Industrial Technology offers broad exploratory experiences for students in the areas of wood, drafting and engineering. The instructor’s permission to enroll in advanced level classes will be needed if the prerequisite has not been taken. Approved safety glasses must be purchased by all students.
Engineering offers a variety of courses through the national Project Lead the Way program. Students typically begin their study with the Introduction to Engineering Design course followed by Principles of Engineering and Civil Engineering. College credit may be available in all pre-engineering courses.
See here for more information. Go to the section on the IB Career Related program.
STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
What is STEM?
STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, but it is more than an acronym. While originally designed to encourage students to pursue careers in these areas, STEM education has evolved into a unique approach to teaching and learning that fosters creativity and innovative thinking in all students (http://www.osln.org/about/faq/).
Why STEM?
STEM education is a direct response to the realization that Ohio’s future will be built on its capacity for innovation, invention and creative problem solving. STEM education produces exactly the kind of thinkers, innovators and problem solvers our world demands. STEM education typically features strong levels of collaboration among education, business and community partners to help develop relevant curriculum and provide internships, mentorships and co-operative education opportunities to help students connect classroom learning to the real world (http://www.osln.org/about/faq/).
What STEM opportunities are available for Upper Arlington High School Students?
Project Lead The Way is the nation’s leading provider of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs. PLTW programs can be found in more than 6,500 schools nationally. In PLTW Engineering, students engage in open-ended problem solving, learn and apply the engineering design process, and use the same industry-leading technology and software as are used in the world’s top companies. Students are immersed in design as they investigate topics such as ethicists, sustainability, mechatronics, forces, structures, aerodynamics, digital electronics and circuit design, manufacturing, and the environment, which gives them an opportunity to learn about different engineering disciplines before beginning postsecondary education or careers (https://www.pltw.org/).
Upper Arlington High School offers a multi-year Project Lead the Way engineering pathway starting with Introduction to Engineering Design and Principals of Engineering.
For more information about STEM please visit:
0.5 credit — Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
(1 period per day for 1 semester)
Fee: Materials as needed for projects
Industrial Technology Survey is a course integrating drafting, design, and wood manufacturing technologies. Units of study in this course will include drafting techniques with computer applications (CAD), orthographic projections, and isometric drawing. Neatness, proper techniques and organization will be stressed. Design technologies include problem solving methods, brain-storming, diagramming, flow charting and prototyping. Manufacturing technologies include woodworking, tool use, alternate processes and material techniques. Tool and lab safety will be taught and stressed. Failure to meet passing grades on safety quizzes will be grounds for dismissal from the course. Wearing of safety glasses will be required in this course.
1 credit — Grades 9, 10, 11, 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: $20
Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. This Project Lead the Way course requires students to work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work. For more information about Project Lead the Way (https://www.pltw.org/).
Students will use sophisticated three-dimensional modeling software, learn the design process, and solve design problems as they develop, analyze, and create product models. This class is a great choice for those students planning to study engineering after high school. The projects in this course naturally lead to exciting capstone experience, even without previous enrollment.
Grades 10, 11, 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: $20
Prerequisite - Introduction to Engineering Design suggested and Algebra I or Enrolled in Algebra II
Freshman should take Introduction to Engineering.
This course provides an overview of engineering and engineering technology. Students develop problem-solving skills by tackling real-world engineering problems. Through theory, building and testing several different systems, students will address the emerging social and political consequences of technological change. The course of study includes Engineering Career study, Compound machine, Energy sources, Energy applications, machine control (robotics), Fluid Power (pneumatics), STATICS truss design, Material Properties, Material testing, Advance Statistics Kinematics (study of ballistic trajectory). All of which are supported by several complex hands-on projects. The projects in these courses naturally lead to exciting capstone experiences, even without previous enrollment.
1 credit - Grades 11 & 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: $15
Prerequisite: Geometry and successful completion of Introduction to Engineering Design or Principles of Engineering.
Seniors: see counselor to enroll
This course teaches students about the design, technology and engineering fundamentals associated with civil engineering, architecture, landscape design, interior design, and community management fields. Many hands on activities will take place such as soil testing, real working models of structures, construction of foundation, framing, plumbing and electrical systems. The course applies and concurrently develops knowledge and skills in mathematics, science, and technology. The course of study includes: design process, modeling, sketching, prototyping, project planning, presentation design and deliver, engineering drawing standards, CAD solid modeling, site planning, building design, innovation, project documentations & presentation, engineering ethics, and virtual design.
Students will study the history of societal evolution, and the role architects and civil engineers play. They will also examine current practices in these industries and consider how technological advances will change the way people build structures and cities of the future. Students will learn about the infrastructure within these communities that take care of all of our basic human needs.
Students will use design software to create virtual models of residential and commercial properties. They will also use professional surveying equipment to plot land areas. Many hands on activities will take place such as soil testing, real working models of structures, construction of foundation, framing, plumbing and electrical systems. Students will also consider how to provide basic needs to a community population, i.e.: transportation, potable water supply, waste removal, transportation, for a city of the future.
Students will use the sophisticated design software and build real working models, they will practice the common sense problem solving skills that professional use. This is introductory program is a great opportunity for students to develop an awareness of or purse their emerging interests in the technology, design and engineering related fields.
Upon completion of the course, students will have a hard copy of a professional portfolio containing research, photographs, drawings and samples of solutions for all of the works they were involved in throughout the year. They will also have an electronic copy of this portfolio. In addition, they will possess many fun artifacts from the design/build prototyping activities they participated in.
This college prep class is known to be fast paced and rigorous. It is also known for the enthusiasm of the students. Being an elective, homework is minimal.
1 credit - Grades 12, 11 only if other courses not available or offered
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: $25
Prerequisite: Completion of two previous PLTW courses or permission of the instructor.
Seniors can schedule without prerequisite with permission.
This is an engineering research course in which students will work in teams to research, design, test and construct a solution to an open ended engineering problem. The product development life cycle and a design process are used to guide and help the team to reach a solution to the problem. The team presents and defends their solution to a panel of outside reviewers at the conclusion of the course. The EDD course allows students to apply all the skills and knowledge learned in previous Project Lead the Way courses. This course also engages students in time management and teamwork skills, a valuable set for students in the future. Students will be required to purchase additional supplies. Depending on project choice the costs for this course can vary greatly. The projects in these courses naturally lead to exciting capstone experience, even without previous enrollment.
1 credit — Grades 10, 11, 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: Materials as needed for projects
Prerequisite: Industrial Technology Survey
Wood II is a course designed to begin skill development in the use of both portable and stationary power woodworking equipment. Student-built projects will be limited to those that contain only basic machine cuts or assembly procedures. Projects should be built from plans available from a printed source such as simple chests, tables, chairs, and wall racks. As in all wood courses, safety will be taught and stressed. Tool and machine safety quizzes will be given. Failure to meet passing grades on these quizzes will be grounds for dismissal from the course. The student will be required to pay for materials used.
1 credit — Grades 11, 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: Materials as needed for projects
Prerequisite: Wood II
Wood III is a course designed to develop further skills with power and hand wood working tools. Projects should contain more involved construction techniques and assembly procedures such as laminating and veneering. As in all wood courses, safety will be taught and emphasized. Safety glasses must be worn at all times. Tool and machine safety quizzes will be given. Failure to meet passing grades on these quizzes will be grounds for dismissal from the course. The student will be required to pay for materials used.
1 credit — Grade 12
(1 period per day for 1 year)
Fee: Materials as needed for projects
Prerequisite: Wood III
Wood IV is an in-depth course offered for the student interested in developing skills in original furniture design and manufacture. This course will include units in design, construction, finish, and care of furniture items. Craftsmanship and neatness will be emphasized during the building of these projects that will include clock cases, original design furniture, and larger cabinet furniture. As in all wood courses, safety will be taught and stressed. Safety glasses must be worn at all times. Tool and machine safety quizzes will be given. Failure to meet passing grades on these quizzes will be grounds for dismissal from the course. The student will be required to pay for materials used.