Course Selection
TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION WORLD LANGUAGES and conduct historical inquiry on a topic in the nation ’ s history . Instructional Focus : Instruction is presented in a variety of ways : class discussion , small and large group activities , simulations and the use of technologies .
Global Studies 8 [ full year ] Intended Audience : Grade 8 Major Outcomes :
• Understand the relationship between physical and human geography throughout each region of the world .
• Create and interpret a variety of maps , calculate and estimate distance , scale , density and spatial distribution patterns around the world .
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of economic principles .
• Study current events and analyze their global impact .
Instructional Focus : Instruction is presented in a variety of ways : class discussion , small and large group activities , simulations , and the use of technology and geographical tools .
Special Education
Students with disabilities will be placed in support services courses as determined by their special education needs relating to their disability as outlined in their Individual Education Plan [ IEP ]. For more information about the Special Education program in general , please see the Assistance for Students section on page 20 of this guide . For individual student service questions , please contact your child ’ s case manager .
Technology Education Courses
Engineering : Aerospace and Design [ elective or required , every other day ] Intended Audience : Grades 7 and 8 This course may replace the Technical Education requirement in grade 7 . Major Outcomes :
• Experience a scientific environment involving design , creativity , and team problem solving .
• Understand the engineering process from concept to production .
• Explore how science has affected technology throughout history by looking at concepts in physics .
• Explore the science behind aeronautics and use software to experience space travel .
Projects / Activities : Hands-on and design experiences are integrated throughout the course . Some activities include designing and creating a chain reaction contraption ( Rube Goldberg ), designing a medical device , and aircraft exploration . Students will be introduced to various software throughout the course such as 3D-CAD and online resources to provide enriched learning experiences . Instructional Focus : This class is part of a nationally recognized pre-engineering program called Project Lead the Way Gateway To Technology . This course includes the PLTW units “ Flight and Space ” and “ Design and Modeling .” The program goal is to develop more engineers , including project based units in design , modeling , flight , and space . This course emphasizes high levels of academic rigor and computer literacy . Coursework includes both individual and collaborative activities that must be completed as an integral part of this course . Authentic , real-world problem solving skills are emphasized throughout the class . This is an academically challenging course and is best suited for a motivated , collaborative learner .
Technology Education 7 [ elective or required , every other day ] Intended Audience : Grade 7 Major Outcomes :
• Produce various items by using computer generated graphic designs and CAD drawings .
• Increase technological literacy and investigate emerging technologies .
• Learn the processes to design , build , and test products , and become a wiser consumer of technology .
• Integrated STEM activities = Science ,
Technology , Engineering , Math .
• Develop safe work habits in a laboratory environment .
• Applied math / technical reading . Projects / Activities : Use various tools and machines to make wood or sheet metal projects . Create 3-D printed designs and dye sublimation items from computer generated student work .
Instructional Focus : This is a hands-on course in which students engage in traditional and computer led instruction utilizing both individual and group activities .
Engineering : Architecture and Robotics [ elective , every other day ] Prerequisite / Selection Process : Engineering : Aerospace and Design strongly encouraged Intended Audience : Grade 8 Major Outcomes :
• Experience a scientific environment involving design , creativity , and team problem solving .
• Learn about mechanical systems , energy transfer , machine automation , and computer control systems .
• Investigate architectural plans , construction styles , alternative materials and processes , dimensioning , measuring and architectural sustainability .
Projects / Activities : Students are introduced to the influence of automation and robotics in our world and use a robust robotics platform to design , build and program a solution to solve an existing problem . Additional hands-on student experiences are integrated throughout the course , including a 3D architectural software program to create an environmentallyfriendly home using shipping containers . Instructional Focus : This course emphasizes high levels of academic rigor and computer literacy . Homework is an integral part of this course and students must be independently motivated to complete it in a timely manner . This class combines key pre-engineering content areas through a nationally recognized program called Project Lead the Way : Gateway . This course includes the PLTW units “ Green Architecture ” and
18 Middle School Registration Guide