The Physics of Engineering
- Grades 5-6
- CTY-Level
-
Residential and Commuter
- Science and Engineering
Can a concrete boat float? How do you build the strongest bridge with the lightest materials? Physics—the science of matter and its motion—provides answers to questions like these. In this course, we’ll explore core principles of mechanics, aerodynamics, electricity, magnetism, and orbital motion, and then apply them to engineering design projects like building a trebuchet; designing and launching a rocket; and constructing a roller coaster. By collecting and analyzing data, writing reports about your discoveries, and participating in class lectures, discussions, and practice exercises, you’ll learn major physics concepts and work individually and in teams to create solutions to common engineering problems. Before taking this class, you should either complete CTY’s Inductive and Deductive Reasoning or Data and Chance, or have experience with pre-algebraic concepts like equation manipulation, interpreting graphs, and expressing large numbers in scientific notation.
Typical Class Size: 14-16
Summer Dates & Locations
Session One
Session Two
Testing and Prerequisites
| Math | Verbal | |
|---|---|---|
| Required Level | CTY-Level | Not required |
Students must achieve qualifying scores on an advanced assessment to be eligible for CTY programs. If you don’t have qualifying scores, you have several different testing options. We’ll help you find the right option for your situation.
Sign up for Testing Learn MoreCost and Financial Aid
Tuition
- Varies
Application fee
- Nonrefundable Application Fee - $50 (Waived for financial aid applicants)
- Nonrefundable International Fee - $250 (outside US only)
Financial Aid is available
We are committed to serving all talented youth regardless of financial circumstances. Financial assistance is available based on need.
Course Materials
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].
Course Extras (Lab fee info, etc): Lab fee: $145
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course, and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
- The Cartoon Guide to Physics, by Larry Gonick
- The Art of Construction, by Mario Salvadori
About Science and Engineering at CTY
Explore space and our planet
In our Introduction to Astronomy course, we’ll visit a nearby observatory or planetarium, see what the cosmos looks like through various spectra, and immerse ourselves in the science and technology that bring the universe closer to home. In Marine Ecology, we’ll visit local wetlands and tidepools, observe flora and fauna, collect water samples and analyze them for clues about their health and humans’ impact. And in The Global Environment, we will explore the human impact on our environment and generate proposals for addressing climate change.
Bond over chemistry
Our chemistry courses help you see the world differently, starting at the atomic level. The Edible World gives budding chefs and science lovers a glimpse into the chemical reactions that happen when we make food, and the chemical makeup of meals and treats we eat every day. In our Crystals and Polymers course, we’ll synthesize slime, grow rock candy, and isolate strawberry DNA to learn about the molecular structure of naturally occurring gems and human-produced plastics. In Chemistry in Society, we’ll consider how the chemicals in products can both enhance and degrade the world around us; produce biodiesel in a lab to understand alternative fuels; and prepare aspirin to learn about the healing and toxic properties of pharmaceuticals.
Meet our instructors and staff
My favorite thing about teaching at CTY is watching the students' curiosity and excitement lead their learning. It's exciting as an instructor to witness their confidence increase and watch as their 'aha' moments manifest into increased knowledge and mastery of the content.
Laya Theberge
Robotics Instructor
CTY students have a contagious energy combined with a thirst for knowledge that I look forward to each summer. They remind me of why I became a teacher.
Antonia Richards
Chemistry Instructor
When I was a student at CTY, I was excited to be in a place where all of the instructors and program assistants loved learning as much as I did. It wasn't until I came back as a PA that I realized CTY instructors feel just as excited to work with such dedicated and curious students.
Nick Smith
Program Assistant and CTY Alum