Introduction to Engineering and Design

Our class focuses on four different disciplines; design, programming, electronics, and fabrication. Each has its own set of tools, techniques, hardware, software, space requirements, and time management challenges that have to be planned and worked through. The students will gain foundational knowledge in these fields through in-depth readings, classroom discussions and exercises but most importantly through hands-on projects.

Students will get an introduction to CAD and CAM design software and will fabricate custom parts for their projects using 3D printers, CNC routers, laser cutters, and traditional woodworking tools. They will explore the world of programming through the language of C/C++ and Arduino microcontrollers and then use that knowledge to write programs to control the electronic components that bring their projects to life. The students will do all of this while learning about the design thinking process and how to effectively make meaningful creations.

In the Middle School, technology skills are put to use as students write papers, examine data and learn to use digital information sources for research. Students use computer-generated graphic materials in oral presentations in many of their classes. They use spreadsheets to analyze and chart data in science and math classes. They also use concept-mapping software for creative writing assignments and multimedia and desktop publishing software for a variety of projects. Throughout Middle School, students expand and exercise their software skills through their coursework.

Technology – 5

5th grade Tech helps students become efficient and organized learners, be responsible digital citizens as well as explorers of design thinking, media creation, and programming.

The students will enter the lab in 5th grade with a range of technology skills and understandings.  Our goal is to orient them to the digital world. To do this we place an emphasis on their productivity and organization.  Students will dive into the world of Google Apps, where they can save, organize, and share their work.  The students will discover new ways to present their ideas and show their mastery in all courses of study.  As the students begin to have more of a presence online we will explore ways to be thoughtful and caring members of our digital community.  We will discuss safety on the internet and how that is different from our lives outside of the World Wide Web.  Along with being safe, we will also put an emphasis on being an upstander and also being courteous online.  This includes proper email etiquette and speech online. A research unit taught in conjunction with the library staff will give the students the skills to search, choose appropriate sources, and how to make proper citations. Additionally, the students will explore concepts of computer science and digital media. The students will be exposed to robotics, programming, CAD (3D printing and design), and digital media programs to edit movies, music, and images. These skills will challenge them and enable them to problem solve, think abstractly, and show their knowledge.

In the Middle School, the Visual Arts program provides students with a solid foundation in the 2-D and 3-D practices of art making while gaining exposure to the basic elements of a visual language. The curriculum for each grade level is designed with an emphasis on specific materials and applications to encourage a deeper exploration of process and skill. Each year, students are introduced to a variety of new tools and techniques while working both from observation and imagination. Best studio practices are introduced at each grade level. References to art history are included to inspire projects and to encourage aesthetic discussions when appropriate.

Visual Arts – 5

In 5th Grade, there is an emphasis on sculpture working with clay, wood, and mixed media. Three- dimensional projects are complemented by basic drawing lessons to gain a better understanding of creating illusion and depth. Students are introduced to a variety of new tools and materials while expanding on familiar technical skills and the importance of craftsmanship. Exercising best studio practices, including sharing materials used in class and working together with classmates when setting and cleaning up workspaces is an important part of the classroom experience.

Visual Arts – 6 

In 6th grade, there is an emphasis on drawing, bas-relief constructions, collage and printmaking. Students are introduced to a variety of new tools and materials while expanding on familiar technical skills and the importance of craftsmanship. Projects explore positive and negative space, proportion and scale, texture and contrast, value and shading, layering and overlapping as well as the process of finding effective design solutions. Exercising best studio practices, including sharing materials used in class and working together with classmates when setting and cleaning up workspaces is an important part of the classroom experience.

Arts – 7

The 7th grade course emphasizes drawing skills using a variety of media. Students develop sophisticated rendering skills while gaining a better understanding of how shade, color, shape and position give important information to the viewer.  Students will continue learning visual vocabulary and appropriate techniques through a wide range of two and three-dimensional materials, and they will be encouraged to reflect thoughtfully and respectfully during class discussions. Exercising careful studio practices, taking ownership over materials used in class and taking responsibility for setting up and cleaning up workspaces is an important part of the studio experience.

Arts – 8

In 8th grade there is an emphasis on the use of visual problem-solving, particularly using sequencing. Students create a class animation and examine techniques and artists who have used these techniques to create early films.  Students use drawing, design and photography to create projects exploring the narrative and the non-narrative sequence. Students will continue learning visual vocabulary and appropriate techniques for discussing and improving work. Careful studio practices, taking ownership over materials used in class and taking responsibility for setting up and cleaning up workspaces is an important part of the studio experience.