brain. Campers will also learn how to design and build devices to amplify sound to be able to hear through walls or doors. Lastly, campers will learn how to make invisible ink!

Design and Build (3rd – 4th)

Our amateur gadgeteers will be practicing the design and build stage of the engineering design process by creating a light up watch with a secret compartment! Campers will then continue designing their own gadget and start making it!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how engineers and inventors use the design and build stages of the engineering design process to prototype their ideas. Campers will learn that ideas take many forms and that there will be many iterations of their design before it is finished. Campers will also learn how spies and investigators use technology to get ahead of the bad guys.

Hidden Compartments (1st – 2nd)

Our young spies will be making objects that look to be one thing, such as a book or a watch, but secretly have hidden compartments where messages or other gadgets can be stored! Campers will be making a hideaway book and a spy watch.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to design and build a gadget that looks like one thing but is really another. Campers will learn how spies use deception to make sure they are not caught when collecting or passing on information. They will also learn how technology plays a big role in the creation of spy tools and gadgets.

Advanced Gadgets and Building (3rd – 4th)

Campers will be continuing to look at circuits and electronics as they design and build a tripwire, a device meant to activate an alarm when the circuit is tripped! Campers will also be doing more to make their spy gadget and will begin the testing phase for their prototype.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to learn how circuits work and how electronic devices can aid a spy or other law enforcement officials to solve a crime or uncover a mystery. Additionally, campers will learn how to test a prototype, collect information through their tests, and redesign the prototype to fix any bugs found during testing.

Hiding in Plain Sight (1st – 2nd)

Gizmos and Gadgeteers campers will be creating a disguise to hide their identity. Disguises are perfect for hiding in plain site and sometimes spies have to hide their identities to collect information about their cases. At the end of our program, campers will design and run through a Mission Impossible style obstacle course!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the different ways in which spies can conceal their identity. They will learn the different materials used to make a disguise and how spies use those disguises to secretly collect information.. Campers will also learn how to design and navigate through an obstacle course!

Gadget Testing and Showcase (3rd – 4th)

Our Gizmos & Gadgeteers gumshoes will finish building, testing and redesigning their gadgets. Campers will be working together to test and give feedback on their designs. Then, at the end of camp, campers will showcase their designs and their gadgets in our EDMO Spy Gadget Gallery.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to give feedback with one another in a plussing session. Plussing sessions are used by engineers to help collect feedback and constructive criticism about their prototypes. Campers will learn how to describe their work in a group setting.

Here are some cool videos:

• Head on over to YouTube for this super cool spy hacks video!

Here are some cool books:

• One of the most quintessential spy novels for young boys and girls, head on over to your local library or purchase Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh
• Check out these other super cool books on all things spy
  • Spy School by Stuart Gibbs
  • Spy Guy: The Not So Secret Agent by Jessica Young
  • Olivia the Spy by Ian Falconer
  • The Real Spy’s Guide to Becoming a Spy by Peter Earnest

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about gadgets:

• Take a look at these fun and easy ways to turn yourself into a regular 007 with these activities from our friends at Make Magazine.
• Make a cipher wheel, a spy ID and a periscope using this amazing resource from Savvy Homemade.
• Looking for even MORE spy gadgets? Stealthy Ninjas has got you covered.

Intro to Ornithology (5th – 8th Grade)

EDMO Pro Bio Blitz campers will be introduced to the field of Ornithology. They’ll be discovering some unique bird features, starting their journals and doing their first bird counts.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be introduced to bird observation and learn how to use the Merlin and ibird apps to ID birds and enter their counts. Campers will also be discussing and practicing field observation skills.

Bird Beak Buffet (5th – 8th Grade)

Our young ornithologists will be diving deeper into ebird and continuing to practice observing and uploading data. Campers will also begin to expand their knowledge of birds through an exploration of beak shapes and function.

What We’re Learning

Pro campers will be learning how to upload their bird list to combine our data with Science  Action Clubs around the nation. Campers will also be learning about bird beaks and how their size and shape affect what they can eat and where they live. They will also be exploring the concept of evolution and how structure relates to function.

Taking Flight (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be continuing their bird counts and starting to explore flight and wing shape. Campers will also be discussing what birds eat, and dissecting an owl pellet.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to practice their observation skills and familiarizing themselves with local birds. They will also be building a variety of flying objects to better understand how wing shape affects flight. Campers will also be learning about food chains and digging into what they find as they dissect owl pellets.

Eggsperimentation (5th – 8th Grade)

Our Pro campers will be continuing their bird counts. They will also be looking at environmental issues that affect birds and taking part in an egg-based design challenge.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing to hone their field observation and data collection skills. They will also be learning about the danger of oil spills and other environmental factors on birds by comparing the effects of different substances on feathers. Campers will then take on an egg challenge and work creatively to design and build a protective structure for their egg.

Data Synthesis (5th – 8th Grade)

Bio Blitz campers will be wrapping up their bird counts and synthesizing the information they have created. They will also be creating a visual representation and presentation for the data.  Campers will also be making seed balls to take home to help nourish our local birds.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be analyzing their info and exploring different ways to display their data. Campers will also be learning about bird conservation and about the California condor. Finally, while learning about birds migration, Pro campers will be making seed balls to feed our flying buddies.

Here are some cool videos:

• Curious where owl pellets come from? Check out this video of a barred owl casting a pellet!
• Hummingbirds are some of the most amazing flyers around.  Check out this incredible footage of them flying and feeding by PBS!

Here are some cool books:

• Wisdom: The Midway Albatross is a beautifully illustrated book, telling the true story of Wisdom, the oldest bird in the world.  It describes migration patterns, behavioral ecology, and human impact of seabirds like albatrosses. Find it online here or check it out in your local library!
• Want to invest in a good bird guide?  Check out the Audubon Society’s guide to getting the right bird book for you.  Their recommendations can be found here.

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about Nature:

• Want to continue birding at home? Download the eBird and Merlin Bird ID apps for free to keep monitoring birds and contributing to citizen science!
• Check out nestwatch.com, another citizen science project through the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.  This project trains people to look for and identify bird nests and then upload their data to help scientists track nesting patterns.
• You may be left with a lot of questions about our feathered friends.  Conduct an experiment in your backyard or local green space to answer them!  Do birds prefer a different kind of bird seed or feeder? Do people affect the birds feeding at a certain spot?  Check out this article from Scientific American to read about a bird experiment, then conduct your own!

Simple Machines and Where to Find Them 

(Pre-K – K)

Campers will be starting this week with a simple machine sort to get them thinking about what constitutes a simple machine and how we use them. They will then be exploring the power of ramps with a design challenge.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the six types of simple machines: wedges, levers, pulleys, inclined planes, wheels and axles, and screws. They will also be focusing in on the inclined plane and learning about how and why we use it.

(1st – 2nd Grade)

Campers will be starting this week with a simple machine sort to get them thinking about what constitutes a simple machine and how we use them. They will then be exploring the power of ramps with a design challenge.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the six types of simple machines: wedges, levers, pulleys, inclined planes, wheels and axles, and screws. They will also be focusing in on the concepts of potential and kinetic energy and how simple machines utilize them.

(3rd – 4th Grade)

Campers will be starting this week with a simple machine sort to get them thinking about what constitutes a simple machine and how we use them. They will then be exploring the power of wheels and axles with a design challenge.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the six types of simple machines: wedges, levers, pulleys, inclined planes, wheels and axles, and screws. They will also be focusing in on the concepts of potential and kinetic energy and how simple machines utilize them.

Levering Up

(Pre-K – K)

Campers will be using levers and fulcrums to create their own catapults! They will then be exploring the wheel and axle to create their own racers.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the power of leverage and use it to design the optimal catapult.  They will also be learning about how and why we use wheels and axles to transport heavy loads and move at high speeds!

(1st – 2nd Grade)

Campers will be using levers and fulcrums to create their own catapults! They will then be exploring the wheel and axle to create their own racers.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the power of leverage and use it to design the optimal catapult. They will also be learning about how and why we use wheels and axles to transport heavy loads and move at high speeds!

Pinball Whiz (3rd – 4th Grade)

Campers will be using levers, fulcrums and inclined planes to create their own tabletop pinball machine.  They will then design, build, test, and redesign their machines

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the ways we can use simple machines together to create complex machines. They will also be learning more about the action of levers, fulcrums, and inclined planes to do work.

Screws and Wedges (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be experimenting with blocks to try to unravel the mysteries of screws and wedges. Then, they will be building screws of their own, using paper!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the concept of angles and how they help simple machines do work. They will also be learning about two new simple machines: the wedge and the screw.

Field Trip (1st – 4th Grade)

Campers will go on an all-day field trip! Be sure to ask your camper where they went and what they saw there.

Going Up… (Pre-K – 2nd Grade)

Campers will have an opportunity to complete a design challenge: an elevator made for goldfish crackers. Then, they will use gravity and inclined planes to build a marble maze.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about pulleys and how they help lift heavy loads. They will also be learning about gravity and how inclined planes help us work against it!

All Day Hike (3rd – 4th Grade)

Campers will be going on an all day hike! Be sure to ask them where they went and what they saw.

Simply Fun Machines (Pre-K – 2nd Grade)

Campers will be working together to design and build a playground made from simple machines!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to collaborate with their friends to design and build a playground. They will also be learning how complex machines are built by combining simple machines.

Rockin’ Rube Goldberg (3rd – 4th Grade)

Campers will be working together to build their very own Rube Goldberg inspired machine using the simple machines they have learned about this week!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how complex machines can be built by combining the simple machines they’ve learned about this week. They’ll also be learning about the work of Rube Goldberg, who inspired many complex machines!  Campers will also be practicing collaboration while working with their teams.

Here are some cool videos:

• Check out these amazing contraptions inspired by one of the biggest names in not-so-simple machines: Rube Goldberg!  Rube Goldberg was an artist who drew complicated machines to accomplish simple tasks. Now, people use his drawings as inspiration to create their own Rube Goldberg Machines: check them out on “Rube Tube” here!
• Let’s Have Fun With Simple Machines from Planet Nutshell is a great exploration of simple machines we can find in a playground.  This video is a great way to introduce young learners to the concept of simple machines and where to find them!  Watch it here.

Here are some cool books:

• How Do You Lift a Lion by Robert E. Wells is a fun picture book about how simple machines can solve complicated problems.  Get it from Amazon here or find it in your local library!
• The Kids’ Book of Simple Machines by Kelly Doudna is a great resource of fun activities to do at home to continue exploring simple machines! Find it online here or check it out from your local library.

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about machines:

• Can’t get enough of Rube Goldberg Machines?  Grab a grown up and some simple machines and check out the Rube Goldberg competition!  What can you build to put money in a piggy bank? The competition rules and online submission platform can be found here. Good luck, makers!
• Design challenges can be a fun way to explore new ways of using machines to do work.  Check out a sample design challenge here, or come up with one of your own!

Fish and Gills (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be kicking off Critter Kingdom by manipulating watercolors and using salt to create their own colorful Koi fish. Later on, campers will be creating their own gill model and looking at how fish breathe!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about their underwater friends, fish! They will be learning simple facts; including that fish are vertebrates, cold-blooded and that certain species can be found in different bodies of water. Later, campers will be studying how fish are able to breathe. They will be looking at the simple explanation of how gills are able to extract oxygen molecules that allow fish to breathe.

Amphibians and their Life Cycle (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be creating a croaking frog and communicating with fellow croaking camp-mates! Later on, our Juniors will be lily pad hopping as they learn about the habitat of a frog. Campers will be making their frogs go through the life cycle!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about amphibians. They will be studying the life cycle of a frog and exploring the different habitats where frogs are found! Campers will also be discovering the noises that some male frogs make, and how they use these noises to communicate with other frogs.

Birds and Aerodynamics (Pre-K – K)

Our little animal enthusiasts will be looking at how birds fly and then create their own flying paper birds! Later on, they’ll be designing and making a bird feeder, as well as a nest for their flying friends!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about birds, focusing on adaptations in their biology that allow them to fly. They will also be gaining a basic understanding of how the shape and weight of a bird’s body affects the way they fly. Additionally, campers will be learning about bird habitats and the natural resources in those habitats that birds need to survive. Lastly, campers will learn how birds care for their young.

Reptiles and Camouflage (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be crafting reptiles; creating critters that are hidden in plain sight around camp! Campers will also be creating some scaly friends that slither around.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about reptiles and the basic differences between reptiles and amphibians. Campers will also learn that reptiles are cold-blooded vertebrates that have dry skin with scales or bony plates. Later on, campers will see how reptiles use camouflage to blend into their surroundings to hunt or hide from prey.  

Mammals and Animal Coverings (Pre-K – K)

Lastly, Critter Kingdom campers will be focusing on mammals! Campers will design a mammal and a “cover” for that mammal. Many mammals use fur as coverings to regulate their body temperature but many other mammals use different, modified versions of fur, like the rubber-like, slick hairs of seals and sea lions. Campers will also be participating in a habitat match as they try to discover which mammal lives in which habitat.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how mammals are warm-blooded animals and the different coverings or modified versions of hair (fur) they have to help them survive in their individual habitats. Finally, campers will be learning about the different kinds of habitats that mammals live in and how they compare and contrast to some of the other types of animals they have been looking at this week.

Here are some cool videos:

• Check out this awesome video about wild animals by Organic Learning!
• APPUSERIES has put together an educational video teaching about domestic and wild animals. Click on the link to learn more about these friendly beasts!

Here are some cool books:

• Want to encourage your camper to read and learn more about animals, head over to your local library or purchase some of these fascinating and entertaining books!
  • You be You by Linda Kranz
  • Leap, Frog, Leap! by Douglas Florian
  • Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
  • If Animals Kissed Goodnight by Ann Whitford Paul

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about animals:

• Head on over to National Geographic Kids to study all of the animals we have learned about this week at camp!

Fingerprint Forensics (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will begin to flex their investigative muscles by investigating a “crime scene”.  They will practice and compare fingerprint lifting methods such as black powder fingerprinting and alternative light source fluorescence!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the process of investigating a crime scene or mystery.  They will learn about the protocols forensic investigators use to find fingerprints at a crime scene;  examining them and using them as evidence.

Chromatography Clues (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be exploring the world of forensic chemistry and botany with a process called chromatography; classifying chemical makeup of materials by the colors they produce under given conditions. They will be using this process to identify ink and plant materials to solve a mystery.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning more about STEM careers in forensics, such as chemists or botanists. They will also learn different techniques and applications for chromatography and about the identity of some common color molecules.

Genetic Mysteries (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be diving into the world of genetics! They will build a pocket cell,  sort nucleotides like a ribosome and perform a DNA extraction.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the foundations of genetics such as DNA structure, nucleotide pairing, and how basic genes are coded.  They will also learn the procedure for DNA extraction and how forensic scientists can use DNA at crime scenes.

GPS Scavenger Hunt (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be exploring forensic geography and mapping with GPS!  They will use GPS coordinates and triangulation to map out an area and solve clues.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the global positioning system (GPS) technology and how to use it. They will also learn how it can be used in conjunction with techniques like triangulation to plot out a crime scene or mystery in space.

Technological Investigation (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be building their own lie detector using a breadboard, circuit components and electrodes. They will also develop a question set to use their lie detector and practice reading the results!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how lie detectors work;  including what they are measuring and how. They will also learn about the psychology of lying and how lie detectors can be used to solve crimes, as well as the limitations of the technology.

Here are some cool videos:

• Luminol is a chemical that glows in the presence of some other chemicals or bodily fluids.  It can be a helpful tool for making the unseen visible at a crime scene or mystery. Check out some cool experiments with glowing luminol!
• Interested in a career in forensics? Take a look at the day to day life of a forensic science technician here.

Here are some cool books:

• Check out this resource full of forensic science activities you can do at home!
• Don’t let the picture book format fool you.  This book describes the experiments of Gregor Mendel, a friar who is often called the “father of genetics” for his experiments with pea plants.  To this day, traits that are dominant or recessive (like the types and colors of Mendel’s peas) are called Mendelian genes!

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about Forensics:

• Now that you are a base-pairing master, test your skills in real time!  This website allows you to pair bases and tells you how fast or slow you are compared to what is happening in our cells all the time.  Are you as rapid as a ribosome?
• **Note: this experiment requires parental supervision!** Want to explore another forensic fingerprinting technique?  Investigators will use super glue vapor (cyanoacrylate) to make fingerprints raised and visible.  This experiment can be done at home with some super glue, but pay attention to safety! It is best to wear a mask and some goggles to protect yourself from the fumes and conduct this experiment in a well-ventilated area.

Dinosaurs and Paleontology (Pre-K – K)

Dino Discovery campers will be exploring what a dinosaur is and how scientists discovered them. Campers will be creating an inflatable dinosaur and become junior paleontologists as they dig for fossils!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the era in which dinosaurs roamed the Earth. They will learn about the differences between a dinosaur, a reptile, a bird, and a mammal, as well as classifications given to some of their favorite dinosaurs. Campers will also be learning about paleontology as they see how fossils of dinosaurs were discovered, where they were found, and the impact they had on shaping the history of the Earth.

Habitat and Diet (Pre-K – K)

Campers will put together a sensory bottle that they can use to explore a dinosaur’s habitat. Later on, campers will collaborate to put together a class habitat. They will also look into the differences between a carnivore, omnivore and herbivore as they do a simple and fun food sort!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about habitats. They will learn where dinosaurs lived and what they needed to survive. Then, campers will learn about a dinosaur’s diet. They will also study carnivores, herbivores and omnivores to discover their similarities and differences.

Dinosaur Eggs and Nests (Pre-K – K)

Our EDMO Junior dino enthusiasts will be exploring outside and creating a dino nest! Later on, they’ll be creating their very own dino eggs and decorating them for their nest. Finally, campers will be participating in a dino egg hunt with the help of our EDMO Pro campers.  

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about dinosaur eggs and how scientists have used eggs to learn more about dinosaurs, their habitats, and their nests. Campers will be learning how to create their own dinosaur nests and interesting facts about where dino eggs were found, how many eggs can come from one dinosaur and how they compare to other animals in the time of dinosaurs.

How Big were Dinosaurs? (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be looking at how big these prehistoric creatures used to be. Here’s a hint, some of them were gigantic! Campers will be measuring and creating their own dinosaur tooth, sketching out a dinosaur footprint and comparing themselves to the actual size of some of our dino friends!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the sizes of some of the largest dinosaurs that existed in the world. They will be using different measuring tools to gain some perspective as to how big they were compared to an EDMO Junior camper! Campers will then learn how big a T-Rex tooth was, measure out the approximate size of the T-Rex foot and compare it to their camp-mates!

Dinosaur Descendants (Pre-K – K)

Finally, our Dino Discovery amateur paleontologists will be crafting some of the animals that are descendants of dinosaurs! They will cover a t-rex with feathers and discover what animal it looks like that lives today. Later on, campers will be exploring another dino descendant, the crocodile!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the living descendants of dinosaurs. They will be gaining a basic understanding of evolution and exploring some of the similarities that dinosaurs share with modern day animals. Campers will also learn about the two main classes of dinosaur descendants living today; birds and reptiles.

Here are some cool videos:

• Learn more with National Geo kids as they explore the world when dinosaurs roamed!

Here are some cool books:

• If your camper is still craving some interactive stories and tales about dinosaurs, check out some of our favorite dinosaur books for purchase or find them at your local library!
  • The Berenstain Bears’ Dinosaur Dig by Jan and Mike Berenstain
  • How to Grow a Dinosaur by Jill Esbaum
  • Dinosaur Zoom by Penny Dale

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about Dinosaurs:

• Head over to the Smithsonian website to read more about the living descendants of dinosaurs!
• Take a look at Duckster’s Education site to read up on some fun facts of your camper’s favorite dinosaur!

Smell (Pre-K – K)

Our EDMO Junior campers will be training to become Super Spies this week! On our first day of super spy training,  campers will be using their sense of smell to identify items in a mystery bag. Later on, campers will be uncovering secret codes and playing detective as they begin their journey to enhance their spy skills!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the sense of smell as they discover how the olfactory system has millions of receptors and is able to distinguish over 10,000 smells! Later, campers will learn how a smell can trigger a memory, alert us of danger or make food taste better!

Sight (Pre-K – K)

Our Super Spies will be working hard to craft together some beaming binoculars to help them see from far away. Campers will also be creating disguises to mask their identity and see who can become the most elusive spy on campus!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the sense of vision. They will learn all about how the eye works and how it registers light and sends messages to the brain to let us know what we are seeing. Additionally, they’ll learn about optical illusions as they create some of their spy disguises. Finally, our Super Spies will be learning fun facts about how the brain can be tricked into seeing an optical illusion by creating specific patterns!

Touch (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be going on a hunt to find specific materials at camp and will rely heavily on their sense of touch to collect these items. Campers will be uncovering secret messages and using their detective skills to find out more about the mysterious Pro campers at EDMO.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the sense of touch. They will learn how the sense of touch is controlled by a network of nerve endings that allow us to feel cold, hot, smooth, rough, fluffy, or slimy sensations. Later on, campers will be learning about the human skin and how the many nerve endings on the surface of our skin allow us to gather information about the world around us!

Hearing (Pre-K – K)

Junior spies will be enhancing their skills by creating gadgets that will mask the sound of their voice. Campers will be communicating from long distances as they also create their own spy phone to use with a friend at camp!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the human sense of hearing and how it helps us communicate and can alert us to danger in our surroundings. Afterwards, campers will be looking at the basic anatomy of the ear and how it helps us with equilibrium and balance.

Taste (Pre-K – K)

Lastly, our Super Spies will put all of their spy training together and test themselves by completing an in class yarn obstacle course! To congratulate them in finishing their course, campers will receive a special EDMO JUNIOR SUPER SPY ID and participate in the ultimate test – Food Fear Factor!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to work collaboratively with a group to design and build an obstacle course. Later on, campers will be learning about the sense of taste. Specifically, they will study how we use our tongue to taste things and how the tongue uses taste buds, also called sensor cells, to determine the type of food. Sensor cells send taste signals back to our brains to interpret what we’re eating! Finally, campers will be recapping what they have learned about this week. They will be revisiting the five senses and relating this to the parts of the body that help us recognize and learn about our surroundings.

Here are some cool videos:

• Check out this video by WhatsUpMoms, where kids practice and make some fun spy gear at home!

Here are some cool books:

• If your camper is fascinated by all things spy, check out these awesome books about kid spies and their adventures at your local library or purchase them online!
  • Spy Guy: The Not-So-Secret Agent by Jessica Young
  • Nate the Great by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about spies:

• Head on over to the Coffee Cups and Crayons blog for some fun spy activities to do with your camper at home!
• Go to PBS Kids to play these fun detective and spy games!
  • Spy School Games
  • CSI: Squeak Sneak

Properties and States of Matter (Pre-K – K)

At the start of the week, campers will be exploring and discovering the properties of various mystery materials as they try to describe “What’s in the Bag?” Campers will also be digging into some sensory play as they make and play with oobleck, a super cool non-newtonian fluid!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about different materials that are commonly found in our world such as rock, wood, metals, and fabric. They will also be learning how to describe the material’s properties. Is the material soft, rough, big or small? What color is the material? Campers will also be learning about the common states of matter – solids, liquids and gases. Finally, they will be exploring some of the more uncommon states of matter such as non-newtonian fluids and plasma.

Rock and their Properties (Pre-K – K)

Sensory Scientists’ campers will be exploring different types of rocks and sand, trying to identify what state of matter they are in, and how these materials are used in our everyday lives. Later on, campers will be making kinetic sand and observing and describing its’ properties!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the properties of different types of rocks. They will study their texture, color and size and learn how to use their sense of sight to describe objects with scientific detail. Campers will also be learning how useful rocks are in the construction of building materials that humans use to build various structures and infrastructure like homes, skyscrapers and roads. Afterwards, campers will be learning how to use types of rock to create some kinetic sand. Campers will revisit the states of matter as they create a type of sand that is not completely solid, but creates a non-newtonian fluid.

Wood and its Properties (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be collecting wood and sticks to test their strength and see how different kinds of wood react to water! Campers will also be doing some woodworking and will have the help of a Pro camper to aid them as they create a structure made entirely of wood!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the properties of wood and how to test its durability, as well as how it reacts to water. They’ll also learn to identify the different ways that wood is used in our day to day lives. Additionally, campers will discover how to create a wood structure and the value of reusable materials. Lastly, campers will see how materials like wood are repeatedly used and replaced naturally.

Fabric and its Properties (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be exploring different properties of fabric by cutting, playing, coloring, and wetting different varieties of this very versatile material! Later on, campers will be working with baby wipes to create their own tie-dye designs and create a mini pillow!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about fabric and the different ways people have used it in the past, as well as in modern times. Campers will learn how to stretch, manipulate and craft with fabric. Campers will also learn about primary and secondary colors, as they create their tie-dye designs. Finally, campers will explore the concept of absorbency and see how some fabrics are able to absorb liquids while others are not.

Metals and Magnetism (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be exploring metals as they use magnetism to mine for metals and create a piece of art! Afterwards, campers will be deepening their knowledge of magnets and electromagnetism as they create some electromagnetic slime!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about forces as they explore magnets, electromagnetism and metals. They will learn about magnetic fields and their ability to attract different metals. Additionally, campers will be learning about north and south poles as they create a magnetic non-newtonian fluid, electromagnetic slime. Finally, they will see how magnets can attract or repel, depending on what poles are facing each other.

Here are some cool videos:

• If you would like to reinforce some of what your camper has learned at camp this week, check out Douggie and Elena as they explore their house for different materials and their properties! Learn Basic Materials and Properties

• Join Crash Course Kids to get a reminder of the science behind materials, and the way scientists describe their properties! Material World – Crash Course Kids

Here are some cool books:

• If your camper is looking for exciting books that talk about different materials, look through some of our favorites to purchase or find them at your local library!
  • Everyday Materials –  Peter Riley
  • Bartholomew and the Oobleck – Dr. Seuss
  • If you find a Rock – Peggy Christian

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about science:

• Head over to The School Run to get a refresher on what we learned this week. This website will also suggest some activities, videos and books about materials!  The School Run – What are Materials?

Coniferous vs. Deciduous (Pre-K – K)

Our EDMO Junior campers will be kicking off Trees & Me by heading outside and observing the trees around them! Campers will be sketching, measuring and painting different parts of trees as they learn about their significance and beauty.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about coniferous and deciduous trees and what distinguishes them. They will learn how these trees change during the seasons, what kind of seeds they produce, and how their leaves differ. Campers will also be learning about the different kinds of trees that can be identified as coniferous or deciduous in their local camp environment.

Parts of a Tree (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be collecting different parts of a tree to create a wonderfully natural painting! They will also discover how old a tree is by looking at the features of the tree trunk. Campers will even be creating a large tree craft for their classroom!  

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning that a tree is a living thing. They will explore the different parts of a tree and how they provide food and nutrients. They will also be exploring the life cycle of a tree and discovering how a tree grows. Finally, campers will be learning how to identify how old a tree is by examining features of its trunk.

Leaves and Fruit (Pre-K – K)

Our Junior arborists will be creating tree sculptures and studying some of their favorite fruits! Campers will also be heading outside and looking at how different trees produce different styles of leaves. Lastly, they ’ll be collecting some leaves to take back into the classroom for examination.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning that once a tree is full grown, they are able to produce fruit, seeds and nuts. Campers will be learning about the different fruits that a tree can produce.  Later, campers will be learning about the different kinds of leaves found on trees. They will also learn about tree’s different properties, and how they are essential for gathering sunlight for photosynthesis.

Seasonal Changes of Trees (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be learning about the seasons as they perform a pine cone weather experiment. Later on, campers will be finger painting trees and choosing colors for their artwork based on the seasons that are being represented!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning all about the seasons and their effect on trees. Campers will learn that we experience seasons because of the Earth’s movement around the sun and that trees experience this too! The amount of sunlight that we receive during these seasons directly impacts the way a tree looks! Campers will also learn that pine cones change depending on the season and that their features change depending on the weather!

Trees as Homes (Pre-K – K)

On our last day of Trees & Me, campers will be creating their very own bird feeder to take home! They will also be making tree pathways for squirrels to get from one place to another!

What We’re Learning

For their last day of Trees & Me, campers will be learning about trees as habitats. Campers will be looking at the diversity of animals that make a tree their home! Campers will also learn that trees can be homes to animals and humans and that trees have provided humans with building materials for homes, furniture and more.

Here are some cool videos:

• Continue to learn about the seeds of Trees by watching this fascinating time-lapse video of an acorn turning into an oak over an 8-month period.
• Check out this awesome video with Crash Course Kids as they explore how vegetation transforms and dive deeper into some of the topics covered this week.

Here are some cool books:

• Click here to check out Janice May Udry’s book A Tree is Nice. It shows wonderful illustrations and tells us about all of the nice things a tree provides for us. It also encourages young campers to plant their very own trees!
• Branch out and read about all kinds of different trees that we might not have covered this week. Pick up this book Tell Me, Tree: All About Trees for Kids by Gail Gibbons at your local library or click here to purchase.

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about nature:

• Head on over to PBS kids to learn more about different activities to do at home and watch an educational video!
• Check out National Geographic Kids and their helpful field guide on Trees!

Colors and Painting (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be kicking off this week of Amazing Artists by taking an artwork by Piet Mondrian and recreating it using primary colors and distinct lines on paper. Later on, campers will be using different shapes to stamp together a painting that mimics the work of Sonia Delaunay.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be studying basic color theory, identifying and using primary and secondary colors as they try to complete their art projects. Additionally, campers will be learning about the artist Piet Mondrian and his influence in the art community. Finally, campers will be learning about Sonia Delaunay and her use of shapes and colors that landed her artwork in the Louvre.

Shapes and Collage (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be cutting different shapes and putting them together to create a Matisse-like collage. Later on, campers will continue using shapes and stickers and work as a team to form their own obliteration room to emulate Kasuma’s artwork!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about shapes and how to layer them to create collages. Campers will also be learning about the French artist Henri Matisse and the way he used color and shapes to develop a picture.

Lastly, campers will be learning about Japanese artist Yayoi Kasuma. Acknowledged as one of the most significant living artists of Japan, campers will discover how her installations have become some of the most well known around the world.

Popular Artworks (Pre-K – K)

Campers will be practicing some street art as they spray paint some Banksy inspired artwork! Later, campers will be creating pops of color as they recreate some works done by Andy Warhol. Lastly, campers will be working with our EDMO Pro campers to create a strumming instrument!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about street art and its meaning in pop culture. They will be looking at street art made popular by Banksy, and seeing how it is found throughout neighborhoods and cities around the world. Additionally, campers will be learning about Andy Warhol and what inspired him to create what is called pop art! Campers will also be learning a little bit about performance art, as they put together a strumming instrument with the help of our EDMO Pro campers.

Sculpture (Pre-K – K)

Campers will take shapes and hangers to create a mobile sculpture inspired by Alexander Calder. Later on, campers will be creating some colorful sculptures while putting together a piece that will resemble that of Chihuly’s famous glass sculptures.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about sculpture as a branch of visual art. They will be learning about the diversity of mediums that can be used to make stunning sculptures. Campers will also be learning about Alexander Calder, his work with shapes and colors, and the balance of his sculptures. Finally, they will explore the artist Chihuly and his work with blown glass.

Architecture (Pre-K – K)

Our Amazing Artists will be looking at art in architecture as they recreate some of the beautiful pieces designed by Antoni Gaudi. Later, campers will be able to create an edible architectural masterpiece as they try to make the lattice structure named after Gustave Eiffel!  

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about architect Antoni Gaudi and how his innovative building design has inspired art in architecture around the world. Additionally, campers will be learning about Gustave Eiffel and how his team was able to build the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Here are some cool videos:

• Subscribe to the Art for Kids Hub and your camper can join in on some fun art lessons!
• Join Ashley Krieger and her kids as they learn about artists and recreate some fun artwork!

Here are some cool books:

• A week is not enough to cover the array of fantastic artists that exist. Take a look at some fun books that give insight into some artists that were not covered this week!
  • 13 Artists Children Should Know by Angela Wenzel
  • Diego Rivera: His World and Ours by Duncan Tonatiuh
  • Dorothea’s Eyes by Barb Rosenstock

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about art:

• Stay in the know and check out what is being offered and an exhibition at the art museums in San Francisco and Sacramento. Check out the activities they have available for kids:
  • SFMOMA: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
  • Children’s Creativity Museum
  • Crocker Museum – Activities for Kids
• Learn more about process art with the Merry Cherry blog!

Molecular Gastronomy 101 (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be exploring simple ways to change base ingredients.  They will begin by making their own sourdough starter, which they will take home at the end of the week. Later on, they’ll also be testing different flavor and texture combinations.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the molecules and macronutrients that give our food flavor and texture. They will also learn about the basis of molecular gastronomy; bringing familiar flavors together in new ways and with new textures.

Infusions, Diffusion and Osmosis (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be trying different techniques for modifying ingredients such as infusing simple syrups and brining vegetables. Then, they will use yeast to ferment and leaven dough.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the chemistry of solutions, the processes of diffusion and osmosis, and how we use these processes to change common ingredients into the foods we eat. They will also explore the concept of fermentation and how that process came to be.

Mixing Things Up (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be practicing techniques to mix, thicken and change liquids. They will practice using colloid and hydrocolloid thickeners to make gravy and pesto, emulsify eggs into aioli and disrupt the protein matrix of milk to churn butter!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the concepts of suspension, emulsions and thickeners. They will also explore the various constituent materials that make up familiar foods and the techniques we use to change them.

Xanthan Gum Xperiments (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be exploring xanthan gum, a thickening agent that creates thick sauces, flavorful fluid gels and fun foams. They will then experiment with this strange substance to create molecular gastronomy masterpieces!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring how the processes of aeration and thickening are linked. They will learn about the structure of xanthan gum and other thickeners, and the ways they can be used in modernist cooking. They will also have an opportunity to practice scientific experimentation to achieve the results they want.

Molecular Masterpieces (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be making frozen ice cream and discussing the process of change of state. They will then be creating fruity, popping spheres with edible chemistry!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the molecular changes associated with the change in state that turns cream into ice cream. They will also be discussing substitution reactions and using them to make popping bubbles.

Videos

• Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat is a fabulous primer on the chemical, cultural and taste properties of these four elements of cooking – and Samin Nosrat is based right here in the Bay Area!  Check out the four-episode series on Netflix or watch the trailer here.
• Heston Blumenthal, head chef at The Fat Duck in London, talks about his experience as a chef and why he uses molecular gastronomy in his restaurant.  Check out the interview here to hear what he has to say and see some of the innovative dishes that he has created!

Books

• The Flavor Matrix is all about making exciting food pairings.  Get it online here or check it out from your local library to continue the gastronomical experimentations!
• Amazing Kitchen Chemistry Projects You Can Build Yourself is a great resource for chemistry projects you can do at home. Get it from Amazon here or check it out from your local library.

Web Resources

• Want to experiment more with the change of state?  Make fruit into powder to sprinkle on your foods!  Find a recipe here or invent your own technique.
• A molecular recipe is a great resource for free recipes and techniques to use to continue your exploration of molecular gastronomy. Check out their website here.

Intro to Physics + Brainstorming (5th – 8th Grade)

DIY Derby campers will be getting an introduction to the physics concepts they’ll be using in the design of their derby racer. Campers will be participating in design challenges where they will look at how to design objects aerodynamically, as well as study the effects of gravity. Campers will then engage in a class brainstorming activity and play games designed to activate creative thinking in a group setting.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning introductory physics concepts related to motion; such as kinetic vs. potential energy, gravity, aerodynamics, drag, friction, and velocity. Campers will also learn how to collaborate creatively and brainstorm ideas for their derby racer.

Design and Build Derby  (5th – 8th Grade)

Our young designers will be getting a crash course in the safe handling and usage of the tools they’ll use to create their derby racer. Campers will participate in a demonstration of how to properly use tools and then will practice using them to ensure best practices when handling any potentially dangerous items. Campers will also sketch a design of their racer and then begin building the body of their cars.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning the proper safety techniques and protocols for using hand tools and power tools such as hand saws, screwdrivers, dremels, wood rasps, electric drills, impact drivers, and jigsaws. Campers will also learn how engineers and carpenters sketch designs for their work and how to take that sketch and turn it into a 3D model.

Test + Redesign (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be putting their cars through various tests and collecting information from the process. Using a simple ramp that will be designed by camper groups, campers will test various iterations of their designs and collect information about their car’s speed and velocity, its friction potential and its aerodynamic qualities. Campers will then be using the information they obtain in these tests to redesign their car to be faster, reduce friction and become more aerodynamic.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how scientists and engineers use testing of models, experiments, or prototypes to collect information they need to see if something works in the way it was intended. Campers will learn how to measure their racers speed and velocity as well as its kinetic friction coefficient. Campers will also learn how to interpret the data they collect and then redesign their model or prototype to include what they learned from their tests.

Build Test Track  (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be collaborating as a class to design and build the test track they will use in their final derby race! Using the woodworking and carpentry skills they learned earlier in the week, campers will use various types of wood and cardboard to construct a test track for their racers. After the track is complete, campers will be able to continue building and painting their derby cars.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how to collaborate on a design and build in a large group, much like engineers. Campers will learn how to use each other’s ideas, support one another and work towards a collective goal. Finally, campers will learn how to work with various wood types and sizes, as well as how to measure and cut and construct a 3D model of a design.

The EDMO Derby (5th – 8th Grade)

Our young DIY Derby race enthusiasts will be putting their creations to the test in our grand finale, the EDMO Derby! Campers will be working diligently to finish up any last parts of their derby racers and their track to prepare for the big race. Once everything is finished, campers will compete in our EDMO Derby to see which camper designed and built the fastest, most aerodynamic car. Finally, campers will have the chance to showcase their designs and give their racemates appreciation for a job well done!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning how the final stages of the engineering design process works and how to talk about their projects in a group setting. They’ll learn how engineers and inventors showcase their designs to their peers. Finally, campers will learn how to give and receive positive feedback in an engineering plussing session.

Here are some cool videos:

• Continue honing your carpentry skills at home by making a box courtesy of this video by Lowe’s!
• Check out these awesome tips and tricks for designing and building a super fast pinewood derby racer!

Here are some cool books:

• Looking to enhance your knowledge on how to build a derby racer? Head on over to your local library or purchase these books for beginning derby enthusiasts or expert artisans!
  • Getting Started in Pinewood Derby by Troy Thorne
  • Building the Fastest Pinewood Derby Car by Troy Thorne
  • Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets by David Meade
• Can’t get enough of working with wood? Here are some books on carpentry and woodworking to satisfy your appetite!
  • Easy Carpentry Projects for Kids by Jerome E. Leavitt
  • The Kids’ Building Workshop by Craig and Barbara Robertson

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about derby racing:

• In the world of derby racing, you can never uncover enough tips about how to make the fastest car possible. Check out these websites for some expert tips on how to create the most aerodynamic racer ever!
  • An excellent resource for those beginners looking to get started building derby racers at home!
  • Looking to take your derby car to the next level? Check out these awesome resources to help you blow past your competition.
• Interested in moving beyond making a derby racer? Check out these awesome resources on carpentry and woodworking for kids!
  • Get your hands on family-friendly DIY woodworking projects. Check out this awesome resource for all things wood!
  • Continue practicing and sharpening your skills with woodworking and carpentry tools by heading on over to finewoodworking.com

Abiotic Systems (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be beginning the week by investigating the abiotic, or nonliving, systems that inform the ecology of the parks and the world!  They will be building a model of a stream table to explore the process of erosion and then set up an experiment to visualize air pollution in our parks and cities.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the process of erosion in watersheds and how rivers are formed.  They will also be learning about which erosion patterns can be found in the parks and how to spot them.  They will also be learning about air pollution, including how it is formed, what it is made of, and how we can lessen it.

Plants and Fungi (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be exploring plant systems.  First, they will be setting up plots and exploring plant diversity.  Then, they will be experimenting with evapotranspiration.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the impact of disturbance on plant diversity and how ecologists use diversity as a metric of habitat health.  They will also practice setting up a research plot, identifying plants and creating accurate maps.

Invisible Invertebrates (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be returning to their research plots to investigate the arthropods present in each plant community.  Campers will then use maker materials such as pvc pipe, egg cartons and cardboard to engineer habitats for various arthropods!  They’ll also be monitoring habitats to see which arthropods prefer each environment. They may even identify some niche specialists.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about invertebrate diversity in the parks and how it correlates to plant diversity.  They will also be learning how to find and identify invertebrates and some of the many roles they play in the ecosystem.

Reptiles, Birds, and Mammals – Oh My! (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be modeling predator/prey interactions in the parks and interpreting the results graphically.  They will also be inventing and building an animal to survive in the park ecosystem.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about carrying capacity and predator/prey interactions.  They will also be discussing evolution and adaptation and using these concepts to invent an animal to thrive in human-generated or impacted ecosystems.

How Can We Help? (5th – 8th Grade)

Campers will be playing a game to illustrate the concept of “tragedy of the commons”.  They will then be using what they have learned this week and working with a partner to invent something to help lessen the human impact on some aspect of the ecosystem.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be exploring aspects of social psychology and how that can inform the way we interact with the environment. Campers will also be revisiting many of the ecological concepts they’ve learned throughout the week. They’ll also be learning about some existing solutions to environmental concerns and have the opportunity to create their own solutions.

Here are some cool videos:

• One of the best ways for scientists to learn more about climate change is to study ice cores in Antarctica.  Learn more about the process with this video from the National History Museum of the UK. Watch it here.
• The California Academy of Sciences has a Science Video Vault full of amazing resources about ecosystems, human impact and climate. These videos are easy to follow and cover a wide range of subjects. Explore them here.

Here are some cool books:

• The Wondrous Workings of Planet Earth: Understanding Our World and Its Ecosystems by Rachel Ignotofsky is a beautifully illustrated exploration of the ecosystems of the world.  Buy it here or check it out from your local library!
• Check out Scholastic’s The Restless Sea series by Carole Garbuny Vogel for more information about the ecology of the ocean and our relationship to it.  Find the Human Impact installment here or check it out from your local library!

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about Nature:

• Do you want to continue exploring abiotic earth systems?  Download Google Earth online here and use it to see the different shapes of river systems, mountain ranges and island archipelagos. Many scientists also publish data sets that you can upload to Google Earth to see volcanic eruptions (data set can be found here), snow and ice data from the Arctic and Antarctic (data set can be found here), or even the 1868 earthquake on the Bay Area’s Hayward Fault (data set can be found here).  What else can you use this amazing tool to see?
• One of the easiest ways to visualize predator/prey interactions over a long period of time is with simulations. Check out the rabbits and wolves simulation from Shodor here to explore how forest size and shape affect predator and prey population size, as well as vegetation. It can be a little tricky to navigate, so grab an adult and check out the “learner” and “help” tabs for more information on how to use the simulation and interpret the results.

Amazing Atoms (1st – 2nd Grade)

In this exciting theme, campers will be creating their own delicious model of an atom using candy! They’ll also create a mysterious, non-newtonian fluid called oobleck.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the structure of atoms and how different elements have different properties.  They’ll also learn about states of matter and how atoms and molecules act in each state.

Mysterious Matter (3rd – 4th Grade) 

Campers will be making a mysterious, moldable substance called oobleck. They will also set up an experiment to determine the identity of an unknown, crystalline chemical that they will have opportunities to observe throughout the week.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about states of matter and how atoms and molecules act in each state.  They will also learn how to design an experiment to test a hypothesis, and how scientists use chemistry techniques to identify chemicals.

Art and Science Collide! (1st – 4th Grade) 

Campers will be exploring some of the beautiful products of chemical reactions by making their own chemistry art! They will also be painting with acid-base explosions and sculpting with tiny crystals to create one-of-a-kind pieces.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be continuing their exploration of states of matter to learn about dissolution and evaporation.  Then they will explore acid-base reactions and learn how they can create gas as a product!

Erupting Fun (1st- 2nd Grade)

Campers will be exploring physical reactions.  First, they will conduct a series of classic (and explosive) experiments with mentos and soda! Then, they will build their own thermometers out of bottles and balloons.

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about different types of physical reactions and how they work! They will also learn about the concept of pressure as it relates to states of matter and temperature.

Rainbow Reactions (3rd-4th Grade)

Campers will be continuing their exploration of acid-base reactions with an important chemistry tool, an indicator!  Indicators help chemists see how acidic or basic a chemical is by the colors they turn. They will also be harnessing the power of physical reactions to build a thermometer out of bottles and balloons!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about acid-base indicators and why they are important for chemists.  They will also be learning about physical changes in water and how temperature affects how it acts.

Exploring Energy (1st- 2nd Grade)

Campers will be exploring energy with exothermic and endothermic experiments! Afterwards, they’ll create electromagnetic slime!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about different kinds of energy: chemical, heat and electric!  They will also learn about endothermic (heat-taking) and exothermic (heat-making) reactions.  

Exploring Energy (3rd-4th Grade)

Campers will be exploring chemical energy with a series of exothermic and endothermic experiments.  Through this process, they’ll discover the effects of potential energy and make their own super bounce balls!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about the power of kinetic and potential energy.  They will also learn about endothermic (heat-taking) and exothermic (heat-making) reactions.

Radical Redox (1st- 2nd Grade)

Campers will be experimenting with electricity!  They’ll be exploring the power of redox reactions to turn chemical energy into electrical energy, and building silly, simple circuits with a pickle.  Then they will create their own conductive dough to build circuits they can bring home!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about reduction/oxidation (AKA redox) reactions and how they power batteries and send electrons whizzing through circuits!  Campers will also be learning how to build a circuit to power an LED.

Radical Redox (3rd-4th Grade)

Campers will be experimenting with electricity!  They will explore the power of redox reactions to turn chemical energy into electrical energy, and build silly, simple circuits with a pickle.  Then they will learn the identity of their mystery crystals, and have a sweet treat to take home!

What We’re Learning

Campers will be learning about reduction/oxidation (AKA redox) reactions and how they power batteries and send electrons whizzing through circuits!  Campers will also be learning how to build a circuit to power an LED.

Here are some cool videos:

• We use chemistry every day, in our kitchens! Check out this catchy tune from PBS kids to learn how. 
• Ever wonder how fireworks are made?  All the beautiful colors they produce are the result of chemistry! Check out this video from Science Kids to learn all about them. (Note: don’t try this at home!)
• Each element has a unique structure and set of properties.  Follow one man’s journey to explore and experience atoms in “Hunting the Elements” on PBS.

Here are some cool books:

• Interested in learning more about the elements?  Check out Amber’s Atoms: The First Ten Elements of the Periodic Table and follow a dog named Amber as she investigates the elements from hydrogen to neon! Buy it on Amazon or check it out from your local library.
• If you’re ready to turn your home into a chemistry lab, find a grown up and take a peek at The Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments to continue the exploration together!  This guide features hundreds of experiments to learn even more about chemistry.  You can find this book online or check it out from your local library.

Here are some cool places to see and learn more about chemistry:

• Explore the crazy properties of non-newtonian substances with dancing oobleck! Check out the instructions here and prepare to get messy!
• Want to explore density and viscosity?  Harness the properties of household liquids to make a rainbow in a jar! Instructions can be found here.

To capture both on-screen and real-life footage, we’ll be using a free video capturing software called OBS Studio, available at obsproject.com.

Campers can continue creating and editing videos at home by downloading Lightworks, available for free at www.lwks.com.

For a quick refresher on setting up OBS Studio, the video capture software used in this course, check out this tutorial video:

Be sure to check out the oldest known cat video!

Check out the YouTube channels for some of your favorite creators, and pay close attention to what they’re doing and how they’re doing it. How long are their videos? How often do they upload? What kinds of editing techniques do they use? Get inspired for your own channel!

When planning videos for your channel, it’s helpful to use a storyboard to sketch rough ideas for each shot, and take notes on what you want to say. Here’s a link to a storyboard template you can use.

Jokes:

Q: What is a YouTuber’s favorite Battleship piece?

A: The sub!

Q: What was the most popular dessert at YouTube’s Thanksgiving dinner?

A: PewDiePie!

Q: Where do YouTubers go fishing?

A: A live stream!

Trivia:

Roughly 300 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute.

The oldest video of cats on YouTube dates from 1894.

On average, between 40 and 60 YouTube channels hit the 100,000 subscriber milestone each day.

Still curious about how musical instruments work? Check out this page from Ducksters that explains the science behind pianos, brass instruments, violins, and more!

Listen to some out of this world music! These sounds were recorded from space by NASA and come from stars, planets, gases, and more! Listen to them on NASA’s website here.

Check out DK Find Out for explanations of the science of sound including waves, volume, echoes, and more!

You can make instruments out of anything! Check out the Viennese Vegetable Orchestra’s amazing, edible instruments here:

Want to make music at home? Check out virtualpiano.net for a piano you can play with your keyboard as well as sheet music and resources to learn how to play.

Build your own Chladni plate to help visualize sound waves with salt! Instructions (and some cool video demos!) can be found here.

Make “secret bells” only you can hear! Check out this tutorial from the Exploratorium.

Jokes:

Q: Why is slippery ice like music?

A: If you don’t C sharp – you’ll B flat!

Q: Why did the chicken join the band?

A: He had the drumsticks!

Q: Why do pirates make great singers?

A: They can hit the high Cs!

Trivia:

The oldest identified musical instrument was a flute made out of bone over 42,000 years ago!

One of the largest musical instruments in the world is the earth harp. Its strings can be almost 1,000 feet long and stretch across buildings or valleys and it makes a sound like a violin!

The world’s smallest instrument is the nano-harp. It was made in a lab at Cornell University and, though it works, its tiny (50 nanometer) strings produce a sound too high pitched for our ears to hear. Even dogs can’t hear the nano-harp!

Campers have learned about the materials that they can find on our planet, listed below are some sites that can deepen their knowledge about some of the common materials we’ve learned about!

Check out Nation Geographic for some awesome information about rocks and geology!

Check out the Exploratorium for more information on materials and activities!

Continue testing and studying materials at home with these awesome activities!

Explore National Geographic for a  fun experiment with limestone rocks!

Science Sparks has a lot of great activities for testing the properties of different materials!

Jokes:

Q: What is a rock’s favorite cereal to eat?

A: Coco- Pebbles!

Q: What can run but can not walk?

A: Water!

Q: How do scientists freshen the breaths?

A: With experi-mints!

Q: How do you make a tissue dance?

A: You put a little boogie in it!

Trivia:

Wood, in the form of charcoal, was the first artistic medium. An example of cave art, using charred wood, at Rouffignac in France dates dates back 13,000 years.

The lightest rock is pumice, so light that it can float on water. There is a pumice island or raft floating on the ocean near Tonga. This happened after a volcanic eruption occurred in Tonga in 2006.

Silk, the “Queen of the Fibers,” is produced by silkworms. The silkworm is not really a worm at all; it is a caterpillar that spins a protective cocoon for use as a shelter while it changes from a caterpillar into a moth. This cocoon is the source of commercial silk.