Starting with the 2012-2013 school year, Naperville Community Unit School District 203 will be implementing a new middle school S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) curricular program from Project Lead the Way (PLTW). The new program is "Gateway to Technology" or GTT.
- Project Lead the Way is the leading provider of innovative STEM education curricular programs used in middle and high schools across the U.S.
- STEM education is at the heart of today's high-tech, high-skill global economy. Students will develop critical-reasoning and problem solving skills while learning in the GTT classroom. STEM education programs like GTT engage students in hands-on classroom activities, projects, and problem based learning experiences.
- Throughout GTT, students acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, and innovation while they explore STEM careers. The GTT program features a project-based curriculum designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity and imagination of middle school students. The knowledge that student's gain and the skills they build from GTT create a strong foundation for further STEM learning in high school and beyond.
Design and Modeling - 6th Grade
In this unit, students begin to recognize the value of an engineering notebook to document and capture their ideas. They are introduced to and use the design process to solve problems and understand the influence that creative and innovative design has on our lives. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software to create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their creative solutions.
Energy and the Environment - 7th & 8th Grade (starting Fall 2015, only 7th grade)
Students investigate the impact of energy on our lives and the environment. They design and model alternative energy sources and participate in an energy expo to demonstrate energy concepts and innovative ideas. Students evaluate ways to reduce energy consumption through energy efficiency and sustainability.
Automation and Robotics - Beginning Fall 2015 8th grade Module
Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. They learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use a robust robotics platform (VEX) to design, build, and program a solution to solve an existing problem.
