Summer Fun at Virginia Western!

VWCC Summer 2013 Kid's College

General Info

Camp Requirements:
Arrive on time and be picked up on time.
Parents must sign children in and out of camp each day.
Follow all camp rules; be respectful and have fun.
All students will need to dress comfortably. No sandals or flip flops. Please wear tennis shoes or comfortable shoes which cover the feet.

Questions? Please call Paulette Parkhill at 540-857-6514 or email pparkhill@virginiawestern.edu

Camps are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, to guarantee your spot register early!

Click here to download the 2013 Summer Camp registration form. (pdf)


Engino Building - Engineer-Architect-Creativity Workshop (rising grades 3-7)

M-F 6/10-6/14, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost: $155 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Work with an advanced and three dimensional construction kit that is yours to keep and take home. Be able to build and design your own creations. You will also get your own 3-volt geared motor - Power up a moveable Radar Surveyor with it. See how many other ways you can make your motor work for you. Work with the rods and connectors that allow you to join six sides at once. You can build simple or complex models. Build a vehicle, chopper, robot, buildings and much more.

Horticulture Camp — My Backyard Habitat (rising grades 4-6)

M-F 6/17-6/21, 9:00AM-1:00PM, cost:$80 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$75)
Students will learn the symbiotic relationships between humans, plants, water, and wildlife. Activities include the role of plants in creating a backyard habitat that supports small native wildlife, such as birds and beneficial insects.

Chemical Magic — Magical Microscopes — Rocks and Minerals (rising grades 3-6)

M-F 8/5-8/9, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$150 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$145)
Learn to make batteries from fruits or potatoes. Make a fantastic crystal tree. Work with invisible ink. See the happy and sad balls. Work with our powerful magnets. Look at our prepared slides using our microscopes. Learn about the different types of rocks and minerals from our interesting rock and mineral collection. Be a chemical detective. Make glob from glue. Use paper chromatography to separate colors. Make dirty pennies turn clean and clean pennies turn green. Everything will be explained to you so you can go home having learned some interesting science. Hands-on science is the best way to learn.

"MAGIC" Mentoring A Girl In Construction (rising grades 9-12 Girls)

W-F 7/10-7/12, 9:00AM-3:30PM, cost:$50
This camp is designed for girls in rising 9th-12th grades. Exploring new opportunities for women in construction, participants will enjoy hands-on projects and explore blueprint design and solid modeling using Autodesk Inventor and the 3D Printer. Projects will include electricity, welding and carpentry. (Sponsored by: National Association of Women in Construction, Roanoke Chapter; Hughes Associates Architects & Engineers; THOR, Inc.)
*Girl Scouts: Women In Construction Badge

Science Sleuths - Crime Scene Investigation (rising grades 3-7)

M-F 7/15-7/19, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$150 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$145)
You will be the super science sleuths. Have fun learning about forensics, crime scene investigations, and crime lab chemistry as you perform as many as 15 different experiments designed to show you just how those tricky cases are solved. Search for the evidence, gather clues, and discover how science can help solve a mystery. Participants will: dust for fingerprints; analyze handwriting; test for blood type using simulated blood; examine hair and clothing fibers; practice chemistry to identify mystery substances and much more. Participants will then use their skills to solve crimes of the century.

Robotics Camp (rising grades 6-8, girls and boys age 12-14)

M-F 7/22-7/26, 9:00AM-3:00PM, cost:$145
This camp will be an exciting introduction to Science, Engineering and Technology through the design of an autonomous robot. Students attending the Robotics camp will receive hands-on experience with computer programming, industrial robotics and computer animation. Current applications of the technology is presented using state-of-the-art equipment and material. The faculty will involve students in discussion and activities that will expand their knowledge and understanding of engineering and advanced technology while encouraging future interest in these fields. The camp will promote an atmosphere of fun as well as the importance of good study habits and learning discipline that lead to both educational and career pathways.
This camp will prepare teams to participate in VWCC's Autonomous Robotics competition in December 2013 at Virginia Western Community College.
Robotics Competition:


*Earns Boy Scout merit badge

Investigate with Geospatial Technologies - GIS, GPS and Satellite Imagery (rising grades 5-10)

M-F 6/24-6/28, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$80 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$75)
These are just a few of the activities during this "geospatial week": GIS (geographic information systems – interactive maps) investigations such as locating a missing mine using geographic clues; practice geocaching using a GPS (global positioning system) and use of satellite imagery to document the change in the ice in the arctic and Antarctic. A field trip will be taken on campus to take waypoints with a GPS that will be put in a map using GIS.

Digital Photography (rising grades 4-6)

M-F 7/29-8/2, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$95 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$85)
The basic rules of composition and lighting will be explored as all great photographers should know. We will study about well-known photographers such as Ansel Adams and Steve McCurry. You will learn to use your digital camera's or smartphone's different settings and applications to create lasting images. After image is saved we will use photo editing software or multi-media to enhance or distort the images to make a finished art show worthy piece of artwork. Please bring your own digital camera or smartphone fully charged with your devices USB cord with a 4 GB memory card.

Digital Photography (rising grades 7-9)

M-F 8/5-8/9, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$95 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$85)
The basic rules of composition and lighting will be explored as all great photographers should know. We will study about well-known photographers such as Ansel Adams and Steve McCurry. You will learn to use your digital camera's or smartphone's different settings and applications to create lasting images. After image is saved we will use photo editing software or multi-media to enhance or distort the images to make a finished art show worthy piece of artwork. Please bring your own digital camera or smartphone fully charged with your devices USB cord with a 4 GB memory card.

BLACK ROCKET CAMPS


App Attack! Make Your First Game App (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 6/24-6/28, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Explore the App universe and create your own mobile application or mobile game! Students will explore the world of phone-based and tablet applications. In addition to learning the basics of mobile app design and games, you will also see firsthand how the world of App's publishing functions. No prior experience is necessary and students do not need to own a smart phone or tablet to take the class.
Instructor: Black Rocket

App Attack! Make Your First Game App (rising grades 6-8 girls and boys age 11-13)

M-F 6/24-6/28, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Explore the App universe and create your own mobile application or mobile game! Students will explore the world of phone-based and tablet applications. In addition to learning the basics of mobile app design and games, you will also see firsthand how the world of App's publishing functions. No prior experience is necessary and students do not need to own a smart phone or tablet to take the class.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Make Your First Video Game! (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 7/8-7/12, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
If you love playing video games, this is the camp for you! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that shows you the crucial keys to designing your first 2-D game. Conceptualization, play experience, challenge levels, graphics and elements, music and sound, software, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we'll explore as you learn how to really get into the game because you made it yourself! No prior experience necessary just a desire to have fun. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Make Your First Video Game! (rising grades 6-8 girls and boys age 11-13)

M-F 7/8-7/12, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
If you love playing video games, this is the camp for you! Make your first video game in this one-of-a-kind class that shows you the crucial keys to designing your first 2-D game. Conceptualization, play experience, challenge levels, graphics and elements, music and sound, software, and simple coding are just some of the concepts that we'll explore as you learn how to really get into the game because you made it yourself! No prior experience necessary just a desire to have fun. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket

App Adventures! The Next Level (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 7/15-7/19, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Continue your quest to make the next viral app! Whether you want to move past the basic techniques learned in App Attack or want to jump right in we are ready for you! All students will create a mobile game app and explore more in depth programming concepts. The option to publish will be given to every student, but final decisions on publishing are the sole discretion or Apple, Amazon, or Google. No prior experience is necessary and students do not need to own a smart phone or tablet to take the class.
Instructor: Black Rocket

App Adventures! The Next Level (rising grades 6-8 girls and boys age 11-13)

M-F 7/15-7/19, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Continue your quest to make the next viral app! Whether you want to move past the basic techniques learned in App Attack or want to jump right in we are ready for you! All students will create a mobile game app and explore more in depth programming concepts. The option to publish will be given to every student, but final decisions on publishing are the sole discretion or Apple, Amazon, or Google. No prior experience is necessary and students do not need to own a smart phone or tablet to take the class.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Make Your First 3-D Video Game! (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 7/22-7/26, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
By popular demand, we are now offering a 3-D game design class. This experience allows you to develop a game concept that goes well beyond the limitations of the traditional classes. Students will learn the physics behind 3D Game Design and explore event scripting, level design, controlling flow of game play, and story telling. Designed for young adults who have the desire to focus in Game Design in high school or college. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Make Your First 3-D Video Game! (rising grades 6-8 girls and boys age 11-13)

M-F 7/22-7/26, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
By popular demand, we are now offering a 3-D game design class. This experience allows you to develop a game concept that goes well beyond the limitations of the traditional classes. Students will learn the physics behind 3D Game Design and explore event scripting, level design, controlling flow of game play, and story telling. Designed for young adults who have the desire to focus in Game Design in high school or college. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family.
Instructor: Black Rocket

LEGO Films and Stop Action! (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 7/22-7/26, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Make your LEGO's come to life! Bring in your favorite action figures or LEGOs and create a short film with your friends. Whether you want to recreate a scene from Star Wars or design a world of your own, this class brings your dreams to the screen. Students will need to bring in LEGOs or action figures from home, but all other equipment provided. Student created films will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family.
Instructor: Black Rocket

LEGO Films and Stop Action! (rising grades 6-9)

M-F 7/22-7/26, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Make your LEGO's come to life! Bring in your favorite action figures or LEGOs and create a short film with your friends. Whether you want to recreate a scene from Star Wars or design a world of your own, this class brings your dreams to the screen. Students will need to bring in LEGOs or action figures from home, but all other equipment provided. Student created films will be available on a password protected website to share with friends and family.
Instructor: Black Rocket

LEGO VIDEO Games (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 7/29-8/2, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Combine your two favorite activities: LEGOs and Video Games! Students will create your own LEGO universe, characters, and adventures in an interactive 2-D Video Game. Everyone is welcome in this one of a kind class. At the end of the program, leave with a LEGO 2-D game that can be shared with friends and family. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket

LEGO VIDEO Games (rising grades 6-9)

M-F 7/29-8/2, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Combine your two favorite activities: LEGOs and Video Games! Students will create your own LEGO universe, characters, and adventures in an interactive 2-D Video Game. Everyone is welcome in this one of a kind class. At the end of the program, leave with a LEGO 2-D game that can be shared with friends and family. Student created games will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Video Game Animation (rising grades 3-5)

M-F 8/5-8/9, 9:00AM-12:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Take your game design to the next level by creating and animating your own character sprites, objects, and backgrounds. Start with a name, develop the character's personality, signature moves, special powers, and a story line. Finish with a fully animated character to be used in future games. Students do not need any prior experience in game design, animation, or sketching. Student created animations will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket

Video Game Animation (rising grades 6-9)

M-F 8/5-8/9, 1:00PM-4:00PM, cost:$160 (Register before 5/30/13 cost:$150)
Take your game design to the next level by creating and animating your own character sprites, objects, and backgrounds. Start with a name, develop the character's personality, signature moves, special powers, and a story line. Finish with a fully animated character to be used in future games. Students do not need any prior experience in game design, animation, or sketching. Student created animations will be available on a password protected Black Rocket website to share with friends and family. Games are only compatible on PC computers, Mac versions can be created after the program for $15.00 conversion fee.
Instructor: Black Rocket