The Art & Science of Stop Motion-Animation: "Animation" literally means bringing things to life. "Stop-motion" is a powerful animation technique that communicates ideas by making static inanimate objects (anything from matchsticks to machinery) appear to move. In this intensive hands-on class, students brought stories to life using 2-D and 3-D stop-motion animation. The classroom was transformed into an animator's studio as students explored three variations of stop-motion animation – flat, 3-D, and live – and then created an animated film bringing to life stories of their own invention.

 

Chic Geek: Where Electronics and Clothing Collide: Not your old-fashioned home economics class! Bringing together students’ inner techie AND fashion designer, this course looked at what is fashion-forward technology and how to tech-out your wardrobe. Electronic circuitry with LEDs brought sparkle to clothing, purses, jewelry and more.  The Chic Geeks of GMS combined techniques of stitchery with circuit design and soldering to create one-of-a-kind fashions.

 

Construction + Community Service = 1 Great Intersession! GMS’ beloved woodworking teacher took a group of GMS students to 150-year-old Deer Hollow Farm, tucked into the foothills in Mountain View as part of Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve.  Sharing space with chickens, rabbits, goats, pigs and a cow, the students built a new barn door and a storage building for the farm.  Students learned what is involved in a construction project, from measuring and drawing up plans to cutting and hammering to execute those plans.  They turned recycled lumber, cut boards, nails, and screws into finished products that aid our community in a meaningful way. To quote Fred, “GMS students can do great things, but they need great things to do!”