ProjectLeadtheWaySyllabus2016-17

Teacher:

Ms.MelissaSnider:256-428-8385(Ext 175)

Course Materials:

•Project Lead the Way, online curriculum: Gateway (Middle Grades Program)*

•Engineering Notebook (personal sketches in a composition book, complete records in Microsoft OneNote)

*PLTW course materials are hosted on a University-style Learning Management System (Canvas). Thebest way for students to access these materials and learn to navigate a complete LMS is to register with the national PLTW program. A permission form will be sent home before rostering;please sign and return it as quickly as possible so your student can get the most out of the PLTW program.

Course Descriptions:

Design and Modeling (Fall 2016 or Spring 2017)

Students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in Engineering Notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students model their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions

Key projects for Design & Modeling:

•Measure using standard and metric units to create a paper floor skimmer

•Use orthographic sketching techniques to designand model an organizer system for your favorite hobby supplies

•Model basic 3-dimensional shapes in Autodesk Inventor®, and print your best design on a Makerbot 3D printer

•Assemble computer-designed parts into a complete product (Pegboard Toy), animating the function of the product.

Medical Detectives (Fall 2016 or Spring 2017)

In the Medical Detectives (MD) unit, students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health.

Key projects for Medical Detectives:

•Identify the source of a simulated illness outbreak by tracing symptoms and possible pathogen sources

•Conduct a virtual autopsy and a laboratory brain dissection

•Complete a virtual crime-scene analysis, using DNA analysis to solve a mystery

Automation and Robotics (Spring 2017)

Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.

KeyprojectsforAutomation and Robotics:

•Build a hand-cranked mechanical design or a pull toy using gear mechanisms

•Write programs in RobotC to control motor movements with pushbuttons and light sensors

Green Architecture (Spring 2017)

Students use sustainable architecture principles and computer modeling skills to plan residential spaces, modeling the interior and exterior features in Autodesk Revit® and using physical modeling materials.

Key projects for Green Architecture:

•Build a scale model of an exterior wall frame, properly reinforcing window openings and roof trusses

•Build a 1/8 scale model of a shed, insulating it for hot and cold weather conditions

•Design an affordable housing unit from shipping containers, meeting customer’s budget & design limits.

Flight & Space (Spring 2017)

The exciting world of aerospace comes alive through the Flight and Space (FS) unit. Students explore the science behind aeronautics and use their knowledge to design, prototype, and test model rocket fuel and a glider. Custom-built simulation software allows students to experience space travel.

Key projects for Flight & Space:

•Build a variety of flying devices, including kites, hot-air balloons and balsa gliders

•Test hypergolic fuel mixtures for a model rocket, calculating ideal proportions for fuel and oxidizer

•Complete and interactive lunar base/exploration simulation, demonstrating the student’s ability to design for specific mission goals within a given budget.

Classroom Policies:

Classroom Expectations:

  • Be Respectful: speak and act with kindness toward classmates and adults. Respect classroom property.
  • Use good judgement: think about the effects of your words and actions, before you act.
  • Listen and learn: Listen for instructions and guidelines, so you can work effectively.
  • Lead by example: Show others your best classroom manners.
  • Show accountability: Prepare for class. Own your actions and make a plan to fix mistakes. Take initiative to complete work on time and follow up when you have missed class.

Grading procedures:

  • Most graded work will be turned in online (Edmodo or the PLTW LMS)
  • Each major project (3-5 per 9 weeks) will count as a test grade, accompanied by at least 3 classwork grades. These may include sketches, project plans, or vocabulary quizzes.
  • When homework is given (generally less than once per week), it will be assigned on Edmodo 2 days before the due date
  • The 9-weeks grade will be calculated as follows:
  • 60% summative assessments (projects or tests)
  • 40% formativeassignments (plans, sketches, quizzes or vocabulary development exercises)

Teacher Contact:

  • It is best for the student to speak with Ms. Snider in person, or via Edmodo message, about missing assignments, low grades or difficulty completing assignments.
  • Parents may contact Ms. Snider by email (preferred) at or phone: 256-428-8385, x 175. I will respond within 24 hours.
  • Office hours at school: Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30 or by appointment.