Engineering Elements Undergoing Experimentation
Bronx Science Introduces Freshmen to Engineering with Hands-On Course
Bronx Science, a renowned high school known for its rigorous science and engineering curriculum, offers a foundational course called Elements of Engineering to ninth graders. The course is unique in its approach to introducing students to engineering disciplines, providing a comprehensive introduction to various fields.
Elements of Engineering is not explicitly detailed in the provided search results, but based on common engineering foundations and the iterative, resilience-focused approach noted in engineering education programs, the course likely involves:
- Introduction to Engineering Design and Problem-Solving: Students are introduced to engineering design processes, problem-solving, iterative design, and resilience through failure, often demonstrated by computer programming and basic engineering principles.
- Basic Programming and Computational Thinking: Students learn programming fundamentals, algorithms, and coding practices as part of early exposure to engineering.
- Hands-on Project Work: Typical projects involve building simple machines, circuits, or structural models to demonstrate core engineering principles practically. These projects might include designing and testing simple mechanical devices or structural components, programming basic robots or microcontrollers, conducting experiments that apply physics and mathematics principles to engineering challenges, and collaborative problem-solving activities with iterative redesign based on testing outcomes.
- Collaborative Work: Emphasis on teamwork, communication skills, and project presentation is common in courses designed to mirror real-world engineering workflows.
The course is not limited to theoretical learning, but also provides practical, hands-on experience. Students work collaboratively and have hands-on experience with materials like cardboard, wire, and hot glue in the engineering labs. The course is part of the Physical Science curriculum at Bronx Science.
Notable projects built by students in the Elements of Engineering course include "Decipher the Smoke," a project that demonstrates the application of engineering principles in a real-world context.
The course aims to prepare students for rigorous AP courses in science and mathematics, including AP Physics and AP Computer Science, which likely complement the engineering foundation. The course is taught by physics teachers and includes experimental lessons on civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
Liza Greenberg, Jenna Zhou, Yardena Franklin, Nora Gupta, Angeline Rivera, Emilia Wang McKinney, and Binah Friedman are some of the students who have taken the Elements of Engineering course at Bronx Science. For precise details on the Elements of Engineering course curriculum and hands-on projects, contacting the school directly or reviewing their official curriculum guides would be necessary.
In sum, the Elements of Engineering course at Bronx Science offers a foundational course in engineering to ninth graders, aiming to provide students with a comprehensive introduction to various engineering fields. The course encourages students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, hands-on projects, fostering a love for engineering and preparing them for higher-level courses in the field.
- The Elements of Engineering course at Bronx Science might introduce students to literature on engineering and technology, helping them acquire knowledge beyond the classroom.
- To enhance their understanding of science and engineering concepts, students in the Elements of Engineering course could explore online resources for self-development, such as science and technology news websites.
- As part of the education-and-self-development components of the course, students may engage in extracurricular activities related to photography, documenting their engineering projects and class experiences.
- Additionally, student journalism could be an outlet for students to share their insights, opinions, and learning experiences related to the Elements of Engineering course with the wider Bronx Science community and potential future students.