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SCIENCE
The science curriculum emphasizes a direct encounter with observable phenomena. “Describe what happened.” Students then evaluate what they have observed: “What are the conditions under which the phenomena appear? How does this relate to what you already know?” Finally, students must think through the experiment to discover the lawfulness that stands behind and within the phenomena.
Grade 9
Plant Chemistry (Main Lesson)
This class focuses on the chemical composition of plants and how we interact with plants, both with our senses and in the making of products from plants. The major constituents of plants are discussed. The students investigate the essential oils of plants through formal taste and smell testing labs; fermentation; and oils, fats and waxes by preparing soaps and lip balms. The history of chemistry, including both eastern and western alchemy, is covered through the discovery of gases and their properties. The primary goals are development of observational skills, paying attention to detail, and formulating ideas from observations. A formal approach to writing up labs is taught.
Human Anatomy and Physiology (Morning Lesson)
The class focuses on how the human body is organized. We investigate the ten body systems: integumentary, endocrine, lymphatic, urinary, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, circulatory, nervous, and musculoskeletal. We carry out laboratory activities on body measurements, touch receptivity, fingerprints, lung capacity, blood pressure, and blood typing.
Thermal Physics and Material Properties (Morning Lesson)
Students study the behavior and properties of materials subjected to various thermal conditions so as to develop concepts for temperature, heating, and cooling that relate to phase changes, energy conservation, and gas laws. The phenomena we observe lead us to develop simple mathematical relationships or laws to further an understanding of thermal properties.
Grade 10
Acids, Bases and Salts (Morning Lesson)
The concept of an atom is followed from ancient times through the use of atomic number, atomic weights, stoichiometry, and moles. Students also study the chemistry of gases, solutions, acids and bases. Labs both qualitative and quantitative are conducted.
Embryology (Morning Lesson)
The class focuses on human cytology and embryology. Students study the many characteristics of the integumentary (skin) system, and the seven major glands of the endocrine system (pineal, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, thymus, adrenal, and gonads), as well as learn about hormones and their functions. The study of mitosis and meiosis leads to the study of human reproduction from fertilized egg through each of the trimesters of pregnancy to birth.
Earth Science (Morning Lesson)
The course examines the forms and tectonic motion of the earth’s continents and mountain chains. Then it moves into a more detailed study of global dynamics: meteorology and hydrology. In meteorology, students study the basics of atmospheric dynamics. Then, looking at the global wind pattern, the jet stream, and the air masses, they see how cyclonic systems are moved about the earth, creating “weather.” In hydrology, the overall flow of water in the global hydrosphere is examined, with emphasis on the role of fresh water in rivers and ground water.
Physics: Mechanics and Motion (Morning Lesson)
The student is introduced to the fundamental principles of kinematics and dynamics. The course is taught through biography (Galileo, Newton, and Kepler), history, and through duplicating some of their original experiments in labs and demonstrations.
Grade 11
Physics: Electricity and Magnetism (Morning Lesson)
The mysteries of matter are explored by working through the phenomena associated with electricity and magnetism. After working with so-called static electricity and current electrical effects, we develop the concept of the “field.” This is explored further in magnetic effects.
Botany and Cytology (Morning Lesson)
We study cell structure and function, then plant biology and taxonomy through field, lab, and classroom activities. Students observe and draw plants in the field, noting how overall form relates to environment, how leaf shapes metamorphose, and what inflorescence styles and other features are used in plant taxonomy. Students examine the anatomy, organs, tissue types, leaf structure, and seed structure of a higher (flowering) plant. The findings of Mendel and the basic principles of Mendelian genetics are discussed. A survey is made of the plant kingdoms and classification system.
Astronomy and Navigation (Morning Lesson)
This course covers the phenomenology of the stars and planets as studied through night observations and drawing star maps. By extending the concepts of latitude and longitude to the celestial sphere, the students learn how to plot the position of the stars and to read star maps.
Chemistry (one semester)
Modern atomic theory is developed from electricity and magnetism. The original experiments are discussed looking at the original publications. Covered topics are atomic notation, nuclear reactions and isotopes, periodicity of the elements, properties of elements, bonding, major groups of inorganic and organic molecules and their properties. Labs are conducted using qualitative and quantitative analysis and formal lab report writing.
Environmental Studies
This course explores the challenges of sustainability in the context of our culture, community and classroom environments. Using a historical and scientific perspective, we promote the opportunity to implement practical aspects of stewardship in energy and resource management and conservation.
Grade 12
Physics: Light (Morning Lesson)
Students cover the history of light from ancient times to the electromagnetic spectrum and relativity. Laws of reflection, refraction and other optical properties are discovered through laboratory demonstrations and experiments.
20th and 21st Century Issues in Science (Morning Lesson)
This class is a mix of science theory and application with the socioeconomic, political and philosophical analysis of the scientific applications discussed. We discuss the chemical and physical pros and cons associated with all forms of energy: coal, oil, gas, hydroelectric, nuclear fission, solar, wind, and geothermal. We describe the chemistry, biology and physics, as well as the socioeconomic and philosophic implications, of chemical, biological and nuclear weapons. We discuss the emerging fields of nanotechnology and robotics.
Advanced Chemistry Lab (one quarter)
This class enhances the student’s skills in chemistry problem solving and lab and is intended to prepare students to take college level general chemistry.
MATHEMATICS
The study of mathematics develops confidence in thinking skills, through exactitude of computation and step-by-step problem solving. Exercises of the imagination stimulate the capacity for creative problem solving. Students are well prepared to succeed at any college of their choice.
Grade 9
Descriptive Geometry (Morning Lesson)
Students build on their work with platonic solids by drawing two dimensional plane projections of them, utilizing the graphic science of “descriptive geometry.” Plates are developed that show several 2-D projections of the 3-D shapes. Distances and visibility of lines and points are determined from the plates. This graphic science develops the students’ visualization skills, analytic thinking, and precision with drafting.
Combinations and Permutations (Morning Lesson)
Students learn how to calculate the number of permutations and combinations, such as finding the odds of winning the lottery, the chances of winning with a certain hand in card games, and the odds against a sports team that has already lost two games in a series, and apply this to various word problems. This leads to a study of Pascal's Triangle, Pascal's biography and other contributions to mathematics, and the history of probability theory.
Algebra I (two semesters)
This course begins with a thorough review of basic arithmetic, including decimals, fractions and use of formulas. Students study simple linear equations, work with two linear equations, and use equations to solve word problems (integer, simple area, perimeter, age, and money problems). Polynomials include a thorough review of the laws of exponents, operations with monomials, recognizing like terms and adding, subtracting and multiplying polynomials, and factoring. Students review ratios, proportions, irrational numbers, and simplifying square roots. Towards the end of the year, students study negative and fractional exponents, functions, the slope of a line, and the basic trigonometric definitions. We also derive the quadratic formula.
Algebra I Advanced (two semesters)
This course begins with a brief review of operations with decimals and fractions and solving linear equations, including equations with all real numbers or no solution. We also review the laws of exponents. Students spend time adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing monomials and polynomials. Students then learn to factor polynomials, including the difference of squares and perfect square trinomials. Students solve quadratic equations using several different methods: factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula, which they first derive. Students solve systems of equations and use algebra to solve word problems, such as integer, money, age, area, and perimeter problems. Students study irrational numbers, and we prove that 2 is irrational. Near the end of the year, we review negative and fractional exponents, and then study logarithms. Students also study functions, the slope of a line and the basic trigonometric definitions.
Grade 10
Sequences and Series: Mathematical Patterns (Morning Lesson)
We study several important mathematical concepts related to growth patterns, leading to a formal introduction of mathematical sequences and series. Practical applications studied include investment growth and depreciation, biological growth, radioactive decay, geometrical growth patterns, and exponential growth, and the relationship of mathematical sequences to forms and problems in pure math, the sciences, nature, art, and architecture. We introduce functions and exponential function (e), natural logarithms, arithmetic and geometrical series, Fibonacci numbers, the Golden Ratio, logarithmic and Golden Mean spirals.
Greek Geometry (Morning Lesson)
This course traces the evolution of Greek thought in mathematics from Thales’ first proof until the works of Euclid and Archimedes more than 300 years later. This history of mathematical proofs aids the students in learning the art of deductive reasoning through exposure to a variety of different styles of proofs (visual proofs, indirect proofs, and Euclidean two-column proofs). Much focus is placed on Euclid’s work The Elements, especially Book I, which culminates in Euclid’s proof of the Pythagorean Theorem. The block concludes by studying the works of Archimedes.
Geometry (two semesters)
This course begins with a review of basics: duplicating an angle and a line segment, bisecting an angle and a line segment, constructing a triangle, angle definitions, and theorems. Students study congruent triangles, similar polygons, triangle and other Euclidean plane geometry theorems, vectors, the areas and volumes of figures, and circle geometry, which includes chord theorems and inscribed and circumscribed quadrilateral theorems. The course continues with geometric drawings and includes reviewing other basic constructions and studying the three famous problems of Greek geometry and the four centers of a triangle. Towards the end of the year, students study symmetry, transformations and tessellations.
Geometry Advanced (two semesters)
After a brief review of the basic constructions (duplicating an angle and a line segment, bisecting an angle and a line segment, constructing a triangle, and angle theorems and definitions), students study congruent triangles, similar polygons, triangle and other Euclidean plane geometry theorems, vectors, and areas and volumes of figures. Students study circle geometry, which includes chord theorems and inscribed and circumscribed quadrilateral theorems, and geometric drawing, which includes reviewing other basic constructions learned in middle school and studying the three famous problems of Greek geometry and the four centers of a triangle. Towards the end of the year, students study symmetry, transformations and tessellations. They review solid geometry and have a unit on logic. Students also study Heron's formula for the area of a triangle and review algebra, logarithms, and trigonometry from 9th grade. Students learn the law of cosines and sines and the inverse trigonometric functions.
Grade 11
Projective Geometry (Morning Lesson)
The subject is approached through geometric drawing exercises through which students learn to imagine and deal very concretely with the infinitely distant. The theorems of Desargue, Pascal, and Brianchon are studied with quite varied examples, and then these are used to make projective constructions of the conic sections, both pointwise and linewise. We explore the principle of duality and the differences between projective and Euclidean geometry. More challenging topics are then taken up, such as the construction of polars of various curves or the construction of the path curves generated by projective transformations.
Algebra II (two semesters)
This skills course begins with a review of linear equations, including solving, graphing, and finding the slope of a line. Students review solving quadratic equations several different ways: factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula. Students study the conic sections: parabolas, circles, hyperbolas, and ellipses. They also study functions and graph many rational functions. We review solving systems of equations and use this to solve word problems, such as area and projectile problems, different types of numbers, logarithms, and growth problems, and then study the number e and imaginary numbers, the trigonometric functions, and statistics, which includes calculating standard deviation and statistical probability.
Algebra II Advanced (two semesters)
This skills class begins with a study of statistics, including normal distribution and the calculation of confidence intervals. The class reviews laws of algebra, quadratic equations, rational expressions, rational equations, simultaneous equations, trigonometry and vectors. Linear transformations of a two-dimensional vector space are studied. Matrices are used to represent them and as another method of showing simultaneous equations. During the second semester we study the trigonometric functions, including their graphs, trigonometric identities, trigonometric equations, the inverse trig functions, and the summation formulas. We study the logarithmic and exponential functions and their application to exponential growth. Composition of functions and universe functions are taken up. If time permits, spherical trigonometry is included as a final unit.
Grade 12
Introduction to Calculus (Morning Lesson)
We review Kepler's Planetary Laws, Galileo's Law of Falling Bodies, and Newton's Laws of Physics and Gravity, and study their impact, in addition to Pierre de Fermat's and Rene Descartes' influence on the development of calculus. We also discuss Zeno's paradoxes, instantaneous speed, and the problem of the infinitesimally small. Students hear the dramatic stories of Johannes Kepler, Tycho Brahe, Sir Isaac Newton, and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz. Students learn how to calculate derivatives of polynomials and use them to sketch graphs of functions. We define the definite integral and then learn the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus and how to use it to calculate areas under a curve.
Calculus (three quarters)
This class will explore the applications of calculus to various practical engineering, biological, economic, and geometric problems. The course is intended to prepare a student for the possibility of entering a math-intensive college track such as engineering, pre-medicine, physics, or mathematics.
Topics in Mathematics (three quarters)
In this skills course, we begin with reviewing trigonometry and graphing functions. Other units throughout the year include computer programming, pre-calculus topics, and solving interest rate and growth problems.
HISTORY
The emphasis in the history curriculum is on developing an understanding of the political ideologies and cultural undercurrents which dominate historical periods and changes.
Grade 9
Revolutions and Reform (Morning Lesson)
After quickly reviewing the Industrial Revolution in the United States and French Revolution, we look at the Progressive Era through the lives of Eugene L. Debs, Jane Addams and Theodore Roosevelt. Discussions about Socialism and Marxism lead us towards the Russian Revolution. Later in the block we examine the lives of Ghandi and Nelson Mandela.
Modern World History and Geography (Morning Lesson)
This class covers the history of three nations which play a major role in world politics and economics today: Israel, China, and Japan. We look at the factors influencing the formation of the modern nation of Israel and the Westernization experiences of China and Japan.
History of Art (Morning Lesson)
This survey of art from prehistoric times through modern times covers the development of art with relationship to the cultural and political climate of the artists.
Grade 10
Native American History (Morning Lesson)
This survey of Native American history covers theories about the first arrival of human beings in North America up to the present, with a closer look at Southwestern and Plains tribes. Field trips include a pipe ceremony off campus, a tour of the Native American exhibit at the Denver Museum of Art, and a week at the North Cheyenne Reservation in Montana and visit to the Little Bighorn National Monument.
Ancient History (Morning Lesson)
We explore ancient India, where we witness the development of Hinduism through the Vedas, the Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, Mesopotamian cultures of Sumeria and Babylon, the vigorous Persian Empire, and ancient Egypt.
The Greeks (Morning Lesson)
Students examine the roots of Greek civilization in the Minoan and Mycenaean cultures as well as the Dorian and Ionian invasions. The course encompasses the scope of Greek history and culture from the rise of the polis or city states to the conquests of Alexander the Great. Students perform an abridged version of a Greek drama such as Sophocles’ Oedipus Rex or Antigone as a way of delving into the psyche and dramatic art of the Greeks. Students experience Greek calisthenics and the events of the ancient pentathlon (running, jumping, wrestling, discus and javelin).
Civil War and 19th Century (Main Lesson)
This class covers the period of U.S. history leading to the Civil War, the war itself, and the period of Reconstruction after the War. We study in detail the three factors most directly contributing to the onset of the War: sectionalism, secession, and slavery. We also cover the rise of segregation laws after the War, the booming US economy with the advent of railroads, and the general state of the country in the late 19th century. We look at how the Civil War relates to the Civil Rights Movement 100 years later.
Grade 11
Rome and Medieval History (Morning Lesson)
This class covers Western history from the Roman Empire and 5th century barbarian invasions to the 14th century waning of the Middle Ages. Within that context students study the development, the decline, and the rise of Islam, the feudal system, monarchies in Europe, and aspects of medieval music, art, literature and philosophy.
Renaissance (Morning Lesson)
This course covers the reawakening of Europe in northern Italy, when the European view of religion, the world, and the solar system drastically changed. Through the lives of Lorenzo de Medici, Michelangelo, Leo X, and others, we see the cultural explosion of Renaissance Italy. We discuss Machiavelli’s pragmatic political views at length, Luther’s confrontation with the Church, the Reformation, expansion of the “known” world by Vasco da Gama and Columbus, and Copernicus’ new alignment of the solar system.
History of Music (Morning Lesson)
This class explores the history of music from ancient to modern times in relation to the socio-religious background of each era and as a reflection of the personal and the artistic ideals of the composer influenced by the social and religious climate in which he lived. Students are introduced to biographical sketches and sample compositions of each composer. Recordings of the actual composer performing his/her own composition are used whenever possible.
Civics (one semester)
We study the entire U.S. Constitution, including all Amendments, and major portions of the Colorado Criminal Code, the U.S. and Colorado legislative process, criminal and civil procedures, and politics in general. Students take field trips to the Boulder Courts and the State Capitol and participate as attorneys and jurors in Boulder Teen Court or in a Mock Trial at Boulder District Court.
Grade 12
20th and 21st Century History (Morning Lesson)
This historical survey begins with a study of England, Germany, Austria-Hungary, France, Russia, United States, Italy, and Turkey at the turn of the century and through World War I and a reading of All Quiet on the Western Front. We discuss World War II, the Holocaust, and Hiroshima at length. This leads to the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, JFK, the Vietnam War, the anti-war movement, the women’s liberation movement, LBJ, RFK, Martin Luther King, Jr., Richard Nixon, Watergate, Nelson Mandela, the oil embargo, Camp David Accords, Ronald Reagan, The Gulf War, and Bill Clinton. Throughout this block we explore major political and economic theories and systems.
History of Architecture (Morning Lesson)
The class surveys western architecture beginning with the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt through modern architecture in the 20th and 21st centuries, noting how each style develops from the preceding one and reflects the culture of the time. Students design and build a model of a retreat appropriate for a chosen type of work.
Comparative Religion (Morning Lesson)
The course explores the basic tenets of four major religions: Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. In addition to reading, students take field trips, which include meditation instruction at the Shambhala Center, a talk at a Denver synagogue, Shabbat dinner or a Passover Seder, attendance at any Christian service, and introduction to Muslim worship at a Denver mosque.
COMPOSITION
English courses include a skill building component and a literature component. Developmentally appropriate themes determine the choices of readings and the topics, so that the subject matter resonates with the students’ level of maturity and capacities. The goals are skill in written and oral self expression, development of critical thinking and sound judgment, and superior reading comprehension.
Grade 9
Comedy and Tragedy (Morning Lesson)
This course traces the heights and depths of comedy and tragedy from their beginnings in pre-historical ritual drama through their continuation in Greece, Rome, the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Restoration, and into the modern era. The class studies the evolution of American drama and the entertainment industry, including radio, television, cinema, computer and mass media advertisements. Students read a Greek tragedy by either Aeschylus, Sophocles or Euripides, a selected comedy by William Shakespeare, and a modern dramatic selection, such as Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun.
English (two semesters)
Literature (To Kill a Mockingbird, Of Mice and Men, Lord of the Flies, and other novels), grammar, descriptive writing, and vocabulary are the basis of the course. Students study parts of speech, basic sentence structure, syntax, and phrases and clauses, to bring a new sophistication to their writing. The composition work is centered on descriptive paragraphs, including the five-paragraph essay. Second semester focuses on A Separate Peace, Fahrenheit 451, and other novels. We continue descriptive writing, concentrating on the senses, and work on the topic sentence and ways of developing a topic. Work on grammar and vocabulary continues.
Grade 10
Poetics (Morning Lesson)
The Main Lesson traces different forms of poetry through the ages and looks at how poetry developed and changed over time. Students study modern poetry and song lyrics, craft many of their own poems (unfolding poems, metaphor poems, haikus, limericks, image poems, meter poems, rhymed poems, alliteration poems, sonnets, memory poems, and free poems), and engage in poetry writing exercises and short writings on a daily basis.
Odyssey (one quarter)
The class focuses on Homer’s great classic of initiation and maturation, The Odyssey, and the adventures of Odysseus. Students render themes in a variety of artistic and literary forms, including poems, plays, sculptures, models, essays, and drawings.
Writing a Research Paper (one semester)
Students learn how to research a topic of their choice, using a variety of resources, including books, reference books, computer information, periodicals, and an interview with a person involved in the field of research selected, and produce an 8-12 page typed research paper.
English
Students study the classic stories and metaphors of the Old Testament as well as other world mythologies. Readings, writing exercises, vocabulary, and grammar review are interwoven with the literature.
Grade 11
Parzival (Morning Lesson)
This class focuses on the most famous and best developed medieval story concerning the quest for the Grail: Wolfram von Eschenbach’s Parzival. The course seeks to understand this quest on many different levels, but most importantly as a timeless pursuit for meaning and fulfillment in which we all engage throughout our lives. Students survey the historical and mythological images of the Grail and the panorama of archetypal characters that surround this powerful object and analyze the book’s content and themes.
Shakespeare (Morning Lesson)
Students experience the richness of three Shakespeare plays, The Taming of the Shrew, The Merchant of Venice, and Hamlet, spoken aloud and acted out in parts. Shakespearean characters such as Shylock, Ophelia, Claudius, and especially Hamlet are the focus of lively discussions.
Medieval Literature, New Testament, and Argumentation (Morning Lesson)
Students explore the New Testament as literature, the Anglo-Saxon epic of Beowulf, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. The study of argumentation includes reading many persuasive articles and researching and writing an argument for or against a provocative current issue.
Grade 12
Transcendentalists (Morning Lesson)
We look at the literary, spiritual, and lifestyle movement called Transcendentalism which occurred in the 19th century and look at writings of Whitman, Emerson, Thoreau, Melville, Hawthorne, Alcott, Fuller and Dickinson.
Faust (one quarter)
Through discussion, essays and art work, students explore the themes and characters of this classic story by Wolfgang von Goethe. The English translation is compared to the original German.
Russian Literature (one quarter)
This course begins with the life and writings of Alexander Solzhenitsyn, examining a non-Western viewpoint that thoroughly criticizes contemporary Western society. We continue to look at the development and expansion of Russia over the past millennium and study the lives of writers of 19th and 20th century Russia and the literature they produced, which includes works by Dostoevsky, Tolstoy, Chekhov, Gogol, Pushkin, Turgenev, Pasternak, and Yevtushenko.
Senior Essay (one quarter)
The class reviews and strengthens essay writing and editing skills, to hone these skills and prepare students for college application essay writing. Advanced vocabulary building is another aspect of the course.
WORLD LANGUAGE AND EXCHANGE
Compassion and respect for other cultures grow as students immerse themselves in the study of a world language and a world culture for four years. The opportunity to study abroad enhances the work in the classroom, and the presence of students from Waldorf schools around the world enlivens the entire High School as well as the Spanish or German classes.
Grade 9
Spanish I
The communicative use of all four-language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) is practiced throughout the course. Up-to-date, practical insights into the cultural diversity of the Spanish-speaking world are presented in order to promote cultural awareness. Grammar focuses on regular and irregular present tense, gender, interrogative and negative sentences, forms, position and agreement of adjectives, comparison of adjectives and adverbs, direct and indirect object pronouns, demonstrative adjectives and demonstrative pronouns. The reading focus is on Spanish and Mexican culture.
German I
Students work orally with the recitation of poetry, simple conversations, questions and answers, and conversational dialogues of everyday situations. The primary grammatical focus is on regular and irregular verbs in the present tense and basic sentence structure. Students complete written grammatical exercises in a work book. Students read poetry, simple passages in a reader, and well known German legends. They learn to write summaries of their reading. They learn about German culture and customs, sing German songs, and play German games.
Grade 10
Spanish II
Studies include thematic vocabulary expansion, guided discussions, acting out dialogues, reciting poetry, and reading from Spanish and Latin American culture readers. The seven simple tenses are the focus of grammar. Students are given cooking demonstrations of Spanish regional food. Reading focus is on Spanish and Mexican history.
German II
After a brief review of the present tense of regular and irregular verbs, students are introduced to the simple past, the present perfect, as well as the future tense, and an expanded study of sentence structure. Students recite poetry, read humorous stories, historical anecdotes, and well-known German legends. A variety of written and oral activities continue to develop skills in comprehension, speaking, reading and writing. Conversational dialogues in a variety of practical situations develop high frequency expressions and cultural awareness.
Exchange Option
Students may exchange with a Spanish or German Waldorf student for a semester or a full year.
Grade 11
Spanish III
Students broaden language skills through communication, oral presentations, and expansion of the more complex grammatical structures. The seven compound tenses are the focus of grammar. Students read poetry, biographies, and short stories by well-known Spanish Renaissance writers. Students are given demonstrations of the cooking from different Latin American countries. The students read the biographies of Spanish Renaissance painters.
German III
Students enhance language skills through a systematic review and expansion of the fundamental grammatical structures of the German language. Students work to expand oral expressions, reading and writing skills by emphasizing the acquisition of high frequency vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures. The primary emphasis is on developing reading and writing skills. Students read poetry and short stories by well-known German speaking authors.
Exchange Option
Students may exchange with a Spanish or German Waldorf student for a semester or a full year.
Grade 12
Spanish IV
Students read a survey of literature and poetry, which are the basis for grammar acquisition, and study current events in the Spanish-speaking world. A major emphasis is fine-tuning communicative skills and building cultural knowledge of the Spanish-speaking world. Students enjoy demonstrations of Latin American food.
German IV
Students progress to a more sophisticated knowledge and use of the language while continuing to develop all the language skills. Sentence structure and refined oral and written personal expression become the focus. Students read literary texts of well known German speaking authors to foster an appreciation for the literature of the German speaking world.
MUSIC
Positive musical experiences and developing musical competence are goals of the music curriculum. All courses involve several performances during the year. Cooperating, listening carefully to one another, and practicing patience, concentration, and flexibility are all benefits of students co-creating in the musical realm.
Grades 9 - 12
Chorus
This ensemble explores a variety of musical styles, including African songs, Spirituals, Renaissance through modern compositions, and religious music from different cultures.
Orchestra
Students work on improving their own instrumental and musical skills as they prepare music of different styles and eras for performance. Orchestra members review basic elements of music, working on tone quality, intonation, rhythmic accuracy, etc., and using these skills in the larger purpose of musical expression.
Jazz Band
Jazz Band is an ensemble that explores jazz standards as well as modern jazz. Improvisation and the basic jazz scales and harmonies are learned and developed in this class.
African Drumming
This ensemble learns rhythmic motifs of African and Caribbean cultures and gradually incorporates improvisational techniques.
A Cappella Ensemble
A Cappella is an ensemble that performs popular songs from the 50's to the present day that are arranged by our group or someone else for performance without instruments.
Tone Eurythmy
This movement class uses the human body as an instrument to explore music. Students develop a deeper understanding of pitch and sound and begin to learn to develop their own choreography for musical pieces.
All High School Musical
Every other year the entire High School undertakes a full length musical. Students build sets, do costuming, help with publicity, stage direct, and cover all roles in the musical. Recent musicals include West Side Story, Guys and Dolls, and Damn Yankees.
DRAMA
Wearing the costume of a time period and taking on the personality of a character in a play provide students with an opportunity to step out of their skin and experience the emotions and psyche of another human being. Drama allows students to deepen their self knowledge, understand life, and touch their own souls.
Grade 9
Theater Exercises
Grade 10
Greek Play
Grade 11
Shakespeare
Grade 12
Shakespeare or Classic Play
FINE AND PRACTICAL ARTS
The fine and practical arts curriculum serves students as both a medium for self-exploration and a vehicle for bringing a creative impulse to fruition. Courses are designed to amplify certain themes relevant to each grade and complement academic studies. Manual dexterity furthers cognitive development.
Grade 9
Light and Dark Drawing
Students explore many aspects of the contrast and the interplay of light and dark through various drawing mediums. Emphasis is on understanding and experiencing the importance of black and white design.
Clay Modeling
This class focuses on developing spatial awareness and sense of form through completing eight exercises: modeling basic convex and concave forms which metamorphose into a sleeping animal form; sculpting three human faces (infant, adult, and elderly) in relief; modeling two human figures showing an outward and active gesture and another inward and contemplative; modeling an animal form.
Blacksmithing and Welding
The site of this course is a local blacksmith and welding studio where students learn how to make a coal fire in a forge, use various hammers on the anvil, and bend, flatten and twist hot metal. Students also learn the basics of welding.
Calligraphy
Students are introduced to the art of “beautiful writing” and explore many major calligraphic techniques, from Italic to Gothic.
Grade 10
Color Theory
Students study color theory by making a color wheel in their own unique design that includes primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. They learn to distinguish color values by making two scales, one achromatic and one monochromatic. Students learn to match the values of the gray scale to that of the monochromatic scale.
Grade 11
Figure Drawing
In learning to draw the human form, students start by drawing the form using simplified shapes to help with learning correct proportions. Students spend time in each class drawing a live model, usually in poses that last for 1-3 minutes. Parallel to that, each student works on a drawing of a human form referenced from a photograph or a painting by a famous artist. This drawing focuses more closely on muscle groups, details, and shading. Lastly, students choose one body part to zoom in on, e.g. hand, nose, and do a small completed drawing.
Bookbinding
Students learn how to make four books from scratch: Japanese side stitch photo album, basic codex journal, Coptic stitch journal and an inlay, and a long stitch journal with a flap. Students are taught proper techniques on how to measure, fold, glue, cut, tear paper, judge grain direction, burnish, and poke holes. They learn how to use bookbinding tools and how to be organized and precise.
Grade 12
Stone Carving
Working with a 30-pound piece of soapstone or alabaster, students transform it into a human head using hand tools. Students practice both imprinting their will on the material as well as allowing themselves to be guided by the medium itself.
ART ELECTIVES
Stained Glass
Students learn the basics of stained glass work. They create a design, cut out the pattern, select the glass, cut the glass, foil their pieces, and, finally, solder them together.
Blacksmithing and Welding
The site of this course is a local blacksmith and welding studio where students learn how to make a coal fire in a forge, use various hammers on the anvil, and bend, flatten and twist hot metal. Students also learn the basics of welding.
Batik
Students use wax, dye, and fabrics to create their own original batiks. By using primary colors plus black, students learn the traditional Indonesian method of “over-dyed” batik. They experiment with mixing colors to achieve the desired color scheme with a dip-dyed batik.
Wood Sculpture
Students begin with a block of wood and using mostly hand tools create something out of a personal design.
Basketry
Students are introduced to basic basket weaving techniques common to countries around the world. They are assigned three projects utilizing these techniques: a simplified market basket (plaiting), a round basket (plaiting and twining) and a project of their choice (plaiting, twining, coiling or hexagonal weave).
Pottery
This class focuses on developing techniques of simple clay pottery. It begins with exercises in slab construction and then moves to wheel work: centering, throwing practice cylinders and then production on the wheel. The exercises include a wheel-thrown object glazed with appropriate stoneware glazes. Students are allowed time to make individual projects to demonstrate their skills in design, construction, and finishing.
Cooking
This course covers the basics of handling a knife, preparing the “mise en place” for a recipe, and different cooking methods. Some classic French sauces (béchamel, velouté de poisson, velouté de demi-glace, béchamel au gratin and hollandaise) and their derivatives are demonstrated. We learn how to make different pie dough, soufflés, and to work with chocolate. The ethnic dishes we prepare are: Moroccan tagine, Spanish paëlla, cocido madrileño, Louisiana seafood stew, risotto Milanese, and vegetarian Greek moussaka.
Photography
This course covers the fundamentals of photography while exploring the different aspects of the camera, film processing, and darkroom printing. There are class discussions and critiques of assignments.
Yearbook
Planning, designing, taking photographs, laying out pages, and many more tasks comprise the challenge of creating a yearbook.
Leatherwork
Creating patterns of their own feet, students proceed step-by-step in making leather soles and uppers and finally rubber soles and heels. Additional leather projects arise as skill increases.
Lotions, Potions, and Soaps
Using the principle of emulsion, a variety of body lotions, lip balms, and scented soaps are created.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, SPORTS, AND HEALTH
Movement and physical education are vital to the development of well balanced, healthy students. All students are encouraged to play competitive sports for the team building as well as the skill building aspects. PE courses are often coordinated with each year’s curriculum and are an extension of key topics.
Competitive Boys and Girls Basketball
Varsity and Junior Varsity, open to all students.
Competitive Girls Volleyball
Varsity and Junior Varsity, open to all students.
Cross-Country
Varsity and Junior Varsity, open to all students.
Golf Club
Recreational fall and spring sport.
Baseball, soccer, football, swimming, lacrosse are available through local schools
Grade 9
Transitions (two semesters)
Transitions is a social and emotional skills development class for ninth graders. It serves as a bridge from the elementary school years into the high school. The introduction focuses on keeping an assignment book, study skills and test taking. Then the emphasis is on sharing experiences and developing emotional literacy involving stress management, decision making, group building, etc., in a relaxed format.
Health (one quarter)
The emphasis is on the prevention of tobacco, alcohol, and drug use. Sexual harassment is also discussed.
Social Dances of the 20s and 30s
Physical Education
Balanced vigorous workout exercises for conditioning develop strength, flexibility and endurance. Students run the 100-yard dash, the mile and 3 miles for time. Rod fencing covers a four-week block.
Grade 10
Health (one quarter)
The students receive CPR/First Aid training.
Social Dance: Swing and Jitterbug
Physical Education
Grade 11
Health (one quarter)
Many health related issues are covered, with the major one being teenage sexuality. Decision making, abstinence, birth control, and sexually transmitted diseases are all discussed. Local experts in this field come in to direct classes on these sensitive topics.
Latin dance: Salsa, Merengue
Physical Education
During the first quarter we practice archery and visit the Zen Archery Dojo. In the second quarter we go to the recreation center for lap swimming and weight training.
Grade 12
Social Dance: Viennese Waltz, Tango
Physical Education
Students experience a meditative discipline to release stress, Tai Chi.
COLLEGE COUNSELING
College and post-high school planning begins as early as ninth grade with an introduction to parents of the college process and timeline. Students take the PSAT and PLAN test in tenth and eleventh grades before undertaking the SAT and ACT tests in eleventh and twelfth. Guest speakers, including college admissions personnel, visit during eleventh grade. Assistance is provided for all students in completing college applications, reviewing essays, and finding the right match for college or the best options for other post high school choices.
Grade 10
PSAT, PLAN
Grade 11
College Counseling
SAT, ACT Tests
Grade 12
College Counseling
SAT, ACT Tests
COMMUNITY SERVICE AND SPECIAL PROJECTS
Community service engages students with the world around them and offers the opportunity to both learn personally from the experience and to give back to the larger community. By the end of twelfth grade, students will have completed more than 100 hours of community service.
Project Week
Grade 9
Biodynamic Farm
Students work on a local biodynamic farm.
Grade 10
Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Montana
Students travel to the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Montana to offer assistance with tribal projects and experience Native American ceremonies.
Grade 11
Nature Conservancy
Students support the work of the Nature Conservancy in southern Colorado and Kansas on various preserves.
Grade 12
Wilderness Solo
Students participate in a rite of passage in the desert of Wyoming, involving a 48-hour solo/fast and ceremonies.
PeaceJam (grades 9 – 12)
This international education program brings interested students into contact with Nobel Peace Laureates who pass on to them the spirit, skills, and wisdom they possess.
River Watch (grades 9 – 12)
The Colorado Division of Wildlife accepts students as volunteers to analyze and protect the quality of Colorado rivers.
Senior Projects
Seniors choose a project in an area about which they feel passionate, find a mentor, and immerse themselves in this endeavor over the senior year. The results are presented to the community in the spring.
Senior Community Service Placements
During the last quarter of their senior year, students spend three weeks in placements around the country doing community service. Examples of placements are Camphill villages, Incarcerated Mothers Program in New York City, biodynamic farms, and inner city Waldorf kindergartens.
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