• 16656-ROBOTICS is a class in which students apply STEM-related learning in a competitive environment while having fun.  Class members learn teamwork, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  Topics of equilibrium, motion, momentum, energy conversion, electromagnetism, and optical phenomena are presented in current, real-world applications through an engaging, hands-on manner that helps challenge, motivate, and inspire students. Science, technology, engineering, math concepts and skills come together in order for students to build the best robot possible. The class will use VEX Robotic kits as a core unit and then modify the robots to improve their function based on the current game rules and game pieces.  Students will learn to write programming code and apply engineering principles for gear ratios, electrical loads, leverage, motion etc.

• 16658 - BIOMEDICAL TECHNOLOGY (online course only*) is designed to introduce students to the recent advancements in biotechnology and biomedical engineering. Diverse topics range from cancer treatment utilizing nanometers to biomedical devices used in prosthetics and implants. The course will cover the future trends and societal, ethical and environmental implications of these technologies.

*This online course is offered through the Grand Forks Area Career & Technology Center. Online courses do not count towards the 6 required credits that students need to be enrolled in at each grade level.

• 16661-INTRODUCTION TO POWER TECHNOLOGY studies the theory and operation of small engines and alternative sources of energy (solar, wind, hydro, nuclear, etc...).  Classroom activities include small engine exploration and repair, and various experiments with other power systems.  This course is an introduction to Automotive General Service Technology.

• 16670-INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING TRADES I is designed to provide the student with basic construction work experience through classroom and hands-on instruction. Basic residential carpentry and related trades are studied and experienced through building a garden shed. Emphasis on safety, care and use of hand and power tools, building materials, material applications and costs are some of the units included in this course. This course is designed to lead to the Building Trades house construction class.
• 16673 – INTRODUCTION TO BUILDING TRADES II is designed to go more in-depth in topics covered in Introduction to Building Trades I. Some topics that will be covered are: Concrete work, constructing insulated foundations, electrical systems, plumbing systems, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, wall and window insulation and research into various careers available in the Building Trades. This class will build a shed with additional features learned in this class, such as window and door installation. After taking Parts I and II of Introduction to Building Trades, students will have an excellent knowledge base and be prepared to take the Building Trades class in which a house is constructed from start to finish.

• 16674 – ENGINEERING ESSENTIALS (A PLTW Course) provides students opportunities to explore the various engineering careers as they solve engaging and challenging real world problems. The course is intended to be a high school student’s first exposure to the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering pathway. PLTW Engineering courses empower students to step into the role of an engineer, adopt a problem-solving mind set, and make the leap from dreamers to doers. The program’s courses engage students and challenge them to become better collaborators and thinkers. Students take from the course in demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.
• 16677-INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN (A PLTW Course) focuses on learning how to take an idea through a design process that will eventually be manufactured or produced.  Students will learn about various aspects of Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Design.  The course covers the following:  The Role of an Engineer, The Design Process, Product Design, and Product Analysis and Improvement.  Students will use a state of the art 3-D design software package to complete projects.  Working in teams, you will learn about documenting solutions, solving problems, and communicating solutions to other students.
• 16678-CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE (A PLTW Course) focuses on a long-term project that involves the development of a property site.  Students will learn about various aspects of Civil Engineering and Architecture.  The course covers the following:  The Roles of Civil Engineers and Architects, Site Planning, and Building Design.  Students will use a state of the art 3-D design software package to complete projects.  Working in teams, students will learn about documenting projects, solving problems, and communicating solutions to other students.
• 16679-PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING (A PLTW Course) Focuses on the major concepts of engineering. Students will have an opportunity to investigate engineering and high-tech careers. This course covers the following topics: mechanisms, energy sources and applications, machine control, fluid power, statics, material properties and testing, and kinematics. Working in teams, students will develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge to research and design to create solutions to various challenges, document their work, and communicate solutions to other students.

PLTW Website

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) prepares students to be the most innovative and productive leaders in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and to make meaningful, pioneering contributions to our world. PLTW partners with middle schools and high schools to provide a rigorous, relevant STEM education. STEM education is at the heart of today’s high-tech, high-skill global economy. Through an engaging, hands-on curriculum, PLTW encourages the development of problem-solving skills, critical thinking, creative and innovative reasoning and a love of learning. PLTW sparks ingenuity, creativity and innovation within all of our students.