Grade: Rising 6th through 8th grades

Dates: Aug. 4 to Aug. 7, 2025

Meets: Monday through Thursday, 1 PM to 4 PM

Cost: $470 early bird pricing, $495 after March 31

Course Description: We hear about energy all the time, but what do scientists actually mean when they say “energy”? Through hands-on activities, you will learn all about the science and technology behind energy. Together we will explore renewable energy technologies, such as the basics of wind, solar, geothermal, and nuclear power. We'll make our own batteries to learn about how batteries store and supply the energy to power our devices. Finally, we'll learn about the move to electrification and dive into California's evolving energy system. Come excited to learn and explore more about this exciting STEM topic!

Instructor Bio: Jill Mankoff is a science teacher at the Branson School. She teaches Chemistry and Advanced Chemistry and has previously taught Physics. She focuses on student-centered learning, and laboratory activities play a big role in her teaching. Jill is especially passionate about green chemistry and the science of climate change, sustainability, and green energy. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending time outdoors.