During the green engineering camp, young engineers learned about the importance of renewable resources. We harnessed wind, solar, and water power.
Campers built wind powered vehicles.
We discussed the importance of wind power. We built anemometers so that we could measure the wind speed.
We recycled paper by breaking down paper with water and pressing it into new usable paper.
We learned how to use a solar still to turn salt water into drinkable water.
We engineered a truck that ran on water and air pressure
We built a solar powered cooker to make smores!
During the Disaster Science camp, campers learned about natural disasters. We learned about tornados and created a tornado in a bottle
We learned about different types of clouds and we even made our very own soap clouds
We learned about different types of clouds and we even made our very own soap clouds
We went on a field trip to the nature center
- We learned about volcanoes and we made lava lamps.
We learned about earthquakes and the importance of creating structures that can withstand the earth shaking.
During Robotics Camp, we explored the world of automation by building robots. These robots ranged from the 29 step Tankbot to a 69 step Directional Master. Everyday students were teamed up and assigned roles such as engineers, parts specialist, building specialist and programmer. Each day of the week, the roles were switched to give everyone the chance to experience all. Students also followed the specific instructions for building the robots. On Wednesday we learned about programming. The programming was done with a special application that allows the students to build a circuit. This means there can be not loose ends. It definitely wasn’t easy but it was a great experience. Great job future engineers!
During the “Surgeons in Training” camp, campers were treated to the world of surgeons. We discovered all of the body systems and had in depth discussions about how they all interact. I even shared some stories about working in the ER. Students also build models of the body to see the dimensional differences in between all of the organs. Then the real interesting things began. We dissected an earthworm, grasshopper (looked at compound eyes), craw-fish, clam, frog, and a fish. Each dissection began with a detailed drawing and specific instructions. From using medical probes to a staple, every camper got an extreme hands on experience. This 5 day camp includes more dissecting than what is required in all of the middle and high school curriculum in the State of Texas. Great job Surgeons.
- In “Rocket Science” camp, campers took to the skies this week with Rocket Science. We began by looking at the history of human space flight. We learned about the staging process for current rockets including the famous Saturn V (my favorite). Students then learned about drag and force. They designed fins and an aerodynamic body to make their rockets fly effectively. Then we decorated and finally took to the skies. Reaching 4 stories tall, the rockets were booming Thursday and Friday. Finally, students got a chance to redesign their rockets and make improvements to their designs. It was an experience out of this world!
Last summer session during “Tasty Science” camp, the YPW crowd got a special treat with the tasty science camp. On the first day campers began by learning the science behind ice cream. Tuesday they dabbled with rock candy and how to make it. Wednesday they worked with making your own pudding. Thursday they experimented with the different ways to make soda including color changes and flavor changes. And to finish off the week in style, they made slime (things got a little messy). Also had blue and red pancakes, which were delicious. Every camper got a chance to take home a piece of rock candy. Thanks campers for making science taste a little better!