4th Grade

The 10 year old child stands in new relation to the world and the fourth grade marks a clear change in the work and what is expected of them - and they are prepared and ready. The Waldorf fourth grader feels “I am here, and the world is there”, and the transition from early childhood is complete. The habits and skills of the first three grades are formed and steady, and are now put to use in studying new and varied subjects. Children begin to explore their environment, first with making a map of their bedroom, the route they take to school, their classroom, school, city, and county, eventually moving into the map of California and studying the rich culture and history of the state. Stories continue, of local indigenous people and Norse Mythology. The mythology stories brings gods and goddesses, fiery passion, cleverness, self sacrifice, all of which mirror their own self. And the rich tales of the Norse people’s close relationship to their natural world help children to encounter the struggles between opposing forces, extremes in conflict and humor and wisdom - all of which speak to the budding ten year old as they move into middle childhood. Zoology is brought, and students choose an animal to study in depth - writing a paper on their chosen animal, as well as a 3D model and drawing, to be then presented to the parents and class. Zoology is then taken out into the broader world, traditionally with an overnight field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium - their first of many overnight field trips.