The applied engineering technology program is a twenty-week experience where several different areas of technology will be explored. The course is designed where there will be more emphasis placed on group projects and designs emphasizing real world working environments. This class will explore major areas such as design, simple and complex machines, and research development. A strong emphasis will be placed on problem solving activities in which both individual and group efforts are developed. Projects may include cardboard chair, catapults, mouse trap car, and electricity and electrical wiring.

The CADD class is designed to help prepare the engineers of tomorrow. This class is designed for those students considering a field of engineering in their future. Throughout this class students will learn the fundamentals of drafting and different CAD software programs such as AutoCAD and TinkeCAD. Students will have the opportunity to see their drawing come to life using a 3-D printer and laser cutter. This is a great class for students looking to take high school engineering courses as it will give them a great start. Much of what they will need to know in their first course of high school will be taught in this class.

The design and purpose of this course is to provide a collaborative space for students to inquire, design and create through inquiry-based learning. Students will explore questions, challenges, topics or technologies of interest, at their own pace, and in directions of their choosing with the guidance of the teacher. Students will plan and reflect on their creations, processes, successes and difficulties through multimodal learning. The goal of this program is to prepare students for global learning opportunities by engaging their interest and imagination in science, technology, engineering, arts and math. Students will develop their cognitive processes of analysis, comparison, inference, evaluation, and synthesis applied to a range of academic domains and problem solving contexts.

This course is for 7^th and 8^th grade students who would like to further apply their skills in the exciting field of engineering. Individually, students will design and manufacture a robotic gripper to apply their knowledge of simple machines. In teams students will use a VEX robotic system to be introduced to the world of robotics in an engaging manner. Students will research, design, and manufacture an automated robot to meet a specific challenge. Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software is included with the VEX kits. This 3D software can be used by students to produce 3D mechanical designs, and to perform product simulations to test their design ideas before attempting fabrication of the actual model. This is a direct correlation to the real world; STEM is a prominent component of the entire process. No student is left behind, emphases is placed on the students' opportunity to work within their strengths to contribute to the team goal.

This course is for 7^th and 8^th grade students interested in engineering drawing and design. Students will be exposed to a variety of drawing techniques and computer aided design programs (2-D, 3-D, pattern development software) to learn the fundamentals of communicating engineering ideas. Students will demonstrate their communication and engineering skills through the development of a Magnetic Levitation Vehicle.

The Exploring Engineering Technology class is for students interested in designing and building individual projects using the design process as a guide. After learning “shop” safety and how to properly use the design process to come up with a working, to scale design of their project, students will have the opportunity to build their project in the lab. Two projects commonly produced are a CO₂ race car and a wooden candy machine. Students will have the opportunity to use a variety of materials, hand tools, and power tools, to complete their projects.

In this class 7^th and 8^th grade students will use cooperative and hands on learning to prepare for a successful future. Using the book 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, by Sean Covey, students will learn the importance of creating healthy habits. Other units include: kitchen safety, foods labs, nutrition, interpersonal communication/ relationships and keyboarding.

7^th and 8^th grade students will learn various 21st century skills. It is a cooperative learning style class with opportunities for hands on, project based learning. Students will gain independence, self-awareness and life skills. Units include: growth mindset, personal finance, career exploration, kitchen safety, foods labs, nutrition and keyboarding.

Accounting A is recommended for all students with an interest in business, earning a business major, and/or planning on owning their own business. Introduction to Accounting A is a study of fundamental accounting principles and the complete accounting cycle for a service business. In this course, skills such as analyzing business transactions, journalizing, posting, 8-column worksheet, financial statements and the closing entries are covered. All work is completed electronically using accounting forms. This class utilizes 21st century teaching techniques with interactive software and immediate feedback on their work. Accounting principles, practices, procedures and theories are emphasized for a sound foundation to any student wishing to pursue accounting at the university level or to help students become more marketable in todays business environment. At the end of the trimester, an individual simulation will be completed that will tie all units of study together. Accounting B is a continuation of the concepts taught in Introduction to Accounting A. Cash controls from within the business and the services offered by banks to businesses are studied and practiced. Proof of cash balances is emphasized. Payroll accounting will also be studied. All work is completed electronically using accounting forms. This class utilizes 21st century teaching techniques with interactive software and immediate feedback on their work. Students may also complete an extensive unit of accounting applications in the field of tax accounting. Upon the completion of Introduction to Accounting A and Accounting B, a student should have acquired the basic knowledge of how accounting works and functions. At the end of the trimester, an individual simulation will be completed that will tie all units of study together. A student should also have sufficient skills for an entry-level job or an excellent head start in the study of accounting in a post high school situation.

A course in the fundamentals and application of automated machines. Topics include programmable logic controllers, robot fundamentals, stepper motors, sensors, fabrication techniques, and safety. Emphasis is placed on the design and building of an automated machine that will compete in regional and national competitions. May be taken as a 4th year math-related course. Industry 4.0 Certifications and Credentials are offered.

Students will learn the process of branding by developing new products, designing logos, packaging and brand names as part of the product planning and branding process. Study the behind-the-scenes process of advertising for streaming/television, radio, print, and digital advertising while designing creative and fun promotions for real and class-developed products. Students will look at the movie and television industry as a source of promotion through the use of product placement. Enhance communication, teamwork, and presentation skills as students work in teams to develop their own advertising campaign for a chosen product. Students will participate in creative projects, group activities, and learn about marketing careers.

This course will expand on the Architectural Design A/B courses by allowing students to create a full set of architectural blueprints. Students will be expected to apply the design process, architectural theories, and specifications according to industry to their designs. The use of CAD software will be incorporated to aid in the development of drawings and three- dimensional computer models.

AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) in JavaScript is a rigorous, entry-level course that introduces students to the foundations of modern computing. The course covers a broad range of foundational topics such as programming, algorithms, the Internet, big data, digital privacy and security, and the societal impacts of computing. AP CSP introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can impact the world. With a unique focus on creative problem-solving and real-world applications, AP Computer Science Principles prepares students for college and careers in high demand. May be taken as a 4th year math-related course.

AP CSA is focused on the study of advanced programming for the serious, self-motivated, talented math student who is considering computer science or computer engineering as a major in college. In Computer Science A, students learn objectoriented programming using Java. Students take on the role of software engineers and practice skills that are used in the field. CSA course is designed for any high school student who wishes to continue their computer science education after completing an introductory course such as AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) or Programming in Python A and B. May be taken as a 4th year math-related course and 3rd year science credit.

This course begins with the study of residential design and provides instruction in utilizing various CAD software and hand drawing techniques as it relates to the architectural industry. Each student will have the opportunity to combine their creativity with the practicality of floor plans, elevations, plot plan specifications, and interior design, to create a single family home complete with a virtual tour.

Students will be introduced to essential concepts, including marketing, management, accounting, business law, economics, and communications. Each of 12 foundational business topics is delivered with a hands- on approach and designed to teach the basic concepts of the unit. The units will be approximately 1-2 weeks in length and designed for appropriateness of 9th and 10th grade students interested in learning the basic principles of business as they prepare for college and their future course choices. Topics will be broad in nature to exhibit applicability for students in all career paths.

Business Law is primarily concerned with providing a legal framework relating to personal rights, obligations and responsibility within our business-oriented culture. It helps to emphasize the social, economic and moral forces that make and create the law. Such areas as the nature and structure of the law and the court system, elements of the contract, personal property, agency and employment, case studies and analysis, and courtroom procedures and strategies are discussed. Classroom debate of current legal issues is also part of the curriculum.

Career Focus is a course geared toward the student who could benefit from structured time devoted to college and career planning. Through guided research and personal inventories, students look at personal goals and professional interests. The course encourages students who have already chosen their desired career path to take a careful look at all the options available within that career while others may focus on selecting a suitable career path. Students examine specific challenges of careers. Work environments, work styles, aptitudes and interests are examined through the use of on-line databases. Students also devote time to exploring educational and career opportunities and other important factors regarding their futures.

Students will learn engineering fundamentals of electrical, hydraulic, mechanical and pneumatic systems. This is a hands-on, lab driven course that includes house wiring, mechanisms, and fluid power. Students will also have the opportunity to design and build a VEX mobile robot for a competition.

This course introduces the basic idea of design and prototyping to students through the use of CAD (Computer Aided Design) software. Students will solve various design challenges through the principles of drawing, engineering, and hands-on collaborative projects. Topics include 2D and 3D CAD, laser engraving, 3D printing, prototyping, and CNC projects. College credit available, see teacher for details. May be taken as a 4th year math-related course.

This blended course is for students interested in expanding their engineering drawing experiences. Drawings and activities focus on in-class application of 3D CAD programs and design apps to create advanced engineering drawings, assemblies, and 3D printed products. Topics include threads and fasteners, descriptive geometry, exploded views, and assembly drawing. 3D Modeling will also focus on the Engineering Design Process and problem-solving skills to create hands-on collaborative projects. College credit available; see teacher for details. This course may be repeated for credit & taken as a 4th year math-related course. Industry 4.0 Certifications and Credentials are offered.

Students will learn the foundations of starting their own business including identifying a business idea, target audience, researching locations, developing a start-up marketing plan, pitching a business idea, as well as financial planning for businesses. Students will compile their research into a business plan which will be presented to the class and potentially a panel of business leaders. With approval, the business plan may be expanded upon and entered into a DECA competitive event.

This course is designed for students who wish to continue to explore the education field. Students will gain hands-on experience working in a classroom at the early childhood, elementary, or middle school level. Students will participate in many activities, including observing, tutoring, leading small groups, creating unique projects, and eventually developing and teaching their own lessons. Students will also be responsible for turning in weekly attendance sheets, writing reflective journals, attending weekly class meetings, and completing a digital field experience portfolio. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in student leadership activities through projects and activities and earn a CDA or YDA credential. This course is available pending final approval.

Students will learn where designer inspiration comes from, the history of fashion through the decades, different fabrics used in apparel, how fashion influences culture and society, study backgrounds of influential and up-coming-designers, elements of fashion design and design their own collection. Creative hands-on projects will help students learn fashion merchandising concepts as well as field trips and guest speakers.

Future Educators is an innovative hands-on course designed for students interested in pursuing one of the many careers in the educational field. In this course, students will be exposed to the many facets of education through current articles, class discussions, guest speakers, hands-on projects, classroom observations, field experiences, and interactions with successful administrators, counselors, teachers, and more. Students will also study and practice teaching methods and strategies, lesson planning, and classroom management. Students will participate in Field Experiences, where they are able to observe and possibly assist in classrooms within our district. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in student leadership activities through projects and activities and earn a CDA or YDA credential. This course is available pending final approval.

Game Design teaches students the fundamentals of game design by using Unity's game engine. By the end of this course, students will understand the design planning process, be knowledgeable of industry-related careers, and be able to navigate the Unity environment in order to create their own 3D games. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the design planning process, add special effects, manipulate cameras, and set up character animations to enhance their own 3D games. Industry Certification offered: IT Specialist in HTML & CSS

This course is designed to provide students with skills necessary to create a personal home. Class activities will develop your “designer’s eye,” in combining the elements and principles of design to create a harmonious interior. Projects are integrated throughout the course to provide applications in architecture, furniture styles, floor planning and interiors.

This course provides a broad introduction to the principles of investing. Units include Why Should I Invest, What is the Stock Market, What is a Stock, What is a Bond, Investing in Funds, Investing for Retirement, Real Estate Investing, and Modern Investing tools. Throughout each unit, students will learn fundamental concepts and explore how to apply these concepts. May be taken as a 4th year Math related course.

Gain skills essential for any career. Students will learn how and why marketers reach different consumers through age, gender, location, income, hobbies, and many other segmentation techniques. Students will conduct marketing research to find out habits and patterns of customers using different real-life methods such as observation, experiment, and survey. Fun activities, projects, field trips, and guest speakers will teach students the concepts of marketing. Students will explore the process of selling products, ideas, and services. Learn to communicate and read body language in sales situations, overcome objections in a sale, and close the sale. These skills translate to many areas of a students life from a job interview to a career in marketing or business. Students will participate in role-play situations to learn and practice techniques.

Financial literacy for young adults is an essential component to future financial independence. Personal Finance focuses on the management of personal finances while students learn the importance of maintaining a good credit score, in-depth budgeting, savings interest calculations, responsible spending, payroll tax computations, completion of personal income taxes, buying and leasing cars, obtaining loans, home mortgages, auto, and homeowners insurance Students develop an understanding of how to protect themselves from identity theft and fraudulent activities. Guest speakers are invited to share their real-world expertise. May be taken as a 4th year Math related course.

Programming A teaches the foundations of computer science and basic programming in Python, with an emphasis on helping students develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills. This course teaches the fundamentals of computer programming as well as some advanced features of Python. By the end of this course, students will have a strong programming foundation and learn material equivalent to a semester of an introductory programming course. Programming A is designed for beginners with no previous background in computer science. The course is highly visual, dynamic, and interactive, making it engaging for new coders. Students will complete projects such as Blackjack, Roulette, Rock Paper Scissors, and the Game of War! May be taken as a 4th year math-related course. Industry Certification offered: IT Specialist in Python.

Apply and practice retail and merchandising skills while working in our student-run business: The Falcon’s Nest – our Groves school store. Students will design and build store and window displays, run creative store promotions, investigate new product offerings for the store, learn pricing techniques in retail such as mark-ups, mark-downs, and perform fiscal/accounting responsibilities. Students will use a point-of-sale system to process customer purchases, track inventory, and run sales reports. Students will also develop skills in purchasing, sales, customer service, time management, teamwork, initiative, and leadership.

Retail Marketing is a course designed for students who are interested in learning the fundamentals of retail-based marketing. Students will learn the following concepts related to retail businesses: sales, visual merchandising, loss prevention, customer service, cash management, pricing and promotion. Students enrolled in Retail Marketing will take what they learn from classroom-based activities and apply it to the operations that take place in our student-run school store, The Falcon’s Nest. Upon completion of the course, students may sign up for Retail Store Management to participate in the day-to-day operations of the school store.

A course in the fundamentals and application of industrial robots. Emphasis is placed on the use of micro-controllers to control robots. Topics include micro-controller programming, robot fundamentals, DC stepper motors, sensors, programming, gripper design, and safety. A major emphasis is placed on a design project involving the design, build, and test of a mobile robot for a competition. May be taken as a 4th year math-related course. Industry 4.0 Certifications and Credentials are offered.

This course provides a look into the digital marketing world using social media. Learn how social media marketing strategies are used to increase sales. Simulate how social media marketers post, manage contacts, and analyze results from social media engagements. Explore the power of likes, shares, clicks and impressions. Learn to identify the most effective techniques in reaching target markets digitally. Explore platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Snapchat and more.

This course is designed to teach students marketing and management concepts associated with the sports industry. Students will learn techniques and practices used to make this global market part of a multi-billion dollar industry. Strategies used by successful sports and entertainment marketing and management firms and businesses will be evaluated. Students will create a new sports franchise team, conduct research and make marketing and management decisions that will affect their individual teams (i.e. location of the franchise, team logos, team colors, team mascot, team nicknames, etc.) Forms of revenue for teams are evaluated such as parking, concessions, sponsorship and fan engagement.

The Web Design A using HTML & CSS course is a project-based course that teaches students how to build their own web pages. Students will learn the languages HTML and CSS and will create their own websites. Students will start the year by learning HTML tags. They will learn how to add text, pictures, tables, lists, colors, hyperlinks, and other items to their website. They will then learn how to use CSS sheets to style their web pages. Finally, students will learn advanced CSS formatting, layouts, animations, image filters, and other advanced features. By the end of this course, students will be able to explain how web pages are developed and viewed on the Internet, analyze and fix errors in existing websites, and create their very own multi-page websites. Students will learn the foundations of user interface design, rapid prototyping, and user testing, and will work together to create professional, mobile responsive websites. Industry Certification offered: IT Specialist in HTML & CSS