Course Overviews

Grade 5 CSTEM utilizes instructional concepts for computers, science, technology, engineering, and math to allow students to explore topics in typing, digital citizenship, cybersecurity, introductory coding and its application in robotics, and design thinking strategies. This course will consist of 30 lessons in a trimester elective offering setting at the 5th-grade level. 

Grade 5 CSTEM incorporates the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for computer science and design thinking while making interdisciplinary connections to additional subject areas whenever ap

Grade 7 STEM is a hands-on course that meets daily for 40 minutes for one marking period. Students are introduced to digital and physical tools for solving real-world problems through design. No previous tool or design knowledge is needed to be successful. Students learn to use 2D and 3D CAD software, such as SketchUp and Vectric VCarve, program CNC machines, and safely operate traditional hand and power tools. The course emphasizes the engineering design process, guiding students to design and build their own products within set constraints. No prior experience is needed. Content includes digital design, woodworking, manufacturing tools, design drawings, and written work. The course aligns with the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for Computer Science and Design Thinking, focusing on problem-solving, creativity, and applied technological skills. Additional interdisciplinary connections to the other NJSLS areas are made when applicable. 

The 8th-grade STEM curriculum immerses students in hands-on engineering and design. Using the engineering design process, students identify real-world problems and create solutions through research, prototyping, and refinement. They gain experience with computer-aided design (CAD) and learn to operate modern tools, such as computer numeric control (CNC) machines, for rapid prototyping and manufacturing. Projects emphasize creativity, collaboration, and iterative problem-solving through research and design, which help students explore how technology, design, and fabrication shape the world. The course fosters critical thinking, technical skills, and an appreciation for the evolving role of engineering in society.

The 8th-grade STEM curriculum meets the requirements of the 2020 New Jersey Student Learning Standards, focusing on the areas of 8.1/8.2 Computer Science and Design Thinking, and 9.3 Career & Technical Education (2014), with interdisciplinary connections made when they are applicable.

This semester-long elective class is specifically for students who are in the special needs program at Hillsborough High School. There are no prerequisites for this course, and students do not need any prior knowledge to be successful. Content areas include introductions to graphic arts, STEM concepts, safety information, and collaborative work with “clients” in other areas of the school.

This 2.5-credit semester course helps fulfill the state graduation requirement for“at least 5 credits in Career Education courses.” This curriculum is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Due to the graduation age of 21 for many of the special services students, it is possible for the students to take this course multiple times.

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are deeply embedded in modern society, shaping the way we live and work. In this Integrative STEM course, students will explore a range of major industries, including transportation, construction, manufacturing, medical technologies, agriculture, biotechnology, robotics, and computation, with a focus on understanding how these sectors influence daily life through their products and services.

Through the lens of the Engineering Design Process, students will develop systematic and creative problem-solving skills, gaining experience in structured idea generation and innovation. The course also includes an examination of the history and evolution of technology, encouraging students to reflect on the impact of both historical and contemporary advancements, particularly in information and communication technologies.

A key component of the curriculum is the development of computational thinking, equipping students to navigate and understand the pervasive role of computer technology in society. By integrating knowledge from across the STEM disciplines, this semester-long course empowers students to apply what they have learned in school to address real-world challenges and become informed, innovative contributors to a rapidly changing world.

Drafting 1 CP is a semester-long elective class for students in grades 9-12 and is an introduction to technical drawing. The course meets for two marking periods, culminating with a final exam at the end of the second consecutive marking period. There are no prerequisites for this course, and students do not need any prior knowledge to be successful. Content areas include creating and interpreting engineering drawings, sketching techniques, mathematical scales, geometric construction, specific types of technical drawings, and several other conventional drafting concepts.

Students interested in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) are encouraged to take this class as all aspects are covered. This 2.5 credit semester course helps fulfill the state graduation requirements for “at least 5 credits in Career Education courses.” The curriculum is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Upon completion of this class, students will become eligible for enrollment in the Drafting 2 CP course.

Robotics 1 CP is a hands-on, introductory course designed to immerse students in the fundamentals of robotics, mechanical systems, and programming. Using a robotic construction platform and a variety of sensors, students will explore the essential components and functions of modern robots through engaging, project-based learning.

The course begins with robotics basics, including hardware assembly, control systems, and foundational block programming. Students will investigate the physics behind gears and gear trains, apply their understanding by building drivable robots, and learn to integrate and program sensors such as color sensors, inertial measurement units (IMU), and encoders. The curriculum also covers the design and construction of robot manipulators, connecting mechanical design to real-world physics concepts.

Robotics 1 CP culminates in a capstone project, where students collaborate to design, build, and present a fully functional robot that demonstrates their mastery of course concepts. Emphasis is placed on creativity, problem-solving, teamwork, and the development of foundational skills for future STEM learning and careers.

Drafting 2 CP is a semester-long elective class for students who have successfully completed Drafting 1 CP and serves as an advanced-level class in the world of technical drawing using CAD-based software, culminating with a final project/exhibition of all work that students have done throughout their time in their Drafting classes. The only prerequisite for this class is Drafting 1. Content areas in this course include portfolio creation, exploring personal strengths, career research and designing several different types of buildings, structures, and parts.

Students interested in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) are encouraged to take this class as all aspects are covered in detail. Students who are also contemplating furthering their education for potential careers in STEAM fields are strongly encouraged to take this course. This 5-credit two-semester course helps fulfill the state graduation requirements for “at least 5 credits in Career Education courses.” The curriculum is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

The goal for this course is to introduce students to the use of HTML code and web authoring software in creating effective and attractive websites. The class will employ a step-by-step and project-based approach in the topics of planning, organizing, and publishing websites, HTML tags, tables, Cascading Style Sheets, Flexbox, JavaScript, using Notepad and Dreamweaver, and adding forms and graphics. Students will gain and display knowledge through individual and group exercises and the creation of original websites. 

Web Page Design is a semester-long elective class for students in any grade level, culminating with a final exam and project at the end of the second consecutive marking period. There are no prerequisites for this course. This curriculum for this 2.5-credit class is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards.

In this hands-on course, students step into the role of modern engineers to explore the systems that generate, control, and store the power driving our world. After mastering laboratory safety and precision measurement, students dive into the fundamentals of simple machines and electrical circuitry. The course then pivots to cutting-edge technologies, including photovoltaic solar systems, hydroelectric power, and the advanced battery technology essential for the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. Students engage in the design thinking process to solve real-world energy challenges, building a technical portfolio that prepares them for high-growth careers in the emerging green economy. Throughout the semester, students work independently and in groups to learn course concepts through a series of hands-on problem-solving experiences. 

Wood Technology I CP introduces students to the fundamentals of woodworking through hands-on experience with both traditional hand tools and modern power equipment. Students will learn to safely use measuring and layout tools, portable power tools, and stationary machines to build solid wood projects.

Key areas of focus include shop safety, tool and machine operation, measurement, fasteners, joinery techniques, and wood finishing. Projects are designed to develop problem-solving skills while encouraging patience, craftsmanship, and pride in one's work.

Students will work with a variety of woodworking machines such as the miter saw, band saw, surface sander, drill press, table saw, router table, and jointer/planer. Commonly used hand tools include mallets, chisels, marking gauges, and rulers. Sample projects may include cutting boards, decorative boxes, joiner’s mallets, marking gauges, and antique reproductions.

Safety instruction and demonstrations will be emphasized and assessed throughout the course to ensure proper and responsible tool use.

This semester-long elective class for students in grades 9-12 is an introduction to the world of graphic arts. This semester course culminates with a final exam at the end of the second consecutive marking period. There are no prerequisites for this course, and students do not need any prior knowledge to be successful. Content areas include introductions to Elements of Art, text and type, incorporating marketing tactics in designs, traditional printing methods, computer design, clothing design and creation, and the use of specialized tools and machines.

Students interested in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) are encouraged to take this class as all aspects are covered. This 2.5 credit semester course helps fulfill the state graduation requirements for “at least 5 credits in Career Education courses.” Upon completion of this class, students will become eligible for enrollment in the Graphic Arts 2 & 3 CP course.

Wood Technology 2 CP builds upon the foundational skills developed in Wood Technology I, with a continued emphasis on both hand tools and machinery. Students will deepen their understanding of woodworking techniques while reinforcing essential safety procedures at all times.

Throughout the course, students will transform rough lumber into finished furniture pieces such as tables, jewelry boxes, cabinets, and custom woodworking tools or jigs. They will gain hands-on experience using a wide range of equipment, including hand planes, carving chisels, layout tools, table saws, jointers, routers, band saws, and portable power tools.

Students will be introduced to specialized jigs and hand tool techniques that allow for more complex and unique project designs. The course also includes instruction in advanced joinery methods, such as hand-cut dovetails, mitered joints, and splined joints, which students will use to create both replica and original furniture pieces.

Safety instruction and demonstrations will be emphasized and assessed throughout the course to ensure proper and responsible tool use.

This semester-long elective class for students in any grades 9-12 is an introduction into the world of Graphic Arts. The course meets every day for approximately 50 minutes for two marking periods, culminating with a final exam at the end of the second consecutive marking period. There are no prerequisites for this course, and students do not need any prior knowledge to be successful. Content areas include introductions to Elements of Art, text and type, incorporating marketing tactics in designs, traditional printing methods, computer design, clothing design and creation and the use of specialized tools and machines.

Students interested in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) are encouraged to take this class as all aspects are covered. This 2.5 credit semester course helps fulfill the state graduation requirements for “at least 5 credits in Career Education courses”. The curriculum is aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards. Additionally, this curriculum makes interdisciplinary connections in Visual and Performing Arts, Language Arts and Career Readiness, Life Literacies, & Key Skills content areas. Upon completion of this class, students will become eligible for enrollment in the Advanced Graphic Arts course.

Wood Technology 3 CP is an advanced, vocationally focused course designed to build upon the foundational and intermediate skills developed in Wood Tech 1 and 2. This course emphasizes the refinement of craftsmanship, precision, and problem-solving required for cabinetmaking, fine furniture construction, and custom woodworking.

Students will engage in advanced techniques using solid wood as the primary construction material, exploring joinery, casework, and panel construction methods used in professional cabinetry and furniture making. Emphasis will be placed on repeatable accuracy, safe machine operation, and the proper maintenance, sharpening, and care of both hand tools and woodworking machinery.  Throughout the course, students will develop and execute a complex, high-quality woodworking project. They may select from professionally developed plans or design an original piece tailored to a personal interest, community need, or client specifications. Each project will be approached with a focus on real-world applications, including:

• Project planning and design

• Material and cost estimation

• Time management and production workflow

• Budgeting and efficiency in material use

Students will be evaluated on craftsmanship, project completion, problem-solving, and the ability to meet quality standards within time and budget constraints. Wood Tech III prepares students for post-secondary training or entry-level employment in woodworking, construction, or design-related fields by simulating the expectations and challenges of a professional woodworking environment.

The Home Maintenance course prepares students with essential, practical skills for maintaining a safe and efficient home. Students will engage in hands-on learning to master the use of common tools, follow safety protocols, and respond to household hazards. Key topics include diagnosing and repairing plumbing and electrical issues, performing routine maintenance on walls, floors, doors, and windows, and caring for lawns, gardens, and exterior features. The curriculum also covers HVAC and appliance upkeep, energy efficiency, pest management, and seasonal home preparations.

Beyond technical skills, students will learn to install and maintain security devices, develop emergency plans and kits, and document household inventories for insurance purposes. The course will introduce students to home budgeting, warranties, insurance, and basic permitting processes, empowering them to make informed decisions about DIY versus professional repairs while maintaining accurate records.

By the end of the course, students will be able to safely and independently conduct basic maintenance, understand core home systems, and have an introductory understanding of the financial and legal responsibilities of homeownership or tenancy. These skills will empower them to care for their living spaces now and throughout their lives.

Wood Technology 4 & 5 CP is the capstone course in the high school woodworking sequence, designed for highly motivated students seeking to refine their craftsmanship, expand technical expertise, and work independently on complex furniture and cabinetry projects. This advanced-level course emphasizes self-directed planning, precision execution, and critical problem-solving throughout the design-build process.

Students will take full ownership of their projects—from initial concept or plan selection to final finishing—demonstrating mastery of tool setup, operation, and maintenance. Each student will fabricate custom jigs, fixtures, and templates to increase accuracy, repeatability, and workflow efficiency. Safe and responsible operation of both hand and power tools remains a core focus, with students expected to perform machine setup and breakdown independently.

A deeper exploration of wood science will include species identification, grain behavior, moisture dynamics, and structural performance, all of which guide material selection and construction strategies. Emphasis will be placed on advanced joinery, precision machining, and the use of specialized equipment to create moldings, case components, and refined details.

Historical and contemporary furniture-making techniques will be studied to help students analyze construction methods across different periods and apply them thoughtfully to their own work. Considerations of sustainability, material sourcing, and design ethics will also be integrated.

Students may need to supply their own materials, hardware, and finishing products for projects outside of the scope of regular classroom supplies, allowing for full customization and

real-world project management experience, including budgeting, time management, and client-oriented decision-making.

By the end of the course, students will produce one or more high-level, heirloom-quality pieces that demonstrate design sophistication, functional integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship.