Technology and Engineering

Introduction to Computer Science and Coding

Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: None

A highly interactive and collaborative introduction to digital citizenship, the field of computer science, and coding including the use of variables, conditionals, and functions. Students will participate in hands-on projects, coding, and problem solving. This will be accomplished using the design process to produce short computer programs, to produce simple apps, games, and programs for robots.

Text and materials: laptop, notebook, pocket folder

Expectations: Students should be at ease with a computer and working in groups. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based.

Computer Science/Coding II 

Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: Introduction to Computer Science and Coding

In Computer Science/Coding II, students will expand their coding knowledge. This will be accomplished by exploring how lists, loops, traversals, parameters, returns, and libraries allow for the design of increasingly complex apps. Students will also learn how data analysis helps turn raw data into useful information about the world. These skills will be demonstrated by creating a more complex app that can be used on smartphones. This course may be used as preparation for AP Computer Science.

Text and materials: Laptop, notebook, pocket folder

Expectations:  Students must have successfully completed intro to computer science and coding. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based.

AP Computer Programming A

Grades: 11,12    Credits: 1   Length: Year   Expectation Level: 5

Prerequisite: Introduction to CS and Coding and Algebra II (Algebra II may be taken concurrently)

This is a fast-paced course equivalent to a college introductory programming class. The course covers fundamentals of programming syntax and methodology using the Java programming language. Java is a modern, object-oriented programming language used to create professional software. In addition to gaining fluency in Java, students develop general computer skills and consider the social and ethical implications of computing.

This class is for motivated and independent learners. Students follow an online curriculum at their own pace, but with clear minimum goals to reach for each quarter. Students are expected to work two to four hours each week outside of class in order to meet benchmarks. Strong students can work ahead significantly. Students taking AP Computer Science will be expected to take the AP Exam in May.

Text and materials: Online Textbook (eIMACS)

Expectations: Students are expected to maintain a rigorous pace, clearly delineated from the onset. Students spend time outside of class reading, taking notes and completing exercises. 3-4 hours per week is standard. Class time is to be used completing activities, tests and labs. Collaboration in class is expected. Students are expected to take the AP exam in May. 

Introduction to Engineering Design

Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5    Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Engineering Design is intended to give students an overview of engineering. Students explore what it means to be an engineer, what engineering is, and how to do engineering. Students study engineering career options, the engineering method and design process, written and oral communication, interpersonal skills, team-building, and technical drawing. Both in teams and individually, students face a series of engineering challenges all involving science content. Upon completion, students should be able to understand the engineering process and profession.

Text and materials: Engineering the Future, It's About Time; calculator

Expectations: Students are expected to work diligently in class, and a minimum of two hours per week of homework and study time should be expected. Students should expect to utilize high school level math and science principles on a regular basis in this class.

Projects in Civil and Mechanical Engineering

Grades: 10-12   Credits: .5    Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3

Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design

Projects in Civil and Mechanical Engineering is a project-based class where students will learn about the design, construction, and maintenance of mechanical systems and man-made infrastructure. Students will take on the role of mechanical engineers as they discover how to put machines to work for people, applying the principles of motion, energy, and force to anything that moves. They will also act as civil engineers who are responsible for public works such as roads, bridges, structural components of buildings, dams, pipelines, and airports. Students will develop an in-depth understanding of materials, which both engineering disciplines use to calculate failure conditions based on the dimensions of a part, the properties of its material and the conditions under which it will operate. 

Text and materials: Engineering the Future; students will also be required to maintain an engineering notebook/binder

Expectations: Students are expected to work diligently in class, and a minimum of two hours per week of homework and study time should be expected. Students should expect to utilize high school level math and science principles on a regular basis in this class. 

Introduction to Robotics  

Grades: 9-12    Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3  

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to Robotics is an entry-level class that includes simple building, coding, and sensor use to activate robots. Students will be utilizing the design process to solve challenges and accomplish goals, as well as programming sensors and brains to automate the robots. In addition, students will explore the impacts of robotics and artificial intelligence on today's society.

Text and materials: school-issued laptop

Expectations: Students should be at ease with computers and collaborative work. The class is project-based, and students are expected to complete projects on given topics. There are also related assignments, primarily classroom-based. 

Advanced Robotics

Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 3/4

Prerequisite:  Introduction to Engineering Design,  Intro to Computer Science/Coding, or Introduction to Robotics

Advanced Robotics students will work with robotics equipment to gain skills and knowledge about structural, motion, and power systems in robots. Students will have the opportunity to build, test, and modify multiple robots to meet the requirements for tasks assigned to them. After building the robots, students will use C++, and/or Python programming software to program motion control devices, such as motors and sensors.

Text and materials: School-issued laptop

Expectations: Students are expected to build a working robot, and then learn coding to automate the robot to meet specific skills and challenges.

Foundations of STEM

Grades: 9-12   Credits: .5   Length: Semester   Expectation Level: 2

Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Required

Foundations of STEM is designed for students with an interest in Technology and Engineering fields but are coming to high school with limited and/or interrupted educational backgrounds and may not have skills or foundational understandings required to successfully navigate other introductory STEM courses (Intro to Robotics, Intro to Engineering, etc.)  Students will have the opportunity to do hands-on projects to explore these concepts. Students will showcase their learning utilizing different forms of technology. 

Text and materials: School-issued laptop

Expectations: Students are expected to build a working robot, and then learn coding to automate the robot to meet specific skills and challenges.