Technology Magnet Schools - Whale Branch

Elementary Pathway through PLTW Launch:

Through PLTW Launch, students become hands-on problem solvers and learn to collaborate with their fellow students.

They begin each module with an engaging ebook story featuring the characters Mylo, Suzi, and Angelina, who introduce the challenge students will work together to solve. Then, in a series of activities that build upon each other, students are challenged to become confident in trying new things, to learn from mistakes, and to apply what they know to find solutions.

PLTW Launch consists of modules for grades PK-5 in all areas of science and technology.  In the MedTech7 curriculum students will experience the modules specific to Computer Science and Engineering:

Middle School Pathway through PLTW Gateway:

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers - This unit will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects.  Throughout the unit, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development.  They will design and develop a physical computing device, interactive art installation, or wearable, and plan and develop code for microcontrollers that bring their physical designs to life. 

Physical computing projects will promote student awareness of interactive systems, including Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and broaden their understanding of abstract computer science concepts through meaningful and authentic applications.

Design and Modeling - Students discover the design process and develop an understanding of the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives.  They are then challenged and empowered to use and apply what they've learned throughout the unit to design a therapeutic toy for a child who has cerebral palsy.

High School Pathway through CTE Computer Repair and Service, Information Support and Service, Game and Interactive Media Design, and PLTW Computer Science:

Computer Repair and Service - The Computer Repair and Service course prepares students to perform tasks related to computer repair. Students receive instruction in the installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of computer-based technology. Instruction may also include mobile devices, peripheral devices, networking, and laptops. Laboratory activities provide instruction in installation, configuration, troubleshooting, component replacement, operating systems, and upgrades in accordance with industry certification standards.

Advanced Computer Repair and Service - The Advanced Computer Repair and Service course is a continuation of the Computer Repair and Service course. It prepares students to perform advanced, detailed tasks related to computer repair. Students receive instruction in operating systems, security, mobile devices, and troubleshooting. Laboratory activities provide instruction in installation, configuration, operation, maintenance, security, troubleshooting, and repair of industry-standard operating systems in accordance with industry certification standards.

Networking Fundamentals - Networking courses are designed to provide students with classroom and laboratory experience in current and emerging networking technologies.  Upon successful completion of these courses, students will be able to seek employment or further their education and training in the information technology field.  The networking student will benefit most from the curriculum if he or she possesses a strong background in reading, math, and problem-solving skills. Instruction includes networking media, topologies, network operating systems, models and protocols, codes and standards, addressing, diagnostics, routing, WAN services, network security and leadership skills.  In addition, instruction and training are provided in the proper care, maintenance, and use of networking software, tools and equipment. Emphasis is given to the use of critical thinking skills and problem-solving techniques found in math and communication programs.

Fundamentals of Computing - This course of study is designed to allow students to explore a variety of computer science topics, such as Web design, human computer interactions, programming, and problem solving. Optional topics include mobile applications, robotics, and digital animation. Students will develop critical thinking, logic, and problem-solving skills relevant to today’s technology. 

Computer Science Essentials - With emphasis on computational thinking and collaboration, this year-long course provides an excellent entry point for students to begin or continue the PLTW Computer Science PreK-12 experience.  Computer Science Essentials will expose students to a diverse set of computational thinking concepts, fundamentals, and tools, allowing them to gain understanding and build confidence.

In Computer Science Essentials, students will use visual, block-based programming and seamlessly transition to text-based programming with languages such as Python to create apps and develop websites, and learn how to make computers work together to put their design into practice.  They'll apply computational thinking practices, build their vocabulary, and collaborate just as computing professionals do to create products that address topics and problems important to them.

Computer Science Essentials helps students create a strong foundation to advance to Computer Science Principles, Computer Science A, and beyond.

Computer Science Principles - Using Python® as a primary tool, students learn the fundamentals of coding, data processing, data security, and task automation, while learning to contribute to an inclusive, safe, and ethical computing culture.  The course promotes computational thinking and coding fundamentals and introduces computational tools that foster creativity.  Computer Science Principles helps students develop programming expertise and explore the workings of the Internet.  Projects and problems include app development, visualization of data, cybersecurity, and simulation.

Computer Science A - Throughout the Computer Science A course experience, students cultivate their understanding of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control structures.  Fundamental topics in this course include the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems.  The course emphasizes object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language.

Cybersecurity - Cybersecurity introduces the tools and concepts of cybersecurity and encourages students to create solutions that allow people to share computing resources while protecting privacy.  Nationally, computational resources are vulnerable and frequently attacked; in Cybersecurity, students solve problems by understanding and closing these vulnerabilities.  This course raises students' knowledge of and commitment to ethical computing behavior.  It also aims to develop students' skills as consumers, friends, citizens, and employees who can effectively contribute to communities with a dependable cyber-infrastructure that move and processes information safely.

Foundations of Animation - Foundations of Animation prepares students to use artistic and technological foundations to create animations.  The basic principles of digital animation are reviewed, including character development and story conception through production.  Student learn the technical language used in the animation industry and basic animation methods.  The will also learn techniques about various way to plan, create, and prepare for animation in pre-production, production and post-production.  This course prepares student for the Adobe Certified Associate for Flash/Animate Creative Cloud (CC) certification exam.

Game Design and Development - Game Design and Development provides students with the opportunity to design and develop fully-functional video games with product design documentation.  This course emphasizes game control and logic, design tools, and the physics of games using computer programming.

Computer Programming - This course of study is designed to emphasize the fundamentals of computer programming.  Topics include computer software, program design and development, and practical experience in programming, using modern, object-oriented languages.

Fundamentals of Webpage Design - Fundamentals of Webpage Design will guide students in the development of websites in a project-based, problem-solving environment.  Students will learn the industry standard languages, HTML and CSS, which are used in every website on the web today.  Students will learn how to create a portfolio of content-rich, well-styled websites.  Successful completion of this course will prepare students for industry certification.

Advanced Webpage Design - Webpage Design and Development is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in web design and development.  Students will develop an in-depth understanding and use of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, layout techniques, and other industry-standard practices.  In addition, students will learn scripting technologies to create dynamic and interactive websites.  Students will maintain a professional quality portfolio of web design work.  Successful completion of this course will prepare students for industry certification.

Image Editing - Image editing tools are used by industry professionals to edit and enhance most images presented in magazines, newspapers, and other media.  Image Editing is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to master image manipulation and photographic retouching.  Students will explore the technical and artistic aspects of image editing by creating images to be used in various types of media.  Successful completion of this course will prepare the student for industry certification.