Class Descriptions



Summer 2013
QC Sports and Education Program Class Descriptions
(Ages in parenthesis)

 

All Things Art (5-6) (9-10) (11-14)

Use your imagination to make amazing projects to display in your own home!  The supplies are endless…paint, Model Magic, charcoal, crafty molds, and much more to design your creations. NOTE: August (9-10) and (11-14) classes may assist in creating the scenery and costumes for the Queens College

Animal Habitat (7-8)

Join us as we learn all about the metamorphosis of a tadpole into a frog and a caterpillar into a butterfly.  We will study ladybugs, hermit crabs, ants, and many other creatures.  Use stories, facts, and crafts to create a journal about these amazing animal transformations.  Note:  Animals being studies vary each summer.

Animals all Around (5-6)

Join the safari and explore animals through literature, movies, music, and art.

Architecture from Design to Construction (9-10) (11-14)

Learn the past, present, and future of New York buildings, skyscrapers and bridges.  Explore the field of architecture through drafting, design and construction of model scale structures.  Come help us rebuild NYC!

Author Study (5-6)

Authors change each summer as each camper enters the world of literature, art projects, and writing.  Additional emphasis will be placed on reading comprehension skills through our daily read-alouds.

Book It!  (9-10) (11-14)

Choose from a menu of books to delve into.  Immerse yourself in character, setting and plots of varying difficulties. After reading, you will learn writing strategies that will help you analyze the stories.  Remember, reading is fundamental!

Bracelet and Lanyard Bonanza (9-10)

Discover your inner friendship by choosing from various colors and designs to make your own customized friendship bracelets.  You can give them to your friends or family.  Come get creative as we twist and tie our string into amazing bracelets.  Added bonus: Make lanyard creations to your heart’s content!!

Building Blocks of Reading (5-6) 

Explore letters and sounds!  Read books and tell stories!  We will use our knowledge of letters and sounds to make words, and then expand and build our comprehension skills through read-alouds and accountable talk.  More important, we will learn through the joy of reading.

Calling All Mathematicians (7-8) (9-10) (11-14) 

Take a fun-filled journey into the intriguing world of numbers.  Strengthen your math skills and develop new ones.  Explore numbers through patterns, puzzles, problem solving, and brainteasers.  NOTE: Test prep strategies will also be reviewed.

Can it be True? Realistic Fiction (7-8)

Explore realistic fiction while reading various books.  We will look at a diverse selection of authors and focus on the differences between non-fiction, fiction, and most importantly, realistic fiction.  Complete various projects connecting the stories read in class.

Clayworks and Crafts (9-10) (11-14)

Learn to work with molds and various tools.  Experiment with clay and glazes.  Learn how a kiln works to “fire” your special pieces.  Design and make decorative projects to take home.  NOTE:  This is a 4-week course. 

Computer:  Author! Author! (7–8)

You will use story starters and a variety of web sites to find inspiration. Then load up Microsoft Word to hone your craft.   Write stories, poems, articles, letters and more. All of your stories will be printed, many accompanied by your full-color illustrations. These will be collected in a portfolio that you can bring home at the end of the summer to wow your family and friends.

Computer:  Be a Computer Ace (7-8)

Sharpen your computer skills! In this class, you will learn fun ways to use the computer including applications for everyday life. You will learn to type faster through keyboarding, create attractive visual presentations in Microsoft Publisher, and produce beautiful digital artwork using various graphic-design software. Display your work and newfound computer skills to friends and family!

Computer:  Cinematography (9-10; 11-14)

Do you want to be the screenplay writer, star, director, editor and producer of your own movie?  In this class you will be given an opportunity to fulfill your big screen dreams.  You will create, shoot, edit, direct, produce and star in your own film using iMovie.  We supply the software and equipment; you supply the imagination.  You will take home a copy of the movie you created to share with family and friends.  Lights, Camera, Action: Cinematography!

Computer: Funamation (9-10; 11-14)

Have you ever thought about creating your own cartoon character or designing the background for an animated feature?  Join us in “Funamation” where you will use Adobe Flash software to create animated characters and learn the ins and outs of creating an animated film.  You will learn how to create motion and shape tweens to give your work a more sophisticated look.  Whether it’s a stick figure short film or a fully animated character sequence, your family and friends will be amazed with the work you bring home on CD.

Computer: Game Modding (9-10)

Are you tired of the same old video games?  In this course, you will learn “modding” (modification) of existing video games.  You will upgrade video games by adding new levels, redesigning or replacing characters and customizing game play through interactive modding tools.  You will add realistic sound effects and special animations.  This is a user-friendly, exciting, and challenging course.  Students will take home a free demo copy of the game-designing software so they can impress friends and family with the modified games.

Computer: Hot Shot Game Design (9-10) (11-14)    

 If you like being able to call the shots, then you will definitely love this course.  You will create an original 3D game using tools and techniques designed to bring your imagination to life.  Choose from game elements which include teleports, vehicles, characters, sounds, special effects, cheat codes and more.  Students will use the Game Factory 2 software to create their own video games.  A CD which includes a free demo version of the software is included along with the games designed by YOU!

Computer: Imaginative Writers of Tomorrow (7-8)   

Who has something to say? Everybody! You will create new worlds in original short stories and poems, and take on the imaginative world of writing. Expand your imagination as you learn to express yourself creatively, correctly, and artistically through the use of today’s latest writing software.

Computer: Magic World of Multimedia (7-8)         

Using the suite of programs available in Microsoft Office, you will discover the magic of creating your own slide show.  You will learn how to add pictures, sounds, and animation in order to create amazing presentations. Students will take home their one of a kind slide show to share with family and friends.

Computer: Making a Scene (9-10; 11-14) 

What do ParaNorman, Coraline, Chicken Run, and James and the Giant Peach have in common? Stop-Motion Animation! Learn how to bring inanimate objects to life simply by taking photos of scenes you’ve created! You will make your own short movies by having Legos and other objects move through a series of photos to create a movie, scene by scene.  You will learn storyboarding, animation, and post-production procedure with your teammates.  Take home a CD of your production to share with family and friends.

Computer: Mathletics (7-8)

 Kick your math skills into high gear!  Students will use software and websites to help them strengthen their math skills, and improve their logical and strategic thinking through the use of puzzle games.  Every child will receive individualized attention and discover fun ways to use math. 

Computer: Robotics Design (9-10; 11-14)

Roll up your sleeves and start building your own robots!  You will use the NXT Robotics Design System to build and program robots.  You will work in teams and compete in exciting challenges including maneuvering through obstacle courses and competing in Sumo wrestling tournaments. You will love being the mastermind behind your very own robot!

Computer: Take Charge! (9-10) (11-14)            

In this course, be the master of games, with epic real-time strategic challenges, city-building simulations, and theme-park construction and management. Learn the difficult task of micromanaging a business or an army in time sensitive situations. Team up with a partner or take on these challenges alone. Campers will use razor-edge software such as Warcraft III, SimCity, Age of Empires, Rollercoaster Tycoon 3, Zoo Tycoon, and Civilization IV to master the techniques of being a leader. Do you have what it takes to take charge?

Computer: Ultimate Website Creation (9-10) (11-14)

Have you ever wondered how people create a website? In this class you will use computers and technology as a medium to express your interests. Using Microsoft FrontPage,  build a website with informative text, interesting and colorful graphics, and fun outside links to other sites. Learn how to connect all your web pages in an orderly and effective manner via hyperlinks. All campers will have the opportunity to present their completed projects to the class. A CD of the webpage can be made for friends and family, too!

Computer: Virtual Business (9-10) (11-14)

Do you want to be an entrepreneur like Bill Gates? Learn how to create an IPO and trade your company stocks based on the NYSE in this highly original class. Here you will work at different jobs within a virtual business to learn all the ins-and-outs of the business process.

Computer: Writers of Tomorrow (9-10)

Is writing poetry your favorite activity? Do you like to write stories about wizards and mythical creatures?  Then you could be the next J.K. Rowling, Shel Silverstein or Rick Riordan.  In this class you will hone your writing skills and produce finished works worthy of publication.  Include graphics, borders and backgrounds to illustrate your work.  Use the latest technology and your imagination to make you a writer of tomorrow today.

Computer: Write Right (11-14) 

Express yourself through the written word.  There will be an emphasis on structure, grammar, spelling, syntax and writing mechanics as you creatively write publishable pieces and blogs.  Allow your imagination to flourish as you type your thoughts and dreams.  Finally, use graphic software to add visual interest to your work.  A portfolio of your work will be yours to take home on beautiful stationary.

CSI: Queens College (9-10) (11-14)

Learn how law enforcement agents investigate and solve crimes.  All our students will examine fingerprints, footprints, and tire marks left at “crime scenes”.  In addition, students will learn how to present evidence in a criminal re-enactment.

Countdown to Math (5-6)

Students will engage in various math-related activities for their age group.  Many activities will include hands-on learning.  Come learn or review your math skills while having fun.

Critic’s Choice for Books, Movies, and TV (9-10) (11-14)

Learn how to become a great critic. First learn the fundamentals of writing a critique or review.  Persuade your friends and family to see things in “your eyes.”  Then review various books, movies excerpts, and TV segments. Added bonus:  Critique board and video games too. This class is only available last 2 weeks.

Desserts: Create, Design, Eat (9-10) (11-14)

One of our most popular classes has returned!  Learn how the experts decorate cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.  Be proud of your decorating skills as you create, design, and then eat! Note:  This class is not suitable for students with food allergies.

Dinosaur Science (5-6)

Become paleontologists as we explore how dinosaurs were discovered, how they lived and what they ate.   Learn how to tell the difference between carnivores and herbivores, dig for bones, and much more! Note:  Activities vary each summer.

Earth to Astronauts (9-10) (11-14)

Learn about the amazing Space Program in the United States.  Listen to adventurous stories about astronauts and space travel.  Join us as we study the planets and stars. 

Engineering Simple Machines (7-8)

Our goal is to expose young campers to beginner engineering skills and concepts.  Learn about simple machines through literature.  Then design, build, and construct your own mechanisms.  Learn about gears, levers, motors, and the mechanics of how devices work.  You will be able to transform your own designs into movable machines.

Fairy Tale Fantasy (7-8)

Read a variety of fairy tale stories.  Look at many versions of stories in print as well as on film.  The best part is that we will be learning how to write our own fairy tales!

Create art projects from stories such as Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, The Three Little Pigs, Beauty and the Beast, Snow White, Aladdin, Jack and the Beanstalk, The Little Mermaid, and many more.

Food, Menus, Nutrition (11-14)

Join us for this High School-level course!  Learn how to create menus for breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner.  What foods should and should not be eaten will be discussed. Read package labels to determine healthy choices.  Learn to balance fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and carbs in making healthy food choices.  Added bonus:  Make one food creation per week.  Note:  This class is not suitable for students with food allergies.

Fun Facts for Teens and Kids (9-10) (11-14)

Use an assortment of books and magazines to compile “fun facts” you can share with your family and friends.  By the end of class, a book-version of worthy “fun facts” will be produced.  Research time in the computer lab will be included. This class is during the last 2 weeks only.

Graphic Novel Design (9-10) (11-14)

Join this exciting class as you read various graphic novels.  Yes…we have a great collection of books to read.  Afterwards, create your very own graphic design to amaze your family and friends.

Human Body (9-10)

 In four weeks, students will explore the complex universe that is the human body.  They will look at several body systems individually and learn that nothing ever works alone.  Focus will not only be on the physical aspect of how the body works, but also when things go wrong.  Can we fix it?  Yes we can.

Intro to Living Environment Regents (11-14)

High school too daunting?  Too far in the future?  Ease into the rigors of high school science with a preview of the Regents Living Environment course.  Learn without the stress.  Laugh your way through understanding of difficult concepts.  Materials covered in this class overlaps with middle school material as well.

Knitting Zoo (11-14)

Who needs the Build-A-Workshop when you can make your own?  Imagine being able to create your own stuffed animal.  Learn how to make your own lion, tiger, and bear.  Design clothes for your pet.  In this course you will learn the knitting basics that will allow you to create and amaze people.

Make Your Own Snacks (5-6)

This class puts fun and excitement into food preparation! Students get the opportunity to prepare and eat their own food including smoothies and ice cream! Students will also learn about healthy eating.  Note: This class is not suitable for students with food allergies.

Money Matters (9-10)

Practice basic money concepts by counting, adding, and making change.  Find out how allowance, gift money, or job money adds to your savings.  Learn about the role of banks in our economy.

Monsters, Mermaids, and Other Mysterious Creatures (5-6)

Learn about all kinds of creatures including those that may or may not exist. Share our books, videos and art projects.

Mysteries of Pirate Ships and Castles (7-8)

Calling all boys and girls between the ages of 7 and 8!!  Join this exciting class as we explore the lives of captains, she-captains, male and female pirates, queens, kings, princes and princesses!  Read adventurous stories, review movie and TV segments, and create magnificent projects to show your family and friends.

Once Upon a Time Theater (5-6)

We will explore well known fairytales from around the world and act them out.  Become a storyteller and bring your stories to life while embarking on a magnificent journey to other lands!

Party in the USA (5-6)

In “Party in the USA” students will learn all about the various states in the US.  Engage in educational geography games which will enhance knowledge of the states while learning how to use a map.  Learn about the state capitals, birds, and flowers, while creating many hands-on projects.

Pop Art (9-10) (11-14)

Every child is an artist.  The problem is how they remain an artist once they grow up.  We will explore basic art skills, but learn simple techniques that can make everything pop off the page.  From presents to presentations, learn quick tricks that can make anything look amazing.

Puzzle-mania (7-8)

Throughout this class students will explore different math, reading, and writing concepts such as time, measurement, context clues, inference, prediction, and problem solving strategies. Students will make charts/ diagrams, and engage in games and activities to understand the concepts.  Begin to use the problem-solving side of your brain!!

QC Theater: Scenery and Costume  (11-14)

Join in on the fun as you learn about costumes and scenery for our own Queens College Theatre production.  Help create various background scenes, stitch together costumes, and see your masterpieces on the stage.  In addition, let your creative expression run free while learning various art techniques.  Use assorted art materials as your create stunning projects.  NOTE:  Projects vary each summer.

Read Write Now (7-8) (9-10) (11-14)

Venture down the paths of today’s best sellers and classics.  Read, discuss, and write your way to new literary adventures.  Note:  Teacher assistance will be offered for summer homework assignments.

Ready, Set, Math (5-6)

Use math manipulatives and explore the possibilities! Develop problem-solving skills, make patterns, divide shapes with fractions, add, and subtract.  All math concepts are connected.  We learn through hands-on activities while having fun.

Science and Art (7-8)

If you love arts & crafts and learning about various science topics this is the class for you.  Learn about insects/bugs, the solar system, and the world of plants.  Plant your own bean seeds, make your own bug and insect book, as well as design solar system postcards and posters.  Note:  Activities vary each summer.

Science Explorations (5-6) (9-10) (11-14)

Start by learning to make slime and end with your own oozing volcano.  In between, participate in a variety of make-it and take-it lessons from earth and space to light and sound.  Note:  Projects vary each summer.

Sewing Social (9-10) (11-14)

Get stuffed!  Learn the art of hand-stitched sewing.  This course will teach skills that are useful for any person.  Create pillow, bags, and studded figures sure to please the entire family.

Snacking Mathematically (7-8)

Use snacks to help improve your math skills.  Learn how MATH is an important part of making food.  Students will get the opportunity to make and eat their own food.

Note:  This class is not suitable for students with food allergies.

Summer Boost to Better Grades ELA/Math grades 2-3 (7-8)

Summer Boost to Better Grades ELA/Math grades 4-5 (9-10)

Choose this academic class to help review last year’s concepts and prepare for the new school year’s work.  Practice will be split between ELA and Math.  Note:  Teacher can assist with summer homework assignments.

Test Prep: Grade 3 ELA and Math (7-8)

(Entering 3rd grade in September)

Become a better reader and writer!  Concepts will include author studies, sequencing, the design of graphic organizers, and the use of the writing process to respond to literature.  Also discover all things mathematical!  Concepts will include multiplication, telling time, graphing, fractions, measurement, money, and problem solving.  In both subjects, students will participate through activities, skills-based workbooks, and/or test preparation materials.  Get a head start on preparing for the 3rd grade test.  Note:  This is a 4-week course.

Under the Sea (5-6)

Have you ever wondered what secrets lurk in the deepest parts of the ocean?  Learn about creatures that live in the sea.  Explore ocean life mostly through hands-on activities.  Listen to and read stories about these amazing creatures.