Teacher & Programs

NAME: Mr. W. Hill

SCHOOL: Berlin Community School

CLASSES: Gifted and Talented / Pre - Engineering

SCHOOL PHONE: (856) 767 - 0129 ext.163 / EMAIL: hillw@bcsberlin.k12.nj.us


Gifted and Talented & Pre-Engineeering Programs

GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAM FORMAT:

• Student will follow an “Independent Study Model” based on student interest 
and giftedness with the teacher acting as the facilitator. 
• All units of study will be based on a variety of Core Curriculum Content 
Standards in various subject areas.
• Students will demonstrate their understanding of selected topics through 
any of the following assessments: writing reports, completed projects, 
portfolios, presentations, and /or teacher conferencing.


PRE-ENGINEERING PROGRAM [Project Lead the Way  (PLTW)]

The Pre-Engineering curriculum for sixth, seventh, and eighth grades focuses 
on showing, not telling students how engineers use technology to solve 
everyday problems. The program comprises of five units that are taught in 
conjunction with rigorous academic core courses. The primary focus is on 
developing stronger math, science and technology inquiry skills.
The five units are:

Design and Modeling (DM)
This unit uses solid modeling (a very sophisticated mathematical technique 
for representing solid objects) to introduce students to the design process. 
Utilizing this design approach, students understand how solid modeling has 
influenced their lives. Students also learn sketching techniques, and use 
descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer 
modeling. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and 
documentation to solve problems.

The Magic of Electrons (ME)
Through hands-on projects, students explore the science of electricity, the 
movement of atoms, circuit design, and sensing devices. Students acquire 
knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and explore the impact of 
electricity on our lives.

The Science of Technology (ST)
This unit traces how science has affected technology throughout history. 
Students learn about the mechanics of motion, the conversion of energy, and 
the use of science to improve communication.

Automation and Robotics (AR)
Students trace the history and development of automation and robotics. They 
learn about structures, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer 
control systems. Students acquire knowledge and skills in engineering problem 
solving and explore requirements for careers in engineering. 

Flight and Space (FS)
Students learn about aeronautics, space, and the vehicle design used to help 
make aerospace engineering an important field. They learn about Newton’s Laws 
of Motion, forces, rockets, propulsion, and what makes things fly. Students 
acquire and apply knowledge and skills in engineering problem solving and 
explore the many aspects of aerospace engineering.

This curriculum harnesses the enthusiasm and energy of middle school 
students.  Students won’t ask, “Will I ever have to use this in real life”, 
because they will be applying their skills as they learn them. The primary 
focus is on stronger math, science, and technology inquiry skills.