PLTW Gateway

Middle School

What is PLTW Gateway?

As early as 6th grade, our students are introduced to Project Lead the Way (PLTW) courses through The Gateway to Technology (GTT). The GTT sequence provides middle school students with hands-on experience in engineering design, biomedical science, aerospace principles, computer science, and robotics.

Through 8th grade, the Gateway builds on STEAM fundamentals with deeper explorations into engineering, computer science, and biomedical science. It encourages students to think like scientists and engineers.

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Leading the way in STEAM.

PLTW’s curriculum is designed to engage students in problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration through immersive, hands-on projects. By applying STEAM concepts in practical ways, students develop essential skills for success in the 21st century. Key benefits include:

Increases student engagement and interest in STEAM fields

Encourages creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving

Provides an industry-relevant learning experience

Aligns with career and technical education (CTE) pathways

Prepares students for college and future careers in engineering and computer science

Certifications & AP recognition: we are a Distinguished Engineering Program earner yearly since 2021 

The Gateway to Technology

Throughout GTT, students acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, and innovation as well as explore STEM careers. GTT is designed to spark an interest in STEM subjects and prepare students for further study in high school.

Gateway to Technology 6

Design and Modeling: Students will learn about the various kinds of engineers and what they do. They will also learn the design process which will help them to solve various problems as a group – from constructing a wooden puzzle from scrap pieces and building bridges out of paper.

They will also learn technical drawings and how to use a computer assisted drawing program to aid in creating their designs on the computer.

 

Medical Devices: Students are introduced to the world of engineering through hands-on real-world challenges like designing foot orthotics, 3D modeling toys, and creating wood puzzles.

They will also take on the role of real-life clinical investigators where they diagnose diseases, examine systems of the body, and explore human biology through lab-based inquiry.

Gateway to Technology 7

Flight and Space: The rich history of aerospace comes alive through hands-on activities, research, and a student-created short informational video.

Students explore the forces of flight and the science of space travel through experimentation. After learning the history and physics of aeronautics, they design, build, and test airfoils, and even use aerospace simulation software to model space missions.

 

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers (CSIM): Students blend hardware and software to design and bring to life physical computing devices, interactive art, or wearable tech. They learn the logic behind code while building real-world applications that combine creativity with engineering.

 

Green Architecture:  Students learn how to apply green concepts to the fields of architecture and construction. They explore dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability and apply what they have learned to design affordable housing units using Autodesk’s® 3D architectural design software.

Gateway to Technology 8

Automation and Robotics: Students apply what they’ve learned in a highly interactive course that introduces mechanical systems, energy transfer, and computer-controlled automation.

In the Automation and Robotics (AR) unit, students explore the evolution of robotics and its role in shaping the future of various industries, ranging from aerospace to healthcare. Using VEX Robotics kits and professional-grade software, students design, build, and program smart machines, including traffic systems, toll booths, and robotic arms.

Participants also learn the core principles of engineering and begin to understand how systems integrate with sensors, motors, and logic.

 

App Creators: This unit will expose students to computer science as a means of computationally analyzing and developing solutions to authentic problems through mobile app development.

We will also highlight the positive impact of applying computer science to other disciplines and society.