PLTW Engineering
PLTW Engineering
Project Lead The Way (PTLW) Engineering is more than just another engineering course sequence. It is about applying engineering, science, math, and technology to solve complex, open-ended problems in a real-world context. Students focus on the process of defining and solving a problem, not getting the "right" answer. They learn how to apply STEM knowledge, skills, and habits of mind to make the world a better place through innovation.
PLTW students have said that PLTW Engineering influenced their post-secondary decisions and helped shape their future. Even for students who do not plan to pursue engineering after high school, the PLTW Engineering program provides opportunities to develop highly transferable skills in collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, which are relevant for any coursework or career.
INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN
Credit: 1.0
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 3D modeling software, and use an engineering notebook to document their work. This is a four year program. Students must begin in 9th grade.
Prerequisite: 85% or higher in Algebra I and in current science course.
PRINCIPLES OF ENGINEERING
Credit: 1.0
Through problems that engage and challenge, students will explore a broad range of engineering topics, including, mechanisms, the strength of structures and materials, and automation. Students will develop skills in problem solving, research, and design while learning strategies for design process documentation, collaboration, and presentation.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of PLTW Introduction to Engineering Design
AEROSPACE ENGINEERING
Credit: 1.0
This course propels students’ learning in the fundamentals of atmospheric and space flight. As they explore the physics of flight, students bring the concepts to life by designing an airfoil, propulsion system, and rockets. They learn basic orbital mechanics using industry-standard software. They also explore robot systems through projects such as remotely operated vehicles.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of PLTW Principles of Engineering Design
CIVIL ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE
Credit 1.0
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 3D architecture design software.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of PLTW Aerospace Engineering
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES
Grade Level: 10-12
Credit: 1.0
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. Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet. Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation. PLTW is recognized by the College Board as an endorsed provider of curriculum and professional development for AP® Computer Science Principles (AP CSP). This endorsement affirms that all components of PLTW CSP’s offerings are aligned to the AP Curriculum Framework standards and the AP CSP assessment.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1 and Geometry