Engineering Pathway

Vision

PLTW Engineering students adopt a problem-solving mindset, are engaged in compelling, real-world challenges that help them become better collaborators and thinkers, and are prepared with skills to step into any career path they take.

Goals

Each PLTW Engineering course engages students in interdisciplinary activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, or exploring algae as a biofuel source. These activities not only build knowledge and skills in engineering, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.

Graduation Requirements

To be a PLTW Scholar, students must complete at least 3 courses in the engineering pathway with at least a B+ or higher.

Engineering Course Catalog

Introduction To Design (P) (9th grade)

Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work.

Prerequisites: All students must have completed Algebra 1 with a grade of B or better & submitted application

Eligibility: Students who meet prerequisites are eligible to take this course.

Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirement. f- Visual & Performing Art

Introduction to Engineering Design (H) (10th-12th grade)

Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3-D modeling software and use an engineering notebook to document their work.

Prerequisites: All students must have completed Algebra 1 with a grade of B or better & submitted application

Eligibility: Students who meet prerequisites are eligible to take this course.

Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirement. g- College Prep Elective

Principles of Engineering (H)

Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation.

Prerequisites: All students must have completed Geometry with a grade of B or better & Project Lead the Way – Introduction to Engineering Design with a grade of B or better

Eligibility: Students who meet prerequisites are eligible to take this course.

Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirement. g- College Prep Elective

Civil Engineering & Architecture (H)

Students learn important aspects of building and site design and development. They apply math, science, and standard engineering practices to design both residential and commercial projects and document their work using 3-D architectural design software.

Prerequisites: All students must have completed Algebra 2 with a grade of B or better & Project Lead the Way – Principals of Engineering with a grade of B or better

Eligibility: Students who meet prerequisites are eligible to take this course.

Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirement. g- College Prep Elective

Digital Electronics (H)

This course covers fundamentals of analog and digital electronics. Students learn about the different number systems used in the design of digital circuitry. They design circuits to solve open-ended problems, assemble their solutions and trouble-shoot them as necessary. Students then use combined logic, integrated circuits and microprocessors to solve open-ended problems.

Prerequisites: All students must have completed Algebra 2 with a grade of B or better & Project Lead the Way – Engineering Design with a grade of B or better.

Eligibility: Students who meet prerequisites are eligible to take this course.

Satisfies UC/CSU entry requirement. g- College Prep Elective