• Course Descriptions

     

    PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design 

    Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12           

    Prerequisite: Algebra 1 (either as a prerequisite or concurrently)

    Introduction to Engineering Design is an introductory course that develops student problem solving skills with emphasis placed on the development of three-dimensional computer models. Students will learn a problem-solving design process and how it is used in industry to manufacture a product. A Computer-Aided Design System (CAD) will also be used to analyze and evaluate the product design. The techniques learned and equipment used is state of the art and are currently being used by engineers throughout the industry. Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work. Students will be introduced to Autodesk Inventor and Convert. 

    PLTW Principles of Engineering 

    Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12           

    Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

    Principles of Engineering is a course that helps students understand the field of engineering/ engineering technology. Exploring various technology systems and manufacturing processes help students learn how engineers and technicians use math, science, and technology in an engineering problem solving process to benefit people. The course also includes concerns about social and political consequences of technological change. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. Students will be introduced to a variety of software that may include Autodesk Inventor, RobotC, MDsolids, and/or Vernier LoggerPro. 

    PLTW Aerospace Engineering 

    Grades: 11, 12           

    Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design & Principles of Engineering

    In Aerospace Technology, students learn about aerodynamics, astronautics, space-life sciences, and systems engineering (which includes the study of intelligent vehicles like the Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity) through hands-on engineering projects developed with NASA. This course propels students' learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight as they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software. They also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles. Students will be introduced to a variety of software that may include Autodesk Inventor, Aery, RobotC, and/or FoilSim. 

    PLTW Civil Engineering & Architecture 

    Grades: 11, 12           

    Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design & Principles of Engineering

    The Civil Engineering and Architecture course provides an overview of the fields of Civil Engineering and Architecture, while emphasizing the interrelationship and dependence of both fields on each other. Students use state of the art software to solve real world problems and communicate solutions to hands-on projects and activities. This course covers topics such as: the roles of civil engineers and architects, project planning, site planning, building design, and project documentation and presentation. Students learn important aspects of building and site design and development. They apply math, science, and standard engineering practices to design both residential and commercial projects and document their work using 3D architecture design software. Students will be introduced to Autodesk Revit, MDsolids, and Convert.