S.T.E.M. Class

Lighting the Future: Optical Science

Grades 4-7

 5/5

Discover the secrets of light and optics!

New class! Dive into the world of optical sciences as we make 3D glasses, pinhole cameras, and even attempt to hide from an IR camera. Discover the fascinating optical properties of everyday items and learn how engineers are using light to create epic technologies.

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Why did the photon check into a hotel? Because it was traveling light!

Description

Brand new class for 2023! Did you know that the physics of light is what helped humanity create all kinds of mind-blowing technologies, like telescopes, cameras, and virtual reality? And the best part? The world of optics is growing faster than a high-speed laser beam! That’s where we come in! In this class, we’ll teach you all about the amazing engineering that must be done to light the way to the future!

And that’s not all, we’ll be building some epic stuff! We’re talking about making 3D glasses that will make you feel like you’re part of the action, pinhole cameras that capture stunning pictures, and even attempting to hide from an IR camera (spoiler alert: it won’t work, but it will be super cool!). And get this, we’ll also uncover the mind-blowing optical properties of something as simple as corn syrup!

Good fit for...

This class is perfect for curious and inquisitive kids who have a natural love for science and technology. It’s for those nerds who have ever pondered the mysteries of rainbows and wondered how polarized sunglasses work. It’s for the young minds who are fascinated by the captivating beauty of colorful images and always wonder about the physics behind the colors. This class is designed for kids who love exploring and discovering new things, and who want to learn about the world of optical sciences in a fun, interactive, and engaging way.

Nerds make...

In this class, you’ll play with lasers and virtual reality, create rainbows, block and redirect beams of light, and even change the color of stuff without touching it! You’ll make your own 3D glasses, pinhole cameras, and telescope!

Nerds learn...

Throughout the class, you’ll learn all about the different types of light, like invisible light (like IR and UV), and how engineers were able to detect it. You’ll touch on topics like electro-magnetic waves, polarization, diffraction, bioluminescence, and learn how the James Webb telescope can travel through time!

Class Structure

Our Big Nerds classes for grades 4-7, are engaging and exciting and vary greatly in content and structure, but in some form there is always direct instruction from the teacher, guided practice, and independent or small group work with help and support from peers and staff. We usually begin the day with a team building activity and move into our first lesson. Next is a hands-on activity or project. Halfway through the class, kids will take a brief recess and snack break. A second lesson follows break and the kids will do another project/activity or continue one they were working on. It’s always fun and engaging with hands-on projects!

What to Bring to Class

SUMMER & BREAK CLASSES ONLY: Class is 3hrs each day, so bring a snack for break time. Also, bring your own refillable water bottle. Don’t have one? Add our Nerding water bottle to your order and pick up on first day of class!

Gallery

Your nerd will build and discover like these nerds have.

Light travels at an incredible speed of 299,792,458 meters per second!

Chameleons can change the color of their skin by manipulating light-reflecting cells called iridophores.

Polarized sunglasses cut out glare by blocking light waves that reflect off flat surfaces.

COVID-19 Safety

Read about the measures we are taking to provide safe in-person summer STEM classes.

Reviews

Register

^$159 - ^$195

Locations, dates, and times vary by time of year.

Summer

Opens March 4, 2023 @ 10am

School Year

View our After School page to see if this class is offered. Not all classes are offered after school.

Questions before signing up?

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