Brainiacs
Why enroll in Brainiacs?
Brainiacs classes are split into two levels: 5th/6th grade and 7th/8th grade.
Class sessions (one month long during the school year; two weeks long during summer) are based around a book. During class, students will learn to read critically and be introduced to literary analysis and critical thinking. Our curriculum also covers grammar and writing skills, as well as vocabulary.
Strong writing skills are critical for success in school and beyond. Effective communication skills are also essential for anyone who is hoping to be a leader and make a difference in their community.
Our Brainiacs classes introduce students to every step of the writing process–from brainstorming to proofreading–offering them instruction, practice, and feedback on every skill needed along the way (including grammar and vocabulary). We believe writing is best learned through practice and feedback, so we build that into all our classes.
Schedule & Class Structure
During the school year, classes are twice a week in the evenings at our Carmel Valley office, our 4S Ranch office, and online. Students complete the reading assignments in between classes. In summer, classes meet in the afternoons.
Class sessions consist of in-depth reading discussions, writing exercises, vocabulary review, and lectures and exercises on relevant topics, such as theme, grammar, genres of writing, or tone and character analysis.
Classes are taught by experienced teachers, many with graduate degrees in the humanities.
Brainiacs
Reading enrichment
june 10 – July 31, 2025
Over the years, our experience in teaching and supporting students has shown us that developing strong foundational reading skills early is essential. These skills not only give students a head start in exploring the literary world but also prepare them to excel across subjects as they progress to higher grades. Through engaging and thought-provoking novels, students will be challenged and encouraged to actively participate in discussions, fostering both comprehension and critical thinking. All books and packets included with enrollment.
Interactive small-group classes:
- Improve Grammar
- Hone Writing Skills
- Expand Vocabulary
- Develop Analytical Reading Skills
4-Week Session tuition: $500 | 8-Week session tuition: $900
5th & 6th Brainiacs
Tuesday & Thursday 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
7th & 8th Brainiacs
Tuesday & Thursday 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Class offerings are subject to change based on enrollment levels.
Session 1: June 10 – July 3
5ᵗʰ & 6ᵗʰ Grade
Wink
by Rob Harrell
The False Prince
by Jennifer Nielsen
7ᵗʰ & 8ᵗʰ Grade
See You in the Cosmos
by Jack Cheng
The Princess Bride
by William Goldman
Session 2: July 8 – July 31
5ᵗʰ & 6ᵗʰ Grade
The Westing Game
by Ellen Raskin
Al Capone Does my Shirts
by Gennifer Choldenko
7ᵗʰ & 8ᵗʰ Grade
Artemis Fowl
by Eoin Colfer
And Then There Was None
by Agatha Christie
Additional discounts available to concurrently enrolled siblings, and students of military, firefighters and police officers. No pro-rates will be given for this program. No refunds after first day of class.
