Observation, exploration, thoughtful scientific reflection and understanding of the natural world and our human role within it serve as the foundation of the science curriculum in the Waldorf high school. Studies in all scientific subject areas — Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science — are integral parts of the core curriculum. Each year students deepen their understanding by revisiting each subject on progressively deeper levels of complexity and understanding.
The Waldorf approach to science goes beyond acceptance of pre-digested information, rather it educates students to observe carefully and objectively and to reason from what they have observed, thereby arriving at a vivid and deep scientific understanding of the world. Working with our science faculty – all who have professional research experience – students develop in a developmentally appropriate way the skills of a modern scientist. Not only are they learning measurement, analysis, and problem-solving skills, but they are also conducting original scientific studies including field work, using spreadsheets and graphs to work with their data, collaborating with team members, and communicating their results in written, poster, and oral presentation forms.
For the mathematically adept students, the Waldorf science program offers rigorous, college-preparatory electives that build analytically on the vivid, conceptual understandings previously established.
PWS High School Science Curriculum
9th Grade
Geology
Thermal Physics
Organic Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Health
Robotics
10th Grade
Climatoloty
Mechanics
Botany
Inorganic Chemistry
Optics
Integrated Science Skills
11th Grade
Astronomy
Cell Biology
Elements
Electricity & Magnetism
12th Grade
Zoology and Evolution
Bio Chemistry
20th Century Physics