Homeschool Community Open House

elementary ENGINEERING

Grades 3-5

REGISTRATION COST PER SEMESTER: $350

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Elementary Engineering is an engaging and interactive course designed for younger students in elementary grades 3-5. In this program, students will explore the fascinating world of engineering and its profound impact on our daily lives. Through a combination of theory and hands-on experiences, NASA STEM guides, and LEGO robotics, students will gain a solid foundation in the fundamentals of engineering.

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

1. Introduction to Engineering Basics:

• Understand the core principles of engineering.
• Explore the history and evolution of engineering disciplines.
• Learn about influential engineers who shaped our world.

    2. Engineering Design Process:

• Dive into the step-by-step process of designing solutions.
• Investigate problem-solving techniques.
• Apply critical thinking skills to real-world scenarios.

    3. Hands-On Activities and Challenges:

• Engage in exciting hands-on experiments and projects.
• Collaborate with peers to tackle design challenges.
• Develop practical skills by building prototypes and models.

    4. Exploration of Engineering Fields:

• Discover various branches of engineering, including:
• Mechanical engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Aerospace engineering

    5. Gain insights into NASA STEM career paths available to students

         to explore and investigate.

By the end of this course, students will not only have a deeper appreciation for the role of engineers but also be equipped with essential problem-solving abilities and creative thinking skills. Join us on this exciting journey through the world of STEM and engineering!

Note: This course is suitable for elementary grade students from 3rd to 5th grade who are curious, creative, and ready to explore STEM, Robotics and Engineering. 

Elementary Robotics with VEX Go

Grades 3-5

REGISTRATION COST PER SEMESTER: $350

Course description

The Elementary Robotics with VEX GO course introduces young students (grades 3-5) to the exciting world of robotics, coding, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Through hands-on activities and creative challenges, students will learn fundamental concepts while building and coding their own robots.

Course Objectives:

1. Understanding Robotics Basics:

• Explore the components of a robot.
• Learn about mechanical structures, connectors, and building techniques.
• Gain insights into how robots work.

    2. Hands-On Building Skills:

• Assemble VEX GO robots using the color-coded construction system.
• Develop practical skills in building and assembling different robot designs.

    3. Coding and Programming:

• Use VEXcode, the coding software provided, to program robots.
• Learn how to control robot movements, sensors, and actions.

    4. Problem Solving and Creativity:

• Tackle real-world challenges using robots.
• Encourage creativity by designing and modifying robot structures.

     5. Gain insights into NASA STEM career paths available to students

         to explore and investigate.

By the end of this course, students will gain the following:

• STEM Starts Early: VEX GO introduces students to STEM concepts before they form opinions about their future potential.
• Affordable and Approachable: The VEX GO system is designed to be accessible and engaging for young learners.
• Imagination Unleashed: Students can unlock their creativity and explore endless possibilities in robotics.

Note: This course is suitable for elementary grade students from 3rd to 5th grade who are curious, creative, and ready to explore STEM, Robotics and Engineering. 

INTRO TO ENGINEERING

Grades 6-8

REGISTRATION COST PER SEMESTER: $450

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Intro to Engineering is an exciting hands-on course designed specifically for middle school students. This course delves into the realms of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Students take on the roles of physicists and engineers, immersing themselves in experiments to delve into engineering principles including gear ratios, friction, and gravity using the MINDSTORMS EV3 Core Set and NASA STEM Engagement activities.

Course objectives:

1. Introduction to Engineering Concepts:

• Discover the fundamental principles of engineering.
• Explore how engineers design solutions to real-world challenges.
• Learn about different engineering disciplines and their applications.

  2. Hands-On Projects and Challenges:

• Engage in creative design projects using everyday materials.
• Build bridges, simple machines, and other engineering marvels.
• Collaborate with classmates to tackle engineering challenges.

 3. Exploration of STEM Topics:

• Dive into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• Investigate the connections between these fields and engineering.
• Develop critical thinking skills through interactive activities.
• Apply mathematics to investigate physics.

 4. Engineering Ethics and Sustainability:

• Understand the ethical responsibilities of engineers.
• Explore how engineering impacts the environment and society.
• Discuss sustainable practices and their role in engineering.

 5. Guest Speakers and Field Trips:

• Interact with professionals from various engineering fields through visits to local engineering firms, labs, and construction sites.
• Gain insights into real-world engineering applications.

By the end of this course, students will not only have a solid foundation in engineering concepts but also a newfound appreciation for the role of engineers in shaping our world. Join us as we ignite curiosity, creativity, and innovation in the next generation of engineers!

Note: This course is suitable for students from 6th grade onwards who are curious, creative, and ready to explore engineering. 

Robotics Challenge with VEX IQ

Grades 6-8

REGISTRATION COST PER SEMESTER: $450

COURSE DESCRIPTION

VEX IQ Robotics and Coding is an engaging robotics education program that combines hands-on building with the art of coding. In this course, students will explore the fascinating world of robotics using the VEX IQ platform. From assembling their own VEX IQ robot to programming it for specific tasks, students will acquire essential skills in engineering, problem-solving, and computational thinking.

Course objectives:

1. Robot Construction:

• Learn to build a functional VEX IQ robot using the VEX IQ kit.
• Understand the mechanical components, including motors, gears, and structural elements.
• Explore different robot designs and configurations.

   2. Block-Based Programming:

• Dive into coding using a block-based programming language (such as VEXcode IQ).
• Develop logical thinking by creating sequences of commands.
• Program the robot to perform specific actions, such as moving, turning, and interacting with its environment.

   3. Sensor Integration:

• Gain insight into various sensors (such as touch sensors, color sensors, and distance sensors).
• Understand how sensors enhance the robot’s capabilities.
• Explore sensor-based behaviors and conditional statements.

   4. Optimizing Navigation:

• Investigate how sensors contribute to efficient navigation.
• Implement strategies for obstacle detection, line following, and precise movements.
• Fine-tune the robot’s responsiveness to different environments.

5. Guest Speakers and Field Trips:

• Interact with professionals from various engineering fields through visits to local engineering firms, labs, and construction sites.
• Gain insights into real-world engineering applications.

   6. Competitive Robotics Preparation:

• Practice teamwork, collaboration, and strategic thinking.
• Engage in mock challenges and refine robot performance.

By the end of this course, students will be well-equipped to participate in competitive VEX robotics events, armed with the skills to build, program, and optimize their VEX IQ robots. Join us on this exciting journey into the world of robotics and coding!

Note: This course is suitable for students from 6th grade onwards who are curious, creative, and ready to explore VEX robotics. 

ENGINEERING PATHWAYS I: EXPLORING THE WORLD OF ENGINEERING

GRADES 9-12

REGISTRATION COST PER SEMESTER: $550

Course description

Engineering Pathways I is a comprehensive program that guides students through the diverse educational routes available for aspiring engineers. Whether you’re fascinated by mechanics, computer science, electrical engineering, robotics, or aerospace technology, this course provides a roadmap to your engineering journey.

Students develop design solutions and document their progress in an engineering notebook throughout this two-semester course, held in both Fall and Spring.

Course objectives:

1. Discovering Engineering Disciplines:

• Explore various engineering fields, from classical mechanics to cutting-edge robotics.
• Gain insights into the roles and responsibilities of engineers in different domains.
• Identify your interests and strengths within the world of engineering.

   2. Engineering Design Process:

• Delve into the intricacies of the engineering design cycle.
• Learn how to define problems, brainstorm solutions, and iterate designs.
• Apply mathematical concepts, scientific principles, and engineering standards to real-world projects.

   3. Hands-On Project Development:

• Collaborate with peers to tackle engineering challenges.
• Develop design solutions using creativity and critical thinking.
• Document your progress, decisions, and reflections in an engineering notebook.

   4. Exploring Real-World Applications:

• Investigate how engineering impacts our daily lives and global challenges.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
• Understand the ethical considerations and sustainability aspects of engineering projects.

   5. Guest Speakers and Field Trips:

• Interact with professionals from various engineering fields through visits to local engineering firms and labs.
• Gain insights into real-world engineering jobs.
• Engage in project-based learning, workshops, and guest lectures.

   6. Comprehensive Learning Experience:

• This two-semester course spans both Fall and Spring.
• Collaborate with peers on engineering projects.
• Explore case studies of successful engineering designs.

By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to pursue further studies in engineering and advanced robotics cultivating problem-solving skills and teamwork throughout the academic year. Join us as we navigate the exciting world of engineering!

Note: This course is suitable for students from 9th grade onwards who are curious, creative, and ready to explore engineering. No prior experience in engineering is necessary—just curiosity and a passion for learning.



MECHATRONICS I: engineering mechanics, electronics and coding

GRADES 9-12

REgistration Cost per semester: $550

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Mechatronics I course introduces students to the exciting field of robotics and mechatronics, where mechanical engineering, electronics, and programming intersect to create a robotic system. Through hands-on activities and projects, participants gain essential skills for designing, constructing, and maintaining robotic systems. The curriculum leverages the REV DUO line of products, providing a comprehensive learning experience. Students develop design solutions and document their progress in an engineering notebook throughout this two-semester course, held in both Fall and Spring.

Course Objectives:

1. Introduction to Mechatronics:

• Understand the fundamental principles of mechatronics.
• Explore how mechanical engineering, electronics, and programming intersect in the field of robotics.
• Discover the exciting possibilities of mechatronic systems.

   2. Hands-On Activities and Projects:

• Engage in practical, hands-on experiences.
• Design, build, and maintain robotic systems using the REV DUO line of products.
• Develop essential skills for constructing and troubleshooting mechatronic devices.

   3. Design Thinking and Problem-Solving:

• Apply the engineering design process to real-world challenges.
• Create design solutions that address specific problems.
• Document your progress and decisions in an engineering notebook.

   4. Exploring Robotics Components:

• Gain insights into mechanical components (gears, linkages, actuators, etc.).
• Understand electronic components (sensors, microcontrollers, circuits, etc.).
• Learn how to integrate these components to build functional robots.

  5. Guest Speakers and Field Trips:

• Interact with professionals from various mechatronic and robotics firms, labs, and industries.
• Gain insights into real-world mechatronics jobs.
• Engage in project-based learning, workshops, and guest lectures.
  

   6. Comprehensive Learning Experience:

• This two-semester course spans both Fall and Spring.
• Collaborate with peers on mechatronics projects.
• Explore case studies of successful mechatronic designs.

By the end of this course, students will have the skills to design, construct, and maintain robotic systems. Join us as we embark on an exciting journey through mechanics, electronics, and coding in the fascinating world of mechatronics!

Note: This course is suitable for students from 9th grade onwards. No prior experience in mechatronics, electronics, or programming is necessary—just curiosity and a passion for learning.