10 STEM
10STM Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: David Jackson.
PrerequisitesOpen Entry
This course is designed to support Science and technical understanding, being essential skills for the modern world. STEM equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving and technical skills. As the demand for STEM-related jobs grow, preparation is vital.
Through this course we will examine and explore the science behind the electrical systems in New Zealand as well as modeling and testing the technology underpinning this vital infrastructure.
We will also use programming and robotics skills to understand the increasingly technical and integrated nature of the electrical industry.
Course Overview
Term 1
Physics and electricity through the lens of New Zealand power grid.
We will look at Electricity generation with a focus on the electrical concepts used to produce electricity; I.e magnetism, magnetic induction and transfer of electricity.
Topics will include:
How substations and transformers work, stepping down large voltages to be ready for household supply.
The physics of solar generation and battery storage.
Wind/tidal generation, and comparison to more traditional forms of energy production.
Electrification of the transport industry.
Term 2
An Introduction to the scratch programming language and block based programming as well a series of robotics based challenges.
We will use Scratch to complete a number of programming tasks such as small games and sprite animations.
Microbits will be utilised for a number of programming tasks, utlisting the sensors and screens.
Vex IQ robotics kits will be used in teams to create a robot to complete a complex task as part of a competive challenge.
Pathway Career Pathways
Electrical Engineer, Line Mechanic, Telecommunications Technician, Electrician, Electrical Engineering Technician, Medical Physicist, Science Technician, Electronics Engineer
Contributions and Equipment/StationeryMaterials: $40