Computer Science

Minecraft Method - Learning Through Gaming

For boys entering grades 3, 4, 5

Minecraft: Education Edition (M:ME) is a game-based learning platform that promotes creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving in a secure, yet immersive environment. Students will explore and build intricate Minecraft worlds while developing self-expression through creative storytelling, recognizing contextual clues in narrative structures and expanding vocabulary. From Roald Dahl's Fantastic Mr. Fox, mysterious Project S, Treasure Island and Shipwreck, there is a different English / Language Arts objective each day. Unleash your son's creativity and innovation through Minecraft, one of the most popular 21st century digital learning games. Previous experience with Minecraft is not required. MUHS will provide computers and M:ME accounts.

July 8 – 11 (Monday – Thursday)
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fee: $85
Instructor: Mr. Chris Oliva – Technology Specialist and Mr. Derek Keller ’21
Minimum enrollment – 10; Maximum enrollment – 20

3-D Design and Animation

For boys entering grades 6, 7, 8, 9

From Toy Story and Despicable Me to product design and architecture, 3-D design and animation has transformed the way we work and dream. This course will give students the tools they need to join this creative force. Students will explore Blender 3-D, a free 3-D design and animation program. Topics will include modeling (making the shape), textures and materials (covering the shape), lighting, animation (moving the object) and publishing (making the movie available to others). At the end of the course, students will know enough to continue their education on their own.

June 17 – 20 (Monday – Thursday)
12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Fee: $120
Instructor: Mr. Joe Cavanaugh – Instructional Technology Specialist
Minimum enrollment – 8; Maximum enrollment – 22

Math is Amazing with Desmos.com

For boys entering grades 6, 7, 8, 9

Get a head start to high school math by learning how to use this fun, fascinating, and free graphing application. You will enjoy discovering interesting mathematical functions and we’ll play some games too.

July 23 (Tuesday)
12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fee: $25
Instructor: Ms. Carol Hardtke – Math and Computer Science
Minimum enrollment – 8; Maximum enrollment – 15

Picture Yourself on the Moon with Pixlr.com
For boys entering grades 6, 7, 8, 9

With Pixlr Editor, a free web-based photo editor, you will quickly learn how to trim something from one photo and layer it into another image. You will also learn how easily you can draw on or add text to a photo, add fun filter effects, and create collages of photos. (Pixlr is like PhotoShop, but it’s simpler to use and it’s free.)

July 24 (Wednesday)
12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fee: $25
Instructor: Ms. Carol Hardtke – Math and Computer Science
Minimum enrollment – 8; Maximum enrollment – 15

Slideshows That Make the Grade
For boys entering grades 6, 7, 8, 9

Learn some quick tricks that will make your Google presentations (or PowerPoint files) more appealing, effective, and FUN. You will design bold graphics, insert videos, and create animations. You’ll leave this afternoon with some files to use in all your future class assignments. No experience necessary.

July 30 (Tuesday)
12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fee: $25
Instructor: Ms. Carol Hardtke – Math and Computer Science
Minimum enrollment – 8; Maximum enrollment – 15

What Can A Spreadsheet Do For You?
For boys entering grades 6, 7, 8, 9

Spreadsheets are not just for accountants! We’ll take a look at the many ways you can use a spreadsheet to design quick and colorful files of all types including tables, charts, graphs, and so much more. You’ll leave this afternoon with some files to use in all your future class assignments – and they’re useful for club and team activities too! No experience necessary.

July 31 (Wednesday)
12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Fee: $25
Instructor: Ms. Carol Hardtke – Math and Computer Science
Minimum enrollment – 8; Maximum enrollment – 15