Technology Education at the middle school level is an introductory course that examines a multitude of technologies that exist in our world. New York State requires one full year of technology education by the end of the 8th grade year. At FMS we now offer three, half-year courses at the 6th, 7th, and 8th grade levels.
Grade 6
Introduction to Technology – Part I
Students will participate in technology education for 20 weeks (either from Sept. to Jan. or Jan. to June). Units of study for the 6th grade course include the following:
Computer Labs – 10 weeks
Keyboarding – UltraKey Software
Computer Skills – File structure, Respectful use of school computers, Google Apps, Google Mail, Wiki Spaces
Microsoft Office – Including MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Publisher
Library Literacy – Effective internet searches, Website evaluation, Digital Citizenship, and Web 2.0
Technology Labs – 10 weeks
Computer Aided Design (CAD) – Students learn to visualize products in both 2D and 3D which will be created in computer software for production.
Manufacturing Technology – Students manipulate materials to create the project they designed in CAD. Emphasis is placed on tool & machine use/safety. Students learn measurement, layout techniques, and learn to follow technical directions
Paxton Patterson Modules – Flight Technology Module – This module starts with the history of flight and covers everything to present day and future space exploration. Students build their own air powered rockets while they explore aerodynamics, lift, thrust, drag, newton’s laws, and how they affect man-made air & spacecraft.
Grade 7
Introduction to Technology – Part II
Students in 7th grade technology at FMS will participate in two of the modules found below while in the modular labs.
- Audio Communications
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Numeric Control
- Digital Music
- Electricity
- Energy & Power
- Environment
- Flight Technology
- Laser Technology
- Materials Processing
- Mechanisms
- Robotics
- Structures
- Video Production
While engaged in the modules, students will work independently and in small groups, pace themselves throughout the learning experience, and apply skills and concepts learned in the module by completing hands-on and supporting writing activities.
Each student will utilize the AutoDesk Inventor CAD software. They will use these skills to design and develop engineered blueprints for a project built in the production lab. The software used in 7th & 8th grade is also taught by our high school and widely used in industrial applications.
Students in 7th grade also work on a production unit where they will create project based activities. Utilizing their CAD designs, students begin processing materials and following their plans and technical directions. Safe use of tools and machines is also emphasized throughout this unit. Students complete the design process by testing, monitoring, and applying feedback to make their project ideas become reality. The problem solving process is an essential theme of this unit.
Grade 8
Introduction to Technology – Part III
Students in 8th grade technology at FMS will participate in two of the modules found below while in the modular labs.
- Audio Communications
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Numeric Control
- Digital Music
- Electricity
- Energy & Power
- Environment
- Flight Technology
- Laser Technology
- Materials Processing
- Mechanisms
- Robotics
- Structures
- Video Production
While engaged in the modules, students will work independently and in small groups, pace themselves throughout the learning experience, and apply skills and concepts learned in the module by completing hands-on and supporting writing activities.
Each student will utilize the AutoDesk Inventor CAD software. They will use these skills to design and develop engineered blueprints for a project built in the production lab. The software used in 7th & 8th grade is also taught by our high school and widely used in industrial applications.
Students in 8th grade also work on a production unit where they will create project based activities. Utilizing their CAD designs, students begin processing materials and following their plans and technical directions. Safe use of tools and machines is also emphasized throughout this unit. Students complete the design process by testing, monitoring, and applying feedback to make their project ideas become reality. The problem solving process is an essential theme of this unit.
This 8th grade unit of study builds upon the problem solving skills acquired in 6th and 7th grade. Problem based learning through open ended tasks is the essential theme in our 8th grade technology program