Course Overview
Science of Technology connects the principles of science to the technology students encounter every day. Students apply concepts from physics, chemistry, and nanotechnology through hands-on STEM activities and projects — from making ice cream using chemistry to cleaning up an oil spill to discovering the remarkable properties of nano-materials. Along the way, they develop a deeper understanding of how scientific knowledge drives technological progress and shapes the world around them.
The Big Idea
Science impacts the technology of yesterday, today, and the future. By understanding the science behind the tools we use, students become more informed creators and consumers of technology.
Course Units
Unit 1: Physics and Technology
Students investigate the fundamental principles of physics — including force, motion, energy, and waves — and explore how these concepts are applied in everyday technologies. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and connect physical laws to real-world devices and systems.
Key Activities
- Investigate Newton's Laws through hands-on experiments
- Explore energy transfer and simple machines
- Analyze how waves are used in communication technology
- Design and test a device that demonstrates a physics principle
Unit 2: Chemistry and Technology
Students explore the chemistry behind materials and processes used in modern technology. They investigate the properties of matter, chemical reactions, and how chemistry enables innovations in food science, medicine, and manufacturing — including making ice cream using liquid nitrogen.
Key Activities
- Make ice cream using chemistry and phase changes
- Investigate properties of polymers and materials
- Simulate an oil spill cleanup using engineering solutions
- Explore chemical reactions in everyday products
Unit 3: Nanotechnology
Students venture into the cutting-edge world of nanotechnology, discovering how scientists and engineers work at the scale of atoms and molecules. They explore the unique properties of nano-materials and investigate current and future applications in medicine, electronics, and environmental science.
Key Activities
- Discover the scale of the nanometer world
- Investigate the unique properties of nano-materials
- Explore nanotechnology applications in medicine and electronics
- Analyze the societal and ethical implications of nanotechnology
Unit 4: Science, Technology & Society
Students synthesize their learning by examining the relationship between scientific discovery, technological innovation, and society. They evaluate how technology has evolved over time, consider the impact of emerging technologies, and reflect on the responsibilities of scientists and engineers.
Key Activities
- Trace the history of a technology from discovery to modern use
- Evaluate the positive and negative impacts of a technology
- Research an emerging technology and its potential effects
- Present findings on science, technology, and society connections
Skills You'll Build
Transferable skills developed throughout this course. Learn more about each skill →