Myth & Symbolism: A Waldorf Journey Into the Archetypal Bird
In this enriching course, students will explore the magic and symbolism of birds in myths through storytelling, art, and discussion. With a gentle, creative approach, we’ll foster wonder, deep thinking, and self-expression.
Jodi Michelle, Master Linguist
Average rating:
4.9
Number of reviews:(123)
What's included
8 live meetings
4 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students may want to work on their drawings/journals in between classes.Grading
Ms. Jodi will give feedback of any assignments handed in during the course. She will also give feedback to parents at the end of the course and is available to give feedback anytime by request.Class Experience
🌿 Welcome to Ms. Jodi's Classroom! 🌿 Step into a beautiful, relaxed space where the magic of Waldorf education meets deep, meaningful learning. This class offers your child the opportunity to explore reading analysis, mythology, and symbolism while experiencing the depth of an elite private school education—at home. ✨ The Archetypal Bird soars through myths, legends, and philosophies from around the world, carrying wisdom across cultures and time. In this semester-long journey, we will read these stories and explore the symbolism of different birds, uncovering the rich themes of archetypes woven into the Waldorf curriculum. 🖋️ Guided Writing & Creative Expression Alongside our storytelling, we will engage in guided writing and artistic exploration, allowing students to process and reflect through drawing or writing. My free-flowing, interactive teaching style nurtures each student’s unique learning experience, giving them space to absorb and connect with the stories in a way that feels natural and personal. 🕊️ What Can the Bird Teach Us? Through our readings and reflections, we will uncover the deeper messages these birds carry—from ancient wisdom to personal insights relevant in our own lives today. I can’t wait to embark on this meaningful journey with your student! ✨
Learning Goals
Explore Cross-Cultural Mythology & Symbolism – Understand the role of archetypal birds in myths, legends, and philosophies from different cultures, discovering their deeper symbolic meanings.Develop Analytical & Reflective Thinking – Engage in reading analysis and discussion, interpreting themes of transformation, wisdom, and freedom within bird symbolism in storytelling.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Raven
Week One
~Introductions
~What is an Archetype? (brief introduction)
~Read I am Raven by David Bouchard
~Discuss symbolism of Raven
~Raven processing (drawing or journaling) 35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Swan
Week Two
~Read Wild Swans (retold by Xanthe Gresham Knight)
~Swans in cultures around the world
~Discuss symbolism of Swans
~Swan processing (drawing or journaling) 35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Swan II
Week Three
~Sharing
~Finish Wild Swans
~Finish symbolism of Swans
~Yoga
~Drawing of Swan 35 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Nightingale
Week Four
~Read The Nightingale by Hans Christian Andersen
~Discuss symbolism of Nightingale
~Features of Nightingale
~Nightingale Processing (drawing or journaling) 35 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Learning Needs
This class is amazing for learners with ADHD, Autism, Apraxia, and more... Ms. Jodi is experienced with working with students of all different learning abilities and will adapt the class for each individual that she works with.
Parental Guidance
We will use youtube videos to listen to some of the bird calls.
Supply List
Drawing paper Writing paper Pencil Colored pencil Blank notebook/main lesson book/journal for taking notes, journal prompts, and drawings (if available)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
I use Epic as my online library source for books referenced. I use a mix of Native Authors and retelling of other sources in order to provide age appropriate material. I am Raven is written by Métis author, David Bouchard and illustrated by west coast First Nations artist Andy Everson.
Joined May, 2020
4.9
123reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from University of Phoenix
Education & Experience Highlights
M.A. in Applied Linguistics | B.S. in Psychology,
Yale University (Overcoming Dyslexia Certificate)
Certified in Rapid Transformational Therapy and Vimala Cursive Coaching
Waldorf educator with 6+ years’ experience as a school librarian and research/reading teacher for grades K-12.
Skilled in inspiring confidence and academic growth through tailored lessons for Waldorf and other students worldwide via Zoom.
Former Waldorf homeschooling mom, blending creative storytelling, research skills, and reading coaching to meet students’ unique learning needs.
Published writer in LILIPOH Magazine; trained in Carl Jung’s archetypes, diversity education, and advanced language teaching methodologies.
Lifelong passion for empowering young learners with a love of reading, writing, and critical thinking.Reviews
Live Group Course
$35
weekly1x per week, 8 weeks
35 min
Completed by 2 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 12-17
1-10 learners per class
