Exploring Technology

Sierra Vista Middle School

Mr. Kutz

Exploring Technology is a full-year course designed to expose students to a variety of emerging technologies
with an emphasis on collaboration and innovative technology. Students will have an opportunity to learn
various coding languages, build and code various robots, and utilize CAD software to create and print designs
on 3D printers. Skills may include learning to code in multiple computer languages, building robotics, and
design and create objects with 3D printer. Class time will be broken into the following areas:
3D printing and design
Robotic Coding using LinkBots
Robotics building and engineering with VEX EDR robots

GENERAL GOALS/PURPOSES
This middle school course focuses on applying the design process in the invention of a new product,
process, or system. Through engaging activities and hands-on projects, students focus on
understanding how criteria, constraints, and processes affect designs. Emphasis is placed on
brainstorming, visualizing, modeling, testing, and refining designs. Students develop skills in
researching information, communicating design information, and reporting results. Activities are
structured to emphasize group collaboration and communication.

COURSE TOPICS

3D Printing and Design

Students will use CAD software to create and design a 3D printed part. Software used include
TinkerCad, AutoDesk Inventor and Blender.

LinkBot Robotics

Students will use UC Davis developed CSTEM curriculum to learn the basic operations and CH
coding for autonomous robotic movement and programming. Students will develop hands-on
integrated learning of math and computer science with robotics.

Robotics with VEX Robots

Students will build and program VEX robots. Topics may include motor control, gear ratios, torque,
friction, sensors, timing, program loops, logic gates, decision-making, timing sequences, propulsion
systems and binary number systems.

SUPPLIES
Sierra Vista Middle School will provide all of the necessary supplies for your child to have a quality
educational experience in Exploring Technology. However you may choose to assist the school and your
student by purchasing the following supplies for your students personal use.
8GB (or larger) Flash Drive for storage of student projects
CLASS REGULATIONS
1. Students must be on time daily and must be in their assigned seats before the bell rings.
2. Absolutely no horseplay in the classroom.
3. Students will remain in their seats or with their Group at all times, no roaming.
4. Throwing anything in the classroom is absolutely prohibited.
5. Students may not leave the classroom without the instructors permission.
6. Materials in class are to be used for this class only.
7. Students may not remove equipment without the instructors permission.
8. Students are not to use cell phones for any reason during class time as per SVMS cell phone
policy
9. Classroom computers are for SCHOOL RELATED WORK ONLY!! They may not be used for
personal emails, chat boards, ebay or games. (see IUSD Acceptable Use policy)
10. While using computers, students will abide by the IUSD Acceptable Use policy at all times.
11. NO FOOD OR DRINK IN CLASS!!

Consequences:
1st Offense: Warning and loss of Participation points
2nd Offense: Loss of Points and removal from the activity or class parent contact.
3rd Offense: Loss of points and Referral to the office.

GRADING POLICY All Grades will be based on a point system.

Most assignments will be worth 100 points.
25% Class Participation Grades will be based on the following scale.
90%-100% - A
75% Class Assignments 80% - 89% - B
70% - 79% - C
60% - 69% - D
CONTACT and GRADE INFO 59% - Below - F

Best way to contact Mr. Kutz is by email or Phone. Phone and email contacts will be returned by the
next school day.
- Email: dieterkutz@iusd.org
- Phone: 949-936-6647

Grades will be updated regularly on Parent Portal.

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING
I have read and understand my responsibilities to the instructor, the course, and my peers. I have
also read and understand the requirements of the course and will do them to the best of my ability.
In addition, I agree to follow the above policies and to sign this paper and have my parent/guardian
sign it and return it to the instructor

X__________________________________ X__________________________________
STUDENT SIGNATURE PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE

Print Name: __________________________ Period:______ Date: _____________________