Keystone Academy Summer Camp

Secondary School Summer Programs

Bilingual Program

Mastering Su Dongpo: A Cultural Exchange between the East and the West
Su Dongpo was a literary superstar. He excelled academically, was favored by his seniors, appreciated by his leaders, and had friends all over the world. However, this extraordinarily talented individual had a life full of ups and downs, constantly facing banishment or being on the way to be banished. Amidst his tumultuous life, he left a vast array of texts for students throughout the ages to study and memorize, which also contained spiritual treasures that could benefit Chinese people throughout their lives. He was genuine, optimistic, positive, resilient, and never self-defeating. This extraordinary mindset could help students overcome any adversity. Moreover, understanding Su Dongpo would enable students to comprehend the core values of Chinese civilization, such as Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, achieving a deep cultural understanding and identification.

This bilingual project consists of three parts: reading, discussion, and scriptwriting. Through a series of in-depth readings, including The Biography of Su Tungpo (Lin Yutang), A New Biography of Su Dongpo (Li Yibing), Su Shi's Poetry Translated by Xu Yuanchong, Delicious, Su Dongpo (Liu Yang), The Norton Anthology of Chinese Literature (Stephen Owen), Intuition (Claude Roy), and multimedia materials, as well as a wide range of activities such as close reading and exploration, musical and drama appreciation, improvisational performance, creative writing, and debates, we will help contemporary students connect with Su Dongpo. Based on this connection, they will complete discussions and presentations, introducing this Eastern "idol" to the West. Before the end of the course, each student will also complete a part of scriptwriting, which may be used in the annual Chinese drama script, allowing them to experience the transformation from literature to performance and further enhance their public speaking and creativity.

When is the program? July 21 to July 25, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6-10

English Program

Traditional and Digital Art with Storytelling
This will be an enriching experience designed to ignite your child's creativity and equip them with valuable skills that extend far beyond the classroom. This program emphasizes world building and storytelling, allowing students to not only create captivating artworks but also to weave narratives that breathe life into their creations. Through the exploration of both traditional tools—such as pencils, watercolors, and markers—and cutting-edge digital software like Procreate, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities while mastering essential artistic techniques. They will learn to express their ideas and emotions visually, fostering a deeper understanding of how art can communicate powerful messages.

In today's fast-paced world, the ability to think creatively and collaboratively is more important than ever. Our program nurtures these skills through peer feedback sessions and guided artistic exploration, preparing students to thrive in a variety of future endeavors. By engaging in the SCAMPER design approach, participants will enhance their design thinking, an invaluable asset in any career path they choose. Additionally, students will hone their communication skills through an oral presentation where they will showcase their final artworks and the stories behind them, supported by a visually compelling slide deck created using Canva. With our great teacher, students will receive expert guidance in both artistic techniques and effective presentation skills.

Mastering both traditional and digital art forms—including the use of Procreate—will empower your child to adapt to various artistic mediums, a crucial skill in today’s diverse creative landscape. Whether they pursue art, technology, storytelling, or entrepreneurship, the skills they gain in this program will prepare them to approach challenges with innovation and confidence. Enroll your child in our Summer School Art Program and watch them transform into a creative thinker, ready to navigate and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

When is the program? June 30 to July 11, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6-9

Empower Your Child's Athletic Journey
Are you seeking a transformative summer experience that not only enhances your child's physical prowess but also instills a deep understanding of their body's capabilities? Our specialized summer program is designed for 12-16-year-olds, focusing on enhancing stamina, core strength, and reducing the risk of injuries. We delve into the science of sports, teaching students how their muscles, lungs, and skeletal systems work together during physical activity, and the role of blood circulation in peak performance.

Through a combination of targeted training, dynamic exercises, and expert technique instruction, we aim to minimize muscle fatigue and boost endurance. Lung capacity enhancement is a cornerstone of our program, ensuring your child has the power to excel in any sport.

Our goal is to provide a comprehensive program that strengthens the entire body, equipping young athletes with the physical prowess to dominate in their chosen sports. We emphasize recovery techniques to ensure a swift bounce-back from muscle fatigue, keeping your child ready for their next challenge.

When is the program? July 14 to July 25, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G7-9

Upskilling your English
Within the comprehensive and well-structured IB MYP framework, students will embark on a holistic journey to enhance their English language proficiency. They will diligently practice the four essential language skills—Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.

While focusing on language skills, the program will also emphasize the development of critical and creative thinking skills. Students will be encouraged to analyze texts, question ideas, and come up with innovative solutions and perspectives. They will learn to think logically, evaluate information, and express their thoughts in a clear and persuasive manner.

A variety of text types will be utilized to stimulate students' thinking and facilitate language skill improvement. In addition to written texts, auditory materials like audio recordings and spoken word performances will be used. Visual texts, such as images, videos, and infographics, will also play a significant role. These multimodal texts will cater to different learning styles and help students better understand and process information.

Students will have ample opportunities to work both individually and collaboratively. This will not only showcase their language skills but also their creativity and ability to work effectively in a team.

When is the program? June 30 to July 11, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G7-9

Explore the Mysteries of Nature and Embark on a Scientific Journey
Imagine the fascinating journey behind the water you use every day. How do microorganisms in water cleverly treat wastewater, even converting sludge into electricity? Or, how do your genes intricately shape your unique characteristics and affect your health? If you are curious about these questions, then welcome to our specially designed Natural Science Camp for students in grades 7 to 10!

In this two-week immersive program, we will lead students on a wonderful journey to explore water environments and biomedicine. Through field research and hands-on experiments, students will delve into these two fascinating scientific fields and uncover the mysteries of nature.

Week 1: Water Environment Research and Wastewater Treatment

Students will step out of the classroom and conduct field research in the water environments around Beijing. This is not only an excellent opportunity to understand the current status and challenges of local water resources but also a journey to experience scientific practice firsthand. Through careful observation and rigorous data collection, students will learn how to assess water quality and explore the key role of microorganisms in wastewater treatment. Our carefully designed experiments will demonstrate how microorganisms efficiently treat wastewater and convert sludge from wastewater treatment into electricity. These practical activities will not only help students deeply understand the importance of water resource protection but also develop their scientific experimental skills and analytical abilities. Here, students will personally experience the charm of science and the power of science!

Week 2: Exploration of Genes and Genetic Engineering

In the following week, we will lead students into the microscopic world to explore the basic principles of genes and genetics. Students will build DNA molecule models with their own hands, intuitively understanding the mechanisms of genetic information storage and transmission. In addition, they will participate in experiments to extract chromatin, experiencing the research process in the laboratory firsthand and observing the extraction and analysis of genetic material within cells. By investigating the applications of genetic engineering in medical treatments, students will discuss the ethical issues of these technologies, enhance their research and communication skills (including oral and written scientific academic writing), and at the same time, exercise their critical thinking abilities.

Through this two-week scientific exploration journey, students will not only gain valuable practical experience but also lay a solid foundation for future scientific learning and research. Let's explore the wonderful world of natural science together and embark on an exciting scientific journey!

When is the program? July 7 to July 18, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G7-10

Filmmaking Program
We are excited to offer a one-week collaborative filmmaking program for students in grades 6 to 8 from July 7 to 12. Participants will explore the world of film production, developing skills in storytelling, script writing, and video editing. The program will be conducted in English with Chinese support, ensuring a supportive learning environment. With a co-teaching approach, students will receive personalized guidance as they work together on their group film projects. In addition to creative storytelling, the program will cover essential digital skills, media literacy, and the role of artificial intelligence in today’s media landscape. Even more so, students get to have an experience in a professional filmmaking space with cutting edge equipment.

This program is designed for a maximum of 16 students, allowing for an engaging and interactive experience. Students will not only gain practical skills in media production but also learn to critically engage with digital content, preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world. We look forward to exploring the art of filmmaking together!

When is the program? July 7 to July 11, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6-8

Chinese Programs

Mobile Photography: Capturing Life's Beauty
In this fast-paced era, beautiful moments fleetingly pass by. Yet, with just a smartphone, you can become a recorder and creator of life. Our mobile photography project is tailor-made for those who love recording and creating, taking you on a journey of visual art.

During this week, we will delve into the mysteries of mobile photography, from basic composition and light capturing to color matching, and practical post-editing techniques, enhancing your photography skills in every aspect. There's no need for expensive professional equipment; a smartphone is all you need. Through careful observation and deep reflection, you will learn to capture the beauty around you with your lens, improve your aesthetic ability, and cherish and record every touching moment in life.

By the end of the project, you will not only have mastered the skills to record life but also gained abundant inspiration and friendship. Here, photography is no longer just about pressing the shutter; it's an art of feeling life with your heart and conveying emotions through images. Come and join us, capture your wonderful moments with your smartphone lens, and make beauty eternal at your fingertips!

When is the program? July 14 to July 18, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6

A Close Reading of Classical Literary Works
In the past two summers, our in-depth reading courses of classic literary works were like a refreshing spring, nourishing the children's hearts and winning unanimous praise from students and parents. In this fertile land of literature, the children not only absorbed rich literary nutrients but also honed their keen ability to appreciate texts, laying a solid foundation for the challenges of in-depth reading analysis in future DP courses.

This summer, we set off again. This session's course turns its gaze to the brilliant foreign literary sky. From Hermann Hesse's Siddhartha from Germany, to Rabindranath Tagore's prose poetry selection from India, from Kahlil Gibran's poetic chapters from Lebanon, to William Shakespeare's Hamlet from England, from Somerset Maugham's The Moon and Sixpence, to F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, from Erich Ohser's Father and Son from Germany, to Marjane Satrapi's Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood from Iran, to Orhan Pamuk's Istanbul: Memories and the City from Turkey, nine classic literary works and a series of visual texts,

In an inquiry-based learning environment, we will carefully cultivate students' ability to read texts carefully and read whole books, enhance their perception of beautiful texts, and deepen their understanding of the core themes of literature. At the same time, by deeply exploring the subtle connections between literary works of different genres, cultures, and historical periods, the children will perceive the unique ways in which different languages and literatures depict the world, and understand the essence of the discipline of language and literature. Thus, in the subject of "IB - Language and Literature", they can freely interpret, analyze and evaluate, and let the light of literature illuminate their path of growth.

When is the program? July 7 to July 25, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6-8

From Creative Writing to Academic Writing
Are you yearning to explore the profound world of academic writing? Then "From Creative Writing to Academic Writing" is the harbor where your dream sets sail! This is a two-week full-day immersive program, specially designed for students in grades six to eight. Here, Chinese is the main teaching language, combined with Chinese and English reading materials, focusing on guiding students to appreciate the cross-linguistic charm of writing thinking and achieve a magnificent transformation from creativity to academia.

The program is meticulously designed. The first week delves into the transformation of creative and academic writing in non-fiction works, while the second week focuses on the exploration of fictional works. Students will experience a comprehensive transformation in reading thinking, writing style, and writing patterns. Through project-based learning, they will complete creative writing and corresponding research-based academic writing of non-fiction and fictional works in Chinese. At the end of the project, students will gain eight types of Chinese text outcomes, covering diverse genres such as poetry, opening script, prose, documentary narration, novels, film and television script stories, plays, and short video stories. From discontinuous to continuous texts, from creative conception to academic analysis, it fully demonstrates the leap in writing ability.

Join us, let creativity and academia collide in your writing to produce brilliant sparks, lay a solid foundation for future learning and growth, and open up a new realm of writing!

When is the program? July 7 to July 18, Monday to Friday, 8:30AM-3:20PM

Whom does the program serve? Current G6-8