What is PLTW?

By: Prisila Samaniego-Marin 

PLTW is a class we take at ARS. In this class, we do modules which are based off the pathways that we can take in high school. Next semester, we will create a design of something that is useful and then build it. So far, this class has been fun and less stressful than most. In this class, we take things at our own pace, but still get things done. I like this class because it’s a bit more independent and you get to choose what you want to do and you get a chance to try new things.

 

So far, I’ve done 3 modules and I’m working on the fourth one. The first module was based off the media tech pathway. This module was to create a video on something that we came up with that can make your life easier. We designed an iPod Locker. The iPod Locker is a locker where you enter your “locker combination” into an iPod instead of an actual lock. We believe this will make students’ lives easier because they won’t have to go through the struggle of turning the lock to open up their locker. The iPod will be connected to the locker with wires so they can work together to open up the locker.

 

In order to be successful in this class, you have to manage your time well and know when things are due. Even if you do get off track for a while, you have time to finish if you know when it’s time to get back to work. This class has its challenges like actually building things or thinking outside the box. If you try hard though, you can do anything in this class. This class is whatever you make of it; it can either be the easiest thing ever or the most difficult thing you’ll ever do.