Engineering-Technology Education (ETE)
Engineering, Technology Department: Course and Pathway Offerings
Updated November 2023 for the 2024-2025 school year
Note: The following courses satisfy several Graduation Pathways and are recommended for students interested in pursuing a career or post-secondary degree in an engineering, technology or medical field. Courses count Directed Electives or Electives for the Core 40, Core 40 with Academic Honors or Technical Honors diplomas. Several classes satisfy AP, Math, or Science credits. Many courses have a National End of Course Exam or Industry Certification Tests, and are eligible for *Dual College Credit.
Radio and Television Broadcasting Pathway: Course Descriptions
Principles of Broadcasting #7139 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: None
The purpose of the Principles of Broadcasting course is to provide entry-level fundamental skills for students who wish to seek or pursue opportunities in the field of broadcasting or mass media. Students will explore the technical aspects of audio and sound design for radio production and distribution, as well as, the technical aspects of video production and distribution. This course prepares students for the advanced skills needed to produce video and audio content in the field such as interviews, documentaries, and more. Students will learn proper camera framing, composition, and sequencing. They will learn Adobe video editing software and equipment used in studio production.
Activities include: interviewing students and staff, broadcasting sporting events, working closely with the recording crews, learning instant replay skills, working with all extra-curricular programs, creating videos to help engage the rest of the PHS student body, and social media optimization.
Audio and Video Production Essentials #7306 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 10, 11,12
Prerequisite: Principles of Broadcasting
Audio and Video Production Essentials provides an in-depth study on audio and video production techniques for radio, television, and digital technologies. Students will learn skills necessary for audio production and on-air work used in radio and other digital formats. Additionally, experience will be gained in the development of the video production process; including skills in message development, directing, camera, video switcher, and character generator operations.
Activities include: Audio recording and editing. Video recording and editing. Script writing. Television production process. Television studio operations. (Indians News Network: INN). Lighting techniques.
Mass Media Production #7307 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Principles of Broadcasting
Mass Media Production will focus on the study of theory and practice in the voice and visual aspects of radio and television performance. In addition, this course introduces the skills used to acquire and deliver news stories in a digital media format. Students will learn how to research issues and events, interview news sources, interact with law enforcement and government officials, along with learning to write in a comprehensive news style.
Activities include: Announcing, Voiceovers, News casting in broadcasting-cable-film, Studio operations and management, internet and social media platforms, programming, story and news writing, design and production software.
Biomedical: Course Descriptions
Principles of Biomedical Sciences (PBS) #5218AB 2 semesters, 2 credits 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: 3.0 GPA (9th graders), completed or taking concurrently with Biology
In the introductory course of the PLTW Biomedical Science program, students explore concepts of biology and medicine to determine factors that led to the death of a fictional person. While investigating the case, students examine autopsy reports, investigate medical history, and explore medical treatments that might have prolonged the person’s life. The activities and projects introduce students to human physiology, basic biology, medicine, and research processes while allowing them to design their own experiments to solve problems.
Human Body System (HBS) #5216AB 2 semesters, 2 credits 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Sciences
Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Manikin®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration; and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.
Medical Interventions (MI) #5217AB 2 semesters, 2 credits 11, 12
Prerequisite: Principles of Biomedical Sciences and Human Body Systems
Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices, and diagnostics.
Computer Science (STEM) Pathway: Course Descriptions:
Introduction to Computer Science #4803 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 9,10
Prerequisite: None
Introduction to Computer Science helps students create a strong foundation to advance through the Computer Science pathway. With emphasis on computational thinking and collaboration, this year-long course provides an excellent entry point for students to begin or continue the PLTW Computer Science experience. The course will expose students to a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence. Students will use visual, block-based programming and seamlessly transition to text-based programming with languages such as C++ to create apps and develop websites. Additionally, students will apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them.
Activities Include: Block Coding challenges, Game development and simulation, and text based coding challenges.
*Principles of Computing #7183 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 9,10
Prerequisite: None
Principles of Computing provides students a semester of Computer Science (programming) and a semester of Computer Informatics (hardware) to explore how computers can be used in a wide variety of settings. One semester will be programming skills to develop computational thinking and scripts designed to solve a variety of coding problems. Students will learn about algorithms, logic development and flowcharting. The other semester will be exploring trends of computing and the necessary skills to implement information systems. Course topics include C++, Python, app development, operating systems, database technology, cybersecurity, cloud implementations and other concepts associated with applying the principles of good information management to the organization. The course helps students determine a Programming or Hardware path of education.
Activities include: App development, block and C++ programming challenges, coding challenges and applications, information technology and computer component experiments.
*Topics in Computer Science #7351 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 10,11
Recommended Prerequisite: Principles of Computing, and strong Math background.
Topics in Computer Science is designed for students to investigate emerging disciplines within the field of computer science. Students will use foundational knowledge from 7183 Principles of Computing to study the areas of data science, artificial intelligence, app/game development, and security. Students will utilize knowledge related to these areas and programming skills to develop solutions to authentic problems. Using Python® as a primary tool and incorporating multiple platforms and languages for computation, this course aims to develop computational thinking, generate excitement about career paths that utilize computing, and introduce professional tools that foster creativity and collaboration. Students will learn Visual Basic using Visual Studio, which will include algorithm development, flow charting, input/output techniques, looping and modules. Students have an opportunity to apply skills in a laboratory environment, and will provide an overview of computers and logic, design process, GUI, event driven programs, file handling, and arrays.
Activities include: Projects and problems including app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.
Computer Science #7352 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 11,12
Prerequisite: Topics in Computer Science
Computer Science introduces the fundamental concepts of procedural programming. Topics include data types, control structures, functions, arrays, files, and the mechanics of running, testing, and debugging. The course also offers an introduction to the historical and social context of computing and an overview of computer science as a discipline. Coursework emphasizes Java, logical program design involving user-defined functions and standard structure elements, and includes the role of data types, variables, structures, addressable memory locations, and data file access methods. An emphasis on logical program design using a modular approach, which involves task oriented program functions.
Activities include: collaborating to create original solutions to problems, choosing by designing and implementing user interfaces and Web-based databases, creating a games, developing an app to serve a real need in their community. This course is aligned to the AP CSA framework.
Engineering STEM Pathway: Course Descriptions
**Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) #4802 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 9, 10, 11,12
Prerequisite: None 6 Dual Credits
IED is an introductory course that develops student problem solving skills, with emphasis placed on the development of three-dimensional solid models. Students will work from sketching simple geometric shapes to applying a solid modeling computer software package. They will learn a problem solving design process and how it is used in industry to manufacture a product. The Computer Aided Design System (CAD) will also be used to analyze and evaluate the product design. 3D printers will produce student designed products. The techniques learned, and equipment used, are state-of-the-art and are currently being used by engineers throughout the United States. Course qualifies for dual college credit though Ivy Tech.
Activities Include: Engineer’s Notebook and Design Process, Pencil Sketches, Prototype Construction, 3D CAD Drawings, Precision Measurement, Reverse Engineering, Statistics, Power Points, 3D Printing.
*Principles of Engineering (POE) #5644 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 10, 11, 12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) 3 Dual Credits
POE is a broad-based course in engineering and engineering technology. Topics include: Engineering History and Careers, Creativity and Problem Solving, Mechanisms, Energy and Power, Materials and Structures, Automated Control Systems, Statistics and Kinematics. Students will develop engineering problem solving and communication skills and apply higher-level mathematics in preparation for post-secondary engineering programs. Course qualifies for dual college credit though Ivy Tech.
Activities Include: Engineering Notebook, Simple Machines and Mechanisms, Basic Electricity, Circuits, Energy and Solar-Hydrogen Vehicle, Thermal Dynamic Testing, Structural Property Analysis of Beams and Trusses, Precision Measurement, Materials Science and Destructive Testing, VEX Automation, Robotics and Programming, Statistics, Kinematics-Ballistics Device, Technical Reports and Power Points.
*Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) #5534 2 semesters, 2 credits Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisite:Principles of Engineering (POE) 3 Dual Credits
This course builds upon the computer solid modeling design skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design. Students will be presented with design problems that require the use of CAD and CAM programs to develop solutions to the problems. They will evaluate the solutions using mass property analysis (study of the relationship of design, function, and materials used), make appropriate modifications and use prototyping equipment to produce three-dimensional models of the solutions. Students will communicate the process and results of their work through oral and written reports.
Activities Include: CAD Drawings, CNC Mill, Lathe and Router Projects, Laser Engraving, Robotic Work Cell Programming and Automation, Manufacturing Cell Design and Simulations, and Precision Measurement.
Engineering Design and Development (EDD) #5698 2 semesters, 2 credits Grade: 12
Prerequisite: Completion of IED, POE and one of the following: CIM or CEA or DE.
EDD is the PLTW Capstone course where students are engaged in a year-long Project Based Learning (PBL) activity. Students will make up teams, research an open-ended problem, and then design and construct a solution following the Engineering Design Process. Team members will submit progress reports and a final research paper. The team members will defend their project solution with a multimedia presentation before an engineering review panel.
Activities Include: Project Research, Timelines, Brainstorming, Development and Optimization, CAD Drawings, Data and Documentation, Testing, Evaluation and Engineering Presentations.
Robotics and Automation Pathway: Course Descriptions
Principles of Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing #7220 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 9, 10, 11
Prerequisite: Recommended Algebra 1 or minimum 3.0 GPA
Principles of Industry 4.0 introduces students to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Students will explore Industry 4.0 technologies such as human to robot collaboration, big data, safety, electrical, sensors, digital integration, fluid power, robot operation, measurement, artificial intelligence (AI), CAD, CNC, additive manufacturing, print reading, and technical mathematics. Students will complete hands-on labs, virtual simulations, projects, and critical thinking assignments to help prepare for SACA C-101 Certified Industry 4.0 Associate I - Basic Operations certification exam.
Activities Include: Programming, robotic simulations, sensor integration, pneumatic applications, robot design and operation, equipment monitoring, CNC machines, 3D Printing, and laser engraving.
Robotics Design and Innovation(2025) #4728 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 10,11, 12
Prerequisite: Principles of Industry 4.0 Smart Manufacturing
The Robotics Design and Innovation course is designed to introduce students to technology that is revolutionizing modern manufacturing and logistic centers across global markets. Students will explore careers that are related to the fourth industrial revolution and be introduced to the emerging technologies that make the manufacturing world ever changing. These technologies include; robotics, programmable automation, mechatronics, CAD/CAM, cloud technologies, networking, big data and analytics. Students will design a part to be mass produced using processes such as additive and subtractive manufacturing, while utilizing lean manufacturing concepts. The course will prepare students for the SACA, C-102 Certified Industry 4.0 Associate
Activities include: Programming, fabrication and operation of automated systems, CAD/CAM, robotic applications and tool handling, and field trips.
Construction Pathway: Course Descriptions
Introduction to Construction #4792 1 semester, 1 credit Grades: 9, 10
No Prerequisite
In this exploratory class for the Construction Pathway, students will work individually and in groups studying different kinds of residential structures. Topics include blueprint reading, writing construction specifications, project estimates, surveying properties, and building foundations and superstructures. Students will develop hand and power tool safety skills, explore the applications of tools, materials, and energy used in developing, producing, using, and assessing constructed works. Students will work in small construction teams to frame a scaled structure learning how it relates to construction personnel, the design process, contractual obligations, management systems, construction tools and materials, construction of buildings, purchasing and financing structures, and community planning.
Activities Include: Personal Safety, Power Tool and Machine Use, Foundation, and Basic Framing
*Principles of Construction Trades #7130 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 10, 11
Recommended Prerequisite: Introduction to Construction
Principles of Construction Trades is the entry course for the Next Level Construction Pathway. It covers the NCCER Core Curriculum and is a prerequisite to most other construction courses. Its modules cover topics such as basic safety, communication skills, and introduction to construction drawings; all basic skills needed to continue education in the construction program. Activity: Finished sheds will be built and sold to members of the community. The next class in the Pathway is vocational home building class.
Advanced Manufacturing-Metals Pathway: Course Descriptions
Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics #4796 1 semester, 1 credit Grades: 9, 10
No Prerequisite
Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics focuses on the manufacturing relationship to society, individuals, and the environment. Students gain a basic understanding of tooling, electrical skills, operation skills. Emphasis is also placed on the flow process principles, material movement, safety, mass production and related business operations. Students apply the skills and knowledge of using modern manufacturing processes to obtain resources and change them into industrial materials, industrial products and consumer products. Students investigate the properties of engineered materials. Students study six major types of material processes: casting and molding; forming; separating; conditioning; finishing; and assembling. Students have the opportunity to develop the characteristics employers seek as well as skills that will help them in future endeavors.
Principles of Advanced Manufacturing #7108 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 10, 11
Recommended Prerequisite: Introduction to Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics
Principles of Advanced Manufacturing is a course that includes classroom and laboratory experiences in Industrial Technology and Manufacturing Trends. Domains include safety and impact, manufacturing essentials, lean manufacturing, design principles, and careers in advanced manufacturing. Hands-on projects and team activities will allow students to apply learning on the latest industry technologies.
Activities Include: Personal safety, OSHA 10 Certification, Metal working machine safety and operation, blueprint reading, precision measurement, MSSC Quality Certification exam, Skill Boss trainer, Welding, Field trips to Industry.
Advanced Manufacturing Technology #7103 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Principles of Advanced Manufacturing
Advanced Manufacturing Technology introduces manufacturing processes and practices used in manufacturing environments. The course also covers key electrical principles, including current, voltage, resistance, power, inductance, capacitance, and transformers, along with basic mechanical and fluid power principles. Topics include, types of production, production materials, machining and tooling, manufacturing planning, production control, and product distribution will be covered. Students will be expected to understand the product life cycle from conception through distribution. This course also focuses on technologies used in production processes. Basic power systems, energy transfer systems, machine operation and control will be explored. This course will use lecture, lab, online simulation and programming to prepare students for Certified Production Technician Testing through Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC).
Activities Include: Tooling, Materials testing, Hydraulic and Pneumatic power systems, Electricity, electrical schematics, and electrical control, MSSC Maintenance Awareness Certification, Basic Machine Automation and Controls, Skill Boss trainer.
Mechatronics Systems #7106 2 semesters, 2 credit Grades: 11, 12
Prerequisites: Advanced Manufacturing Technology
Mechatronics Systems covers the basic electrical and mechanical components and functions of a complex mechatronics system. Through a systems approach, students will learn about mechanical components which lead and support the energy through a mechanical system to increase efficiency and to reduce wear and tear. By understanding the complete system, students will learn and apply troubleshooting strategies to identify, localize and (where possible) to correct malfunctions. Preventive maintenance of mechanical elements and electrical drives as well as safety issues within the system will also be discussed.
Activities Include: Robotic and mechatronics system design, Robot physics, Electrical component measurements and circuits, diagram and schematic reading, Troubleshooting and repair, CAD/CAM computer design and production.