STEAM

Technology 8:  Students are introduced to the nature of technology and the ways technological systems such as construction, manufacturing, transportation, and communication satisfy human needs and wants.  Coursework involves research, problem solving, planning, building, testing, and evaluating various processes, devices, and outputs of technology.  In addition, students are exposed to technological concepts such as control of processes, career opportunities, personal and social implications of technology, and the use of the computer as a tool.  This is the gateway course to the Project Lead the Way curriculum which students will have the option of continuing in high school. Students will experience field trips and public speakers to explore various careers and professions.

 

Coding and Robotics: Coding and Robotics is an introductory computer science course for students. Mapped to CSTA standards, the course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as programming, physical computing, user-centered design, and data. Students will have the opportunity to build their own websites, apps, animations, games, and physical computing systems. Students will also be able to apply coding for drones as well as robots that bring in the areas of music and art! (½ credit, meets every other day)

 

Environmental Conservation: This course examines the interaction between humans and nature with the goal to understand the impacts of human activity on the natural world.  The course focuses on recognizing and assessing the complex interrelationships between people and the environment. Students will start with learning about large-scale issues impacting our environment and then pinpoint their focus on local issues with a concentration on the Oatka and the watershed that we live in. (1 credit, meets every day)

 

Engineering and Design: Through problems that engage and challenge, students will explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. This is a very hands-on course where students will design, construct,t and evaluate to complete particular tasks.  Students will develop skills in problem-solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation. (1 credit, meets every day)

 

PLTW/AP Computer Science Principles:  AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use current technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving. Together, these aspects of the course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science. Students will finish the course by taking the PLTW exam as well as the AP Computer Science exam. (Full year, 1.0 credit)