Shabazz City High School Course Catalog - All Courses

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. Algebra and Geometry are required for graduation from MMSD.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. After taking Algebra 1 and Geometry, this advanced math course is ideal for a student who is interested in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM). This college prep course completes the set of standards to help prepare you for the ACT and college entrance exams. If you are unsure what your post-high school life will be like, you should be taking an advanced math course to keep as many options open as possible.

This course will qualify as a third year of college prep Math for the UW Direct Admit option.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Joe
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: This is an introductory Biology course that will primarily focus on the anatomy and physiology of the nervous, muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems. Students will take a fascinating in-depth look at the human body and be expected to engage in a variety of comparative anatomy dissections throughout the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: Students who are behind on credits have the opportunity to enroll in the Credit Recovery hour at Shabazz. During this time, students will engage with online course curriculum through Edgenuity. They will also have support from our Credit Recovery teacher during this time. Students work at their own pace to complete 1-2 courses to recover credits and to support moving towards an on-track graduation. 

This course is primarily for students who need to make up credits or are not able to take a course through their regular schedule at Shabazz.
 

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Variable credit
• Instructor: Erik

Course Description: This course requires the use of sharp cutting tools (exacto knives, scissors, rotary blades, and drills). In this class, students will develop an understanding of books, publishing history, and the meaning of "text." The class requires students to regularly read, write, annotate, and make their thinking process visible. They will engage in hands-on projects that integrate storytelling, research, and craftsmanship, culminating in the creation of a repurposed / altered book or an original artist text focusing on a chosen theme. Students will present their final projects at the Celebration of Learning in January. As in all classes, students will practice time management, academic organization, collaboration, and basic study skills daily.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: Cell Biology is a semester science course intended for freshmen/sophomores. The first quarter content focuses on the study of biomolecules and the structure and function of biological cells. The second quarter focuses on cellular processes and begins to lay the foundation of understanding how cells can interact with each other to form organisms. This course is an excellent precursor to Anatomy & Physiology and Genetics.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science 
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: In this class students will explore the art form of ceramic and sculpture through artist exploration and artwork generation. Students will learn to engage in the full process a ceramic or sculpture artist goes through from interpreting works of art to understand the artist’s intention, generating ideas, sculpting a work using handbuilding techniques, and presenting the work to receive feedback. Students will also learn about the rich history of ceramic and sculpture artists, in order to find inspiration. Students will display multiple works from the course in a final gallery show at the end of the semester Celebration of Learning.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: Chemistry is a year long class series intended for students new to high school science courses. Semester one focuses on the structure of atoms and the nature of chemical bonding. Quarter two examines the main groups of atoms, and the meaning behind the structure of the Periodic Table of the Elements. Quarter three examines the fundamentals of organic chemistry and the properties of complex polymers. Fourth quarter examines the mathematical relationships in chemical reactions and how ideal gasses interact in these reactions.

A lot of time is spent on learning about and using basic study skills, developing increasing responsibility and independence, and classroom discussion skills. Credit is earned using the district expectations and assessment occurs via written assessments, in-class work, and completion of laboratory write-ups.

This is not an appropriate course series for experienced science students and it is recommended that such students seek alternative science courses offered at other times or by other instructors.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Grant
• This is a year long course*

Course Description: What shapes who you are and what you'll become? Are you willing to push yourself physically and mentally to think about life's big questions? This class will explore how our relationship with the natural world, diverse perspectives, and philosophies of those around us shape our current and future selves. This class will use nature and a community of mentors as tools to explore what aspects of our lives have the most impact on who we become as adults in our next phase of life. This class involves a multiple day overnight “rite of passage” field trip experience. 

This course is open to seniors only.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This course is designed to explore geometry’s application in construction. We’ll start with guided woodworking projects in a variety of disciplines before working with a community partner at the Bodgery where we will have access to a broad range of equipment for individual student projects. Students will gain experience in the design process while generating their community impact projects.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Math (.5), Science (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: A semester-long course where students create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in this world while they develop their own values and ethics. The class will grade heavily on participation and discussion. Daily attendance will be vital to passing this class.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: In this class students will explore artmaking that uses some form of technology. This will include animation and video editing, digital drawing, Photoshop and digital photography. Students will learn to engage in the full process a digital artist goes through from generating ideas, visioning, creating the work using technology, and presenting the work to receive feedback. Students will display multiple works from the course in a gallery show at the end of the semester. In order to engage in the class students must feel comfortable using IPAD, digital camera, or computer technology but no experience is required. Please note we will take multiple field trips during the Photography unit.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: The goal of Diversity in Literature is to explore a variety of writing genres and subject matter, focusing on the various interpretations of the word “diversity.” Stories that lift up the experience of marginalized groups, underrepresented cultures, and experiences from around the world will be explored. In addition to subject matter, this course will look at diversity in genre, exploring styles of literature often missing from classrooms (ex. horror, bizarro, afrofuturism, fantasy, etc). Finally, this course will explore the diversity of what it means to be a “literary text” in the 21st century (film? tweets? Tik toks? We’ll figure it out together!).

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: In this class students will explore the artistic genre of drawing and the techniques needed to create a successful work of drawing. Students will practice the creative process an artist goes through by looking at both past and present artists for inspiration, sketching and planning out the work, thinking of composition, and utilizing techniques of drawing to make the work feel complete. This will include black and white media, techniques of color, and digital drawing media. Students will also practice giving and receiving feedback in order to refine a work of drawing. Students will end the semester by applying what they learned to multiple creative challenges and will display multiple works from the course in a gallery show at the end of the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: In this class students will explore the artistic genre of drawing and the techniques needed to create a successful work of drawing. Students will practice the creative process an artist goes through by looking at both past and present artists for inspiration, sketching and planning out the work, thinking of composition, and utilizing techniques of drawing to make the work feel complete. This will include black and white media, techniques of color, and digital drawing media. Students will also practice giving and receiving feedback in order to refine a work of drawing. Students will end the semester by applying what they learned to multiple creative challenges and will display multiple works from the course in a gallery show at the end of the semester.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Art
• Instructor: Rachel

Course Description: This course will be an overview of Earth and space in order to better understand the foundational environmental cycles that create our world and universe as we know it. Students will build basic science skills and understanding while exploring how these fundamental concepts influence big issues and concepts in the world around us.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: In this course students will have the opportunity to learn introductory ecology concepts while engaging in the environmental systems in the world around them first hand. Dig into the foundations of conservation, ecological cycles, and species identification while applying that knowledge through environmentalism: concern about and action aimed at protecting the environment. Students will explore how the complex dynamics of our society including race, politics, and education all tie into environmental issues and advocacy.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This course will be a semester-long investigation of history and art through a partnership with the Textile Arts Center of Madison. In the course, students will study different social justice movements that have happened in the world that connect in some way to textile arts. Also, students will study different eras of history's connections to textile arts. As students become more familiar with the social justice movements and history of textiles, they will complete various art projects using the textile arts. Historical topics that may be studied in the course include cottage industries, industrialization, and fashion. Some social justice movements that may be discussed are the AIDS quilt, women's suffrage, and arpilleras. Students should come prepared to make and share art, write artist statements, and make presentations connected to their work in history.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: This course is designed for 9th and 10th-grade students who need additional support in developing their writing and reading skills. The focus will be on strengthening foundational skills in academic and technical writing, grammar, and usage. Through structured lessons and guided practice, students will improve their ability to craft well-organized responses, analyze texts through close reading, and apply the full writing process to produce clear and effective writing. Attendance and active participation are essential, as each lesson builds upon the last. By the end of the course, students will be more confident writers and readers who are better prepared for future academic success.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: This course is a tour of the cutting edge science of genetics. As genetics is discovering new innovations constantly, it is also a field of science that is on the front edge of scientific ethics as well. Learn about the function and anatomy of DNA in order to explore how genetics impacts our lives.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This course explores the local geography of Madison’s North Side through the lens of community identity, perception, and change. Students will investigate how geography, history, and city planning shape public narratives about a place. Through hands-on projects—such as mapping, photography, storytelling, and/or board game design—students will engage with their surroundings in new ways, challenging stereotypes and deepening their understanding of their community. By the end of the course, students will not only develop geographic literacy but also become advocates for a more nuanced and just representation of their local area. 

This is an outdoor field experience class.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: This is a year long Math class. Algebra and Geometry are required for graduation from MMSD. *This is a year long course.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: Health is a course designed to provide skills-based learning experiences that support students in becoming health literate individuals. The course will focus on analyzing internal and external influences, accessing health resources, communicating effectively with others, making healthy decisions, setting personal goals, practicing healthy behaviors, and advocating for personal and community health, through project based learning. Critical content will include personal health and wellness, mental and emotional health, alcohol and other drugs, and human sexuality. This course will also have many expert guest speakers.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Health
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: Hero with a Thousand Faces is an exploration of the many facets of the “Hero’s Journey” (sometimes referred to as “monomyth”), a pattern that permeates popular literature and Hollywood. The class will explore how the archetype appears again and again in classic literature, film, games, and popular culture. Students will look for the pattern in choice texts and their own lives. Projects will include analyzing pop culture and creating original hero quests in fun formats like film, D & D campaigns, children’s books, etc.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris  

Course Description: A heavy reading, research, and discussion based semester-long course where students choose different areas of Latin America to explore. One unit students may focus on folklore and myths. In another unit, they might choose to work on political maps and geography. Student choices will mix in with teacher created case studies of different topics like the Panama Canal, imperialism, or migration. The class will work to create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in the Latin American world together.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: A heavy reading, research, and discussion based semester-long course where students choose different areas of Latin America to explore. One unit students may focus on folklore and myths. In another unit, they might choose to work on political maps and geography. Student choices will mix in with teacher created case studies of different topics like the Panama Canal, imperialism, or migration. The class will work to create a classroom where they can discuss, debate, and think about what is happening in the Latin American world together.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: Nontraditional sports/activities with field experiences. (Pickleball, badminton, cornhole, biking, bowling, exergaming (Virtual reality)

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: This course will expose students to the science of limnology, the study of freshwater systems, by combining in-class traditional activities with numerous citizen science “hands-on” work in community green spaces, environmental restoration work, and through outdoor leisure activities (snow shoeing, hiking, fly-fishing, paddling). The science content standards are focussed on how matter and energy cycle through natural systems and are influenced by human activities. Part of engaging in this kind of study involves the refinement of communication skills, self and group reflection, and growth in these skills will be supported not only in outdoor science activities but in outdoor “adventures”.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
   

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Science (.5), Phy Ed (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Marketing Shabazz is a hands-on, creative course where students develop and implement marketing strategies to showcase what makes Shabazz City High School unique. Through collaborative projects, students will design compelling promotional materials, engage in artistic branding efforts, and refine their messaging to authentically represent the school. The class will also include outreach opportunities, such as recruitment visits to middle and high schools, where students will share their Shabazz experiences and connect with potential future students. Whether through video, social media, graphic design, or live presentations, students will gain real-world marketing experience while strengthening their teamwork and communication skills.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: Math is a branch of philosophy which explores the ideas of undeniable truths. Thus math has a foundation of logic that it has been built upon. This class will explore logic and practice it using logic-based games and puzzles to understand how we can find those undeniable truths and joy at the same time.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: In this high school personal finance class, students will embark on a practical and comprehensive exploration of economic reasoning to navigate essential financial decisions. Covering topics such as making substantial purchases, selecting banks, managing credit cards, financing a car, securing housing, and career exploration, the course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for informed financial decision-making. Students will apply economic principles to assess the implications of their choices, fostering financial literacy and empowering them to make sound financial decisions as they transition into adulthood.

Personal Finance is a graduation requirement for all MMSD students. Personal Finance is recommended for Juniors at Shabazz.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: Probability and statistics is the branch of math that will be how the majority of adults interact with math in a consistent manner in their future. This class will have students investigate ideas in the realm of probability and stats and how they might use these ideas in their everyday lives.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Creative & Critical Thinker
   

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 10-12
• Subject: Math
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: The class will allow students to read two books of choice (within certain parameters) and make their reading and thinking more visible to others. This course is designed for students to learn to choose appropriate texts, practice reading strategies, develop note-taking skills, improve reading comprehension techniques, review standards, and effectively articulate written and verbal responses to texts. Students will work through the steps of crafting an argumentative essay (brainstorming, using graphic organizers, developing a claim and thesis statement, and identifying evidence from the note taking process to support and defend that thesis). All students will also participate in a full-class discussion of their books at the end of each quarter.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: The class will allow students to read two books of choice (within certain parameters) and make their reading and thinking more visible to others. This course is designed for students to learn to choose appropriate texts, practice reading strategies, develop note-taking skills, improve reading comprehension techniques, review standards, and effectively articulate written and verbal responses to texts. Students will work through the steps of crafting an argumentative essay (brainstorming, using graphic organizers, developing a claim and thesis statement, and identifying evidence from the note taking process to support and defend that thesis). All students will also participate in a full-class discussion of their books at the end of each quarter.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: In this class, students will understand and practice reading strategies; develop note-taking skills; deepen reading comprehension techniques; and effectively analyze print texts through guided questions and short written responses. Students will read, reflect upon, and discuss a complete text as a group. Students will develop group discussion skills. Students will need to complete reading and writing homework if their attendance is low.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: Rivers, Rocks, and Ropes is a combination of Rock Climbing and Geology / Earth Science.

We will be learning skills in Rock Climbing Weekly and exploring concepts in Geology, taking advantage of local natural areas. The legacy project includes construction of a watercraft TBD. Hydrological concepts will be peppered into the curriculum.

Expect to participate in all outdoor activities regardless of weather.
 

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Pathfinder
• Positive Community Member
   

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science (.5), Phy Ed (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Joe

Course Description: In Science Fiction Literature, students will embark on an exploratory journey through the rich and diverse world of science fiction literature, examining its profound impact on society and culture. Learners will uncover the ways in which science fiction mirrors societal hopes, fears, ethical dilemmas, and technological advancements. Engaging in critical discussions, creative projects, and analytical writing, students will delve into themes of dystopia, utopia, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and the human condition, all while exploring the genre's role in inspiring innovation and reflecting upon the societal consequences of future possibilities. This course aims to not only deepen students' appreciation for science fiction as a literary genre but also to enhance their understanding of its lasting influence on the evolution of global culture and thought.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: Food doesn't only nourish the body, it nourishes the soul. Food is a reflection of culture and also helps build community. This leadership class will do just that by taking what has been learned from the primary Seed to Table course and building up from that. Students will help decide field experiences for the class and craft learning experiences for the school connected to our celebration days. We will still harvest, cook, and serve food and we will take on leadership roles in the school community. There will be expectations of volunteering outside of class and participating in at least one overnight learning experience. Priority for this class will be given to students who have taken the primary Seed to Table class previously. ** Must have taken Seed to Table already

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Pathfinder
• Growth Mindset

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Math (.5), Science (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: Food doesn't only nourish the body, it nourishes the soul. Food is a reflection of culture and also helps build community. This leadership class will do just that by taking what has been learned from the primary Seed to Table course and building up from that. Students will help decide field experiences for the class and craft learning experiences for the school connected to our celebration days. We will still harvest, cook, and serve food and we will take on leadership roles in the school community. There will be expectations of volunteering outside of class and participating in at least one overnight learning experience. Priority for this class will be given to students who have taken the primary Seed to Table class previously. ** Must have taken Seed to Table already

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Math (.5), Soc Stud (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Grant

Course Description: Shabazz Experience is an introduction to the school and the man who inspired its name that is designed for students new to Shabazz. Students will learn how to be successful at Shabazz and contribute to its culture. As they work on ELA skills, students will compare the life of Malcolm X to their own experience while analyzing aspects of their own personal life journey.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: New 9-11th grade students only)
• Subject: English (9-11)
• Instructor: Chris  

Course Description: In this hands-on journalism course, students will explore the complete process of news production, from uncovering compelling stories to delivering polished products (ex. Newspaper, TV show). They will develop skills in research, fact-checking, and interviewing while learning to write clear, engaging scripts and copy. Each student will take on the roles of reporter, editor, and presenter, gaining experience in both print and video journalism. Through collaborative projects and real-world assignments, students will sharpen their critical thinking, communication, and storytelling abilities as well as develop a set of technical skills valued in the job marketplace.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: This is both a reading and writing class that will focus on the analysis, discussion, and production of short fiction stories/components. We will identify the deep meaning of short stories we will read together and students will also write their own short fiction. The focus will be on using literary devices and creative writing to show growth in reading and writing skills.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura  

Course Description: Song Analysis is a course that surveys how music and song lyrics are powerful sources of personal identity, relatable messages and literary devices. The class will learn the background and use of literary devices and then identify them in songs and analyze their meaning. This process will be modeled with examples by the teacher, together as a class and independently. Students will be responsible for writing an analysis essay, creating a visual project, presenting a song, lyrics, devices and meaning to the class, as well as participate in analysis of classmates’ songs, as well.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: This poetry class will focus on the genre of spoken word as text and performance. Together we will define and examine examples of spoken word in order to identify voice, audience, intent, message, bias, and interpretation. Students will learn, practice and use the following poetic devices: alliteration, diction, metaphor, imagery, symbolism and others. We will connect societal topics, practice analyzing devices and find identity inspiration. The goals of this course are to understand the power and message of spoken word, analyze poetic devices for discussion, write identity and issue-based poems, and perform spoken word poetry to cultivate an empowering, safe and supportive atmosphere.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: This course will provide information and skills for students who wish to improve their success in life after Shabazz. This course will help students become responsible and accountable for their own learning and future planning. The focus of this course will be on learning to learn and learning to be successful. By the time students complete this course, they will have processes and procedures to apply in most learning situations in and out of the academic setting. Topics include personal responsibility; self-motivation; self-management; self-awareness; lifelong learning; effective study skills; interdependence/team building; and belief in self.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder
• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Erik

Course Description: Students in this survey course will learn about the many kinds of things living on Earth with an emphasis on animals. We’ll investigate the features that unite and divide these groups. Several animal dissections are planned. Students will also receive instruction in how to design and give quality presentations.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: This course covers the Shabazz requirement for Modern US History/African American Experience. The idea of this course is to provide a more in depth look at US history through an African American lens. We will cover different eras in modern US history using an inquiry approach. The eras covered will focus on the 1950s to the 1980s and will include the Civil Rights movement, Black Power, and The Birth of Hip Hop. Students will also have time to research into their own areas of interest using the same inquiry approach.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: This course covers the Shabazz requirement for Modern US History/African American Experience. The idea of this course is to provide a more in depth look at US history through an African American lens. We will cover different eras in modern US history using an inquiry approach. The eras covered will focus on the 1950s to the 1980s and will include the Civil Rights movement, Black Power, and The Birth of Hip Hop. Students will also have time to research into their own areas of interest using the same inquiry approach.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 11-12
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Aaron

Course Description: Understanding the Animal Kingdom will guide students through many aspects of how people interact with animals. Students will learn about the characteristics of animals as well as the anatomy and physiology of different animal groups. There will be dissections of several groups of animals (mollusks, insects, vertebrates{rats}) so that students can see how different animal groups meet the challenges of staying alive. The class will visit farms, zoos, aquariums, and museums to have some in-person experiences beyond the classroom.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Skilled Communicator
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science (1.0), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Robert

Course Description: Dive into American history through the lens of resilience in this high school course, focusing on analytical writing. Explore how individuals and communities have experienced, challenged, and overcome prejudice. Through chronological study, students will analyze key events, developing critical writing skills to synthesize information and articulate arguments. By examining the impact of prejudice on diverse groups, students will gain a nuanced understanding of historical struggles and resistance.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-10
• Subject: Social Studies
• Instructor: Nathan

Course Description: Intro class to weight training. Learn how to get comfortable in a weight room.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny

Course Description: This is an introductory experiential biology course that will primarily focus on the anatomy and physiology of the nervous, muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular, digestive and respiratory systems through wilderness first aid skills. Students will take a fascinating in-depth look at the human body and be expected to engage in a variety of comparative anatomy dissections throughout the semester. Students will also be expected to learn through wilderness first aid scenarios outdoors and the potential of certification through the Red Cross.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Science
• Instructor: Brian

Course Description: This is a course for students who are interested in gaining either internship or work experience outside the walls of Shabazz. The first part of the semester will involve developing the skills to successfully engage with a community or work partner and exploring potential internship or career interest areas. During the second part of the semester, students will develop and maintain a volunteering, internship, or working relationship with a community partner and gain work experience. Students will report to their internship daily instead of attending the Learning Lab at Shabazz. Students will receive feedback from both Shabazz staff and the community partner to grow their job skills and experience. Students will complete a final reflection on their experience, develop a potential post-high school plan, and possibly earn Employability Skills or Youth Leadership Certification. This course is primarily open to 10th-12th grade students.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Skilled Communicator
• Positive Community Member
• Growth Mindset
• Pathfinder

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Elective
• Instructor: Erik

Course Description: This is a reading and writing class that targets a specific, younger audience. Students will analyze and identify the commonalities of children’s stories and create a base for understanding how to create one’s own story. Students will work together with an elementary school class (i.e. kindergarteners) during this writing process to interview, mentor, and read with a partnered child and foster a teaching relationship.

As time allows, students may also write an educational piece for another younger audience (i.e. middle schoolers).

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Positive Community Member
• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English
• Instructor: Laura

Course Description: In this dynamic course, students will explore the art of animation while developing strong storytelling and writing skills. Through hands-on projects, they will create multiple animated shorts using techniques like stop-motion, claymation, and computer-generated animation. Students will engage in the full creative process—analyzing professional animated films, brainstorming ideas, writing scripts with attention to plot and character development, and crafting detailed storyboards. Emphasis will be placed on planning and refining narratives before bringing them to life through animation. Throughout the course, students will share positive and constructive feedback and present their final works at the end-of-semester Animation Film Festival.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker
• Growth Mindset
• Skilled Communicator

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Chris

Course Description: Yearbook Writing: This part of the course will focus on writing content commemorating the 2025-26 academic year of the Shabazz community. With guidance, students will collaboratively develop an overall concept or theme for the publication. They will then use daily class time learning formats of articles, organizing, researching, planning, writing, offering feedback, and revising written articles/pages for final yearbook publication. Successful students will be able to utilize technology for writing, effectively collaborate with classmates, generate original ideas, work in a self-directed manner and manage their time, meet deadlines, conduct interviews and research, assess audience expectations, and incorporate revision feedback to make strong, publication-ready writing. After the final publication goes to press, students will prepare a creative project for the year's graduate class. Students will also design and craft a personal zine to celebrate their individual experiences, challenges, and successes throughout the year.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Creative & Critical Thinker

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: English (.5), Art (.5), Elective (.25)
• Instructor: Denise

Course Description: Walking in the community to Warner Park and Yoga.

Grad Profile Emphasis:

• Pathfinder
• Growth Mindset
• Positive Community Member

Additional Information:

• Recommended Grades: 9-12
• Subject: Phy Ed
• Instructor: Kenny