- Ann Arbor Public Schools
- PLTW Gateway 6-8
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PLTW Gateway 6th. - 8th. Grades
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Design and Modeling (Link to Curriculum Details)
6th. Grade students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.
Automation Robotics (Link to Curriculum Details)
7th. Grade or 8th Grade Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.
Computer Science for Innovators and Makers
7th. Grade or 8th Grade Throughout the unit, students learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development, allowing students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects.
Medical Detectives(Link to Curriculum Details)
7th. Grade or 8th Grade Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health.
Energy and the Environment (Link to Curriculum Details)
8th Grade Students are challenged to think big and toward the future as they explore sustainable solutions to our energy needs and investigate the impact of energy on our lives and the world. They design and model alternative energy sources and evaluate options for reducing energy consumption.