Dispelling the Myth Regarding Grades in Waldorf Schools... Yes, we give them!

...Grades students are taught in subject blocks that typically last about 4 weeks. During this time, students create lesson books on the subject being studied, whether Roman History, Acoustics, or Algebra. Because they don't carry around textbooks, they make their own; and it is an active, engaging process that engenders a sense of accomplishment at the end of each block. The block test is a good grading tool, then, because it assesses what the student retained from the entire four weeks. The block grade is comprised of an average of the lesson bookwork, the test, and classroom participation (including any required reports/projects)..."

History in 6th and 7th Grades

As part of their block on medieval history, middle school students in Ms. Powell’s class had to “live” out the history they were studying by participating in “The Squire’s Challenge.” In addition to the lesson work, students had to “contribute to the well-being and progress” of their class, the whole school, and their neighborhood, church, or community organization...

Monday, February 14th, 2011

Synaptic Pruning

What is synaptic pruning? Why does it matter? As usual, this month’s “Ad Lib” comes from a stimulating conversation I had with a prospective parent. She ..

Summer Camp

Wondering what the kids will do this summer without the reliable, rhythmic AWS day? Look no further than your own school hallway! With camps being offered for both preschool and grades students, your kids can enjoy summer on AWS playgrounds and in the classrooms!

Friday, January 7th, 2011

HOLIDAY FAIRE 2011…

Thanks to all of you... for making this Holiday Faire one of the most beautifully decorated ever! Vendors’ goods were perfect for Christmas shopping, the bake sale and lunch buffet were delectable nourishment for body and soul, and the music was entertaining.

Learning Parts of Speech in 3rd Grade,
from Ms. Lucas

Using characters, like the one pictured above, engages otherwise reluctant students into lessons about grammar and parts of speech. Ms. Lucas told her students stories about King Noun the Namer, whose job it was to name things in his kingdom. His wife, Queen Adjective, was responsible for describing the things King Noun named.  The energetic Sir Verb is always doing things, running or walking from one activity to the next.

Friday, November 12th, 2010

Eurythmy Student brings Steiner’s unique Art Form to AWS

Eurythmy student Joshua Eckland is completing his practicum for his Euruythmy Certification at Alabama Waldorf School. For three weeks in November Joshua brings lessons to AWS’ Kindergarten and grades classes. AWS parent Rachel Cornelius and Ms. Carole accompany Mr. Eckland’s musical eurythmy exercises on the piano.

Learning outside of the Classroom: AWS Field trips!

On October 26th, Ms. Lucas’ 3rd graders traveled to Pell City as part of their Farming Block curriculum. Hollow Springs Farm owner Chris Bennett was kind enough to mention our students in his newsletter:

Friday, September 23rd, 2011