Malcolm Shabazz Alternative H.S., Madison, WI, Social Studies Course DescriptionsStudents are expected to put in a consistent effort and improve their study skills with individual and group work. Math WorkshopUnlock the mysteries of math to assure a bright future! We will set up an individual program for each student to fit their goals and needs in mathematics. Students are expected to put in a consistent effort and improve their study skills with individual and group work. Structured Collaborative Algebra 124-110 This course is for the student who needs more direct instruction in algebra than is provided in the math workshop. Students in this class should be prepared to work with others, to do homework when needed, and to think hard about how

	Social Studies Course Descriptions
Course Name	Description

*Shabazz Experience 1A	122-120 REQUIRED TO ALL NEW STUDENTS: This course introduces new students to the theory and the realities of Shabazz as an alternative school. Units of study include: community building, policies and procedures, service learning, learning styles, teaching/learning nonharrassment, and the life and times of Malcolm X .
The Anthropology of War & Violence	127-110 In this course students will explore violence from a cultural perspective. Central questions are: Is violence “human nature” or is it a choice? Is violence ever justified? Why do individuals and nations participate in war and violence? What effects does violence have on individuals and societies? Events such as the Holocaust and the genocide in Rawanda will be uncovered in this course. We will also explore the physical and psychological violence of our own society by looking at issues such as racism, classism, nationalism, crime, and war. Art Spiegelman’s graphic novel Maus will be used as a central source along with several films and short readings.
The Impossible will take a Little While	In this course, students will read, discuss at length and respond in essay form, the book entitled The Impossible will take a Litttle While, by Paul Rogat Loeb. Each essay, written by various activists and leaders, from Nelson Mandela to Sherman Alexdie, have been compiled to give hope to the readers in a world seemingly streaming towards chaos.
The Holistic Survivor	Did you know that modern medicine once advised an entire generation of American mothers not to breast feed their children? This happened at the height of the baby boom generation and it happened because baby formula companies were lobbying the medical profession to help them make money! Is this sort of blind advice happening in this society today? Are the pharmaceutical companies working with the medical profession only to ensure our good health or is the business of capitalism motivating the onslaught of new drugs and the increase of prescriptions? This course is not intended to completely discredit the mdical and pharmaceutical industries. It is intended to take a closer look at some of the alternatives. In this class we will learn about some of the plans which have medicinal properties. We will also learn about edible wild foods, teas and alternative forms of survival and how compatible they are for a comfortable existence. The class will culminate with a weekend field trip where we will put to use our new found knowledge and skills, building our own shelter and surrviving solely off the land.
The Road to Indian Country	In this class, students read the books Neither Wolf Nor Dog by Kent Nerburn, and On the Rez, by Ian Frazier and analyze them chapter by chapter in an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of some contemporary issues in Native America. This class will take a trip to four Indian Reservations in the Great Plains, two in Nebraska and two in South Dakota. Our students will visit tribal schools and offer information for voting aged Native students about the presidential election as well as the opportunity to register to vote.
Spirituality at the end of the 20th Century	This course is an extension of the 1st quarter class. It is designed to address some of the questions that, at the high school level, many young people are beginning to ask. Who or what is God? Why am I here? Why would God allow the violence and suffering that exists on Earth? Over the course of a quarter we will study Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Christianity). We will also study the more indigenous religions of the world from the “Dream Time” of the Australian Aborigine, to some of the Native religions of this continent. We will also look at what drives people to seek a higher power and apply that to our own situation. Over the course of the quarter will study many different ways of paying honor and respect to essentially the same God and, with luck, come to understand that differences in worship really are acceptable as long as we remember to respect each other.
Human Evolution/Ancient Technology	This is a repeat of the first semester class, but condensed in one quarter. In the Evolution phase of the course we will study various theories on human evolution using lecture, film and readings. Students will be expected to write a “position paper” detailing their own opinion of how we came to be the way we are (5 pages, typed, double spaced, and no larger than size 12 font). In the Ancient Technology portion of the course we will do hands-on exercises such as cord making, fire starting and basketry. This class is not opened to students who already earned credit in this course.
The Social Science Reader	In this class students will read selected books which they will report on in a detailed, three page typed, double space, no larger than size 12 font,, paper. Each student will be required to complete four books over the quarter and their grade will be contingent upon completing the four reports. We will be using the 6-trait writing model to evaluate papers.
Current Events	Using the New York Times, students will become part of a news team that will be responsible for putting on a news show twice weekly. The class will rotate the responsibilites of running a news show from writing, editing, anchoring and filming. The hope is to show the program to the school once a week. Once per week two students will be responsible for writing a synopsis of the week’s activities, detailing every aspect of the production, which will be the basis of their overall grade.
Music in American History	In this class, we will focus on the music of various eras in American History and analyze how the music was shaped by the times and how the times were shaped by the music. Over the course we will study which forms of music have remained constant and how forms influence and build on each other. Students should note that this is not an hour where they can simply “chill” while listening to their favorite musics. Emphasis will be put on writing and anlysis. The styles coverd will be: Gospel, Folk, Appalachian, Ragtime, Bluegrass, Big Band Jazz, Beebop, R & B, Rock & Roll, Country & Western and Rap.
First People	In this course we will take an in-depth look at the indigenous peoples from around the world and focus on the issues which affect them. From land use issues of the Australian Aboriginal people to Cultural preservation of the Rain Forest peoples of Brazil, this class will focus on what’s happening in these worlds as well as what we might be able to do to help. A strong committment to reading and writing are essential in this class, so please be honest with yourself when considering to sign up.
Introduction to Environmental & Ecological Studies	In this class, students will read and discuss the writings of Derek Jensen and Robert Wolff, in an effort to gain a deeper understanding of the human’s role within the larger context of life on Earth. Students are expected to keep a detailed journal of their opinions, experiences within the class, and their overall philosophy as it pertains to the ecology of the human condition.
People’s History	Using the controversial book A People’s History of the United States, by Howard Zinn, students will examine our Nations history from the perspective of the oppressed, rather than from that of the victor. Students will discuss, at length, the first seven chapters of the book, writing essays at three different points in each chapter.
Ishmael, My Ishmael & the Celestine Prophecy	In this class we will read the incredibly popular and insightful books by Daniel Quinn and James Redfield and compare, contrast and record our ideas and opinions about the social issues and implications of each book.
Introduction to Anthropology	127-110 In this class, students will be introduced to the world of Anthropology. Using the textbook Our Kind, by Marvin Harris, students will learn fundamental principles of the field and work to apply those principles to formulate a deeper understanding of our place within Nature, our relationship to other species in Nature and our interaction within our environment. This class is reading and writing intensive so you must have read this course description and be able to explain it to me to be considered for it.
*Mirrors of Discrimination, Part B	127-999 Past Understanding, Future Action. One of two required courses at Shabazz City High School, this class seeks to develop students’ understanding of past and current issues of discrimination in the United States. Curriculum and discussions will focus on issues directly affecting the following groups: African American, Jewish or Arab Americans, Asian Americans. Students will also have an opportunity to explore and discuss their individual ethnic heritage, socially-defined groups, and personal experiences with discrimination issues. The service portion of the course will allow students to use their developing understanding of discrimination issues and personal interests/abilities in proactive activities for future social change. Students will work with a younger audience, write anti-discrimination letters to target individuals, groups or institutions and prepare a heritage celebration. Our class will prepare and share brunch with the Shabazz Staff.
History & Issues of America's First Nations	This class is a continuation of the course started in the third quarter. In this class we will continue our look into the various eras which have marked tribal existetnce in this country and end up focusing on the issues which affect First Nations people today.
Aldo Leopold Education Project - Service Learning	In this class, students will work on the Aldo Leopold Education Project, in cooperation with the Aldo Leopold Center. This will happen upon return from the wilderness challnge to Isle Royale National Park. Only sutdents enrolled in the Tribalism, Community and Society of 4th quarter of last year school year will be allowed to take this class. The purpose of the project is: - To instill in students, through direct experience, an appreciation and respect of the natural world so that they may develop a positive relationship with the land. - To advance students’ scientific understanding of the land community’s natural processes so that they may make informed decisions about conservation/land use issues - To advance students creative-thinking skills through the hands-on/minds-on activities found in this guide - To introduce students to literary works of writers in the conservation community to create an interest for further exploration and demonstrate the melding of science and literature.
A Different Mirror	In this course students will study U.S. History, again from the perspective of multicultural America and will use the revisionist history book by Ronald Takaki. The format of this course will be similar to People’s History so I would not recommend this class to students already enrolled in People’s History. This course covers approximately the first 8-10 chapters. Expect class readings, discussions and writings.
U.S. History Through the Eyes of the Conquered	In this class we will look at U. S. history from a different perspective. Using Howard Zinn’s “A People’s History of the United States” and Ronald Takaki’s “A Different Mirror”, we will read, reflect, discuss and write about various chapters in our history. Students who’ve already taken either classes that have used these books are asked to wait a quarter to sign up so that otheres can have a change to experience these life-changing books.
Writings & Philosophies of Daniel Quinn	127-130 In this class students will be introduced to the works of Daniel Quinn. All of our class time will be spent in discussion about the previous nights reading assignment. The book’s (4) are excellent, and will generate much discussion and philosophical thought.
Music in American History	In this class, we will focus on the music of various eras in American History and analyze how the music was shaped by the times and how the times were shaped by the music. Over the course we will study which forms of music have remained constant and how forms influence and build on each other. Students should note that this is not an hour where they can simply “chill” while listening to their favorite musics. Emphasis will be put on writing and analysis. The styles covered will be mostly jazz and bluegrass.
Current Events: A People's History of the U.S.	This is to be a continuation of the present history class. It will focus on events as they unfold in regards to the current crisis in Central Asia. Be prepared to focus on the news from both the left and the right and come to this class with the desire to be heard and to express your opinions both orally and written.
First Nations Contemporary Issues	In this class, students will read the book, Neither Wolf Nor Dog, and analyze the book, chapter by chapter in an attempt to see the world from the perspective of a Lakota elder. The class then discusses any insights gained from the reading and uses them to develop a deeper understanding of our diverse society.
People and Places	This class is going to be a current events class that will focus on the people making the news as well as the geographic locations where it is being made. In this class students will be expected to participate in discussion and write opinion pages for their own portfolio which will serve as a chronicle of the times. “I, as the teacher, reserve the right to accept or reject any student into this class and will base my decisions on their attitude and cooperation in the first week”.
Life After Capitalism	No previous experience required! In this course we look at the economy from a different point of view. We explore traditional economic theory, but we also break out of that narrow framework to look at issues of class, political-economy, and the quest for a more humane economic system. In this course we work to build a more democratic and participatory economic system, and look for ways to create alternative economies within our communities.
Anthropology II	In this class, students will read either The Third Chimpanzee or Guns, Germs or Steel by Jared Diamond and as they read each chapter, are encouraged to write a review of the chapter. Their final project is a compilation of the 19 chapters, typed, double spaced and spell-checked. Students are also required to provide a 100 word essay each week, detailing where they are in the book as well as their opinion of the book or other aspects of the process.
Fast Food Nation & Beyond	This is a continuation of the third quarter, third hour class and is only open to as many students as there are openings due to current students not remaining in the class.
Introduction to Anthropology	In this course we will get at what Anthropology is all about. We will briefly examine the different branches within the Anthropological discipline and then focus on Cultural Anthropology. We will get at what “culture” is and in so doing, will connect this with sutdents’ personal interests/backgrounds, popular culture and local and state history. This course will involve lots of discussion, activities, and a moderate amount of reading and writing.
Journey into Revolution	In this course we examine the causes, outcomes, and historical legacies of various revolution ary movements from around the world in the 20th Century. Analysis focuses on the ideologies and political strength of various movements for social justice. We also pay special attention to current events and to understanding the historical roots of current conflicts. Special focus is given to movements in Latin America, but we also look at the history of radicalism in the U.S., as well as various movements around the world from Russia to Vietnam.
Matilda	In this class we will read the book The Forgotten Queen, which is a tale of a warrior, Empress Matilda, daughter of King I of England and granddaughter of William the Conqueror. Each week, you will be expected to read three chapters and answer corresponding questions. We will watch a movie on Queen Matilda during the last week of class to compare the various media approaches of her life. If you would like to take this class, you must be able to read quietly and stay focused. You need to be self-motivated to read.
Fast Food Nation	127-130 In this class, students will take a critical look at the fast food industry by reading and discussing the book Fast Food Nation, by Eric Schlosser. Students will examine how the fast food industry targets children, has transformed the beef and chicken industry and has affected American society in ways not immediately apparent or positive.
The Road to Indian Country	The Road to Indian Country. In this class, students will read the book Neither Wolf Nor Dog by Kent Nerburn, and analyze it chapter by chapter in an attempt to gain a deeper understanding of one Lakota elder. The class discussions will occur daily and the course will culminate with an overnight trip to a Wisconsin Indian reservation and visit with some local elders. Prepare to write a detailed chronicle of your journey.
From Pregnancy to Piaget	Whether as a parent or caregiver, helping children to grown into healthy, happy people is a critical task, worthy of exploration and deliberate thought. In this class we will learn how th typical child develops physically, socially, emotionally, and intellectually. We will explore how the prenatal environment, the birth experience, and parenting philosophy, style and skill affect child development. We will also study positive discipline techniques and practical parenting skills.
History of Indigenous America	Introduction to the History of Indigenous America. In this quarter, students will get an historical perspective on the Indigenous experience in Noarth America. Using guest speakers, films as well as historical texts, students will embark on a whirlwind tour of the last 12,000 years or so, with the deepest emphasis on the last 511.
Listening to the Land	In this course, students will read and discuss various interviews conducted by Derek Jensen concerning environmental ethics and issues, in his book "Listening to the Land". Students will then keep a detailed, running journal each time we finish a discussion about an interview. This class will only be open to students who were in the “Coming of Age Class, 4th qtr. last year. Trip will happen toward the end of quarter, to the Ozarks.
War, Politics and the American Way	127-999 This class is going to focus on the politics of war, looking at historical eras when we were at war. Students will learn about the United States’ role in the Spanish American war. The subseuent guerrilla war in the Philippines, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and both Gulf wars. In this class students will read War is the Force That Gives Us Meaning by Chris Hedges.
U.S. History of the 20 & 21th Century	Let’s take a look at the United States throughout the 20th century and into the first few years of the 21st. Where have we been, what have we done, and why? Also we’ll examine the fates of the peoples abandoned (people of color and women - to name some along the way in this march through history.
Democracy	In this course, students will read and discuss the book The Best Democracy Money Can Buy Students are expected to come away with a deeper understanding of our Nation’s political system and how it has been affected by the deregulations of the Reagan era. Two papers will be assigned over the course of this class. Each paper will be 6-10 pages in length, typed, double spaced with a maximum of size 12 font.
Civil Liberties	127-791 Have you ever thought about, really thought about the awesome power that the State (the government) can hold over our lives? Through our pact with society to protect us from one another and from the harshness of nature, we potentially surrender a good bit, if not all of our freedom of action, our liberties. This course will explore how we can block our descent into the shackles of slavery by uncovering the rights and freedoms that belong to all of us, as guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. The courts, Congress, protest and resistance, are all ways through which we can demand our liberties. This spring we’ll take a close look at all of them.
Web Site Design & the Mound Bayou Project Service Learning	Who says students can’t teach teachers? In this service-learning class, students will be divided into two work teams. The first team will learn how to set up a Web Site. The second team will revise and expand student-generated curriculum developed last spring on Mound Bayou, Mississippi - one of the few reamining historic Black Townships in the United States. (Last spring Shabazz students researched the history of Mound Bayou and developed curriculum for K-12 students. In the spring they visited Mound Bayou and shared their curriculum with elders, students and teachers there.) These two teams will work together in preparation for an unique opportunity for students to teach teachers. As the first team is learning about web site design, the second team will finalize the curriculum. Then the Mound Bayou materials will be put on a newly created Mound Bayou, Mississippi Web Site. In January these two teams will offer two in-service trainings for MMSD treachers on how to use this Web Site and curriculum for Black History Month. It is also hoped that teachers nationwide will use these materials for continuous celebrations of this unique Black Township. This class will be excellent for students who are interested in learning web site design; exploring this little known chapter of African American history; developing curriculum; and educating teachers.
Anthropological Literature	In this class, students will get an introduction to some of my favorite anthropological writings. Each student will be required to read 3 books (to be approved by me) and write a 6-page analysis for each book.
Media Dividing/Springsteen Uniting	This course will explore the corporate media's politics and sensationalism. Is it mostly liberal? Mostly conservative? Mostly in it for the money? Does the media unnecessarily divide us as Americans? This question will be looked at through looking at various forms of medias' look at the lead up to the latest war on Iraq. The criticism inherit in this class is not necessarily of the war per se, but if how we were sold the war. The flip side of this bad news is the republican good news that Bruce Springsteen's music is rife with. We will explore it as a uniting, and therefore countervailing force, in America. Work will consist of in-class discussions, weekly response papers (in various forms, including the non-written) and one opportunity to make a tape of music of 3-4 songs with either audiotaped, written or face to face commentary responding to issues and themes discussed over the course of the quarter. You do not have to be Springsteen fan to enjoy this course; in fact, it will probably be more successful for all concerned if there is non-Springsteen fans in it. Just come with an open mind and open ears.
History of the American West	What is the “American West”? Where is it? How do we know? How does the reality compare and contrast to the popular image/myth? Who lives and lived there and why? These and other questions/themes will be investigated in this course. We will read, talk, think, write and find other, creative ways for students to express their thoughts, perceptions and knowledge about the West.
Sin Fronteras: The Carribean Experience	Students who enroll in the Carribbean Experience class will have the opportunity to reflect on issues of identity, class and race in the Carribean and compare these issues to their own life experiences. Students will also take an in depth look at Carnival, its history, its characters and how it is celebrated in the Caribbean and in the United States. Finally, students will create carnival or Mardi Gras character masksand take part in the Sin Fronteras Carnival Parade on State Street in May. The combination art and social studies curriculum will be a challenging and enriching experience for the teachers and students. The students will benefit by sharing their gifts with their classmates, maintaining an ongoing interest in the art project, inspiring other students to learn about the Caribbean, and taking what they have learned out into the community. The students will gain confidence in their ability to research and to make and share their art, while the teachers will learn to take their teaching beyond their rooms. If you are ready to rumba, bomba, plena and calypso, this is the class for you.
De-Bunking the Myths in U.S. History	127-100 Can learning history in a public school setting actually make you more ignorant? Have you ever wondered why people from other Countries know more about our Country than we do? In this class we will attempt to answer these questions as well as learn how other Countries’ textbooks tell our story. We will find that our version and theirs are vastly different. This is our first clue. The history textbooks in the United States often read like a comic book in which the U.S. is the superhero, never capable of doing wrong. We will examine how our history has been distorted and discuss the ramifications and consequences.
The History of Hip Hop Music and Culture	127-100 In this class we will study the history of hip hop music and culture from their origins in the Bronx, New York to the present state of hip hop. We will analyze the music and explore the cultural forces that have shaped the perspective of the “Hip Hop Generation.” Bakari Kitwana’s Hip Hop Generation will serve as the central text for this course. Films, music, and other readings will also be used.
A Manwom in a Wom's World	127-999 Some say men are from Mars and women are from Venus. It has also been said that the boys go to Jupiter to get more stupider and the girls go to Mars to get more candy bars. While these suggestions come from a bestselling author/self-help guru (the first quote) and from the children’s playground (the second quote), they both conveniently imply that gender differences are real, natural and unchangeable. This course promises to explore the topic of gender roles a bit more deeply than pop culture does. We’ll read a book called Egalia’s Daughters that switches gender roles completely, suggesting that such exaggerated gender differences are inevitable in a society in which one sex dominates another. We’ll read and discuss arguments from sociobiologists that counter this view and hold that male dominance is in humanities genes. Is gender rooted in Nature, culture or some combination? In this class, we’ll examine all sides of the debate.
Another World is Possible: Globalize Liberation	Enough with the depressing bad news! Yes, the world is being ripped apart by men who trade in blood, sweat, and oil. But what can we do about it? This class aims to answer that question, and provide students with creative ideas for how to uproot the global system and build a better world. Most of the course work will focus on a series of essays in the book, “Globalize Liberation,” but we will also try to connect with social justice movements in our own community.
The Politics of How Food Gets on your Plate	You are what you eat. This class will focus on the social issues surrounding food in contemporary society. Students will explore the politics of food, and how food production and consumption relates to social and economic justice. Students will examine the health implications of their diets and the social-justice implications of consumption habits. Some of the specific topics to be explored include: fair trade, factory farms, globalization and agriculture, unions, and how to build sustainable communities.
Economics	Have you ever wondered how to save an endangered species such as the black rhinoceros from extinction? Maybe economics can provide the answer! In this introductory economics course, we will be reading Charles Wheelan’s “Naked Economics: Undressing the Dismal Science.” We will be learning how economics affects our lives and how it can be used to understand and solve many of the world’s problems. The class will also be conducting a 7-8 week stock market simulation with required assignments.
The Cost of Being Poor Service Learning	In this service-learning class we will be examining the many causes and issues surrounding poverty and homelessness, and also learn what steps need to be taken to combat these problems. In conjunction with the course, we will be working with Habitat for Humanity of Dane County building homes in the community. No carpentry knowledge required, just a good attitude and desire to help! This class is only for student 16 years and older.