STEM Exploration

2018-2019

Instructor: Mr. Matthew Mullins Mr. Corey Duzan Classroom: 106B

Phone: (815) 588-8669 (815) 588-8719 Office: 106A
Email: mmullins@lths.org cduzan@lths.org PowerSchool Learning: STEM Exploration 2018-2019

Course Description: GRADE: 9 LENGTH: YEAR LONG. Provides a foundation for the development of problem
solving, creativity and innovation in the STEM fields. This is a hands-on exploratory project-based level course,
with the intent to introduce the knowledge and skills needed in various Technology/STEM occupations. This
course will provide students with insight into their interests and abilities related to the STEM field. Topics include
Engineering Concepts and Software, Electricity/Electronics, Robotics, Transportation, Energy/Power, and
Woodworking.

Course Outline: STEM Exploration is an exploratory class into the world of STEM education and Activity,
Project, and Problem-Based (APB) learning. STEM Exploration is one of the foundation courses in the Lockport
Township High School College and Career Application Department’s Technical Applications division.

The course of study for this class may include:

CONCEPT/PROJECT: APPROXIMATE TIMING:

Technical Sketching SEMESTER 1
Machine Safety SEMESTER 1
Solar Oven Project SEMESTER 1
Rocketry/Aerodynamics SEMESTER 1
Puzzle Cube SEMESTER 1
3D Printing/Laser Engraving SEMESTER 1
Invention Research SEMESTER 1
Foam board Arcade SEMESTER 2
Woodworking SEMESTER 2
Programming/Coding SEMESTER 2
Maker Bot SEMESTER 2
Electronics/Electricity SEMESTER 2
Redesign/Innovation SEMESTER 2
*Subject to change*

Books, Supplies, and Supplementary Materials: There is no textbook for this course. All reference materials
are electronic and will be available via PowerSchool Learning. All supplies for this class will be provided.
Supplies include dial caliper, safety glasses, ruler, portfolio, and consumable materials. It is recommended that
students have earbuds and a calculator for their use during class.

General Course Objectives:

● Students will demonstrate proper use and care of equipment.
● Students will study and practice techniques of engineering and design as used in industry.
● Students will be encouraged to function at their highest level of efficiency with regard to neatness and
accuracy. Time management skills in engineering will also be emphasized.
● Students will constantly be evaluated as engineering assignments are completed.
● Students will also be evaluated on their effective behaviors. (Attitude during class toward the instructor
and other students.)
 STEM Exploration
2018-2019

● Students may be encouraged to complete extra credit assignments for expanded growth. (Additional
engineering assignments completed in class and also article reviews related to the field of engineering.)
● Students will research career opportunities in the field of engineering.
● Students will keep a portfolio of completed work for later reference and archival purposes.

General Student Expectations:

1. Come prepared (paper, pencil, notebook, etc.)
2. Be on time for class
3. Follow all school discipline codes
4. Follow all school academic honor codes
5. Participate in classroom discussions in a positive manner
6. Follow and use the lab and classroom rules when applicable
7. Students are not permitted to access the supply cabinets, storage area, or instructor’s office/workstation
without permission from the instructor.

Evaluation: Grades will be issued based on the following scale:

Category Total Points Grade Percentage

Engineering Notebook/Portfolio A 100% - 90%
Classwork / Homework B 89% - 80%
Projects C 79% - 70%
Tests D 69% - 60%
F Below 59%

Attendance: Consecutive attendance is crucial to the development of the course materials and students are
expected to attend. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain missed lecture notes, handouts, announcements,
and assignments from the instructor, classmates, or the class website.

Late Work: If you are absent, it is your responsibility to find out what you have missed. Late work is not
acceptable. Assignments turned in after the due date will lose 25% credit. Please see the teacher about excused
absences for turning in work late. If you are turning in late work online, it is your responsibility to tell or email the
teacher informing them that it has been turned in.

Other Information: Extra lab time will be available throughout the school year