Project Lead The Way (PLTW)
"Historically, science and math have been taught in isolation. The project-based aspects of the Project Lead The Way curriculum give students a chance to apply what they know, identify a problem, find unique solutions, and lead their own learning, rather than be passive recipients of information in a question-and-answer, right-or-wrong learning environment. When students understand how their education is relevant to their lives and future careers, they get excited, and that is why PLTW students are successful.
We develop all PLTW programs using the following approach and guiding tenets:
- Collaboration: We seek ongoing input and feedback from students, teachers, administrators, and subject matter experts. Our work is also informed by current research and experts in academics and industry.
- Research/Evidence-Based: We follow Wiggins and McTighe’s approach, Understanding by Design® to develop a cohesive and coherent instructional path for students.
- Problem-Based: We design activity-, project-, problem-based experiences to prepare students to solve problems. This approach creates scaffolding for student learning and provides the rigor and relevance that engages and empowers our students.
PLTW courses are aligned with Common Core State Standards in math and English Language Arts, Next Generation Science Standards, and other national and state standards. Yet, our programs are flexible and customizable so that schools can meet their local curricular and community needs. Courses are designed to complement math and science courses offered by a school and in some instances are used as the core curriculum."
Students dig deep into the engineering design process applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands on projects. They work individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems. They learn to use 3d modeling software and will have access to 3d printers.
Credit: 10.00 | Graduation Requirement: Applied Skills | A-G College Requirement: G
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering/Design
Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics including mechanisms, electrical circuits, structures, materials, and automation. Students will use VEX EDR Robotics to design, build and program robots and machines. Students will also have the opportunity to compete in local robotics competitions.
Credit: 10.00 | Graduation Requirement: Elective | A-G College Requirement: G
Prerequisite: Principals of Engineering
This course propels students’ learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software. They also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles.
Credit: 10.00 | Graduation Requirement: Elective | A-G College Requirement: G
