Move with science and technology

This paper presents a curriculum which represents a unified approach to teaching science and technology at the middle school level, particularly the 7th grade. The curriculum has a transportation theme and consists of a unifying activity challenging students to design and build a human/hybrid powered vehicle for the future. There are four smaller and relatively common activities based on the design of concept vehicles including mousetrap cars, CO2 powered cars, vehicle space frames, and radio-controlled vehicles. These smaller activities provide students with the information and skill necessary to complete the unifying activity. The curriculum is based on both the National Science Education Standards (NSES) mandate to supplement middle level science coursework with “activities that are meant to meet a human need, solve a human problem, or develop a product”. It also follows current trends in technology education to provide middle school students with activities that allow them to develop “real technological products, systems and environments” and to create prototype models. (ITEA Technology for All Americans p.38)