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African-studies and Social Justice Dept
Welcome to the Social Justice Department at the XyayX Institute, where we are committed to empowering our students and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Our department is dedicated to promoting equity, justice, and positive change in our communities through education, advocacy, and action.
Our Social Justice Department aims to cultivate critical thinking, empathy, and a deep understanding of social issues among our students. Through thought-provoking discussions, engaging activities, and meaningful projects, we encourage our students to explore topics such as systemic oppression, inequality, discrimination, and human rights.
Our curriculum is designed to inspire our students to become agents of change in their communities. We encourage them to examine their own identities and privileges, develop cultural competence, and actively challenge social injustices. Our department fosters a safe and inclusive space for students to express their voices, share their experiences, and engage in meaningful dialogue that promotes empathy, understanding, and social cohesion.
Teachers
k-1 Teacher: Prof. Stella
2nd - 8th grade: Prof. Morrishow/Prof. Joi
9th-12th Teacher: Brother Que
All Social classes meet four times per week and are one hour in duration.
Social Justice and the African American Experience
Our Social Justice curriculum is centered on exploring the African experience post-colonization, with a particular emphasis on debating and argumentation. Through interactive discussions and engaging activities, students develop critical thinking skills, research abilities, and the capacity to construct compelling arguments. Additionally, our curriculum delves into Mobilization and Organizing, utilizing resource mobilization theory to analyze the work of influential black organizers, the challenges they faced, and equipping students with the tools to become effective mobilizers in today's society.
In the Leadership and Advocacy component, we focus on the principles of leadership and advocacy, examining the characteristics and strategies employed by great black leaders in their fight for social justice. By studying their legacies, we instill in students the importance of advocating for the black community and inspire them to become agents of change.
Through our Social Justice curriculum, we provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the African experience, foster critical thinking and research skills, and empower them to become leaders and advocates for the black community. By delving into these important topics, we aim to cultivate a new generation of informed, engaged, and socially conscious individuals who are equipped to make a positive impact in the fight against injustice.
Assignments
students will receive their assignments through Google Classroom. It is essential for students to show all their work and provide detailed explanations of their problem-solving process. Assignments may incorporate exercises from the IXL platform to offer extra practice and reinforce key concepts. Students are expected to complete assignments on time and are responsible for checking with the teacher or their classmates for any missed work or notes in case of an absence. If there are exceptional circumstances that lead to late submission, parents should reach out via email. Late assignments will be accepted within the unit timeframe, and if the unit has already been completed, it will be at the teacher's discretion to decide whether to accept the assignment.
make up work:
students will receive their assignments through Google Classroom. It is essential for students to show all their work and provide detailed explanations of their problem-solving process. Assignments may incorporate exercises from the IXL platform to offer extra practice and reinforce key concepts. Students are expected to complete assignments on time and are responsible for checking with the teacher or their classmates for any missed work or notes in case of an absence. If there are exceptional circumstances that lead to late submission, parents should reach out via email. Late assignments will be accepted within the unit timeframe, and if the unit has already been completed, it will be at the teacher's discretion to decide whether to accept the assignment.
Class grade
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Class assignments 40%
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Class participation 15%
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Class Notes 35%
GRADING SCALE:
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A 93-100
- A - 90-92
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B + 87-89
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B 83-86
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B - 80-82
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C + 77-79
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C 73-76
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C - 70-72
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D + 67-69
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D 60-66
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D - 59
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F 55
Our Social Justice Courses
The African American experience and Colonialism
In this class, students are immersed in a thought-provoking exploration of historical events that have shaped our world. This course delves into crucial topics such as European colonialism, the transatlantic slave trade, and the profound impact of slavery on the rise of mercantilism and capitalism.
Through a comprehensive analysis, students examine the intricate connections between European wealth and the institution of slavery. They gain a deeper understanding of how Europeans benefited economically, socially, and politically from this exploitative system. This critical examination allows students to grasp the profound repercussions that continue to resonate in our contemporary society.
Debating and argumentation
In our Social Justice Debating and Argumentation course, students dive into the art of persuasive communication and effective debate. Through interactive discussions and engaging activities, they develop critical thinking skills, research abilities, and the capacity to construct compelling arguments. The course covers a wide range of social justice topics, equipping students with the tools to analyze evidence, counter opposing viewpoints, and advocate for corrective policies that address the challenges faced by the black community. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students refine their public speaking skills and foster respectful dialogue, empowering them to actively engage in discussions surrounding social justice.
With a focus on logical reasoning and evidence-based argumentation, our Social Justice Debating and Argumentation course equips students with essential skills for academic and professional success. By examining diverse perspectives and exploring topics such as racial equity and systemic oppression, students gain a deeper understanding of social justice issues. Through their participation in this course, students develop the confidence and knowledge to effectively advocate for change, promoting a more equitable society.
Mobilization and organizing
Our Mobilization and Organizing course focuses on key concepts such as resource mobilization theory, group theory, and effective strategies for mobilization. Through in-depth discussions, we delve into the challenges, methodologies, and strategies employed by black leaders in their pursuit of social justice.
In this course, students gain a deep understanding of the power of mobilization and learn effective techniques for engaging individuals, building coalitions, and effecting meaningful change. They analyze successful mobilization efforts throughout history and explore the strategies employed by black leaders to address systemic issues and advocate for social justice.
Leadership and Advocacy
Our Leadership and Advocacy course is centered on providing black students with the necessary tools to become great leaders and to understand the power of advocacy. Through an exploration of black leaders' leadership styles, methodologies, and effectiveness, students gain valuable insights into the art of leadership. They analyze the policies advocated by these leaders and assess their impact on society.
As Huey Newton once said, "I have the people behind me and the people are my strength." In this course, we emphasize the importance of collective power and the strength that comes from unity. We encourage students to recognize the power they hold as individuals within a community and the transformative potential that can be realized when working together.
