Waldorf-Inspired Egyptian Mythology: From Earth to the Afterlife
What's included
8 live meetings
6 in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. Each week, students will be asked to retell the story to members of their families in their own words. They will also be asked to write and/or draw in their main lesson books. Learners will be given a list of optional assignments that will enhance what we learn in class. Think of it as a homework "menu." As we move closer to the final class, they may be asked to work on their part of the class project.Class Experience
US Grade 4 - 6
Over 8 classes, we will explore Egyptian Mythology as a Waldorf-inspired main lesson block. Learners will be creating their own "textbook," called a main lesson book, filled with writing, copywork, form drawings, illustrations, and other representations and interpretations of the stories we study in class. In addition to creating a main lesson book, learners will also demonstrate knowledge through many modes, including drawing and modeling, memorizing and reciting poems and songs, retelling the stories in their own words, or creating a collaborative dramatic telling of a story the children choose. Classes will be structured in a way that introduces many elements of Waldorf-inspired learning: the compilation of a main lesson book, form drawing, creating models from beeswax, clay, and other materials, watercolor and other painting, and drawing with attention to detail. Additional suggestions for grammar, read-alouds, art and music appreciation, cooking ideas, music, handwork, and more may be sent out each week, as they pertain to the interests of this unique group of learners. These will also be part of the class. Rick Riordan fans are welcome! My teaching style is collaborative, cooperative, and creative. I do not release class videos, so please plan on attending class. Much of the learning, such as the type of end-of-class project created, will be discussed and chosen by the learners. Each child's main lesson book will be unique and in a style that is completely their own. While the main focus of this class is mythology, in keeping with the Waldorf shift from mythology to facts, we will also include information about geography, culture, and everyday life in Ancient Egypt. I am a strong believer in freedom within the form, the form being as follows: Week 1. Introduction to Class/ The Gift of a River/ Ra, Shu, and Tefnut Week 2. Geography of Upper and Lower Egypt/ Geb, Nut, and Neith Week 3. Ancient Egyptian Homes/ Horus the Child and Horus the Elder Week 4. The Afterlife/Osiris and Anubis Week 5. Pyramids and Pharaohs/Isis and Sobek Week 6. Writing/ Thoth and Seshat Week 7. Jobs and Free Time/ Hathor, Bastet, and Ptah Week 8. Learners' Final Presentation/ Sekhmet, Bes, and Taweret No previous knowledge is needed. In a typical Waldorf or Steiner school, this material would be presented in the fifth grade. Please note that, due to the social and collaborative nature of the class, it will only run with 3 or more students enrolled. For the same reasons, class videos will not be released, as stated above.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Mythology can occasionally contain stories of murder, treachery, war, and betrayal. These subjects will be handled sensitively and in an age-appropriate manner.
Additionally, Egyptian mythology may present ideas of life and the afterlife that differ from your own beliefs. These will be presented respectfully and with care.
Supply List
Each week, students will need the following: *If possible, any book or resource that tells the stories of the Egyptian gods *A main lesson book. I personally suggest blank paper in a three-pronged folder or notebook so learners do not feel constrained by the number of pages in the book, but you can also purchase or make a main lesson book or use any sort of blank book. Pages should be blank and without lines. *Colored pencils, crayons, pencil, and other writing materials. * Paints, preferably watercolors, in at least red, blue, and yellow, along with watercolor paper, a painting board, and a paintbrush. A handout on preparing watercolor materials will be provided * Modeling beeswax, clay, or playdough for modeling If additional materials are needed, they will be sent out in the weekly email as well as added to the class description.
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Pennsylvania Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts
Annette has been teaching a Waldorf-inspired curriculum for over 20 years, including her own Seasons of Joy curriculum. Annette enjoys studying mythology and folklore from many cultures.
Reviews
Live Group Class
$130
for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
45 min
Completed by 7 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 9-12
3-10 learners per class