STEM Curriculum

At Highland Park Elementary, we are implementing the Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Launch Curriculum.

Project Lead The Way is the nation's leading provider of science, technology, engineering, and math (S.T.E.M.) programs. Through world-class K-12 curriculum, high-quality teacher professional development, and outstanding partnerships, PLTW is helping students develop the skills needed to succeed in the global economy.

PLTW Launch

Kindergarten through Fifth Grade

Engaging students at a young age builds confidence, grows interest, and puts them on course for strong accomplishments in middle school, high school, and beyond.

Through PLTW Launch, students become problem solvers. Students use structured approaches, like the engineering design process, and employ critical thinking. They apply STEM knowledge, skills, and habits of mind, learning that it is OK to take risks and make mistakes. As teachers and students learn and discover together, education becomes far more engaging.

Aligned to state and national standards

PLTW Launch aligns to Common Core State Standards for Math and English Language Arts, Next Generation Science Standards, and other national and state standards.

PLTW Launch curriculum includes 24 modules aligned to grade-level standards. The 10-hour modules are presented in pairs that combine to create a thematic unit.

Click here to view module descriptions

Grade Level

PLTW Launch Module

Kindergarten
K.1 - Structure and Function
K.2 - Structure and Function: Pushes and Pulls

1st Grade
1.1 - Light and Sound
1.2 - Light: Observing Earth, Sun, Moon, and Stars

2nd Grade
2.1 - Materials Science: Properties of Matter
2.2 - Materials Science: Form and Function

3rd Grade
3.1 - Stability and Motion: Science of Flight
3.2 - Stability and Motion: Forces and Interactions

4th Grade
4.1 - Energy: Collisions
4.2 - Energy: Conversion

5th Grade
5.1 - Robotics and Automation
5.2 - Robotics and Automation: Challenge