Exploring Technological Concepts emphasizes the application of knowledge, tools and skills to solve practical problems. Students focus on the integration of technology, science principles, and mathematics to be inventive and apply their ingenuity. Students form teams and use the design process of engineering to solve technological problems. Instruction and problem-solving experiences will center on the use of tools, machines, and materials, to design and construct models, devices, and products that creatively solve technological problems.

This course has been designed to parallel the ninth grade Matter and Energy course. All the units and objectives included below correspond to the concepts presented in the science course.

Activity areas are divided into four major sections: mechanical systems, natural resources, energy and innovations in technology.

Exploring Technological Concepts:Semester A

By the end of Exploring Technological Concepts - A, the student will be able to:

Identify and use the problem-solving model in group activities to solve practical problems.

• Recognize and evaluate the difference between simple and complex machines.
• Combine complex machines with controls to create a working device.
• Create a system which includes machines, complex machines, controls and interfaces.
• Demonstrate the safe use of tools, machines and materials in a laboratory setting.
• Design solutions to problems that simulate the transfer of energy between systems.
• Demonstrate and present solutions that transfer energy between systems.
• Participate in group problem-solving activities that involve constructing solutions to solve practical problems.
• Assess the effectiveness and efficiency of problem solutions.

Exploring Technological Concepts: Semester B

By the end of Exploring Technological Concepts - B, the student will be able to:

• Explore ways in which waves and impulses can be directed, amplified, or transmitted.
• Participate in group problem-solving activities which use light, sound and electronics.
• Design and construct devices which use waves and impluses.
• Relate interdisciplinary concepts to constructed devices.
• Test and evaluate waves and impulses.
• Incorporate electronic devices into a technological system.
• Brainstorm solutions to technology problems.
• Create or invent devices or models which effectively solve given problems.
• Construct devices or models using appropriate materials and safety procedures.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the model/device in solving given technology problems.
• Demonstrate knowledge of careers in a technological society.