Workshops | 7th-9th Grade Workshops

Creative Coding with Java

In this class we will be exploring a wide variety of tasks involved in game making. We will start by learning simple programming techniques in Java and move on to apply those concepts to create a simple game with awesome visuals. Students will be able to create other similar games on their own after this workshop. The tools used in class are free to download (with a parent's permission, of course!) so students can play and learn even more at home!

Unity 3D - Bring Your World to Life!

Unity 3D is a powerful creation tool for making games and simulations in 3D. Learn how to use Unity's drag and drop component interface to create 3D objects and interactive characters, then add scripting to the elements of your world to bring your creation to life! Your finished project can be published to the web to share with family and friends! Since Unity3D has a free version, you can even (with your parents' permission) continue work on your creation - or make new games - after the workshop ends.

Maya Characters

Have you ever wondered how game designers create 3D worlds and creatures? Autodesk Maya is the industry standard for creating 3D visual art for games, movies and television. Students will create their own 3D Pocket Critters while learning modeling, texturing, and animating within the Maya 3D environment. These are the same techniques used by professional game designers! At the end of two weeks, students will have a working knowledge of 3D design concepts that can be applied to any 3D design environment. Best of all, students will have an animated video of the 3D Pocket Critter they design and create to share with family and friends online.

Digital Artistry 7-9

Interested in graphic design or advertising? Would you like to design album art, create movie posters, or propose new packaging for your favorite soft drink? Here's your chance to use the same tools as professional graphic designers and bring your ideas to life. Get ready to create some rockin' digital art!

Digital Video

Making movies successfully takes a team. In fact, building a team and learning how to be an effective member are among the most important skills a moviemaker can ever learn! Do you have a message? Do you want to be heard? Hop on board with this digital video workshop that offers all an opportunity to produce movie shorts and featured films ranging from advertising commercials, movie trailers, stop-motion videos, improvisational videos, and documentaries. As students investigate visual media throughout the workshop, they become familiar with the work of significant past and present directors and editors in the field. Students will familiarize themselves with the multiple roles that go into filmmaking while using storyboarding, sound effects, soundtracks, and video editing software!