Many parents would like to know more about the Project Lead the Way – Launch curriculum. With every PLTW unit, a problem is introduced through a group of fictional characters, Mylo, Suzi, and Angelina. Our HPS students will follow the engineering design process to solve that problem. Throughout the unit they will have opportunities to ask questions and explore as they formulate their plan. At the end of every unit the students have a chance to use their creativity and perseverance to solve the problem. Here is what to expect for each grade level heading into the new year:
Kindergarten – Structure and Function: Exploring Design. Kinders will be introduced to the engineering design process for the very first time using the context of familiar stories like Jack and the Beanstalk and The Three Little Pigs. Students will apply the process to design structures that meet challenges related to each story. Then they will have the opportunity to apply the engineering design process to solve a design problem presented by our fictional classmates.
1st Grade – Animated Storytelling. First Graders will be developing their ability to create digital animated stories using Scratch Jr. After exploring the sequential nature of computer programming, they will be responsible for creating a scene, editing and programming characters to speak and perform the actions in their stories.
2nd Grade – Changing Earth. Second Graders will explore the ways that the earth is always changing. They will use maps, learn about where water is found on Earth, and investigate the forces that impact the shape of the earth. Then they will have a chance to find a solution for an erosion problem in the community.
3rd Grade -Stability in Motion: Forces and Interactions. Third Graders will begin the year using the VEX Construction kits to explore how simple machines make our work easier. After construction several simple machines and exploring compound machines and magnetic forces, they will apply their experiences in designing a compound machine to solve the problem presented in the story.
4th Grade – Input Output: Human Brain. Fourth Graders will be learning about the human brain and how it controls the body by comparing it to a computer. Our bodies take in stimuli, process it, and put out response signals all the time. Students will have the opportunity to connect that to a real problem: concussions. Students will be responsible for creating a podcast or video intended to inform other children of the risks and problems associated with concussions and educate them on identification and prevention.
5th Grade – Robotics and Automation. Fifth Graders will explore the history of robotics and will choose one type of robot with which they will deepen their understanding of why a robot may be invented. Throughout the unit, students will use the VEX robotics kits to explore possible solutions to the cleanup of a toxic spill site. The robot they design will complete the job of cleaning up hazardous wastes while keeping humans safe from harm.
