Course Description

GAVC Automotive Technology Course Syllabus

Instructors: Mr. Rob Schwiesow and Mr. Nick Wickman Email addresses: [email protected] and [email protected] Telephone Number: (815)942-4390 Ex.4216

Office Hours: M-Th 3:00-3:45

Prerequisites: Junior or Senior and must complete Auto 1 before enrolling in Auto 2. 

 

Automotive Technology is a 2 year program, taught by ASE Master certified instructor(s), and is designed to train students for entry-level automotive technician positions and/or preparation for post-secondary programs.  Students’ knowledge of measurement, estimation, and algebra, along with a technology course would be beneficial.  First year students will develop skills in vehicle maintenance and repair including, brakes, steering and suspension, and will also learn the basics of electrical and engine performance (sensors).  This program will prepare students for the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Maintenance and Light Repair certification exam.  Students are required to purchase work clothes or coveralls, Z87 safety glasses, and work boots.  Automotive Technology 2 is an early bird class starting at 6:45 a.m.  This class focuses on advanced automotive systems and service procedures.  Auto II will go more in depth in diagnosing and repairing customer vehicles and repairing vehicle faults created by the instructors.  This course will also go more in depth in braking systems to include anti-lock brakes and brake boosters. Students will diagnose alignment issues and perform alignment work on customer vehicles. Auto II students will have a larger focus on engine performance diagnosis covering everything from fuel, ignition, exhaust, starting and charging, and emission system diagnosis and repair.  Air bag and passenger restraint system safety and procedures will also be covered, along with advanced electrical diagnostics and vehicle computer systems and components. 

Course Objectives:  Students will be expected to meet all course goals and demonstrate their ability to perform common automotive service routines within our areas of content.  Shop assignments will be conducted in groups of 2-3 depending on the given assignment and task to be carried out.  Individual assignments and hand-on tests will be given for students to prove their knowledge and ability to perform repair procedures.  Students must also be able to demonstrate their ability to research and locate the proper information or materials needed to repair the vehicle.  If necessary, students can be given more than one opportunity to achieve a passing score on their assignments or lab work to pass the course.

Course Goals:  Students will learn how to follow safety procedures while working on cars or in a shop environment.  Develop workplace skills such as teamwork, or work ethics.  Apply math, science, and language arts to the course.  Demonstrate and apply their knowledge of braking systems, electronics, engine performance, and steering and suspension.  Develop their skills in dealing with customers, and running a business. 

Articulation/Dual Credit with Joliet Junior College:  Upon completion of this two year course students may earn 3 credit hours in articulated college credit towards Joliet Junior College for their AS 106 class. Textbooks:

Automotive Technology – Principles, Diagnosis, and Service. Fourth edition

Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair By: James Halderman Required

Student Material:  Students are required to bring in their own coveralls/work clothes, work boots, safety glasses, notebook, and pen or pencil.

Course fee: $20 GAVC Grading Scale A 90 B 80 C 70 D 60 F 59 and below Grading Students will be graded in the following areas:

25% Professional Development

25% Shop Tasks

25% Class Work

25% Tests (hands on and written)

 

Students may be allowed to bring their vehicles into the shop as a privilege on shop days. Instructors must approve and will write a pass. All bills must be paid in full and the work must be checked by the instructor before any vehicle leaves the shop. Students will not be allowed to test drive any vehicles including school vehicles. Class Projects Automotive technology is currently working on one project.

Make Up Work:  Students will have one day to make up work for each day absent. Students will not be allowed to make up work for unexcused absences.