Ireland · NCCA Curriculum Specifications
1st Year Engineering.
This First Year Junior Cycle Engineering curriculum introduces students to the fundamental principles, materials, and processes of engineering. It places a strong emphasis on the historical and societal impact of engineering, encouraging students to explore how technological developments shape our world and environment.
01Introduction to Engineering and Society
An exploration of the engineering profession, its historical milestones, and its profound impact on societal development and daily life.
Explore the diverse roles engineers play in solving global challenges and improving daily life in Ireland and beyond.
Investigate key historical engineering milestones and their socio-economic impacts on Irish and global societies.
Understand the critical importance of health and safety protocols in the engineering workshop and broader industry.
02Engineering Materials and the Environment
A study of engineering materials, their properties, and the environmental consequences of their extraction and use.
Classify basic engineering materials including metals, polymers, and smart materials used in modern manufacturing.
Examine the lifecycle of engineering materials from extraction to processing, focusing on environmental consequences.
Explore sustainable engineering practices and how the circular economy model can be applied to product design.
03Design and Graphical Communication
Developing the ability to solve problems through the engineering design process and communicate ideas visually.
Apply a structured design process to identify problems, generate ideas, and develop engineering solutions.
Develop freehand sketching and basic 2D drawing skills to effectively communicate engineering concepts.
Utilize basic physical modeling techniques to bring 2D design concepts into the three-dimensional space.
04Basic Manufacturing Processes
Practical application of engineering skills through measuring, cutting, shaping, and joining materials.
Learn to use precision measuring instruments and marking out tools accurately on various materials.
Safely operate hand tools and basic machinery to cut and shape metals and plastics to specific dimensions.
Explore permanent and semi-permanent joining methods to assemble manufactured components into a final product.
05Introduction to Mechatronics
An introduction to the integration of mechanical, electrical, and control systems in modern engineering.
Introduce the interdisciplinary field of mechatronics, combining mechanical, electrical, and software engineering.
Identify and understand the function of fundamental electronic components such as resistors, LEDs, and switches.
Investigate basic mechanical systems, including gears, levers, and pulleys, to understand how motion is transferred.