Poudre School District
Cache La Poudre Middle School

Cache La Poudre Middle School

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2023 and 2019 Recipient of the Colorado John Irwin Schools of Excellence Award
respect, rigor, relevance, responsibility and relationships

Design and Technology

Design and Technology
Architecture and Building 
7th and 8th Graders

Architecture and Building offers an introduction to the world of architecture and building construction. Guided by the IB Design Cycle, students apply the basic concepts of architecture and building by designing and constructing and original structure. In the past this has included dog houses and chicken coops.  Future projects may include a children's playhouse, or other small structure. Students learn the basics of traditional and computer aided drafting. As well as the hands-on skills of framing, siding painting and more. Emphasis is placed on demonstration of Twenty-First Century workplace skills such as collaboration, innovation and punctuality. 

Woods Crafts
7th and 8th Graders

Woods Crafts is a hands-on course designed for students to learn the processes and skills to produce quality wood projects. Students will learn measurement, basic joinery, project layout, materials calculation, hand and power tools and finishing techniques.  Early projects may include a finger joint box, carbon dioxide powered car, or small table. As the semester progresses an emphasis is put on critical thinking, problem solving, and quality of work.  Safe and proper use of the equipment will be prioritized.  Emphasis is placed on student demonstration of Twenty First Century workplace skills such as collaboration, innovation, punctuality, and professional communication. Students will have the opportunity to participate as a member of a design team in which they use the IB Design Cycle to design and create the optimal product for a client, which is a teacher or administrator at CLP MS. The culminating project is a choice project in which students use the IB Design Cycle to design and build something innovative to take home. 

Innovations in Technology and Design
7th and 8th Graders

Innovations in Technology and Design introduces the development of technology and how it is changing our world. Technology challenges will align with the IB Design Cycle.  Students will explore Robotics Engineering, Computer Science, 3D Design and Printing and Drones.  Design projects will include 3D printing prototypes and an electronic car competition. 

Multimedia Production Explorations 
7th and 8th Graders

Multimedia Production Explorations will focus on ways to deliver information and communicate ideas through the mediums of newspapers, television, websites, blogs, podcasts and videos. The course will guide students in the use of photography, computers, video equipment and other technology used to produce and communicate information. 

Digital Photography 
7th and 8th Graders

In the Digital Photography and Graphic Design lessons, students begin by learning general photographic concepts.  Composition skills are added to photographs and image editing techniques are practiced.  Students learn how to use layers, crop images, implement color and lighting concepts, such as hue, saturation, exposures and special effects. Graphic design artistic elements and software skills are taught will producing graphic images.  The concept of design as a manner of visual communication is carried throughout. Students build a portfolio of work and explore the fields of photography, graphic arts, advertising and illustration. 

PSD does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, veteran status, age or disability in access or admission to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. A lack of English speaking skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation.