The emphasis in the Technology Education Department is developing problem-solving skills, teamwork, career awareness, and the use of technology. These courses promote a hands-on approach that benefit students interested in the engineering and technical fields. All students are encouraged to take these classes and improve their technological literacy. PLEASE NOTE: Enrollment is limited and priority is given to upperclassmen.
Grandville High School has an articulation agreement with Western Michigan University and Northwestern Michigan College that allows students to earn college credit. These courses are marked with a double asterisk (*).
3D ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING (Prerequisite: Architectural Drawing) | Semester Long | 11th-12th Grade
Students will use Autodesk Revit software to generate graphics to design a house, 3 Dimensionally. Dimensional renderings and animated walk-throughs, along with the use of natural and artificial lighting within a model, will provide a relationship to other architectural concepts. The student will become familiar with architectural terms and specifications, and attain a basic understanding of house construction.
*AERONAUTICS | Year Long |9th-12th Grade
Aeronautics is a year-long course that prepares students for a career in aviation with two pathway options. Both pathways take the same first semester course on aviation principles, communications, and navigation. In the second semester, students will specialize in either general aviation or unmanned aircraft systems. This course will prepare students for many careers in aviation including, commercial pilot, air traffic control, aerospace engineering, robotics, electrical engineering, aircraft maintenance, and unmanned aircraft operations.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (Prerequisite: Algebra 1) | Year Long | 9th-12th Grade
This course offers a rigorous and rich multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. It will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cyber security concerns, and computing impacts. AP CSP also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A (Prerequisite: two years of math/English) | Year Long | 11th-12th Grade
AP Computer Science A includes opportunities for students to collaborate to solve problems that interest them, as well as ones that use authentic data sources. The goal is to broaden participation in computing while providing a strong and engaging introduction to fundamental areas of the discipline. The course reflects the main goals of an introductory, college-level computer science programming course.
ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING (Prerequisite: Semester 1 of Technical Drawing 1) | Semester Long | 10th-12th Grade
Students will use Autodesk AutoCad software to generate graphics to create a set of house plans. The drawings created will include a plot plan, foundation plan, floor plan, exterior elevations, and a wall section. The student will become familiar with architectural terms and specifications, and attain a basic understanding of house construction.
AUDIO/VIDEO ARTS 1 | Year Long | 10th-12th Grade
Students will explore and practice all aspects of audio and video producing through “hands-on” activities. Students will film and edit school videos as well as their own. Enrollment is limited. A written application is also required. A fee of $10.00 will be charged for materials.
ADVANCED AUDIO/VIDEO ARTS (Prerequisite: a grade of C or higher in Audio/Video Arts 1) | Year Long | 10th-12th Grade
This class is structured to provide students with more advanced training in audio and video production. Students will work individually and in teams on exercises to allow for the maximum hands-on training. Students will develop a detailed understanding of the equipment, processes and theories of audio and video production, with an emphasis on the post-production processes. There is a $10 lab fee for the year-long course. This class may be repeated with the instructor’s permission.
AUDIO/VIDEO COMMUNICATION (Prerequisite: 1 Semester of AV Arts 1) | Semester Long | 11th-12th Grade
Students will develop a detailed understanding of the equipment, processes and theories of broadcasting audio and video. Students will be responsible for daily video broadcasts of announcements as well as weekly audio broadcasts. There is a $5 lab fee for the semester course. This class may be repeated with the instructor’s permission.
AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE & REPAIR | Semester Long |9th-12th Grade
Students will learn how to make informed economical automotive decisions and take preventative measures to enhance the overall satisfaction of being an automotive consumer. Students will learn basic skills needed to perform many routine maintenance tasks and light repairs, as well as purchasing a vehicle. The class discussions and lab activities provide the fundamental knowledge and experience in owning and maintaining an automobile.
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY A | Year Long | 9th-12th Grade
This two semester course is one of two courses that prepares students for the ASE Maintenance & Light Repair (G1) certification exam, focusing on steering and suspension systems, electrical systems, engine performance, HVAC systems, and diagnostics. Each week includes specific objectives, essential skills, aligned Michigan CTE and Michigan Anchor standards, detailed activities, and connections to the ASE G1 exam.
AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY B | Year Long | 9th-12th Grade
This two semester course is one of two courses that prepares students for the ASE Maintenance & Light Repair (G1) certification exam, focusing on braking systems, engines fundamentals & operation, cooling systems, transmissions, drivelines, emission control, vehicle safety systems, and advanced diagnostic techniques. Each week includes specific objectives, essential skills, aligned Michigan CTE and Michigan Anchor standards, detailed activities, and connections to the ASE G1 exam.
COMPUTER GRAPHICS & DESIGN | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
Students will use Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator along with digital cameras and scanners to create solutions to “real life” visual communication problems. Students study design elements and principles of design throughout the course. Concept development, design studio practices, and presentation skills are explored. Students create a portfolio of projects such as posters, collages, page layouts, package designs and corporate identity pieces.
ENGINE TECHNOLOGY | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
This course emphasizes the small four stroke engine used on many labor saving devices. Topics covered include Engine Construction and Operation, Carburetors and Fuel Systems, Tools and Measuring Instruments, Engine Inspection, and Internal Engine Parts and Disassembly. The student will
become familiar with and gain skills in the use of tools, equipment, and precision measuring instruments. Lab activities will be hands on.
EXPLORING COMPUTER SCIENCE | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
This course will introduce students to computer programming and provide a greater understanding of computer software and hardware. No prior programming experience is necessary, but basic computer skills are very helpful. Students will complete activities in HTML/CSS, Scratch, and
Python programming environments. Programming of Lego Robotics is also included, along with the study of computer hardware.
EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
Students will be exposed to different aspects of technology while using a “hands-on” approach to research, design, engineer, and test devices and systems. Projects will include Electronics, Screen Printing, Graphics, Rocketry, and Ancient Catapults. Introductory activities will expose students to web page design, building a personal computer, and various computer software programs. This course satisfies the computer graduation requirement.
EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY 2 (Math Related) | Semester Long | 10th-12th Grade
Examines principles and applications of technology. Projects will be assigned to demonstrate different technological applications in mechanical, civil, chemical, and electrical engineering. Students will build and maintain an electronic journal (website) detailing their projects. While this course is highly recommended for students interested in engineering/design, it will benefit all students who enjoy hands-on problem solving activities.
HOME MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
This course provides students with the basic knowledge to maintain a home and safely repair various items in the home. Topics covered include home foundations and framing, electrical systems, plumbing systems, and drywalling. This course will benefit students by giving them the knowledge to be an informed homeowner.
INTRODUCTION TO GAME PROGRAMMING | Semester Long | 10th-12th Grade
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of coding and game design using the C++ programming language and the Dark GDK graphics library. Students learn how to create interactive 2D games featuring animation, sound, and user input. The course emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and logical thinking through hands-on projects and three original games.
INTRODUCTION TO WEB DESIGN | Semester Long | 10th-12th Grade
This course is an Internet-based course for students who wish to learn basic Internet skills along with helping to create personal and school websites. Included will be lessons in Internet ethics, security/privacy issues, E-mail, HTML, and image editing.
TECHNICAL DRAWING 1 | Year Long | 9th-12th Grade
This course covers drafting fundamentals, skills, and techniques. Areas of emphasis include lettering, geometric constructions, orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning, threads and fasteners, and pictorial drawings. Students will initially complete drawings through the use of a drawing board, parallel bar, and various tools. Later, students will progress into applying the course concepts through AutoCAD software. This course benefits students who plan to enter the engineering, architectural, or skilled trade fields. Students can receive articulation credit at GRCC for taking this course.
TECHNICAL DRAWING 2 Prerequisite: Technical Drawing 1 | Year Long | 10th-12th Grade
This course expands on the concepts learned in Technical Drawing 1 to draw 3D parametric models of parts and assemblies. Students will also learn to apply various materials to the solid models, and dimensioning will be discussed and applied to all projects. Students will use both AutoDesk Inventor and Solidworks 3D CAD software to build parametric 3D models of parts and assemblies and to make detailed working drawings of those parts and assemblies. Students will also learn to apply balloons and parts lists to working drawings, such as exploded assembly drawings. This course benefits students who plan to enter the engineering, architectural, or skilled trade fields. Students can receive articulation credit at GRCC for taking this course.
TECHNICAL DRAWING 3 (Prerequisite: Technical Drawing 2) | Year Long | 11th-12th Grade
Concepts learned in Technical Drawing 2 will be applied in this course through the use of the 3D CAD modeling software PTC Creo®. Students will build parametric 3D models of parts and assemblies and make detailed drawings of those parts and assemblies. Students will also participate in a design problem study during the course. This course benefits students who plan to enter the engineering, architectural, or skilled trade fields.
WOOD TECHNOLOGY 1 (Math Related) | Year Long | 9th-12th Grade
Focuses on the design, layout, and procedures of manufacturing a finished wood product. Special emphasis is directed toward skill development. Students learn the method of joinery used in furniture construction through assigned classroom projects. Second semester students will select, design, and plan a final project to complete by the end of the school year. A fee of $10 + (based upon student project selection) will be charged for materials.
WOOD TECHNOLOGY 2 (Prerequisite: Wood Tech and Teacher Recommendation | Math Related) | Year Long | 10th-12th Grade
This course is offered for the serious woodworker. The Student will work on instructor assigned projects. The projects will reflect the abilities of the second year woodworking student with an emphasis on furniture construction and manufacturing. Possible projects include: tables, chairs, benches and home accessories.
WORLD OF TECHNOLOGY | Semester Long | 9th-12th Grade
Similar to Exploring Technology, students will use computers and other tools to research, design, engineer, and test devices and systems in order to better understand the world around them. Projects in this course will include Earthquake Towers, Lego Machines/Mechanisms, Magnetic Levitation Vehicles, and Engineering Bridge Structures. Introductory activities will expose students to robotics, engineering materials, and various computer software programs.