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Welcome

Ancient Civilizations & PLTW Engineering Magnet Pathway

Now is an exciting time to be a part of the Hyde Park Middle School Academy of Science & Mathematics Magnet Program! We are thrilled to introduce a new magnet pathway that blends the innovations of the past with the promise of the future.

6th Grade Magnet Program Information

All magnet students will participate in our Ancient Civilizations/Project Lead the Way Magnet Elective. 

Students will spend one semester immersed in the scientific and technological development of the ancient world. They will explore civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, Meso-America, and northern groups like the Saami and Yupik, examining how early humans developed tools, procedures, and engineering methods to solve real-world problems. Hands-on experiences include:

  • Meteor Impact Simulation

  • Mummification Experiment

  • Food Preservation Experiment

  • Water Flow Control Experiments

  • Fossil Replication Activity

  • Roman Arch Engineering Activity

During the second semester, students will enter the world of modern engineering through the nationally recognized Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Design & Modeling curriculum. They will learn to apply the design process to solve authentic problems, communicate ideas through sketches, 3D models, and mathematical representations, and use simulations to test and refine their designs. Students work in teams to identify design requirements, research their topics, engage stakeholders, and create meaningful projects, such as designing adaptive toys or games for children with cerebral palsy.

This program is a perfect blend of old and new, giving students the chance to connect historical discoveries with modern innovation. Through creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, our students become problem-solvers and innovators ready to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Why Join?

  • Explore the Past and Build the Future – Connect ancient innovations with modern engineering challenges.

  • Hands-On Learning – Experiment, build, and design through interactive STEM activities.

  • Collaborative Problem Solving – Work in teams to research, design, test, and improve projects.

  • Develop Real-World Skills – Strengthen creativity, critical thinking, communication, and engineering skills.

  • Engage in Meaningful Projects – From replicating fossils to designing adaptive toys, students make an impact.

Program Tagline: “Where the Past Inspires the Future.”

7th-Grade Project Lead the Way Focus

Energy & the Environment ~ Students are challenged to think big and toward the future as they explore sustainable solutions to our energy needs and investigate the impact of energy on our lives and the world. They design and model alternative energy sources and evaluate options for reducing energy consumption.

8th-Grade Project Lead the Way Focus

Green Architecture ~ Today’s students have grown up in an age of “green” choices. In this unit, students learn how to apply this concept to the fields of architecture and construction by exploring dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Autodesk’s® 3D architectural design software.

7 & 8th-Grade Ancient Civilizations Focus

In the works! Check back for updates!

Big things are coming! Keep an eye out for updates on our 7th and 8th-grade magnet pathways as they take shape. Students will continue to take one semester each of Ancient Civilizations and one semester of Project Lead the Way as they advance through our program.