5th Grade

The Waldorf fifth grade year is often referred to as the Golden Year, as the child is reaching the peak of childhood. They are more poised and balanced than ever before. Often known for a year of balance, the child has a new sense of physical stamina and endurance, they can run and jump easily and know their bodies. Memories are strong and enthusiastic and children have new and increased capacities for examination, thought and reflection. Children are growing their intellectual capacities and able to take on a wider scope of study than in previous years. The curriculum meets students’ new found expansion with the studies of ancient civilizations, both mythical and historical - Ancient Greece, India, Persia, Egypt and China. Closer to home, they study North American geography and how Native cultures worked with their environments. They study Botany, combining artistic explorations with the plant world and scientific terminology. They have field trips into nature, exploring Botany in the greater world. Their course work reflect this new capacity for understanding and questioning. The Waldorf fifth grade student also blossoms socially and emotionally, and as a class they are harmonious, with divisions of boys and girls ceasing.

They are also more capable to take on challenging chores and cleaning than in previous grades.