Curriculum Guide 2020-2021

Mechatronics 1
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering
Mechatronics provides an integration of
computer programming and engineering
with a focus on the use of engineering
principles as a guide. Projects, such as
building a maze running robot and making
a Heads-Up Display, allow students to
learn how to create mechanical electrical
systems that use computer programming to
adapt and react to surroundings. Students
further develop concepts of 3D modeling
and printing to create more substantial
models and to better understand the
application of the engineering process.
Students improve upon manufacturing
techniques and use more sophisticated
tools to create more complicated
and intricate systems that intertwine
mechanical and electrical systems to
solve real-world engineering problems.
Completion of projects should reinforce
and develop students’ abilities to make
informed design decisions. This course
reinforces ideas behind documentation of
work using an engineering notebook and
other report writing.
Sequential course: Mechatronics 2
Mechatronics 2
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering
Mechatronics 2 builds on the foundation
developed in Mechatronics 1 and
Introduction to Engineering. Projects will
push students to integrate skills they have
learned into more complex and larger
scale products. Projects will require
students to use 3D printing, woodworking
and electronics to create products that
are interactive and responsive to the
environment. Students will learn to use
PCB (Printed Circuit Board) software and
produce circuit boards to simplify wiring.
Students will learn how to solder integrated
circuits on PCBs and to organize wiring to
improve efficiency. Students will improve
coding skills in order to include the use of
functions and arrays.
Sequential course: Engineering Capstone
Engineering Capstone
Grades 9-12
Prerequisite: Must be a senior who has
completed Mechatronics 1
As a culmination of the engineering
program, students work alongside a mentor
to participate and immerse themselves in
the world of engineering. Students can
work on designing a car with the UNM
FSAE program, work in a lab at UNM
with Biomechanical engineers, or explore
another area of their own interest. This
course is designed so that students can
get access to more advanced topics and
to experience what engineering looks like
in the real world. Students are expected
to work outside of the school day at the
location of the mentor.
Computer Science 1
Grades 9-12
This year-long course introduces students
to the basic components of programming in
Python and gives students the tools to write
computer programs of their own. Computer
Science 1 begins with instruction in
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