Investigative Learning Camp (Grades 5-8)
Exploration and play lead to serious learning at Lakeside's Investigative Learning Camp. Our camp is open to the public.
Students from any school entering grades 5-8 enjoy morning academic classes in the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) realm, followed by fun and engaging afternoon activities. Campers are taught by dynamic middle-school teachers and supported by a diverse group of camp counselors who share campers’ passion for learning.
Summer at Lakeside registration is now closed. Registered participants may log in to their summer registration account to view their child’s camp/class schedule. Families will also receive a welcome email with further information about their child’s camp/class about two weeks before the program begins. Offerings for Summer 2024 will be published on this webpage in December 2023. Please email SummerSchool@lakesideschool.org with any additional questions.
New for Summer 2023: Families register for individual weeks. Campers select two morning classes and an afternoon activity for each week of camp. Please note that some classes will be offered certain weeks but not others.
- Week 1: July 10-14 (limited spots)
- Week 2: July 17-21
- Week 3: July 24-28 (limited spots)
- Week 4: July 31-August 4 (FULL) Please create an account using the registration button above in order to be added to the waitlist.
- Afternoon Activities
Week 1: July 10-14 (limited spots)
- Debate
- Drawing
- Digital Music Production
- Fiber Arts and Natural Color Dyeing
- Marine Biology
- Medical Mysteries
- Mobile App Development
- Physics of Flight
- Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing
- Thinking like a Mathematician
Debate
Drawing
Drawing is the foundation of all art. Students will explore a number of techniques while drawing from real life as well as creating from their own imaginations. Students will use a variety of media such as pencil, pen, watercolor, and paper and will complete several projects that will be incorporated into a final project for the week, promoting confidence and success. All levels of experience are welcome.
Digital Music Production
Fiber Arts and Natural Color Dyeing
Did you know that avocado pits can dye yarn or fabric brown? Or that onion peels can dye things purple? In this course we will learn about and explore the various fiber arts including knitting, crocheting, macrame, embroidery and many more. We will also explore the ways in which fibers and fabrics can be dyed using the nature that surrounds us. Join us to learn more and create beautifully dyed items with flowers, vegetables and more!
Marine Biology
From microscopic copepods to underwater forests and massive sharks, the marine environment is teeming with impressive organisms, ecosystems, and phenomena to investigate. During this introductory marine biology course, we will learn about the diversity of marine ecosystems on Earth and then take a deeper dive into the organisms we’re most likely to encounter here on our beaches in the Puget Sound. We’ll use microscopes to take a close look at live plankton samples and we will also investigate some of the conservation issues that most impact our waters. At the end of the week we will visit the intertidal to observe and actually meet some of our favorite local marine species!
Medical Mysteries
Are you interested in health, medicine, or physiology? If so, this is the class for you! Throughout the week, you will do hands-on investigations focusing on different body systems. Each day you get to explore different organs, conduct labs to see how they work, attempt to build working models, and put your problem-solving skills to the test to diagnose patients with mystery ailments. Get ready to grab your clipboard and put on your doctor's coat!
Mobile App Development
Physics of Flight
Take your learning to new heights by exploring the science behind flight. Learn the elementary principles of flight such as lift, weight, thrust, drag, and Bernoulli’s Principle. Then apply your knowledge to hands-on experiments involving rocketry and drones. The week culminates in designing and building your own flying machine!
Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing
Do you have an interest in other worlds and technologies? Do you enjoy fiction that makes you ponder, "What if ...?" In this course, students will read works of science fiction and fantasy to understand how the two genres differ and where they overlap. Using these texts as models, students will create a fantastical realm, develop the characters that inhabit these unique worlds, and consider plot lines that invite the reader on an adventure propelled by the question: What if ...?
Thinking like a Mathematician
You may think of a professional mathematician as a pensive individual seated at their desk or standing over a board covered in complex mathematical symbols. In reality, everyone can think like a mathematician, as long as they are open to conjecture, exploration, ambiguity, and the formation of new ideas and connections. Thinking like a Mathematician revisits elementary mathematical ideas through a new lens, not as formulas to remember but as naturally occurring truths which are all around us in the world. This inquiry-based course will explore puzzling pictures, perplexing patterns, and powerful propositions. Come join us for some mathematical fun and discovery!
Week 2: July 17-21
- 3D and VR Game Design
- Backyard Birders
- Chess Tactics
- Comics & Cartooning
- Debate
- DNA to Disease
- Geometric Art
- Intro to Entrepreneurship
- Mathematical Patterns & Designs
- Painting
3D and VR Game Design
Backyard Birders
Who is drumming on your chimney? Who is making that high-pitched song before the sun rises each morning? Why do we only notice it during certain times of the year? During this introductory birding course, we will enjoy time out in the field with binoculars and field guides to learn how to use both sight and sound to identify the birds we are most likely to find in our own neighborhoods and parks. We’ll not only learn who’s calling, but also what they’re talking about! By the end of this course, you will know a lot more about your feathered neighbors and how to make our homes and communities more welcoming to native wild birds.
Chess Tactics
Do you enjoy playing chess and want to learn some of the game’s fundamental strategies and tactics? In this course, students will learn several strategies and tactics, including opening gambits, forks, skewers, and endgame tactics. Students will study games played by past Grandmasters, learn some of the history of chess, and have the chance to play live games with classmates. Your move!
Comics & Cartooning
In this course, you will delve into the world of comics, cartoons, and visual storytelling. We will explore a wide variety of illustration styles through various reading selections, including classic comic strips, political cartoons, and excerpts from manga and graphic novels. We will then create our own cartoons and comics, practicing how to express character and emotion by combining words and pictures. No artistic skills are required for this course, though a passion for doodling is strongly encouraged!
Debate
DNA to Disease
Where do diseases come from? How does the first person get them? How do they spread? Get ready to dive into the mysteries of biology and explore some big questions. From molecules to worldwide populations, be prepared to investigate the big-picture and microscopic aspects of biology in a completely hands-on and interactive way.
Geometric Art
Following the path of Greek mathematicians and Middle Eastern scholars, students in this class will create original works of geometric art while exploring the artistic concepts of pattern, motion, and movement. Topics for research and learning may include: history of the circle, mandalas, parabolic curves, working with a compass, solar symmetry, using a stencil, rotation along a point, and optical illusions. Socratic discussion and reflective critique will conclude each day.
Intro to Entrepreneurship
What makes a product fly off the shelf? How do internet “influencers” successfully market products? Why do people love slime videos so much? What is an “elevator pitch”? If you have wondered about the answers to these questions, this is the course for you! Using the design- thinking process, learn to create a product, build a marketing strategy, and pitch it to a panel of judges in a “Shark Tank”-like competition at the end of the week.
Mathematical Patterns & Designs
In describing mathematics, Richard Feynman once wrote, “If you want to learn about nature, to appreciate nature, it is necessary to understand the language that she speaks in.” In this course we will unpack some of the visual patterns to be found in mathematics and nature and use these to create two- and three-dimensional artwork. From Celtic Knots to Escher’s famous tessellations we will use patterns and designs to create eye-pleasing artwork as well as explore two- and three-point perspectives to imitate the illusion of the third dimension on paper. We will turn post-it notes and playing cards into platonic solids and explore the delicate art of origami. We will also look at the Fibonacci Sequence as it applies to the fundamental rules of nature.
Painting
Week 3: July 24-28 (limited spots)
- 2D Game Design with Scratch
- Debate
- Digital Music Production
- Fiber Arts and Natural Color Dyeing
- Marine Biology
- Medical Mysteries
- Mixed Media Sculpture
- Mobile App Development
- Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing
2D Game Design with Scratch
Learn how to code animations, interactive art, and games! Start with simple shapes and build up to more sophisticated sprite-based games, using the same programming concepts and the design process computer scientists use daily. You will complete a personalized, interactive program that you can share on the Internet.
Debate
Digital Music Production
Fiber Arts and Natural Color Dyeing
Marine Biology
From microscopic copepods to underwater forests and massive sharks, the marine environment is teeming with impressive organisms, ecosystems, and phenomena to investigate. During this introductory marine biology course, we will learn about the diversity of marine ecosystems on Earth and then take a deeper dive into the organisms we’re most likely to encounter here on our beaches in the Puget Sound. We’ll use microscopes to take a close look at live plankton samples and we will also investigate some of the conservation issues that most impact our waters. At the end of the week we will visit the intertidal to observe and actually meet some of our favorite local marine species!
Medical Mysteries
Are you interested in health, medicine, or physiology? If so, this is the class for you! Throughout the week, you will do hands-on investigations focusing on different body systems. Each day you get to explore different organs, conduct labs to see how they work, attempt to build working models, and put your problem-solving skills to the test to diagnose patients with mystery ailments. Get ready to grab your clipboard and put on your doctor's coat!
Mixed Media Sculpture
If you can dream it, you can make it! In this week of sculpture making and skill building, students will be introduced to a number of materials and techniques. They will learn to turn basic forms into imaginative 3Dl creatures, animals, food, abstracts and much more. Materials may include wire, foam, wood, paper clay, air-dry clay, found objects and acrylic paints and paper.
Mobile App Development
Science Fiction and Fantasy Writing
Do you have an interest in other worlds and technologies? Do you enjoy fiction that makes you ponder, "What if ...?" In this course, students will read works of science fiction and fantasy to understand how the two genres differ and where they overlap. Using these texts as models, students will create a fantastical realm, develop the characters that inhabit these unique worlds, and consider plot lines that invite the reader on an adventure propelled by the question: What if ...?
Week 4: July 31-August 4 (FULL) Please create an account using the registration button above in order to be added to the waitlist.
- 3D and VR Game Design
- Backyard Birders
- Chess Tactics
- Comics & Cartooning
- Data Science with Python
- DNA to Disease
- Graphic Design
- Intro to Entrepreneurship
- Painting
3D and VR Game Design
Backyard Birders
Who is drumming on your chimney? Who is making that high-pitched song before the sun rises each morning? Why do we only notice it during certain times of the year? During this introductory birding course, we will enjoy time out in the field with binoculars and field guides to learn how to use both sight and sound to identify the birds we are most likely to find in our own neighborhoods and parks. We’ll not only learn who’s calling, but also what they’re talking about! By the end of this course, you will know a lot more about your feathered neighbors and how to make our homes and communities more welcoming to native wild birds.
Chess Tactics
Do you enjoy playing chess and want to learn some of the game’s fundamental strategies and tactics? In this course, students will learn several strategies and tactics, including opening gambits, forks, skewers, and endgame tactics. Students will study games played by past Grandmasters, learn some of the history of chess, and have the chance to play live games with classmates. Your move!
Comics & Cartooning
In this course, you will delve into the world of comics, cartoons, and visual storytelling. We will explore a wide variety of illustration styles through various reading selections, including classic comic strips, political cartoons, and excerpts from manga and graphic novels. We will then create our own cartoons and comics, practicing how to express character and emotion by combining words and pictures. No artistic skills are required for this course, though a passion for doodling is strongly encouraged!
Data Science with Python
DNA to Disease
Where do diseases come from? How does the first person get them? How do they spread? Get ready to dive into the mysteries of biology and explore some big questions. From molecules to worldwide populations, be prepared to investigate the big-picture and microscopic aspects of biology in a completely hands-on and interactive way.
Graphic Design
This interactive class takes campers through the process of creating motion graphics by introducing students to the principles and elements of motion design. Topics include title overlays, motion title sequencing, dynamic backgrounds, and 3D movement. No experience is necessary, simply a creative mind and an interest in media production!
Intro to Entrepreneurship
What makes a product fly off the shelf? How do internet “influencers” successfully market products? Why do people love slime videos so much? What is an “elevator pitch”? If you have wondered about the answers to these questions, this is the course for you! Using the design- thinking process, learn to create a product, build a marketing strategy, and pitch it to a panel of judges in a “Shark Tank”-like competition at the end of the week.
Painting
Color is such a fun and exciting way to explore one’s creativity! This week, students will learn the basics of acrylic paint color mixing, brush techniques, and how painting can be incorporated into all kinds of artistic creations! Completed projects will include canvas paintings, integration with collage, and beautiful free-form marbled papers. All levels of experience are welcome.
Afternoon Activities
International Cooking
Through chef demonstrations and hands-on cooking, you’ll learn a variety of cooking skills. We will discuss basic cooking methods and tips, ingredient selection, and plating techniques. Around the world you will go, having fun while learning to cook the fresh, exciting flavors of Asia; iconic cuisines of the Americas; and the aromatic flavors found throughout the Mediterranean. Our cooking boot camp will culminate in a friendly group “top chef” competition on the final day of our journey!
Makerspace
Learn to think like an engineer and spend some time playing with equipment from the Lakeside Makerspace! You will use building materials such as craft sticks, corks, cardboard, dowels, hot glue and duct tape to engineer structures for friendly competitions. You will also learn to use Makerspace tools such as our laser cutter and 3D printer. All skill and experience levels are welcome! Every week will have a different focus, so feel free to sign up for this activity more than once!
Musical Theater: Classical Vibes and Modern Styles (Weeks of 7/10-7/14 and 7/24-7/28)
Take a trip into the past to learn about the early days of Musical Theatre, and then fast-forward into discovering the pop/rock stylings that are heard on Broadway today. In addition to learning about how to create those styles with your voice, classes will also explore character development and finding a commanding stage presence, so that you act and sound like a star!
Musical Theater: New York, New York! (Weeks of 7/17-7/21 and 7/31-8/4)
Discover what it takes to make it on Broadway as you explore what it is to be a "triple-threat" (singer/dancer/actor). Classes will involve developing acting skills, singing-techniques, and basic dance choreography. Whether you have performance experience or just like to sing in the shower, this is a chance to be inspired and reach for the stars!
Sports Activity
This afternoon activity includes a variety of sports and games that allow campers to improve fitness, enjoy the outdoors, learn new skills, practice teamwork, and have fun! In addition to field sports like flag football, soccer, and softball, campers will also move through martial arts and yoga stations taught by professional instructors. Join us in the afternoons for fitness and fun!
Specialized Athletic Camp (New for Summer 2023!)
We also offer a variety of middle school athletics camps run by Lakeside Varsity coaches. If you would like your child to participate in an afternoon specialized sports camp, you may select this option during the registration process. Specialized sports camps cost an additional $50 per week. Financial aid is available.
Options for the specialized athletic camp include Boys Basketball or Co-ed Flag Football (July 10-14), Girls Basketball (July 17-21), and Boys Soccer or Girls Volleyball (July 24-28). If you choose to participate in a specialized athletic camp, a camp counselor will escort your child from the middle school campus to the athletic camp location on the upper school campus.
Daily Schedule 2023
Important Dates
Important dates for 2023
Monday, Feb. 6 at 8 a.m.: Registration opens for current Lakeside students, Downtown School students, and children of alumni.
Monday, Feb. 13 at 8 a.m.: Registration opens to the public. "Register Now" button will be posted on this webpage.
Thursday, June 1 at 5 p.m.: Registration closes.
Contact
Questions?
SummerSchool@lakesideschool.org
Tel: 206-440-2700
The Lakeside Summer School office is closed for mid-winter break (Feb. 20 - Feb. 24). Emails and voicemails will be answered the week of Feb. 27.
FAQ
Investigative Learning Camp 2023 FAQ
- Can I sign up for just one week of camp?
- If my child’s first-choice class is full, can I be put on a waitlist?
- How will we keep campers safe during COVID?
- Is there bus service to campus this summer?
- Is there financial aid available?
- Is lunch provided?
- Is aftercare available?
- What should campers bring to camp with them every day?
- When is drop-off and pickup?
- Where is drop-off and pickup?
- If my child has an appointment, can I pick up my student early or drop them off late?
- Can international students attend?
Can I sign up for just one week of camp?
If my child’s first-choice class is full, can I be put on a waitlist?
How will we keep campers safe during COVID?
Lakeside School is committed to student and employee safety.
We require all students and staff participating in our summer programs to be fully vaccinated. For more information about health and safety at Lakeside School please see our Health and Safety Expectations for Summer Programs Families.
Is there bus service to campus this summer?
Yes, we offer limited bus service over the summer for Summer School, ILC, and ILC Jr. students. Bus service costs $80/week. Financial aid is available. Lakeside students who are currently signed up for custom bus service and who plan to sign up for it again for the 2023-24 school year do not need to pay for service over the summer, as they may continue to use their existing Lakeside Orca card. The bus schedule will be posted on our website in early February.
Is there financial aid available?
Yes. Lakeside Summer School Programs does its best to make all of our camps and classes accessible to all families, regardless of income. Aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Families may choose to apply for financial aid as part of the online registration process. Financial aid information can be found here.
Is lunch provided?
Is aftercare available?
What should campers bring to camp with them every day?
Snacks and camp t-shirts are provided. Face masks are optional. Campers should bring their own lunches and water bottles. Families receiving financial aid have the option to receive a bag lunch at no cost provided by our camp.
Sunscreen will be available, but campers may also choose to pack their own sunscreen and/or hat for outdoor activities. Campers should wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes if they are signed up for a sports activity.
When is drop-off and pickup?
Where is drop-off and pickup?
If my child has an appointment, can I pick up my student early or drop them off late?
Yes. Please email SummerSchool@lakesideschool.org to schedule early pickup or late drop-off. A counselor or administrator will escort your student to the Middle School front entrance.
Can international students attend?
Summer at Lakeside welcomes applications from international students. Learn more about international student participation in Summer at Lakeside.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition
1 week of camp: $550
1 week of camp + Specialized Athletic Camp: $600
Financial aid is available. The financial aid application is included as an option in our online registration process.
The program awards financial assistance according to demonstrated family need on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more via the link below.
Health and Safety
Vaccinations are required for all Investigative Learning Camp students for summer 2023, unless a health or religious exemption has been granted. A third dose (or booster shot) is also required for all eligible students. To learn more, please visit our Health and Safety Expectations for Summer School Programs Families page.
Refunds and withdrawals
International Students
Bus Service
We offer limited bus service over the summer for Summer School, ILC, and ILC Jr. students. Bus service costs $80/week. Financial aid is available. Lakeside students who are currently signed up for custom bus service and who plan to sign up for it again for the 2023-24 school year do not need to pay for service over the summer, as they may continue to use their existing Lakeside Orca card.