The first course in the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) engineering curriculum, Introduction to Engineering Design, is an inquiry based, project centered course where students will be introduced to the design process, applying math, science and engineering standards to hands-on projects. Students work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software and utilize strategies used by engineers in industry and in the field. This is an introduction to the engineering design though process which will open students’ minds about how to approach scientific and engineering problems.

Recommendation: This course is open to all students.

PHS Learning Expectations:

1. Access and critically analyze information to answer questions and explore ideas

2. Solve problems through prioritizing and planning for results

3. Write proficiently for a variety of purposes

4. Communicate effectively in a variety of formats

5. Interpret and design visual messages for specific purposes

6. Engage in work with integrity, both independently and collaboratively

7. Demonstrate knowledge and skills through the use of technology

NGSS Science and Engineering Practices

1. Asking questions and defining problems

2. Developing and using models

3. Planning and carrying out investigations

4. Analyzing and interpreting data

5. Using mathematics and computational thinking

6. Constructing explanations and designing solutions

7. Engaging in argument from evidence

8. Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating ideas

NGSS Crosscutting Concepts

1. Patterns

2. Cause and effect: Mechanism and explanation

3. Scale, proportion, and quantity

4. Systems and system models

5. Energy and matter: Flows, cycles, and conservation

6. Structure and function

7. Stability and change

Standards:

NGSS Science and Engineering Performance Expectations

HS-ETS1-1.

Analyze a major global challenge to specify qualitative and quantitative criteria and constraints for solutions that account for societal needs and wants.

HS-ETS1-2.

Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.

HS-ETS1-3.

Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.

HS-ETS1-4.

Use a computer simulation to model the impact of proposed solutions to a complex real-world problem with numerous criteria and constraints on interactions within and between systems relevant to the problem.