| Shackleton in the Curriculum by Deborah Krikorian, 8th Grade Teacher at the East Bay Waldorf School and CurricuIum Studies Teacher for the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training The 13-year-old 7th grader is someone of curiosity who is interested in looking out into the world with fresh eyes. This explains the themes of the Renaissance, the world explorers of the 15th century, and perspective drawing in the 7th grade curriculum. The 7th grader, however, can also be a fully self-absorbed 13-year-old living in the extremes of his or her emotional life. Powerful biographies play a large role in the curriculum by providing examples of individuals who successfully cope with both inner and outer adversity, and provide an avenue out of self- absorption. Last year at Michaelmas time, I brought the story of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his ship The Endurance to my 7th grade class in a geography block. As an example of modern day exploration, this story brought my students to the same point of view as the 15th century explorers but in terms they could understand. The story has in it all the drama, excitement, and extreme adventure one might expect from a blockbuster movie or novel. But it also contains shining examples of the human spirit and the best of human capacities - courage, honor, integrity, perseverance, sacrifice, community striving, love, hope, and ultimately, faith. As a class, we were all nourished by reflecting on these deeds, which helped set the tone for the year of work and growth ahead of us. |
|
|