Teaching seventh and eighth grades makes new demands on the class teacher, especially in the realm of the sciences. Many teachers feel unqualified to teach anatomy and physiology, physics and chemistry, but with a proper orientation and preparation, these can be among the most meaningful and satisfying subjects in the upper grades curriculum.

This course will provide the background needed to approach these subjects with confidence. We will consider the philosophy and goals of Waldorf science teaching, get an overview of this stage of child development and how the curriculum addresses it, identify the most useful sources and methods of preparation, and explore the methods and materials that will ensure success in the classroom.

Each day we will work together in the lab, observing demonstrations and performing activities that will give participants the experience needed to enjoy teaching these subjects. Black and white drawing, geometric drawing, and the creation of platonic solids will be a part of our artistic experience.

Suggested texts:
Julius, F. The World of Matter and the Education of Man
Kennish, G. Chemistry in Classes 7 & 8
Mitchell, D. The Wonders of Waldorf Chemistry
Trostli, R. Physics is Fun!

Materials fee: $30

Roberto Trostli has been active in Waldorf education for over 25 years. He taught three cycles of the upper elementary grades at the Rudolf Steiner School in New York City, which he attended as a child. Then he moved to the Hartsbrook School in Hadley, MA, where he took a class from grades 1–8 before founding its high school, where he now teaches biology, chemistry, and physics. Roberto, former co-director of the part-time teacher education program at Sunbridge College, has given numerous courses, workshops, and lectures on science teaching and Waldorf education. He is author of Physics is Fun! A Sourcebook for Teachers, and editor of Rhythms of Learning and Teaching Language Arts in the Waldorf School.

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