What is S.T.E.A.M.?

S.T.E.A.M. intertwines the multiple disciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math into one curriculum.  Through experimentation and problem solving, students encounter real-world applications of design. This unique department allows students to engage fully in every stage of the process – from conception and design to its physical production.  If students can dream the idea, S.T.E.A.M. possesses all the technology and tools to bring their visions to fruition. The 1,400 sq. ft. I-Lab features 3D printers, laser cutters, one-to-one Macs, and numerous power tools (drill press/miter saw/band saw).

COURSE OFFERINGS

INTRODUCTION TO S.T.E.A.M. CONCEPTS
7th Grade
Through their Science and Humanities courses, all 7th-grade students are introduced to the design and engineering concepts used in S.T.E.A.M. Various projects, including building their own microscopes, allow all 7th-grade students the exposure to the technology and innovation of S.T.E.A.M. In addition, there are several after school opportunities for middle school students in the field. (See below)

INTRODUCTION TO DESIGN THINKING 
8th Grade
This introductory course develops students’ creativity by using the design process. The emphasis is on visualization and communication skills using solid modeling software and 3-D printers. They will document and capture their ideas in a notebook and digital portfolio as their projects progress. Students will also study the design concepts of form and function as they translate conceptual design into reproducible products. 

HARDWARE AND MEDIA DESIGN 
9th and 10th Grade
This course is an evolution from learning specific skills in laser cutting, wood, metal, and plastic work to using them to problem solve and design. Once the students have gained proficiency; they will be challenged on a weekly basis to design and test. We will emphasize a design process composed of user testing, observation, and modeling while preserving the richness of the visual and formal traditions in the field. In the Industrial Design course, students will have the opportunity to learn about the visual design of functional articles and products for everyday use. Projects will involve the exploration of materials and forms through model making, the analysis of products, and the study of ergonomic principles.

FROM SKETCH TO FABRICATION: THE DESIGN PROCESS AT WORK 
11th and 12th Grade
This class uses solid modeling software to introduce students to the design process. Utilizing this design approach, students understand how design has influenced their lives. Students will learn sketching techniques, and use descriptive geometry as a component of the design, measurement, and computer modeling. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems. The instructional topics include The Design Cycle, Sketching and Scale Drawings, 3-D Computer Modeling, and 3-D printing.

ADDITIONAL S.T.E.A.M. OPPORTUNITIES
7-12th Grade
JPL Invention Challenge (1st place winners '16 and '17)
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Race Teams (1st place winners '17)
Drone Race Team (new for 2017-18)
Maker Faire (multiple award recipients)
Valor Academy (Service Learning)
Lab Assistants
S.T.E.A.M. Entrepreneurs