General Course Overview

  • Power and Energy is an introductory course on the four stroke cycle, single cylinder engine.  Students will study the four strokes, engine parts, parts identification, and engine operation.  The student will mindfully disassemble a four stroke engine; inspect, measure, and repair; reassemble; trouble shoot; and get the engine to run.  Student evaluation will be outcome based.  

    Upon completion, students will be able to relate knowledge gained to other engine applications.  If time allows, we will begin to look at automotive systems, and basic diagnosis and repair.

General Course Information

  • Course Number: 3520
    CTE Program and Course Code: 170302
    Grade Level: 9-12
    Duration: One Semester, One Class Hour per Day
    Credits Earned: .5
    Required Texts (provided): 

    • Small Engines - R. Bruce Radcliff and Dann L. Roark

Course Goals

  • Objectives:

    • Demonstrate safe practices before working with shop equipment, passing all safety quizzes with 100% accuracy.

    • Demonstrate the correct procedure for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining a gasoline engine.

    • Demonstrate skills and knowledge of tools, steps, and processes in the disassembly and assembly of a small gas engine.

    • Demonstrate how basic engine theory can be applied to most any internal combustion engine.  

    • Demonstrate knowledge of natural resources, fuels, alternative fuels, and electricity

    • Demonstrate appropriate housekeeping and recordkeeping in the lab

    • Demonstrate an awareness of career opportunities in the transportation pathway 

    Topics Covered:                                                                                                    

    • Safety 

      • General Lab 

      • PPE

      • Housekeeping 

      • Hand Tools

      • Engine disassembly

      • Engine assemby

      • Engine testing

    • 2 / 4 Stroke Theory

    • Engine Identification

    • Fuel systems

    • Ingition systems

    • Troubleshooting / diagnosis

    • Measurement- precision

    • Time Management

    • Technical Reading / Blueprints      

    • Machine/Hand Tool Skills    

    • Fasteners

    • Assembly methods 

    • Career Research and Exploration

    Student Organizations
    Students in Power and Energy will have the opportunity to participate in SkillsUSA. The goal of Skill sUSA is to build a student’s technical and leadership skills in a career area. Students who wish to participate will be able to compete at local and state events. The students will also be involved in service learning projects to better one’s community.

    For more info please visit - www.skillsusa.org

    College Credit Opportunities
    College credit can also be earned with pre-determined Articulation Agreements.  Students may qualify if they can perform specific tasks at an acceptable level, and  maintain a “B” or above grade in the course. 

    Visit the following website for specific articulated college courses – www.ctecreditmn.com

Skills Needed

    • Time Management

    • Problem solving

    • Critical thinking

    • Communication skills

    • Math

    • Teamwork

    • Creativity

    • Innovation

    • Detail orientated