9th Grade: Foundations of Knowledge
Ages 14-15 | High School Year 1
Ninth grade begins the high school journey with World History, Biology, Algebra I, and English I—all woven through the Wheel of the Year.
📚 9th Grade Resources
🎓 The Waldorf Approach to 9th Grade
In Waldorf education, ninth grade marks the beginning of the "upper school" years. Students are developing their capacity for abstract thinking and seeking to understand the world's complexities.
- 🌍 World History: From ancient civilizations through the modern era
- 🧬 Biology: The study of life from cells to ecosystems
- 📐 Algebra I: Building the language of mathematics
- 📚 English I: Literature, composition, and the power of the written word
Year at a Glance
English I Focus
- • World literature and mythology
- • Essay writing (narrative, expository, persuasive)
- • Grammar and vocabulary development
- • Research skills and citations
Algebra I Focus
- • Variables, expressions, and equations
- • Linear functions and graphing
- • Systems of equations
- • Polynomials and factoring
Biology Focus
- • Cell structure and function
- • Genetics and heredity
- • Evolution and natural selection
- • Ecology and ecosystems
World History Focus
- • Ancient civilizations review
- • Classical Greece and Rome
- • Medieval and Renaissance periods
- • Enlightenment to modern era
Units by Sabbat
Lammas/Lughnasadh
Foundations: Ancient Civilizations & Scientific Method
7th Principle: Respect for the interdependent web
Mabon
Classical World: Greece, Rome & Algebraic Thinking
7th Principle: Respect for the interdependent web
Samhain
Life & Death: Cells, Ecosystems & Ancient Beliefs
2nd Principle: Justice, equity, and compassion
Yule
Light in Darkness: Medieval World & Genetics
1st Principle: Inherent worth and dignity
Imbolc
New Growth: Renaissance, Reformation & Evolution
3rd Principle: Acceptance and spiritual growth
Ostara
Balance & Change: Enlightenment & Human Body Systems
4th Principle: Free and responsible search for truth
Beltane
Revolution & Connection: Modern World & Ecology
5th Principle: Right of conscience and democratic process
Litha
Integration & World Community (Optional)
6th Principle: Goal of world community
📖 Literature This Year
Core Texts
- • The Odyssey by Homer
- • Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare
- • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- • Selected world mythology
Supplemental Reading
- • The Giver by Lois Lowry
- • Animal Farm by George Orwell
- • Poetry from diverse traditions
- • Primary source documents