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.
It All Starts with a Consultation
Because classes at Hamilton are not “one-size-fits-all,” we request that students and families interested in our courses or services schedule a complimentary 45-minute initial counseling session. There is no charge for this session, and absolutely no pressure to sign up for classes or services.
The initial counseling appointment lets us meet students and learn about their individual academic lives and learning styles. It also helps all of us – students, parents, and Hamilton Education – begin long-term planning to help students reach their goals.
Please be mindful that some classes fill up well before summer; last year some classes were full before the end of February.