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Tag Archives: 24winter
History of Comedy (Bryan)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
For winter term only, we’ll explore the evolution of comedy through the decades, learning about influential comedians and the various styles of humor they mastered. From slapstick to sketch, stand-up to satire, we’ll analyze how comedy reflects societal norms, challenges conventions, and connects people through laughter. Each week, students will watch, discuss, and reflect on key performances, uncovering the artistry behind the jokes.
This class will include mature content and is open only to high school students. Expect lively discussions, critical thinking about humor, and regular homework assignments designed to deepen your understanding of comedy as a cultural force.
- Expect weekly video clips and small written reflections to be done outside of class.
- Expect to engage with and critique comedic performances.
- Be prepared to approach humor with an open mind!
Whether you’re a lifelong comedy fan or just curious about its history, this class will give you a new appreciation for the craft of making people laugh.
Advanced Dungeons & Dragons
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
In this class we will go over a once a week dungeons and dragons campaign led by me, Nat. I will expect you to bring a prepared character, any physical dice you will want to use, as well as your enthusiasm every week.
IF I HAVE NOT SPOKEN TO YOU ABOUT BEING A PART OF THIS CLASS, THEN YOU SHOULD NOT STICKER IT, STICKER THE OTHER ONE THOUGH IT’LL BE AWESOME.
Intro to Dungeons & Dragons
Have YOU ever been BUMMED OUT that Nat’s DnD class is invite only????? WELL GET EXCITED, this term I will be hosting a fully open Dungeons and Dragons class (as long as you have mature themes.) We will be going on a wild adventure written by yours truly in the wonderful world of Toril. However, unfortunately due to the nature of the game I will only be able to accept a maximum of 4-5 people so sticker wisely!
This class will accept everyone from proficient dungeoneers to level one newbies, in the first few weeks we will go over the components of character building, the basic rules, we will also all make our characters together, AND THEN YOU SAVE THE WORLD!!!!!!! But don’t think this class will just be messing around, every week (or session as i call it) I will expect 1 short paragraph (3-5 sentences) of reflection, session notes, noticing, or in-character writing about the recents events, etc etc.
French II (Sam)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
World Language Credit
In this two day a week world language class, students will be immersed in intermediate French. This class will experience the language in three different styles; written, vocalization and learning. During each class session, students will be expected to fully participate in speaking aloud, written vocabulary and sentence structure work and active listening to several speakers from several French speaking countries. Each student will be given the time to meet with me, one on one for additional guidance.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned language exercises (written and oral), turn in all notes, complete vocabulary work and assigned short quizzes.
Indigenous Studies (Sam)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
Social Studies Credit (Cultural/Global Studies)
In this two day a week class, students will be studying and analyzing text from the book, “The Rediscovery go America: Native People and the unmasking of U.S. History,”” by Ned Blackhawk. Students will be required to read the assigned text and take quality notes in preparation for our group discussion. The class will cover many stories and historical events that are not openly shares in mainstream historical accounts and will use the information to connect to major events in American history.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, turn in all notes, complete short and medium sized essays, including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignment.
Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.
Scientific Microadventures (hannah)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
This is a middle school science class!
In this twice-a-week class, we will go on microadventures (very small adventures) around the neighborhood. We will utilize the scientific method to hypothesize about and experiment on some aspect of each microadventure.
We will first create a list of places to go on a microadventure and engage with scientifically. Ideas include Danny Woo Community Garden and ecology; Uwajimaya and nutrition; the aquarium and marine biology; nearby parks and ornithology or botany; sociology on the streets; the school refrigerator and MOLD??? So many possibilities!
We will then go on some of these microadventures and engage in the scientific method: observe and ask questions, research, form hypotheses, experiment, collect data, analyze our findings, and make a conclusion! To earn Science credit, you must attend the majority of our class microadventures and participate in projects including all parts of the applied scientific method.
This class is itself an experiment, but it will be a very fun one. Let’s go on microadventures around the neighborhood to learn the foundations of all scientific inquiry together!
Black History through Stories and Songs (Sam)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
Social Studies Credit (Cultural/Global Studies)
In this two times a week Social Studies class, student will encounter the history of African Americans through the literary lens of the book, “Stamped,” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. This work will help and further the understanding of where racism comes from and how it affects America today.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, turn in all notes, complete short and medium sized essays, including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignment.
Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.
MS Philosophy (hannah)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
In this twice-a-week middle school philosophy class, we will read texts, watch videos, and engage in activities that facilitate discussion of major philosophical topics. This class will cover the foundations of philosophy and then dive deeper into the topics that interest the class. There will be little outside work for this class. Students will receive a social studies credit by participating in discussion and completing all assignments, including (potentially) one structured deliberation and one other larger assignment.
High School Sexual Health Education (Continuation Course) (amy)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
Health and Fitness Credit
In our second term of Sex Ed, students will continue to develop their Relationship Skills by delving into the crucial topic of consent. This course emphasizes the significance of consent as the most essential relationship skill, ensuring a thorough understanding of its principles. Furthermore, students will deepen their knowledge regarding bodies, and explore the spectrum of gender identities and sexual orientations. By taking a philosophical approach, this class invites students to critically examine cultural beliefs surrounding these topics. As a continuation of a year-long class, registration requires completion of the first term of Sex Ed.
Upon completing the full year of this class, Health and Fitness credit will be earned based on assignment completion, class attendance, and active participation in discussions.
Practical Piano 2 (Brandon)
This is an intermediate piano class for folks interested in learning how to become better at playing the piano. Students will learn keyboard exercises to develop good playing technique, strengthen rhythm, and build on the theory learned in the intro classes from last year. Students will learn strategies to quickly learn and more easily read music. Students will analyze melodies, chords, and harmonies to better understand how they are performed on the piano. Students will continue analyzing famous songs, creating their own music, and are encouraged (but not required) to share them with the community.
To ensure a basic skill floor for students in this class, you must talk to Brandon for an evaluation before choosing this class.
Creative Writing (Blogging) (Sam)
English Credit
In this once a week English class, students will create a personal blogging site and add personal writings. During each session, students will be able to brainstorm ideas while using creativity to produce blog posts.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned writings, turn in all work, complete mini projects, including blog design and other blog site maintenance.
Indigenous Studies (Sam)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
Social Studies Credit (Cultural/Global Studies)
In this one day per week English class, students will learn about the history of the original people on the land referred to as Turtle Island. Participating students will be studying and analyzing text from the book, “Indigenous Peoples’ History of the United States: A Graphic Interpretation,”by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz. The class will cover many stories and historical events that are not openly shares in mainstream historical accounts and we will use the information to connect to major events in American history.
Students will be required to read the assigned text and take quality notes in preparation for our group discussion. To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, turn in all notes, complete short and medium sized essays, including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignment.
Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.
Voices of Resilience: Japanese Internment and CID History (amy)
Language Arts Credit
Course Description: This course invites students to explore the historical and cultural dimensions of Japanese internment during World War II, with a focus on the International District of Seattle as a vibrant cultural hub. Through a collective reading of Jamie Ford’s poignant novel, “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet,” students will engage in discussions that connect literary themes with real-life experiences of the Japanese American community. Join us for a transformative journey through history, literature, and community exploration.
Students will earn Language Arts credit by actively participating in class discussions, completing assignments, and attending sessions regularly.
Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.
Make Art, Write, and Send (hannah)
Bring back letter-writing! This method of connection with others is an absolute delight and requires thoughtfulness, initiative, and clear handwriting. Perhaps you will even establish a pen pal!
In this once-a-week Art credit class, we will make art together, write letters on the art, and send it to our loved ones. The art will be 2D – painting, drawing, collage. HB will provide stamps. Open to all.
MS Literature – The Astonishing Color of After (hannah)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
In this middle school English class, we will read The Astonishing Color of After by Emily X.R. Pan. From the author’s website:
Leigh Chen Sanders is absolutely certain about one thing: When her mother died by suicide, she turned into a bird. Leigh, who is half Asian and half white, travels to Taiwan to meet her maternal grandparents for the first time. There, she is determined to find her mother, the bird. In her search, she winds up chasing after ghosts, uncovering family secrets, and forging a new relationship with her grandparents.
Alternating between reality and magic, past and present, hope and despair, this is a novel about finding oneself through family history, art, bravery, and love.
This twice-a-week class will include weekly close reading; in-class writing and discussion about literary elements, major themes, and Taiwanese culture; and bigger writing assignments and projects throughout the term. To earn credit, students must read the book, participate in discussion, and complete all written work assigned.
Photography (amy)
Art Credit
This dynamic once-a-week photography class offers a comprehensive exploration of the essential elements of photography, mixing classroom learning with real-world application.
Through a series of engaging assignments, students will have numerous opportunities to practice and refine their newfound techniques and skills.
The course fosters a collaborative learning environment, where classmates will regularly share their photography, provide constructive feedback, and collectively enhance their future works.
No camera? No problem! The primary tool utilized will be cell phone cameras; however, students without access to such devices are asked to arrange for an alternative camera.
By completing assignments, attending classes, actively participating in discussions, and providing feedback, students will earn Art credit for this course.
Required texts/materials: Cell phone with camera capabilities, or camera. Students will be responsible for obtaining their own texts/materials. Materials should be procured by: Before first meeting
Fearless English (Scobie)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
English Credit
This is the class where each week, you write something you’re genuinely excited to read aloud to your classmates, mostly fictional passages, but sometimes other kinds of work.
- There is always work outside of class because we use class mostly for reading your pieces aloud. You get your pieces written between classes!
- This class is FIRE, people, based on the idea that you should only bother writing what you’re super-pumped to share. When you do this the way it’s meant to be done, it feels like being in the best writing class there ever was.
- Drafting all your work in a single google document opened directly from the assignment is required. If you have another method, take a different class.
- Reading your pieces aloud exactly as written is required. No editing on the fly. If you don’t want your work to sound sloppy and mistaken when you read it, don’t turn in sloppy and mistake-laden work.
- You may request that I read one of your pieces aloud in order to hear your own work read by a former voice artist and narrator.
- Late work erodes the value of this class for everyone, including you. If you are not committed to having your work ready on time, please find another class to take. If you submit work late more than once, expect to be asked to leave the class.
Yearbook Class! Term II (Sieglinde)
Career & Technical Credit (CTE)
In this twice weekly, yearlong class, students design, lay out, edit, and print the 24-25 PSCS Yearbook. Over the course of three terms, students use community-process to decide on a theme to represent the school year, and collaborate to ensure representation of the student experience, student creativity, and to archive important local and global events.
In small and full group process, students create a timeline, track deadlines, write copy, take pictures, solicit content, and organize pages using a fun, accessible, online cloud-based marketing platform (Canva!). The final product will be professionally printed and shared with the community at the end of the school year,
Middle School students who register, commit to all three terms, as well as to participation, attendance, and respectful collaboration, will receive Elective Credit on your transcript.
High School students who register, commit to all three terms, as well as to participation, attendance, and respectful collaboration, will receive full Career & Technical OR Elective Credit based on your need.
If any student would like to join the class in Winter or Spring Term, please reach out to Sieglinde for permission. You’ll be eligible to receive partial credit upon completion.
Shop Life (Session 2) (Scobie)
CTE Credit
There are two available sessions of Shop Life. They are not levels. You can take one or both sessions, but please do not make plans or ask permission to come only once a week.*
In Winter Term, we’ll:
- Finish up automata projects started in the fall, or you’ll make a quick simple one if you’re new to the class.
- Discuss options for additional work, including working on the canoe, and/or several other project options.
- Continue to serve the school with learning skills and using them to make needed objects and/or repairs as necessary.*We’ve tried it, and it’s just not enough connection to the work and skills of the class.
Math Foundations (Bryan Hopster)
In this exciting year-long math course (which will now meet 3 times per week!) students will have the opportunity to strengthen their foundational skills and build confidence in their math abilities. Designed for those who want to revisit and master key concepts such as fractions, decimals, introduction to percents, and basic geometry. With engaging activities and supportive instruction, students will work at their own pace, ensuring they fully understand each concept. This course is a safe space for everyone, where making mistakes is part of learning and improvement. Whether you feel a bit unsure of your math skills or simply want to solidify your knowledge, this class is the perfect place to grow and shine in mathematics!
Weaving: From Loom to Fabric (amy)
Art Credit
Discover the art of weaving in this once-a-week inclusive class designed for all skill levels! Beginners will embark on an exciting journey as they learn how to dress a loom from start to finish, culminating in the creation of their own unique fabric piece.
For those with weaving experience, this course offers the opportunity to pursue individualized projects while mastering more complex structures and patterns.
Dedication to completing your weaving project and regular attendance will earn you Art credit, making this course a perfect blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and personal expression.
HS Literature – The Kite Runner (hannah)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
In this high school English class, we will read The Kite Runner by Afghan-American author Khaled Hosseini. From the author’s website:
The unforgettable, heartbreaking story of the unlikely friendship between a wealthy boy and the son of his father’s servant, The Kite Runner is a beautifully crafted novel set in a country that is in the process of being destroyed. It is about the power of reading, the price of betrayal, and the possibility of redemption; and an exploration of the power of fathers over sons—their love, their sacrifices, their lies.
A sweeping story of family, love, and friendship told against the devastating backdrop of the history of Afghanistan over the last thirty years, The Kite Runner is an unusual and powerful novel that has become a beloved, one-of-a-kind classic.
This twice-a-week class will include weekly close reading; in-class writing and discussion about literary elements and Afghanistan history; and bigger writing assignments and projects throughout the term. To earn credit, students must read the book, participate in discussion, and complete all written work assigned.
Gender Studies (Continuation) (amy)
Social Studies Credit
In this second term of our two-term class, students will build upon their foundational knowledge of gender studies as we delve even deeper into the exploration of the gender binary and its societal implications. Through the utilization of our textbook, engaging in-class activities, and the analysis of gender portrayal in movies and documentaries, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of why the gender binary exists and the reasons behind individuals’ adherence to it.
***Registration for this class is limited to students who have completed the first term of Gender Studies.
Earning Social Studies credit will be contingent upon the completion of assignments, regular attendance, and active participation in discussions and activities, and the completion of BOTH terms of Gender Studies.
Leadership (hannah)
Leadership this term will include our second Community Engagement Day, various other holidays, and whatever other projects y’all are excited about. We will continue to develop skills including collaboration, communication, responsive facilitation, idea workshopping, problem-solving and more. To earn a Career and Tech credit for this class, you must participate, contribute to projects, and reflect on your process.
This class will meet twice-a-week and is open to all. You do not need to have been in the first term class to join.
Mandarin 2 (Jeremy & Kathy)
World Language Credit
Chinese is the most common language on the Internet. Heck, Chinese is the most common language, period. Mandarin is the most widely spoken version of Chinese, with the number of Mandarin speakers being almost equal to the next three most widely spoken languages combined (Spanish, English, and Hindi).
With all those people speaking Chinese, it makes sense to learn a little. Chinese can be a very challenging language, but it’s one where even a little can be impressive. We will focus on some very practical words and phrases so that you can actually use what you learn. We’ll learn some polite words like “please” and “thank you,” some learning phrases like “What does that mean in English?”, and some food words so maybe you can impress your family the next time you go to a Chinese restaurant.
We will not learn to read and write characters for a couple of reasons: unlike an alphabet, you can’t tell how a word is pronounced by looking at the character (and you may only be able to guess at the meaning), they’re terribly complicated, and I don’t read very well myself.
The homework will involve practicing what we cover in class in various ways.
Note: This class is approved for students who are continuing with their Mandarin studies. Please see the Director of Program if you wish to join.
The History of White People (Sam)
English Credit
In this once a week English class, students will be reading text and discussing the finding found in the literary work and research of Nell Irvin Painter. This class will cover the history of white people and their advancements in literature, history, science, religions and the arts both in Europe and The Americas. To receive credit for this class, you must read each assigned chapter, take quality notes, participate in all discussions and complete all assigned work, including a research project.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, turn in all notes, complete short and medium sized essays, including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignment.
Required texts/materials: The instructor will procure the texts/materials.
Middle School Sexual Health Education (Continuation Course) (amy)
Note: This class is open to middle school students only.
Health and Fitness Credit
This term of our Middle School Sex Education program builds on the foundational knowledge acquired in the first term, delving deeper into reproductive anatomy, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Students will engage in thoughtful discussions and collaborative activities to enhance their understanding of these vital topics.
Please note that enrollment in this course requires completion of the initial term.
Credit will be earned based on assignment completion, class attendance, and overall participation in discussions. Completing the full year will earn students Health & Fitness credit.
Middle Math (Bryan Hopster)
In this year-long class, we’ll be meeting 3 times a week to explore the essential building blocks of middle school level mathematics. We’ll explore ratios, operations, percents, expressions, one and two variable equations, coordinate planes, and basic geometry. Students will develop strong problem-solving skills and lay a solid foundation for future math courses. Expect hands-on activities, collaborative work, and plenty of opportunities to apply math to real-world scenarios!
French I (Sam) (BLOCK)
This is a block class.
World Language Credit
In this two day a week world language class, students will be immersed in intermediate French. This class will experience the language in three different styles; written, vocalization and learning. During each class session, students will be expected to fully participate in speaking aloud, written vocabulary and sentence structure work and active listening to several speakers from several French speaking countries. Each student will be given the time to meet with me, one on one for additional guidance.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned language exercises (written and oral), turn in all notes, complete vocabulary work and assigned short quizzes.
Poetry Lab (hannah)
In this twice-a-week English class, we will read, interpret, and write our own poetry.
We will read lots of poetry to study how this art form continues to change over time and across cultures. We will write lots of poetry, examining elements of the form and experimenting with different styles. You will be facilitated in different writing activities and methods in order to develop confidence and apply new skills. This class will require you to write with soul, share aloud, and give / receive feedback on each other’s work.
Topics will include levels of analysis and literary devices; contemporary and historic poets ranging from Mahmoud Darwish to our current Poet Laureate, Ada Limon; found poetry, haiku, rhyme and free verse.
You will be expected to complete every writing assignment in order to earn credit for this class. Open to all.
Africana Studies (Sam)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
Social Studies Credit (Cultural/Global Studies)
*Prerequisite (Teacher Approval or 3 cultural Studies classes taken)
In this two day a week Social Studies class, students will learn early, and recent past African history from the perspective of Africans. This history has been colonized and made to be less important based on the people who hold power, both monetarily and politically. The first part will examine the image, myth and stereotypes of African in the western media and popular culture. How does the history of Africa align and shape American history?
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, be actively vocal in small group and all group discussion, take notes from presentation and lectures, turn in all notes, complete short and medium sized essays, including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignment.
The Daily Show! (Sieglinde)
Social Studies or Elective Credit
The Daily Show is a long running satirical news show, that is both bitingly funny and on point as it covers important (and not so important) stories in news, politics, and pop culture. We’ll watch the most recent episode(s) together and discuss the top news stories and guest interviews, which range from Ronan Farrow to Ta-Nehisi Coates to Stacy Abrams to Aubrey Plaza.
Student participants can also play and replay most episode’s through any podcast platform.
Elective credit will be offered for all students who participate meaningfully and respectfully. Students who choose to do so, may earn Social Studies credit for this course by writing three drafts of a 5-page research paper on a topic or guest featured in an episode—to be determined by you and the facilitator—and completed by end of the term.
HS Philosophy (hannah)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
In this twice-a-week high school philosophy class, we will continue to read texts, watch videos, question assumptions, discuss and deliberate on major philosophical topics. This term, we will begin by talking about religion and the afterlife, and go from there.
You do not need to have taken the first term philosophy class to join. To receive credit Social Studies for this class, you must participate in discussion and complete all assignments.
Canva: Making Better Presentations (amy)
CTE (Career and Tech) Credit
Google Slides is fine, but Canva is AMAZING!
In this Winter Term class, students meet 2 times a week to learn and practice project presentations and design using Canva, a fun and accessible online marketing platform that is used by content creators, college students, teachers, and CEOs alike! We’ll share design tips and tricks, learn and discuss what makes for a great presentation, and create several of our own. Students will hone skills in creating and using templates, editing, speaking to an audience, and offering, receiving, and incorporating feedback.
Career & Tech credit can be earned for this class based on completion of assignments, attendance in class, and participation in discussions/providing feedback.
Algebra 1 (Bryan Hopster) (BLOCK)
This is a block class.
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
Algebra 1 is the first high school level math class and is a critical stepping stone in your math education. In this year-long course, we’ll meet 3 times a week to lean more into variables, expressions, equations, functions, and their graphs. You’ll learn to solve linear and quadratic equations, work with inequalities, and explore the connections between algebra and geometry. This class is designed to build a strong algebraic foundation that will support all future math studies.
Shop Life (Session 1) (Scobie)
CTE Credit
There are two available sessions of Shop Life. They are not levels. You can take one or both sessions, but please do not make plans or ask permission to come only once a week.*
In Winter Term, we’ll:
- Finish up automata projects started in the fall, or you’ll make a quick simple one if you’re new to the class.
- Discuss options for additional work, including working on the canoe, and/or several other project options.
- Continue to serve the school with learning skills and using them to make needed objects and/or repairs as necessary.*We’ve tried it, and it’s just not enough connection to the work and skills of the class.
Geometry, Continued (Scobie)
In this year-long PSCS class, we’ll continue to establish and refine basic elements of geometry and geometric definitions. We’ll learn and refine geometric drawing techniques while looking at the practical math and beauty of angles and shapes. We’ll also continue to explore systems of measurement for distance, angle, slope, area, and volume, linear and non-linear equations, graphing, and visual & algebraic proofs.
The class will finish in the spring with a unique introduction to the core principles of Trigonometry as inspired by an insightful New Zealand math curriculum.
Psychology of Music (Sam & Cherrise)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
Science Credit
In this two days a week Science class, students will study the power of music and how it has influenced every generation, past, present and future. For each session, participants will study various musical genres, albums, songs, lyrics and other musical selections and how it connect thoughts and behaviors psychologically.
To receive credit for this class, you must complete all assigned readings, turn in all notes, complete case studies; including research work and possibly a research paper or larger writing assignments.
Queer Perspectives: A Documentary Exploration (amy)
Social Studies Credit
Dive into the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ experiences through a curated selection of impactful queer documentaries. This course invites students to engage critically with diverse narratives, exploring themes of identity, history, and activism while fostering an inclusive classroom environment. Join us for a journey of understanding and advocacy through the lens of documentary films.
Students will participate in discussions and reflections based on the films, earning social studies credit through consistent attendance, active participation, and thoughtful completion of assignments.
Please note that the course will cover mature topics relevant to the queer community; while closed captioning will be available, transcripts will not be provided.
Algebra 2 (Bryan Hopster)
Note: This class is open to high school students only.
This year-long advanced course will meet 3 times a week and will take you deeper into the world of algebra. We’ll cover quadratics, polynomials, rational exponents & radical functions, exponential functions & intro to logarithms, rational functions, trigonometry, and statistics. This class is designed to challenge you and refine your analytical skills, preparing you for future studies in calculus and beyond. A strong understanding of Algebra concepts is necessary, and students should be ready for rigorous work both in and out of class.