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I came into teaching nine years ago, in a rather interesting way. I married my wife, who is a teacher, and spent so much time around the school, other teachers and students, that I felt compelled to become a teacher myself. I was drawn to the students’ curiosity for learning, something I feel I still…

In Robotics class, students use the Lego EV3 system to build and program various robots. They learn about the logical structure of programs. They also see how the physical robot and the computer program must be aligned to achieve their desired results. They learn to de-bug code and analyse the robots from an engineering perspective….

To begin Grade 10, students undertake a full Design Cycle project combining power electrical circuits and illumination.  The cultural and historical roles of illumination are emphasized as student design and create lighting devices.  Developing research skills is also a central aspect of this unit as students research different types of lighting, e.g. LED, incandescent, fluorescent,…

In this unit, which I have taught to both Grade 8 and 9 students, they research designers and artists, then create a clock. As an opportunity for differentiation, the students get to choose which artist or designer will inspire their design. The overall premise being the clock would be sold in the gift shop of…

This unit introduces Grade 6 students to Design. It is intended to begin their exploration of research, hand sketching, Computer Aided Design (CAD), as well as making prototypes and the final product. Although not explicitly stated, it is their first experience with the Design Cycle. Students are encouraged to create bookend designs with personal meaning….

In this Grade 6 Design unit, students are introduced to many new tools and processes that they will need for future Design projects. This includes 3-D printing, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Laser Cutting. Additionally, they learn to use more advanced tools such as the Band Saw, Fret Saw and Belt Sander. They are also…

In this Grade 7 unit, I combine Design and Service Learning. Students create a toy which is donated as a Christmas gift for children in a local cancer hospital. Their toy is designed for a child approximately 4-8 years old. Requirements include that the toy must be safe to play with (no sharp edges, splinters…

This is a Grade 8 Design unit where students create a “passive wooden speaker” for their cell phones. They are introduced to many new tools and processes. This includes Computer Aided Design (CAD), using more advanced power tools such as the drill press, Dremel tools, chisels, belt sanders, and Hole saws. They are also introduced…

In Programmable Electronics class the students learn about physical computing systems. They learn to read basic C++ code and understand electronic circuits and the functions of sensors. Initially ten classes are devoted to hands on research (ie building circuits). Students are then placed in teams of three and design, program and build a system that…

In my “Open Studio” Design Course for Grade 8 students, they select projects of interest to them. I have also taught this as an MYP Grade 10 unit. It is a culmination of their design experience for some and the final preparation for DP Design Technology for others. “I Did It My Way” is a…

I strongly believe that cross-curriculum collaborations enhance student learning. I have collaborated with HS Visual Art students, teaching them how to use Design Technology to make their installation and sculptural ideas come to fruition.       I have also collaborated with Grade 3 students in their “Dream Time” unit. In this unit, students were…

I started the Green Power Eco Car Club to have students build a fully operational and drivable battery powered F-24 race car. I introduced students to electrical powered vehicles and automotive engineering (power systems, drive trains, control linkages, body panel design and manufacturing, etc.). When we completed the car, we competed against local Chinese schools….