About the Course
Books often ask you to dream up imaginary worlds, but in the case of Judi and Ronald Barrett’s classic children’s book Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, there are important science concepts behind the words and pictures. In this course, we will use a literary lens to practice basic methods of inquiry that are used by all scientists to try to understand and explain the world. We will analyze the science woven through Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs to understand the scientific method. We will conduct hands-on activities directly related to scientific concepts presented in the book, such as nutrition, structures, and weather patterns. At the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in science as well as the ability to recognize scientific concepts in other literary works.
The content in Cloudy with a Chance of Discovery overlaps with the CTY course Science with a Chance of Meatballs. Students who have already taken Science with a Chance of Meatballs may wish to consult with an enrollment advisor before selecting this course.
Learning Objectives
- Identify, test, and explain the science concepts found in Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
- Generate and explore questions raised by scientific themes and concepts in the books you read
- Develop and use science process skills to further explore the world around you
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
Online
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Sun for 7 weeks
Times: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Register by: December 15, 2025
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Families will be notified by email of any required materials one week prior to the course start date.
Time commitment: 2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). Course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Days: Every Sun for 7 weeks
Times: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Register by: February 17, 2026
Time Commitment:
Please acquire all course materials by the course start date, unless noted as perishable. Items marked as “perishable” should not be acquired until the student needs them in the course. If you have questions about these materials or difficulty locating them, please contact [email protected].
Families will be notified by email of any required materials one week prior to the course start date.
Time commitment:2.5-3.5 hours per week (1.5 hours of class time, 1-2 hours of independent work). Course will include 6 sessions over 6 weeks.
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid