Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math, offers a vast range of careers for future problem solvers and critical thinkers. This pathway sets the foundation for continuing your education after graduation.
Principles of Applied Engineering
Grade: 9–10/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None
Principles of Applied Engineering provides an overview of the various fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and their interrelationships. Students will develop engineering communication skills, which include computer graphics, modeling, and presentations, by using a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Upon completing this course, students will understand the various fields of engineering and will be able to make informed career decisions. Further, students will have worked on a design team to develop a product or system. Students will use multiple software applications to prepare and present course assignments.
Principles of Technology
Grade: 10–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisites: One credit of high school science and Algebra l
In Principles of Technology, students will conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Various systems will be described in terms of space, time, energy, and matter. Students will study a variety of topics that include laws of motion, conservation of energy, momentum, electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, and characteristics and behavior of waves. Students will apply physics concepts and perform laboratory experimentations for at least 40% of instructional time using safe practices.
Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students on the Foundation High School Program
Robotics l
Grade: 9–10/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None
In Robotics I, students will transfer academic skills to implement the design process. Students will build prototypes or use simulation software to test their designs. Additionally, students will explore career opportunities, employer expectations, and educational needs in the robotic and automation industry.
Robotics ll
Grade: 10–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Robotics l
In Robotics II, students will explore artificial intelligence and programming in the robotic and automation industry. Through implementation of the design process, students will transfer academic skills to component designs in a project-based environment. Students will build prototypes and use software to test their designs.
Note: This course satisfies a math credit requirement for students on the Foundation High School Program.
Engineering Design and Presentation l
Grade: 10–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Algebra l
Engineering Design and Presentation I is a continuation of knowledge and skills learned in Principles of Applied Engineering. Students enrolled in this course will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the design process as it applies to engineering fields using multiple software applications and tools necessary to produce and present working drawings, solid model renderings, and prototypes. Students will use a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Through implementation of the design process, students will transfer advanced academic skills to component designs. Additionally, students explore career opportunities in engineering, technology, and drafting and what is required to gain and maintain employment in these areas.
Engineering Design and Presentation ll
Grade: 11–12/Credits: 2
Prerequisites: Algebra l and Geometry
Engineering Design and Presentation II is a continuation of knowledge and skills learned in Engineering Design and Presentation I. Students enrolled in this course will demonstrate knowledge and skills of the design process as it applies to engineering fields using multiple software applications and tools necessary to produce and present working drawings, solid model renderings, and prototypes. Students will use a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Through implementation of the design process, students will transfer advanced academic skills to component designs. Emphasis will be placed on using skills from ideation through prototyping.
Biotechnology l
Grade: 11–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry
In Biotechnology I, students will apply advanced academic knowledge and skills to the emerging fields of biotechnology such as agricultural, medical, regulatory, and forensics. Students will have the opportunity to use sophisticated laboratory equipment, perform statistical analysis, and practice quality-control techniques. Students will conduct laboratory and field investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in Biotechnology I will study a variety of topics that include structures and functions of cells, nucleic acids, proteins, and genetics. Students must meet the 40 percent laboratory and fieldwork requirement.
Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students on the Foundation High School Program.
Biotechnology ll
Grade: 11–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Biotechnology l and Chemistry
Biotechnology II has the components of any rigorous scientific or bioengineering program of study from the problem identification, investigation design, data collection, data analysis, and formulation and presentation of the conclusions. This course applies the standard skills mastered in Biotechnology I and includes assay design. After taking this course, students should be prepared for entry-level lab technician jobs. Students must meet the 40% laboratory and fieldwork requirement.
Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students on the Foundation High School Program.
Scientific Research and Design
Grade: 11–12/Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, Integrated Physics, and Chemistry (IPC), or Physics
Scientific Research and Design is a broad-based course designed to allow districts and schools considerable flexibility to develop local curriculum to supplement any program of study or coherent sequence. The course has the components of any rigorous scientific or engineering program of study from the problem identification, investigation design, data collection, data analysis, formulation, and presentation of the conclusions. These components are integrated with the career and technical education emphasis of helping students gain entry-level employment in high-skill, high-wage jobs and/or continue their education. Students must meet the 40 percent laboratory and fieldwork requirement.
Note: This course satisfies a science credit requirement for students on the Foundation High School Program.