GATEWAY TO TECHNOLOGY (GTT) is an activities, project, and problem-based learning program designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity of middle school students. The instructional units excite and motivate students to use their imaginations and teach them to be creative and innovative, while gaining the skills they need to develop, produce, and use products and services.

6th Grade - Gateway To Technology (PLTW)
Introduction Unit:
INTRODUCTION TO DESIGN & MODELING is a 9-week course in which students use various technologies to complete projects. Alphabetic keyboarding is used to develop proper keyboarding techniques. Students prepare a report on technology using word processing while utilizing page setup, tabs, fonts, styles, and spelling assistance. Students also prepare a simple spreadsheet, learn drawing capabilities, prepare slide show presentations, scan documents, video capture for poster design, and design and create a t-shirt. Internet research is also integrated into many of the projects that are completed.

7th Grade - Gateway To Technology (PLTW)
Foundation Unit:
DESIGN & MODELING:
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 their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.

TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING EDUCATION is a nine-week introductory course in the areas of manufacturing, construction, communication and energy, power and transportation. Students will do a variety of activities in these technological areas including: magnetic levitation, model boats and airplanes, computer controlled Legos, drafting, electricity, model house building, CO2 race cars and more. The course will focus on problem solving.

8th Grade - Gateway To Technology (PLTW)
Foundation Units:
DESIGN & MODELING:
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 their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.

AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS:
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.

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY WEBSITE