FLEX No Live Zoom 2025/2026 Class 9

Humanities Main Lesson Blocks with Ms. Jaia

Art History: “A study of History through Art in 9th grade can be a powerful foundation course on what we as human beings have been, what we are now, and what we might become.” (Van James)

The study of art history during this transitional period into high school and adolescence can have a therapeutic effect on all that the 9th grader is going through in their outer physical development, as well as their inner, soul-spiritual development. The powerful subjectivity and emerging critical intelligence of the young adolescent encounter an underlying theme of polarities woven through the Waldorf curriculum for 9th grade. The weeks of studies in the realm of Art History will take us on a journey through human history through art while echoing the gesture of the dramatic tension between opposites. As we explore various times of history through changes reflected in art, we will encounter dramatic tension of dualities resonating with the inner search for identity and meaning.

This Main Lesson block is an overview of the visual arts from pre-historic times to the Renaissance. Students will look at and consider various works of art, as well as take part in the creation of a variety of artistic replications inspired by the periods we will explore. The cultural development of humanity will be explored through active observation of historical works of art, helping students to develop an appreciation for art, aesthetics, and attention to detail.

The Novel: In this main lesson block, we will examine the genre of the novel through the prism of Alexandre Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo. This classic was produced during the time when the genre was in its fullest development and creates the opportunity for students to become familiar with the challenges of reading historical writing. We will study various elements of the novel, such as story, plot, and character, as well as aesthetic and thematic development as the novel genre grows and changes over time.

With this understanding, students will workshop excerpts from their own “novel.” This will create an opportunity to apply these specific aspects of fiction to their own work, as well as practicing the use of rich vocabulary, imagery, and other written conventions. Additionally, students will work on both self and peer editing skills to solidify their grasp of correct grammar, spelling, and mechanics.

Finally, we will explore questions of translations, abridgments, and omissions, noticing these changes and how they depend on the audience and historical period of a publication continues to be relevant in how language is used and influenced in our contemporary world.

Modern History: In 8th grade, the students experienced some of the major events of Modern History, beginning with Revolutions of various types. This year, we will revisit these time periods, with an emphasis on the ideas that were at the forefront of certain historical events. In 9th grade, the students are more ready than ever to create their own judgments with their newly developing inner capacities. History lessons will lead the students  from passing judgment to forming judgments of their own.

Topics which were introduced in grade eight lightly will be deepened. Some topics will include: 

• The influence of the age of Revolution on Latin America; the Haitian Revolution
• Post-colonial case studies in Asia and Africa 
• Emergence of global economy and tensions between developed and underdeveloped nations.
• The Cold War and its after effects 

Class Play: "When shall we three meet again, in thunder, lightning or in rain. When the hurly-burly's done, when the battle's lost and won!"
William Shakespeare's “Macbeth”

What an amazing opportunity to work with the beautiful words of the Bard! His world is one filled with polarities which address the world of the 9th grade student. During this block, we will focus on the play Macbeth, which is full of multi-dimensional characters and settings. We will also focus on the social environment of the era. Students will be challenged to focus on monologues and dialogues, and be supported in developing their speaking skills as they master the words and rhythms of Shakespeare.The play is filled with beautiful language and symbolism, which we will analyze throughout our Main Lesson Block.

Science Main Lesson Blocks with Ms. Jaia