Will Oakland catch them all in Week 4?

Week 4 has hit at II Oakland, at we're  off to a great start.

Party like it's 1999, Pokemania has hit again, and International Ivy Oakland is no exception. You Kangaskhan't imagine the camper's poke-fever. In response to this recent epidemic, we've begun introducing lunch electives, and having campers choose between multiple different activities to do after they finish eating. One of those electives, watching the original pokemon cartoon, has been quite popular.

This camper anxiously waits to see if Ash will capture Caterpie

These modern players have something to learn from the roots of the franchise.

For those campers that don't wish to watch pokemon, the long-standing Oakland tradition of playing 4 square is alive and well.

I was supposed to be in the 1 box, but felt that capturing this image was more important.

Oakland's classes have also been running swimmingly, as all of the campers are excited and busy.

Anatomy and Surgical Techniques has been cutting open some fun this week, as so far they've been working on virtual surgeries and learning about using a microscope. 

Instructor Shakeira goes over the parts of the microscope with these future surgeons.

The class goes over their next assignment to utilize and test their microscope skills

Minecraft Creative: The Engineer in You has campers teaming up to build larger than life structures and towers using teamwork. The kids have built The Sphinx, The Eiffel Tower, The Statue of Liberty, and for some reason, a giant statue of Shrek.

"Guys, I'm pretty sure Shrek doesn't have a totally square head."

Minecraft Advanced challenges campers with advanced Minecraft concepts like redstone circuits and editing their own maps. From the noise and laughter that I've heard, it sounds like the kids are having a blast.

Having a super cool redstone circuit appears to be a way to make friends.

Campers can learn some of Minecraft's more advanced concepts with consistent assistance from their instructor.

Our own Site Director Eric this week is teaching Fan Fiction and The Writing Process. This class utilizes critical thinking skills particularly to add layers of depth to pre-existing narratives. Students challenge themselves by thinking about the universe of Star Wars, but maybe with a brand new character at the helm. Imagine if Ash was part of Team Rocket in Pokemon, or if Luke was actually working for the Dark Side. Imagining a different narrative does wonders for kids that are looking to improve their writing and communication skills. We're looking forward to seeing what our little playwrights come up with. 

Eric starts by critiquing writing samples to assess the direction of the class.

This contemplative camper ponders the possibility of Han Solo in the Pokemon Universe.

Acting for the Stage has been working on displaying emotion and using their voice for power. In terms of pictures, let's just say that their performance isn't final yet, and they wish to forego cameras until they've got a perfect run.

In conclusion, Pokemania has no signs of stopping, and the campers are having a great time. Not sure if we'll catch them all by Friday, mostly because it has taken Ash around 15 years. 

Looking forward to a great week!