Course Syllabus

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 1 – September 17)

• 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 18 – October 5)

• 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 (October 6 – October 22)

• 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 (October 23 – November 9)

• 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 (November 10 – November 27)

• 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 (November 28 – December 15)

• 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 (December 16 – January 1)

• 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 (January 2 – January 14)

• 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