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Science |
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 | A spiral of science
Science at Waldorf High School is an intensive exploration of the main branches and areas of chemistry, physics, and biology through all four years, in addition to the study of earth science in ninth and tenth grades. We return to each of these fields every year as our students' intellects mature, and they can approach the subject matter with increasing sophistication and depth. The opportunity to explore each field repeatedly also provides students the time to reflect on these topics and to integrate their understanding with newly acquired knowledge in other sciences and subjects.
First, observe
We study all the sciences with a phenomenological approach. In general terms, this approach is as follows: Class begins with the consideration of a phenomenon. Students observe it intently, and then describe their observations verbally or in writing. The class and their teacher share their observations, consider the details they have gathered, and perhaps repeat the experiment. Students' observations lead to questions about why these results have occurred. They discuss possible causes and reach a probable conclusion that is compared with accepted scientific theory. Throughout, their thinking is engaged in the process of accurate description and disciplined inquiry in order to make sense of phenomena. They derive scientific principles from careful observation. At all levels, even as the subject matter grows ever more complex and imperceptible to human senses, observation and discovery precede theoretical explanations.
Then, explore
Our science laboratories are both in school, where we have a well-equipped lab for a wide range of experiments and discovery, and beyond. Frequent field trips to natural settings to study biology, botany, hydrology, marine science, and wild life ecology are an integral part of all our science courses. In addition to hands-on experimentation and fieldwork, students study the history and development of the physical and biological sciences through research assignments and independent experiments.
At last, understand
By the end of their four years of science at Waldorf High School, our graduates are able to reason analytically and quantitatively. They understand the relationship of science to human activity. They have become keen observers of complex events, and have ample capacity for creative imagination in support of their ability to make sense of new phenomenological situations. Through their study of science at Waldorf High School, they have learned to ask, and answer, the profound questions: "How do we know what we know?" and "What is the foundation for knowing?"
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Physics I:Thermal Physics |
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Ninth Grade Main Lesson, Mr. Claus |
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The study of thermodynamics involves heat, warmth,
temperature, energy, force, and work. Through a series of laboratory
experiments, discussions, and research, students sort through these ideas and
arrive at an understanding of how thermodynamics drives the natural processes
on the earth and technological processes of machines. In order to develop their power of observation, students are
challenged to recreate in words and illustrations an experiment that was just
performed by or for them. Specific
topics include the polarities of hot versus cold and heat versus temperature,
heat transfer, material responses to heat, phase changes, and global climate
change. Students will begin to understand how scientific theories adapt as
new evidence is gathered through experience and experimentation, and our
understanding of reality is refined. |
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Chemistry III: The Nature of Matter |
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Eleventh Grade Main Lesson, Mr. Claus |
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This Main Lesson examines the development of modern chemistry, from its origins in ancient Greece to modern atomic theory. The basic question being explored is “What is the nature of matter?” An important component will be study of the periodic table of the elements. We will learn the history of the table, how it is arranged, and how to use it as a tool. Students will come to appreciate the table as a revealed reflection of nature itself, rather than a man-made conception. In addition, we will focus on the real experience of a number of different elements, since the table does not convey many of these qualities. Each student will research, write about, and orally present to the class one of the elements, with the goal of helping students to see the Periodic Table not just as an abstract chart to memorize, but as a kind of map of world substances which contributes to our understanding of the nature of matter.
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Physics III: Electricity & Magnetism |
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Eleventh Grade Main Lesson, Mr. Oliver |
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This course will cover phenomena due to tribo-electricity, magnetism, and electromagnetism. The students will gain an understanding of charges, electric and magnetic fields, as well as their interaction. Practical applications, such as the generator, electric motor, and transformer will be explored. Major attention, time, and effort will be put in at home and during class to build electric circuits from electronic parts. Students will learn to use analog and digital multimeters. Each student will research an individual topic chosen from a list. |
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Life Science |
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Eleventh Grade Course, Mr. Oliver/Mr. Claus |
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This year long course will focus on individual and small-group scientific research projects with an emphasis on understanding and using the scientific method as a means of creating new knowledge. Projects can be chosen from any scientific discipline including physics, chemistry, biology, or cross-disciplinary studies. All students will present their research both in a written report and a presentation to the community. |
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