Non-Departmental Electives

Grades: 10-12
Prerequisite: Persuasive Communication or approval of instructor
Credit: .25

Advanced argumentation allows students to build on the skills learned in Persuasive Communication. In terms of research, students are expected to produce more evidence and higher quality evidence (more complex, academic sources) so that they can compete at the junior varsity and varsity levels of competitive debate. Students also learn to critique evidence effectively so that they challenge weak evidence presented by their opponents. In terms of argument construction, students practice developing themes or stories that they can carry throughout a debate round, working to move beyond debates about individual pieces of evidence to debates about broad questions and ideas. Additionally, students will hone their ability to mix responses dependent on evidence with responses dependent on analysis alone. Finally, students will combine these improved skills in argumentation with more practice in public speaking.

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: Intro to Computer Science
Credit: .25

Students in this semester-long course will learn applied computer science concepts through a hands-on approach to programming their own projects with a variety of text-based (JavaScript, Python) and graphical languages. Students will apply the conceptual ideas behind computing and coding. Students will get hands-on experience and explore concepts such as binary and analog, pixel-based graphics, use of microcontrollers, as well as sensors, servos, and more. Students will also learn about algorithms and program design as they create a series of web-based applications and fabricate computational designs and animations. 

Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Highly motivated student (a “self-starter”)
Credit: .5

One definition of engineering is “solving problems that arise from a specific human need or desire.” Engineers solve these problems by relying on their knowledge of science and mathematics, by using an engineering design process, and by collaborating with other engineers. 

In this hands-on course, students will spend the first few weeks designing and building small structures with inexpensive materials. To succeed, the students will have to work with a team to create structures that meet minimum design criteria, just as professional engineers do. Students will also have the opportunity to investigate properties of materials, characterizing them in the same way that engineers describe the metals, polymers, and other materials they use. 

Next, students will learn about computer design by taking advantage of the resources in MPA’s Makerspace. They will use 3D design software to design, and then print, an object on a 3D printer. 

In the final segment of the course, students will be introduced to analog and digital electronics. The nature of the projects during this part of the course will involve the students in designing and building circuits that meet specified minimum requirements. The engineering design process and the communication of results via reports will be emphasized. 

Grade: 9
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .25

This course will introduce students to the concept of health equity and will provide a broad overview of health disparities in Minnesota, the United States, and the world. The course will examine relevant historical issues, theories, and data, emphasizing open discussion, critical analysis, and application of learned material. Students will gain a better understanding of the current challenges faced by various populations through research on health disparities and interventions to promote health equity through a combination of readings, in-class reflections, case studies, and visiting speakers. The course will also include a service component where students will design and carry out a service project allowing them to earn service hours.

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .25

The Beauty and Joy of Computing (BJC) curriculum offers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to computer science concepts. Designed by educators at the University of California, Berkeley and aligned with standards from AP CS Principles, this course emphasizes creativity, problem-solving, and computational thinking skills using the Snap! programming language. Students explore fundamental concepts such as algorithms, abstraction, and data representation through hands-on projects and real-world applications. With a focus on equity and inclusivity, BJC aims to empower students from diverse backgrounds to become proficient in computing and to understand its impact on society. Through collaborative learning and exploration, students gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and joy of computing while developing essential skills for the digital age. 

Grades: 9 - 12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .5

Fabrication, Textiles, and Woodworking  

Makerspace is a beginner course designed to develop skills in fabrication, textiles, woodworking, circuits and using fabrication tools. The class will provide students with a structure for solving problems using the design thinking process. Students will explore a variety of materials, share ideas, and develop strategies to help bring ideas to fruition. A portion of the course will be focused on meeting professionals in various fields that use design thinking to solve problems related to designing, prototyping, and testing.   

The course will provide students with project options in fabrication, textiles, woodworking and circuits. Projects will encourage students to think creatively, communicate ideas effectively, and work collaboratively. Direct instruction will be given in how to use the equipment in the Makerspace, with an emphasis on safety, material use, and craftsmanship. Students will also use a variety of computer applications for design.  

Using the design thinking process and skills practiced during the course, students will be given time at the end of the semester to propose a final project, develop a timeline, and bring an idea to life!   

Students will have training and access to the following equipment and resources:  

• 3D printers  

• Laser cutter  

• Computer aided drawing (CAD) applications  

• Vinyl cutter  

• Sewing machines  

• Workshop tools (hand tools, power tools, and power machines)  

Grades: 9-12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .25

Persuasive Communication is designed to develop and refine students’ persuasive speaking and writing skills. The course will focus on the practical goal of successfully competing in high school debate, and it will also teach lifelong skills including effectively researching a topic, reading high-level material to gather evidence and opinions, developing arguments for and against a given position, persuasively speaking to support an argument, and writing a persuasive argument. 

Grades: 9 - 12
Prerequisites: None
Credit: .5

This is a hands-on course designed for the student who has little or no experience with robots or programming. Using a VEX robotics system, students are asked to meet an increasingly complex series of challenges, and they learn the building and programming techniques necessary to successfully solve these problems. 

Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Instructor permission
Credit: .25

In this first-semester, student publication course, students will create the school's yearbook using journalistic reporting and writing techniques as well as graphic design basics. Working in teams and developing project management skills, students will not only learn journalistic writing, but will also learn how to use InDesign and Photoshop for publication needs. 

*** To be eligible for this class, students enrolling must have received grades above a C- in the previous academic year. 

Grades: 10-12
Prerequisites: Instructor permission
Credit: .25

This second-semester advanced course will see the completion of the yearbook and continue to give students opportunities to perfect their journalism and graphic design skills. This semester, the course is an independent study.