Industrial Education News
Drafting and Communication --At the beginning of the year the students learned to sketch and read various scales. Students also are learning about math cordinates and how they are used to create lines and angles for 2-dimensional objects. We are learning about the help available on the software, snap modes, and the ablility to zoom in and out of a drawing. We created two paper objects from a flat pattern created from a development drawings. We will continue throughout the year to learn how to use the AutoCAD software to create drawings and solve math related problems. Each student will also create a 3-D
plot on our 3-D plotter.
Home Improvement- - This class is designed to give students hands-on skills that they will be able to apply when they own or rent their own house or apartment. The students are paired up into groups of two and will build the corner of a 4’ X 8’ house. They are required to build the sub floor, stud walls with a rough opening for a window and a door. They will wire their houses for two outlets, a switch and a light. We will also hook up the house for a three-way switch. They will also sheet rock, mud and finish the walls. We will conclude the class by learning how to shingle a roof.
Small Engines- -We have been studying the four-stroke and two-stroke cycle engines, hand tools and specialty tools, measuring parts with the dial caliper and micrometer, and the ignition system in a small engine. The students are also overhauling a four-stroke cycle engine. During disassembly, the students measure each part and check the specifications to see if the part is worn or if it can be reused. Students will learn organizational skills and learn trouble-shooting skills as they attempt to re-assemble and start their motors.
Auto Mechanics-- This is a two-hour class which studies engine components, electronics, sensors, fuel injection, accessing service information, and using the hand-held computer for engine diagnostics. The students have identified the sensors on their cars and are testing them to see if they are functional components. We have studied the ignition systems and will soon be learning about exhaust systems, drum and disc brakes, and tire and tire alignment problems.
Students are also required, for a class assignment, to purchase a car over the internet. They are given a set dollar amount and must figure in the expense for tax, license and automobile insurance.
Over half the student’s time is hands-on learning in the auto mechanics lab. Students are constantly looking for different opportunities to learn first hand how to repair and maintain cars and trucks.
We will also rotate students onto our new virtual reality welder. Students will practice butt, lap, and t-joints in the flat position. The welder will coach them on their angle of the mig welding gun, speed, straightness, and quality of the joint. The students will then be tested on each joint. Once they master these joints, we will have them weld with our Mig welders.
In October, SWICC will be in our class to discuss their program for possible future career choices.