Description
STEAMwhiz's Minecraft STEM Summer Camp
Dive into 180 hours of thrilling and transformative learning that will elevate your students’ creative problem-solving skills through engaging, project-based Minecraft activities meticulously designed by our expert K-8 education curriculum developers.
This is an unparalleled opportunity for students to enrich their knowledge through dynamic and captivating educational experiences tailored for young thinkers! Click on each week below to discover the inspiring learning objectives and innovative projects that await you this summer!
Block Builders
Minecraft Designs to 3D Prints
June 30 – July 3
Challenge
Unleash your creativity in Minecraft and transform your digital designs into reality! Build intricate structures in the game, then take the next thrilling step by using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to prepare them for 3D printing. Explore design principles and engage in hands-on construction as you turn your imaginative visions into tangible treasures. Get ready to create and watch your ideas come to life!
Project Highlights
- Minecraft Structure Design
- Modeling and 3D Printing Basics
- Custom 3D Printing Project
Learning Objectives
Virtual Construction in Minecraft
Objective: Apply design principles to create a detailed and imaginative structure in the Minecraft game environment.
Outcome: Students will showcase their understanding of virtual construction, spatial awareness, and creativity by successfully building their design in Minecraft.
Introduction to 3D Printing Technology
Objective: Gain a fundamental understanding of 3D printing technology, including its principles, processes, and applications.
Outcome: Students will identify and explain the key components of a 3D printer, such as the extruder, build plate, and filament.
Fundamental 3D Modeling Skills
Objective: Develop basic 3D modeling skills using user-friendly software suitable for their age group.
Outcome: Students will create 3D models and modify existing ones to understand digital design principles for 3D printing.
Measurement and Scaling
Objective: Understand and apply measurement concepts (e.g., millimeters, centimeters) relevant to 3D printing.
Outcome: Students will learn to scale 3D models accurately, ensuring proper dimensions for printing.
Design and Print a Personal Project
Objective: Apply acquired knowledge and skills to design and 3D print a personal project or prototype independently.
Outcome: Students will demonstrate creativity by incorporating unique features or modifications to their projects.
CodeCraft
Coding Mini-Games Inside Minecraft
July 7 – 11
Challenge
Dive into the thrilling world of game development by creating engaging mini-games that immerse players in the vibrant Minecraft universe! Your mission is to transform creative ideas into reality, designing exciting challenges and rewarding experiences.
As both a Minecraft architect and a game designer, leverage your coding skills to elevate the gameplay and create unforgettable moments for players. Are you ready to bring your mini-games to life? Let’s get started!
Projects Highlights
- Micro-Computer Programming (MicroBit)
- Rock, Paper, Scissors
- Microsoft MakeCode
- Stone, Ice, Lava
Learning Objectives
Introduction to Game Coding in Minecraft
Objective: Acquire basic programming skills with a specific focus specifically focusing within the Minecraft environment.
Outcome: Understand the syntax and logic needed to interact with Minecraft through coding.
Game Design Principles
Objective: Explore fundamental game design concepts, such as player interaction, objectives, and challenges.
Outcome: Apply design thinking to plan and sketch out ideas for Minecraft mini-games, considering factors like player engagement and enjoyment.
Coding Fundamentals
Objective: Learn and apply coding fundamentals such as variables, functions, conditional statements, loops, and sequences.
Outcome: Develop the ability to use these coding concepts to create and control game mechanics within Minecraft.
Collaborative Coding and Problem-Solving
Objective: Foster collaboration skills by working in teams to code and debug Minecraft mini-games.
Outcome: Encourage problem-solving as students encounter challenges in coding, emphasizing the importance of iterative development.
User Testing and Iterative Improvement
Objective: Implement a testing and feedback loop to evaluate the playability and functionality of the coded mini-games.
Outcome: Learn to gather feedback, analyze it, and make iterative improvements to enhance the overall gaming experience.
Explosive Engineering
Robotic Catapults & TNT Cannons
July 14 – 18
Challenge
Get ready for an exciting challenge that bridges the virtual and physical worlds! Your task is to design a cutting-edge robotic catapult using LEGO Technic bricks, motors, and sensors, while also crafting formidable TNT cannons in Minecraft.
This adventure will test your skills in engineering, physics, and programming. How will you make sure your catapult and TNT cannons perform effectively in both realms? Plus, can you program your catapult to launch projectiles with pinpoint accuracy? Let the fun begin!
Project Highlights
- Build a Robotic Catapult in Real Life
- TNT Cannon Building in Minecraft
- Engineering Challenges with LEGO Technic Bricks
Learning Objectives
Understanding Potential vs Kinetic Energy
Objective: Explore fundamental physics concepts related to potential and kinetic energy.
Outcome: Understand how energy is stored and transferred in a catapult system, and how it affects the launch of projectiles.
Applying Physics to LEGO Technic Construction
Objective: Learn how to translate physics principles into practical applications by designing and constructing a robotic catapult using LEGO Technic bricks.
Outcome: Experiment with different catapult designs and materials to understand their impact on performance and accuracy.
LEGO Technic Building Skills
Objective: Develop proficiency in using LEGO Technic elements to build structurally sound and functional robotic catapults.
Outcome: Apply engineering knowledge to make design decisions regarding the choice of LEGO Technic components and their configurations.
Introduction to Coding for Robotics
Objective: Gain basic coding skills, focusing on the programming language relevant to the robot platform being used, such as visual block-based languages.
Outcome: Understand the relationship between code and robot behavior, and learn to program simple commands for launching projectiles.
Virtual Construction in Minecraft
Objective: Apply design principles to create TNT cannons in the Minecraft game environment.
Outcome: Showcase understanding of virtual construction, spatial awareness, and creativity by successfully building and operating TNT cannons in Minecraft.
Minecraft Legends
3D Printed Heroes
July 21 – 25
Challenge
Jump into Minecraft and bring your unique character to life! Use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools to create a new mob with standout features.
Once your design is ready, animate it! How will your character move and express itself? Blend the digital and physical worlds to showcase its personality and abilities.
Get ready for an exciting adventure as a digital artist and animator—what will you create?
Project Highlights
- Articulation Lab
- The “STEAM” of 3D Printing
- Animation – Adventures with Mobs
Learning Objectives
Measurement and Scaling
Objective: Understand and apply measurement concepts (e.g., millimeters, centimeters) relevant to 3D printing.
Outcome: Learn to scale 3D models accurately, ensuring proper dimensions for printing.
Geometry and Spatial Reasoning
Objective: Identify and use geometric shapes and concepts in 3D modeling and printing.
Outcome: Develop spatial reasoning skills by visualizing and manipulating objects in a three-dimensional space.
Advanced 3D Printing Techniques
Objective: Develop proficiency in advanced 3D printing concepts, including multi-material printing, support structures, and printing articulated joints.
Outcome: Explore advanced slicing settings to optimize print quality and efficiency.
Designing Articulating Figures in CAD
Objective: Learn to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create detailed and articulated 3D models for figures.
Outcome: Understand the principles of articulation in design, including joint mechanisms and range of motion considerations.
Cartoon Animation Basics
Objective: Acquire foundational knowledge in cartoon animation, including keyframes, character design, and motion principles.
Outcome: Understand the tools and software needed for cartoon animation, such as animation software, drawing tablets, and digital pens. Develop skills in keyframe animation, character movement, and storytelling through cartoon animation.
Minecraft Modders
Origins Modding Camp
July 28 – Aug 1
Challenge
Get ready to unleash your creativity and coding skills in Minecraft! Dive into an exciting adventure where you’ll use Blockbench to design and import your own weapons and items. Then, take it further with the Origins modpack to create a custom superhero that’s uniquely yours. This weeklong challenge will transform you into a digital artist and coding wizard, blending design and programming to bring your imaginative ideas to life. Don’t miss out on this thrilling experience!
Project Highlights
- Custom Weapon Creation
- Superhero Design and Implementation
- Integration of 3D Models and Superpowers
Learning Objectives
3D Modeling with Blockbench
Objective: Learn the fundamental concepts of 3D modeling using Blockbench, including creating and manipulating basic shapes.
Outcome: Participants will be able to create simple 3D models of weapons or items using Blockbench.
Importing 3D Models into Minecraft
Objective: Understand the process of exporting 3D models from Blockbench and importing them into Minecraft.
Outcome: Participants will successfully import their custom 3D models into the Minecraft game environment.
Introduction to Minecraft Modding with Origins Modpack
Objective: Gain a basic understanding of Minecraft modding using the Origins modpack, including the tools and software used.
Outcome: Participants will be able to create simple mods that introduce new items or features into Minecraft using the Origins modpack.
Creating Custom Superpowers with Origins Modpack
Objective: Learn how to design and code custom superpowers in Minecraft using the Origins modpack.
Outcome: Participants will successfully create and implement a custom superhero with unique superpowers in Minecraft, demonstrating their understanding of modding principles.
Integration of Design and Coding
Objective: Understand the connection between 3D modeling and coding in the context of Minecraft modding.
Outcome: Participants will be able to integrate their custom 3D models with their coded superpowers, creating a cohesive and functional mod.
Flight Engineers
Drones & Minecraft Flying Machines
August 4 – 8
Challenge
Embark on an exciting journey where drone technology meets Minecraft modding! Imagine designing a drone that expertly navigates an obstacle course while blending engineering and coding skills. Explore the integration of motors for flight and sensors for obstacle detection, ensuring your drone soars smoothly and reacts intelligently to its surroundings. Then, bring those flying machine concepts into the Minecraft universe! Dive into the fascinating worlds of electronics, mechanics, and coding to transform your innovative ideas into reality, both in the skies and in the digital realm of Minecraft.
Project Highlights
- Drone Navigation Lab in Real Life
- Real World Obstacle-Avoiding Drone Challenge
- Minecraft Flying Machines
Learning Objectives
Understanding Basic Electronics
Objective: Gain a foundational understanding of basic electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors.
Outcome: Participants will be able to read and follow simple electronic schematics relevant to drone construction.
Introduction to Motors and Flight Mechanics
Objective: Explore the principles of motor operation and understand how different types of motors are utilized in drones.
Outcome: Participants will learn to control the flight of a drone using motors, including concepts like lift, thrust, pitch, and yaw.
Sensor Integration for Obstacle Detection
Objective: Understand the role of sensors in drones for obstacle detection and environmental awareness.
Outcome: Participants will explore the functionality of common sensors, such as infrared, ultrasonic, or light sensors, and their applications in drone navigation.
Programming Drone Movements
Objective: Develop introductory programming skills to control drone movements using a programming language suitable for intermediate users.
Outcome: Participants will understand how to translate design concepts into code to make the drone navigate an obstacle course in a controlled and responsive manner.
Creating Flying Machines in Minecraft
Objective: Learn how to design and code flying machines in Minecraft using modding tools.
Outcome: Participants will successfully create and implement a flying machine in Minecraft, demonstrating their understanding of both physical and digital flight principles.
FAQs
This camp is designed for students aged 9-13 years, with tailored instruction to suit their developmental levels. Of course, these are just recommended ages, and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
For students aged 6-8 years, please click here.
We are conveniently located at 1 Charles Park, Guilderland, NY 12084
The camp focuses on integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through engaging Minecraft-based projects. Students will explore 3D printing, coding, gaming, robotics, and more.
The camp offers both half-day and full-day sessions:
Half-Days
- Mon – Fri
- Morning Session
- 9 AM – 12 PM
- Afternoon Session
- 1 PM – 4 PM
Full-Day
- Camp Hours
- Mon – Fri
- 8 AM – 4 PM
- Mornings
- 8AM Drop-Off at Tawasentha Recreational Camp
- Bus Ride
- 12PM to STEAMwhiz
- Afternoons
- 4PM Pickup at STEAMwhiz STEM Minecraft Camp
Our full-day camps provide an amazing opportunity for students to energize their bodies in the morning at Tawasentha Parks Recreation Camp and then ignite their creativity and critical thinking in the afternoon at STEAMwhiz STEM camp. Don’t miss out on this enriching experience!
First, you register for our camp in the afternoon session. Then go to the signup page for Tawasentha Recreation camp here (note their registration typically opens April 1st). Being a resident is not required.
The cost for the Tawasentha Recreation camp per week is $95 plus $10 for the bus ride to STEAMwhiz for the week.
Morning dropoff starts at 8 am at Tawasentha Park. Then they take the bus to STEAMwhiz around 12 pm. Finally, pickup is at STEAMwhiz Labs at 4pm 👍
You can register your child for the STEAMwhiz Minecraft STEM Camp above by selecting the appropriate weeks. Early registration is recommended as spots fill up quickly.
Full-Day Campers
Step 1: Please select the Afternoon Sessions above and register for STEAMwhiz Minecraft STEM Camp weeks you are interested in. Please do not wait as our camps fill up.
Step 2: Afterwards, go to Tawasentha Recreational Park’s sign-up page and register for the corresponding weeks and bussing. Typically, it opens around April 1st. We recommend signing up ASAP for our STEM camp, as we fill up. We haven’t had an issue with Tawasentha Camp being full, except for the additional pool lessons.
Half-Day Campers
If possible, please attend the Morning Sessions above and register for STEAMwhiz Minecraft STEM Camp weeks you are interested in. If your schedule requires the Afternoon session please feel free to register for the afternoon =)
Yes! We recommend following a “depth” pathway in a subject area, like the 3D printing weeks 1 & 2 -OR- a “breadth” pathway by picking across the subject areas, like weeks 1 of 3D printing, Coding, and Robotics. Of course, going all 6 weeks is the best to prepare them for the future!
Students will work on a variety of projects, including:
- 3D Printing: Creating and printing 3D models.
- Coding: Developing mini-games and mods within Minecraft.
- Robotics: Building and programming robots to complete challenges.
The camp maintains a low student-to-instructor ratio of 8:1 to ensure personalized attention and support.
The camps are led by experienced educators dedicated to teaching primary and secondary students in the STEM fields. Instructors include professionals with backgrounds in K-12 education, physics, engineering, mathematics, and computer science.
Students will be provided with all materials and equipment each week. A water bottle and snack are recommended for breaks during all sessions. Full-day campers should additionally pack a lunch to eat at STEAMwhiz.
Yes, there is a waitlist available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the camp is full, you will see a button for the waitlist. We do fill up, so don’t delay 😉
Yes, there is an early bird discount per camper. Use the codes below at Checkout
6 weeks Registration – Save $100
Code: SummerSave$100
4+ week Registration – Save $50
Code: SummerSave$50
2+ week Registration – Save $25
Code: SummerSave$25
