Teachers > PLTW Courses

The middle school program, Gateway to Technology, is a math, science and technology exploratory program consisting of four, nine-week independent units taught in grades 6-8. Each school decides how it wishes to offer a minimum of four units in these grades. In most schools, all students participate in the program. The units are:

• Design and Modeling
• The Magic of Electrons
• The Science of Technology
• Automation and Robotics
• Environmental Engineering (in development)
• Energy and the Environment (in development)
• Aerospace Technology (in development)

The high school program is a four-year sequence of courses that, when combined with traditional mathematics and science courses, introduces students to the scope, rigor and discipline of engineering prior to entering college. However, those not intending to pursue further formal education will benefit greatly from the knowledge and logical thought processes that result from taking some or all of the courses provided in the curriculum.

There currently are seven high school courses and two more being developed:

• Introduction to Engineering Design - A course that teaches problem-solving skills using a design development process. Models of product solutions are created, analyzed and communicated using solid modeling computer-design software. In New York State, the course is called Design and Drawing for Production and follows the syllabus developed by the State Education Department.
• Principles of Engineering - A course that helps students understand the field of engineering/engineering technology. Exploring various technology systems and manufacturing processes helps students learn how engineers and technicians use math, science and technology in an engineering problem-solving process to benefit people. The course is a hands-on, laboratory-based experience that provides access to tools, machines and materials for individual and small group projects. 
• Digital Electronics - A course in applied logic that encompasses the application of electronic circuits and devices. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices. Students are introduced to the digital circuits found in video games, watches, calculators, digital cameras and other devices.
• Computer Integrated Manufacturing - A course that applies principles of robotics and automation. The course builds on computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students use CNC equipment to produce actual models of their three-dimensional designs. Fundamental concepts of robotics used in automated manufacturing and design analysis are included.
• Civil Engineering and Architecture - This course provides an overview of the fields of Civil Engineering and Architecture, while emphasizing the interrelationship and dependence of both fields on each other. Students use state-of-the-art software to solve real-world problems and communicate solutions to hands-on projects and activities. This course covers topics such as project planning, site planning, building design, and documentation and presentation.
• Engineering Design and Development - An engineering research course in which students work in teams to research, design and construct a solution to an open-ended engineering problem. Students apply principles developed in the four preceding courses. They must present progress reports, submit a final written report and defend their solutions to a panel of outside reviewers.
• New Courses In Development
• Aerospace Engineering - The Aerospace Engineering curriculum will introduce students to the world of aeronautics, flight, and engineering.  (Being field tested in 2005)
• Biotechnical Engineering  - Biotechnical Engineering will apply and develop secondary level knowledge and skills in biology, physics, technology, and mathematics. It will include experiences from the diverse fields of bio-technology, bio-engineering, bio-medical engineering, and bio-molecular engineering. (Being field tested in 2005)

The following is a sample schedule showing how PLTW courses could fit in a student’s schedule: