Summer Programs

In this week-long camp students will learn about design-based thinking and apply that to activities planned for the week. They will use the VEX GO robotics system to apply design-based learning and learn about the micro:bit microcontroller. There are breaks each day for extensions and practice time.

Sample Activities:

• Learn about design thinking
• Build and program VEX GO kit as a heat shield (like the one used by the James Webb telescope)
• Make a thermometer using the micro:bit

Format: Primarily Individual with some group interactions

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

In this one-week camp participants will work with technology to engage in a variety of coding projects that include using the VEX IQ robotics platform. Each day students will participate in challenges. There are breaks each day for extensions and practice time.

Sample Activities:

• Build and program VEX IQ Robot
• Challenges: Maze, Sumobot, and Catapult
• Real World Application: MARS Rover

Format: Pairs

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

In this one-week camp participants will explore various ways to design and make objects. This introduction to fabrication involves using design software, solving design problems, and learning about fabrication tools such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC routers. These concepts will be applied in a hands-on format in the form of design challenges throughout the week.

Sample Activities     

• Design a product that converts a common household item into a toy or game
• Design or revise a product that makes your school life easier

Format

Individual

Transportation

All fabrication camps are at the NOVA Manassas Campus. We are offering transportation to Manassas from our other NOVA Campuses. See dates and location below for transportation:

• June 26-30 from NOVA Annandale and Loudoun Campuses
• July 31-August 4 from NOVA Woodbridge and Alexandria Campuses

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

In this week-long camp students will learn how to code, create circuits and projects using an Arduino and Raspberry Pi. Participants will make simple circuits using Arduino or Raspberry Pi boards to create a Smart Home. In addition, students will be able to use their logical thinking skills to solve problem-based activities.

Sample Activities:

• Build and code an alarm with LEDs and sound
• Build a small computer with a Raspberry Pi

Format: Individual

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

This one-week camp introduces students to the VEX Robotics Design System where students will build and program a VEX V5 robot to solve a challenge on a 12’ x 12’ field. The challenge includes solving a maze autonomously and integrates part of the game from the yearly VEX Robotics Competition. We pair older students together.

Sample Activities:

• Build and Code a VEX V5 robot
• Solve a Maze: Integrate sensor feedback into your code
• Team competition at end of camp

Format: Pairs, competing against other camp teams.

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

In this one-week camp students will work with electronics to create projects using software engineering and the Arduino microcontroller. Participants will learn how to integrate and control electronics such as LED’s, motors and sensors to complete projects and challenges. A variety of coding structure will be taught to control and refine the function of each project. No previous experience required.

Sample Activities:

• Build and program a custom display with a custom message
• Wire and control LED’s to turn on and off in a pattern
• Wire and control a motor/servo with a sensor

Format: Students work in groups of 2-4 students, complete challenges and compete against other teams.

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

This one-week camp introduces students to rocketry. Where students will build rockets to complete challenges and simulate flight. These activities teach the basics of rocketry, the science behind how they work, and rocketry safety. The students will have a field trip on the last day of camp to a launch site to safely launch their custom designed rockets.

Sample Activities:

• Build a 2-foot rocket to complete a flight altitude challenge
• Use Rocket Simulation software to model flight
• Field trip to launch site

Format: Individual Challenges.

Sign up at camp.novastem.us/register

High school students interested in exploring the Cybersecurity domains and furthering their knowledge of human security, computer hacking, digital safeguarding of applications, and secure communication will find much to learn through two cybersecurity camps offered this year. Each camp will feature hands-on activities and labs to engage students. Laptops will be provided.

Sample Activities:

• Explore and experience different cybersecurity tools
• Capture the flag challenge

Format:

Individual and team

Cybersecurity Camps Offered

Cybersecurity Basics

This camp will introduce students to the foundations of cybersecurity. Students will explore topics around personal security, cyber law, ethical hacking, digital forensics, network security, cryptography, and encryption. Students will be introduced to the Linux command line interface and different cybersecurity tools throughout the week.

Capture the Flag
This camp will explore the exciting world of Capture the Flag. Students will practice their cybersecurity and computer science knowledge during the week with a variety of challenges, ranging from the beginner level with simple clues and easy-to-use tools, to the advanced level requiring multiple tools and a deeper understanding of computer science and cyber concepts. Students are expected to have participated in the Cybersecurity Basics camp or other cyber camp/program prior to this camp and must have experience using the Linux command line and other cybersecurity tools.