Get documents about "Research in Astronomy (semester)
Document Sample
PARKLAND MAGNET MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGY
Science and Aerospace Course Descriptions
Aerospace Electives Course Descriptions
Mathematics Course Descriptions
SCIENCE/AEROSPACE
Grade 6
Mission: Planet Earth
As we search for new life forms on Earth and in the universe, it is important for students to have a basic
understanding of the requirements for life here on Earth. Students will gain an understanding of diversity and
organism adaptations, energy flow, ecology and environmental issues including how humans impact local and
global environments here on the Earth. Inquiry and laboratory investigations are an integral part of the program.
Problem solving investigations are used continually to allow students to investigate authentic problems and reinforce
science concepts. Units studied in Mission: Planet Earth include Life on Earth, Interactions of Living Things,
Interactions of Living Things within their Environment and Human Impact on Earth’s Environment.
Comparative Planetology & Orbital Mechanics
As we begin to study distant planets, it is important for us to understand the composition and structure of our own
planet. Students will begin this study by first understanding Earth’s place within the Universe, the Milky Way
Galaxy and the Solar System. Students will then learn to understand the processes that shape the planets and the
physical laws that govern the Universe. Inquiry and laboratory investigations are an integral part of the program.
Problem solving and online investigations are used continually to allow students to investigate authentic problems
and reinforce science concepts. Units studied in Comparative Planetology & Orbital Mechanics include the Solar
System, Earth, Sun, and Moon, Processes that Shape the Planets and Exploring the Laws of the Universe.
Grade 7
Human Space Exploration & Survival
Humans have been pondering the wonders of the universe for hundreds of years. Only in the past five decades have
humans been able to explore outer space. However, with that adventure comes several precautions that humans
must take to survive the harshness of the outer space elements. During this course, students will explore the general
make-up of the human body from the simple animal cell to the complex system of the human body. Along the way,
students will explore the effects of outer space on the body systems. Inquiry and laboratory investigations are an
integral part of the program. Units studied in Human Space Exploration & Survival include Cell Biology, Body
Systems, Genetics, Evolution and Environmental Sciences and Issues.
Note: Dissection is one of the many instructional methods that may be used in middle school science.
Students may request one of the teacher’s alternatives to dissection in this class. Alternatives may include
such materials as videotapes, charts, diagrams, and textbook overlays.
Unmanned Space Exploration
Space exploration is not always possible, safe or practical for human beings to conduct. Therefore space agencies
around the world have explored space in unmanned space probes. During this course, students learn how early
astronomers and more recent astronomers explore the heavens using the principles of physics. Students will explore
how astronomers use the electromagnetic spectrum to analyze distant light sources. Inquiry and laboratory
investigations are an integral part of the program. Problem solving and online investigations are used continually to
allow students to investigate authentic problems and reinforce science concepts. Units studied in Unmanned Space
Exploration include Matter and Wave Energy, Star Chemistry, Planetary Missions, Mechanical Space Exploration.
Parkland Magnet Middle School for Aerospace Technology 1
Course Descriptions 2012-2013
Grade 8
Investigations in Earth Space Systems
This course emphasizes the dynamic processes of systems on and inside the Earth and its surrounding space
environment. Topics include the interrelated systems of Earth and Space – hydrosphere, cryosphere, geosphere,
biosphere, and atmosphere. Successful completion of the course includes:
OR
Physics A/B, Honors (Prerequisite – Attainment of the outcomes of Geometry A/B or concurrent enrollment)
(1.0 high school physical science credit)
In this course students investigate physical laws and theories, relationships of physical phenomena, and the
interrelationships of physics to other fields of human endeavor. Physics includes topics in vectors, kinematics,
dynamics, energy, momentum, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, waves, and quantum physics.
Successful completion of the course includes:
Successfully pass both semesters of the course
Pass the countywide semester B final examination
Aerospace Design & Technology
This course is designed as a co-requisite course to Honors Physics and Matter & Energy at the middle school level.
Students will interact with real time data to apply the physics and chemistry concepts that are utilized in aerospace
design. Specific content indicators from Honors Physics and Matter & Energy will be taught in focused mini-
lessons that include direct instruction, hands-on laboratory experiences, and computer modeling. Working with
aerospace industry partners, students will also conduct individual and team research in a culminating project.
AEROSPACE ELECTIVES
Astronomy & Space Exploration (semester)
This investigative, introductory course focuses on our solar system and planetary astronomy. Topics of study include
the Earth, Moon, Sun, planets, asteroids, comets, stars, and galaxies. The course is based on student observations
made with the naked eye and scientific equipment. Scientific literature will be utilized to determine whether or not a
variety of hypotheses can be confirmed. Students will have opportunities to use software and the Internet to explore
our universe. Experiences with observatories and planetaria may be included.
Research in Astronomy (semester)
This one-semester course is designed to engage students in scientific inquiry in astronomy. Students will use the
tools of the astronomer to conduct their own astronomical research. Each student will be engaged in an authentic
research project as they learn about the Sun, the solar system, and the universe beyond. Course requirements
include a scientific investigation, a research paper and a presentation about the results of their research. The course
will also focus on current events in the field of astronomy and students will work closely with mentor astronomers
throughout the course.
Introduction to Robotic Systems (semester) (course fee - $5)
Introduction to Robotic Systems is an interactive, hands-on semester course that explores technology systems using
robotics as a framework. The class examines the basics of structural, fluid and electrical systems and applies this
knowledge to design and construct a working model of a 3-axis hydraulic robot. Principles of problem solving are
introduced in the design phase and revisited during an introduction to the programming lab at the end of the
semester. Machine tool use and safety is an integral part of this course.
Applied Robotic Engineering (semester) (course fee - $5)
Applied Robotic Engineering is the second level robotics course. Students may elect to take this course even if they
have no prior experience with robotics. Applied Robotic Engineering builds on the physics concepts introduced in
Comparative Planetology & Orbital Mechanics and Unmanned Space Exploration to develop working solutions to
technical challenges using LEGO’s® and the Mindstorms® RCX. A structured approach to problem solving is the
underlying theme in this course and is the framework upon which foundations of programming is applied.
Parkland Magnet Middle School for Aerospace Technology 2
Course Descriptions 2012-2013
Applied Robotic Programming (semester) (Pre-requisite – Robotic Engineering)
Applied Robotic Programming is the culminating course in this strand that concentrates on programming solutions
to practical problems using RoboLab® Software and Visual Basic®. This course builds on the “drag and drop”
programming skills developed in Applied Robotic Engineering and is designed to prepare students for high school
computer science and engineering programs. As a culminating project, students will research current and future
applications of robots and will program their robot to demonstrate this application.
Principles of Flight (Semester) (course fee - $10)
In this experienced-based course, students will explore the principles of flight through the designing and building of
model aircraft and the use of flight simulator software. Students will study the history of flight, types of aircraft, and
aircraft design. Problem solving and critical thinking skills will be used to investigate real-world problems in
aviation. Technical reading and writing skills will be integrated into the course to extend student understandings of
flight.
Introduction to Engineering Design (full-year course) (1.0 high school technology credit)
Introduction to Engineering Design is an introductory course which develops student problem solving skills with an
emphasis placed on the development of three-dimensional solid models. Students will work from sketching simple
geometric shapes to applying a solid modeling computer software package. They will learn a problem solving
design process and how it is used in industry to manufacture a product. The Computer Aided Design System (CAD)
will also be used to analyze and evaluate the product design. The techniques learned and equipment used is state of
the art and is currently being used by engineers throughout the United States.
MATHEMATICS
The comprehensive mathematics program sequence for grades 6-12 can be found in the Middle School Program
Brochure. This document can be found online at www.mcps.k12.md.us/curriculum/middleschool/brochure.shtm.
Math 6
This course extends the students’ understanding of numbers and computation to include fractions, decimals, and
percents. All concepts and skills are presented in the context of problem solving that requires the use of reasoning
and communication. Areas of focus include: data representation and analysis using frequency tables and circle
graphs, customary and metric measurements, geometric relationships and transformations, algebraic patterns and
relationships, and probability. Students who successfully complete MCPS Mathematics Course 6 will go on to
MCPS Mathematics Course 7 or Investigations into Mathematics the following year.
Math 7
This course extends the students’ understanding of numbers and computation to include integers and proportional
reasoning. All concepts and skills are presented in the context of problem solving that requires the use of reasoning
and communication. Areas of focus include functional relationships, arithmetic and geometric sequences, geometric
precision, and data analysis and representation using box-and-whisker plots and scatter plots. This course is for
students who have completed the kindergarten to Grade 5 mathematics curriculum as well as the indicators in the
MCPS Mathematics Course 6. Students who successfully complete the MCPS Mathematics Course 7 will go on to
Investigations into Mathematics or Algebra 1 the following year.
Investigations into Mathematics
An enriched course for mathematically accelerated students who have successfully completed the Kindergarten to
Grade 5 mathematics curriculum as well as the indicators of Middle School Mathematics Course 6 and the majority
of the indicators of Middle School Mathematics Course 7 by the end of Grade 5. Students successful in this course
will take Algebra 1 the following year. This course is designed for students with exceptional talent in mathematics.
The units of study include patterns and set theory, relations and finite operational systems, algebra foundations, real
number systems, data analysis, language of algebra, functions and graphs, and investigations of three-dimensional
geometry. One of the goals of this class is to provide a theoretical view of the world to students while preparing
them for Algebra 1. Students learn both concrete and abstract mathematical topics while improving their
communication, thinking, and reasoning skills. Students who successfully complete Investigations into Mathematics
will go on to Algebra 1 the following year.
Parkland Magnet Middle School for Aerospace Technology 3
Course Descriptions 2012-2013
Algebra Prep – Grade 8
This course is for students who have completed the kindergarten to Grade 7 mathematics curriculum. Students in
this course will take Algebra 1 the following year. Units of study include the following:
UNIT 1: REAL NUMBERS - Students’ understanding of numbers extends to include rational and irrational numbers
in the real number system. One goal is to have all students develop computational fluency of real numbers. UNIT 2:
STATISTICS AND PROBABILITY - Students examine the purposeful use of statistical information and are
required to reason about the intent behind the construction of data displays. They design and explore probability
experiments and simulations. UNIT 3: ALGEBRA - Students focus on the exploration of multiple representations
of relations and functions. They begin to formalize their understanding of the conceptual, pictorial, and symbolic
representations of functional relationships. UNIT 4: GEOMETRY AND MEASUREMENT - Students deepen their
understanding of geometric properties and relationships between two- and three-dimensional figures.
Algebra 1 (1.0 high school math credit)
Algebra 1 is a course for students who have successfully completed the indicators of Middle School Mathematics
Math 6 and Math 7. Algebra 1 examines the basic structure of real numbers, algebraic expressions, and functions.
The topics studied are linear equations, inequalities, functions and systems, quadratic equations and functions,
polynomial expressions, data analysis, probability, and properties of functions. Mathematical modeling of real-life
problems and problem solving are major themes of the course. A graphing calculator is used throughout this course.
A county-wide exam is administered at the end of each semester and the High School Assessment (HSA) is
administered in the spring. A passing score on the Algebra HSA is required for graduation. Students who
successfully complete Algebra 1 will go on to Honors Geometry the following year. Successful completion of the
course includes:
Successfully pass both semesters of the course
Pass the countywide semester B final examination
Honors Geometry (prerequisite – Algebra 1) (1.0 high school math credit)
Geometry is studied as a mathematical system through the deductive development of relationships in the plane and
space. Students formalize their understanding of geometric concepts, including congruence and similarity, circle
chords, secants and tangent segments, parallel and perpendicular lines, angle and side measures in polygons, proofs,
logic, transformations, the Pythagorean Theorem, constructions, coordinate geometry, and surface area and volume
of solids. A graphing calculator is used throughout this course. A county-wide exam is administered at the end of
each semester. Successful completion of the course includes:
Successfully pass both semesters of the course
Pass the countywide semester B final examination
Algebra 2 with Analysis (prerequisite – Honors Geometry) (1.0 high school math credit)
Algebra 2 is the study of the complex number system and functions. Real-world problems are discussed,
represented, and solved using advanced algebraic techniques, incorporating technology. The properties and algebra
of functions, including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, piece-wise, radical, and rational, are analyzed and
applied, as well as conics, matrices, systems of equations, sequences, and series. A graphing calculator is used
throughout this course. A county-wide exam is administered at the end of each semester. Successful completion of
the course includes:
Successfully pass both semesters of the course
Pass the countywide semester B final examination
Parkland Magnet Middle School for Aerospace Technology 4
Course Descriptions 2012-2013
