PLTW Pathway

What is Project Lead the Way?

A nonprofit group dedicated to creating fun and educational science programs to promote science and engineering in the schools. PLTW is the nation's leading science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) solution in over 8,000 schools across the U.S. Using hands-on activities and a problem based curriculum, PLTW allows students to apply what they know, identify problems, find unique solutions and lead their own learning. The PLTW classes are UC approved and are elective science classes that can be taken concurrently with Biology and Chemistry classes.

What Does the PLTW Biomedical Science Pathway Offer?

Year 1

Principles of Biomedical Sciences

This first year is designed to grab students' attention and interest in the biomedical sciences through their investigation of the mysterious death of Anna Garcia. This course is a survey of many different areas of the biomedical sciences, from forensics and crime scene investigation, to the molecular biology of diabetes, to understanding the cardiovascular system, to the genetics and heredity of sickle cell anemia, to the microscopic identification of bacteria and infectious agents.

Year 2

Human Body Systems

Students examine the interactions of human body systems as they explore identity, power, movement, protection, and homeostasis. Exploring science in action, students build organs and tissues on a skeletal Maniken®; use data acquisition software to monitor body functions such as muscle movement, reflex and voluntary action, and respiration, and take on the roles of biomedical professionals to solve real-world medical cases.

Year 3

Medical Interventions

Students follow the life of a fictitious family as they investigate how to prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. Students explore how to detect and fight infection; screen and evaluate the code in human DNA; evaluate cancer treatment options; and prevail when the organs of the body begin to fail. Through real-world cases, students are exposed to a range of interventions related to immunology, surgery, genetics, pharmacology, medical devices and diagnostics.

Year 4

Biomedical Innovation

In the final course of the PLTW Biomedical Science sequence, students build on the knowledge and skills gained from previous courses to design innovative solutions for the most pressing health challenges of the 21st century. Students address topics ranging from public health and biomedical engineering to clinical medicine and physiology. They have the opportunity to work on an independent design project with a mentor or advisor from a university, medical facility, or research institution.

Results of the PLTW Biomedical Sciences Pathway

PLTW contributes to a strong, positive impact on mathematics and science achievement. PLTW has a positive influence on students' career interest and likelihood to continue their education. PLTW offers a pathway to prepare and motivate students to enter careers in science and engineering.

Eligibility

Incoming 9th grade students must meet the following criteria for the Biomedical Science Course to be eligible:

HSPT score in the top 25% of the incoming class
An official transcript that verifies a 3.75 GPA or higher throughout 7th AND 8th grades
Earned a B or higher in Science in 7th AND 8th grades
Expressed an interest in taking a Biomedical Science Course

The first year Principles of Biomedical Sciences course will be offered to the first twenty eligible freshmen that register as a Salesian student.

Our Project Lead the Way Faculty

Chad Nightingale

Titles: Department Chair: Science, Director of Athletics, AP Biology Teacher, Coach of Varsity Football and Track & Field

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Elizabeth (Liz) Darr, ATC

Titles: Anatomy and Sports Medicine Teacher, 2nd Year PTLW Teacher - Human Body Systems

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Cassandra Re

Titles: Chemistry Teacher, 3rd Year PLTW Teacher - Medical Interventions, 4th Year PLTW Teacher - BioMed Innovations, Head Coach JV Girls Basketball, Assistant Coach Varsity Girls Basketball

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