This summer’s theme was “Out of this World! “ Why study space? NASA says it best: “Exploring the secrets of the universe will benefit all by creating new opportunities and inspiring the world through discovery.” NASA’s exploration vision is anchored in providing value for humanity by answering some of the most fundamental questions: Why are we here? How did it all begin? Are we all alone? What comes next? How can we make our lives better?
NASA was created more than half a century ago to begin answering some of these questions. Since then, space exploration has been one of the most unifying, borderless human endeavors to date. An international partnership of five space agencies from fifteen countries operates the International Space Station, and two dozen countries have signed the Artemis Accords, signaling their commitment to shared values for long-term human exploration and research on the Moon. Through space exploration, we gain a new perspective to study Earth and the solar system. Space exploration allows us to advance new technologies that improve our daily lives, and inspires new generations of artists, thinkers, tinkerers, engineers, and scientists.
In science, students studied how the solar system was formed and the conditions necessary for life to exist as we know it. Students explored life’s basic ingredients, life in extreme environments, and possible extraterrestrial locations for life in our solar system and beyond. During Week 4, Students used the engineering design process, multidisciplinary concepts and knowledge to construct a model rocket, launch it, and determine the landing zone after considering the variables that affect the flight and return to Earth.
In writing, students learned the basic structure of a five paragraph essay (introduction with thesis, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion), and became more confident in their own writing process. Students incorporated the space-theme content from literature and science classes as well as the Green Bank Observatory field trip to compose essays– and brushed up on several grammar tips, too.
In literature, students learned about the science fiction genre by reading the book Hidden Figures. The class explored the art of science fiction and its impact on culture while also exploring real life figures who have shaped space exploration. During Week 4, students discussed several popular science fiction films including Dune, Contact, Star Wars, and Star Trek.
In math, students starting learning concepts for the math class they will be taking during the upcoming school year. Students were grouped by math course including Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry, Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus, and College Algebra.
Outside of the classroom, students participated in many activities and field trips that were facilitated by our Tutor/Counselors (TCs) and Head Resident (HR). These activities include: swimming at the Frostburg Pool, painting Space-themed planters, board/card games, volleyball, yoga, UB Olympics, jewelry-making, ultimate frisbee, movie nights, self-care night, tie dye, murder mystery night, and more.
Students travelled to the Greenbank Observatory (GBO) in Greenbank, West Virginia. At GBO students learned about radio telescopes and how they are used to make discoveries in space. Students also travelled to Dan's Mountain State Park for a pool party with the Upward Bound Math/Science program and to Rocky Gap State Park for a picnic. This summer, we also travelled to the Cumberland Theatre for the local production of Footloose. During Week 5, we travelled to Towson University and explored multiple space facilities including the Towson Planetarium, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, and the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center. Students also experienced breaking out of escape rooms, exploring the Towson Town Center, and touring Bowie State University on this trip.
Our Academic Year Program will begin in just over a month. Make sure to mark your calendars for our UB Saturdays! We will send out more information about school meeting shortly.
- August 26th: First Day of School
- September 14th: UB Saturday
- September 28th: UB Saturday
- October 12th: UB Saturday
- October 26th: UB Saturday
- November 9th: UB Saturday
- December 7th: UB Saturday
- February 1st: UB Saturday
- February 15th: UB Saturday
- March 8th: UB Saturday
- April 5th: UB Saturday
- April 26th: UB Saturday
- May 10th: UB Saturday
- May 17th: GRADUATION!
Email: upwardbound@frostburg.edu
Website: www.frostburg.edu/upward-bound
Location: 101 Braddock Road, Frostburg, MD, USA
Phone: (301) 687-4994
