Course Syllabus

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Course Overview

This course introduces students to the principles, processes, and impacts of technology. Students will explore how technology shapes society, learn problem-solving and design thinking, and gain hands-on experience across multiple technological systems. Emphasis will be placed on safety, teamwork, creativity, and applying knowledge to real-world challenges. We will be using multiple hand tools, constructing multiple projects, collaborating and testing multiple projects.

 

Units

Unit 1 – Safety & Foundations of Technology (September 2-18)

  • Topics:
    • Shop/classroom safety procedures
    • Tool and equipment use guidelines
    • What is technology? Definitions and scope
    • Technology’s role in society
  • Activities:
    • Safety presentations & videos
    • Student safety contract
    • Introduction discussion: “What is technology?”

 

Unit 2 – History & Evolution of Technology (September 22-October 30)

  • Topics:
    • Early technologies and inventions
    • Industrial Revolution & modern advances
    • Impact of technology on human progress
  • Activities:
    • Timeline project of key technological milestones
    • Group presentations on influential inventions

 

Unit 3 – Design Process & Problem Solving (November 3-25)

  • Topics:
    • The engineering/design process
    • Brainstorming and ideation
    • Sketching, modeling, and prototyping
  • Activities:
    • Small design challenges (e.g., paper tower, bridge building)
    • Group problem-solving project

 

Unit 4 – Communication Technologies (December 2-22)

  • Topics:
    • Evolution of communication (printing press → digital media)
    • Modern communication tools (internet, AI, social media)
    • Ethical and societal impacts
  • Activities:
    • Create a visual timeline of communication tech
    • Debate: “Is social media helping or harming society?”

 

Unit 5 – Manufacturing & Production Technologies (January 5-29)

  • Topics:
    • Materials (wood, metal, plastics, composites)
    • Production systems (assembly lines, automation, 3D printing)
    • Careers in manufacturing and trades
  • Activities:
    • Hands-on lab with basic materials and tools
    • Mini project: design and fabricate a simple product

 

Unit 6 – Construction & Transportation Technologies (February3-March 20)

  • Topics:
    • Building systems (residential, commercial, infrastructure)
    • Transportation systems (land, air, water, space)
    • Sustainability and environmental considerations
  • Activities:
    • Model bridge or structure building challenge
    • Transportation design sketch project

 

Unit 7 – Energy & Power Technologies (March 24-April 29)

  • Topics:
    • Renewable vs. non-renewable energy sources
    • Power systems (mechanical, electrical, thermal)
    • Energy efficiency and conservation
  • Activities:
    • Build a simple circuit or solar-powered model
    • Energy debate: “Fossil fuels vs. renewable energy”

 

Unit 8 – Emerging Technologies & Future Trends (May 1-June 5)

  • Topics:
    • Artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, nanotech
    • Technology’s global impact and ethical questions
    • Discussion on AI 
  • Activities:
    • Take home projects
    • Clean up and organize shop

 

                                        

     

 



Course Summary:

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