Welcome to Farming & Shelters, a unique class inspired by the Waldorf curriculum. This course seamlessly integrates these two essential themes, cultivating a deep appreciation for the ways in which humans interact with and depend upon the natural world.

In our twice-weekly, 55-minute online sessions, we'll explore the origins of farming and shelter, the transformation from traditional to modern practices, and the impact of climate and culture on both. From the seeds sown in the soil to the roofs over our heads, we'll discover the stories and processes that shape our daily lives.

COURSE HIGHLIGHTS:

➡ Interactive Discussions: Learners are encouraged to share their thoughts, experiences, and questions in interactive discussions, promoting effective communication skills.

➡ Artistic Exploration: Guided drawing sessions allow learners to express their understanding creatively, enhancing memory, observation skills, and artistic abilities.

➡ Reflective Writing: Brief writing exercises help learners consolidate their learning and articulate their thoughts, improving writing and analytical skills.

UNBIASED APPROACH

We acknowledge that every culture has its own unique practices and techniques regarding farming and shelter, and none of these is inherently superior or inferior to the others. We encourage students to respect and appreciate the diversity of these practices rather than passing judgment on them. We will spend time exploring geographical histories, allowing learners to make informed picture of farming and shelter on a global level.

HOLISTIC APPROACH

Our holistic approach ensures that this course covers core subjects such as Science, Social Studies, Art, and English. Students will learn about the science of farming and building, the social implications of these practices across cultures and periods, and the artistic and linguistic skills to express their understanding. But more than merely academic learning, this course is designed to nurture the whole child, aligning with the Waldorf philosophy of engaging the head, heart, and hands. 

For example, when learning about traditional farming (head), students will not only absorb facts but also connect with the rhythms of nature and the farmers' work (heart). They will express their understanding through drawing and writing about them (hands). This approach fosters deep learning, empathy, creativity, and practical skills.

By the end of our journey, students will have a rich understanding of the interconnectedness of farming and shelter with the broader world, from the local to the global level. They'll also gain a respect for natural resources and a foundational understanding of sustainability.

CLASS THEMES:

There are 38 weekly themes. When we get to the end the cycle starts again. The themes do not build on each other.


- W/C September 2, 2024: Soil and Mud – The Foundation of Farming
- W/C September 9, 2024: Early Human Dwellings – Caves, Huts, Tents and Their Agricultural Practices
- W/C September 16, 2024: Seeds, Sowing, and Straw – Beginnings of Agriculture and Thatched Roof Homes
- W/C September 23, 2024: Irrigation, Aqueducts, and Climate – Watering Crops, Supplying Homes and Adaptations
- W/C September 30, 2024: Agriculture and Architecture in Ancient Egypt
- W/C October 7, 2024: Mesopotamian Farming and Architecture
- W/C October 14, 2024: Harvesting, Storage, and Design – From Grain Silos to Pantries
- W/C October 21, 2024: The Role of Microorganisms in Agriculture and Architecture
- W/C October 28, 2024: Animal Domestication – The Intersection of Farming and Shelter
- W/C November 4, 2024: The Interplay of Art, Aesthetics, and Agriculture
- W/C November 11, 2024: Navigating Extreme Conditions: Farming and Building in Wetlands and Swamps
-W/C November 18, 2024: Sacred Spaces: The Influence of Spirituality on Farming and Shelter
-W/C November 25, 2024: Industrial Revolution Impacts – Factories, Urbanization, and Changes in Farming
- W/C December 2, 2024: uture of Agriculture and Architecture – Sustainable Farming and Green Building Practices
- W/C December 9 2024: Exploring Biomes: Farming and Shelter in the Arctic
- W/C December 16, 2024: Winter Traditions: Festive Farming and Celebratory Shelters

-W/C December 23, 2024 NO CLASS--WINTER BREAK
-W/C December 30, 2024 NO CLASS--WINTER BREAK

2025

W/C January 6 , 2025: From Farm to Table: The Journey of a Vegetable
W/C January 13 , 2025: Animals on the Farm: How They Help Us and How We Can Help Them
W/C January 20, 2025: The Magic of Trees: Treehouses and Orchards
W/C January 27 , 2025: Comparing Shelters: Tipis, Yurts, and Cabins
W/C February 3 , 2025: The Beauty of Flowers
W/C February 10 , 2025: Desert Life: Adobe Houses and Oasis Farming
W/C February 17 , 2025: Exploring Biomes: Farming and Tribal Shelters in the Jungles
W/C February 24 , 2025: Asian Innovations: Rice Paddies and Bamboo Houses
W/C March 3 , 2025: The Role of Weather and Seasons in Farming and Shelter
W/C March 10 , 2025: Spring Equinox: Planting Seeds and Constructing Birdhouses
W/C March 17 , 2025: Local Food: Community Gardens and Urban Farms
W/C March 24 , 2025: The Magic of Bees: Beekeeping and Their Role in Agriculture
W/C March 31 , 2025: Composting and Sustainable Housing