Mountain Oak Community School’s Curriculum summary
A complete educational Journey approach – Mountain Oak Community School’s comprehensive curriculum includes:
Kindergarten
Wonder and rhythm through play
1st Grade
Foundational skills with proven methodologies
2nd Grade
Imagination and moral development
3rd Grade
Practical engagement with the world
4th Grade
Cultural exploration and skill building
5th Grade
Independence and historical understanding
6th Grade
Medieval studies and advanced academics
7th/8th Grade
Critical thinking, research, and civic engagement
Our focus on differentiated learning strategies recognizes every child’s uniqueness and diverse needs for exploring, being, and learning within their world.
Kindergarten Curriculum
Welcome to our Kindergarten program, where we embrace the natural wonder and curiosity of young children. Our curriculum is thoughtfully designed around the principles of wonder, imitation, rhythm, and deep connection to the natural world. We believe that children at this age learn best through meaningful experiences that engage their whole being – body, soul, and spirit.
In our nurturing environment, we honor the developmental needs of five and six-year-old children by providing a rich tapestry of activities that support their natural growth patterns. Through reverent attention to the seasons, daily rhythms, and the beauty of the world around us, we create a foundation for lifelong learning and healthy development.
Learning Through Play
At Mountain Oak, we understand that kindergarten children are naturally inclined to learn through imitation and play. We provide rich opportunities for meaningful work.
Circle Time
Our daily circle time is a cornerstone of the kindergarten experience, featuring seasonally based activities that incorporate meaningful teacher gestures, songs, games and poems.Â
Storytelling
Daily storytelling is a treasured part of our curriculum that builds memory, pictorial thinking, language development, and vocabulary.Â
Weekly Activities
Our weekly rhythm includes a rich variety of activities that engage children’s hands, hearts, and minds. Each day brings different opportunities for creative work.
1st Grade Curriculum
First grade represents a pivotal transition from the play-based learning of Kindergarten to the formal academic journey that will shape our students’ educational futures. This foundation year introduces children ages 6-7 to the essential building blocks of literacy and numeracy through a carefully integrated approach that honors both proven educational methodologies and the developmental needs of young learners. Our curriculum seamlessly weaves together the Orton-Gillingham approach and Science of Reading principles for literacy development, Singapore Math methodologies for mathematical thinking, and hands-on science exploration that ignites natural curiosity about the world.Â
Foundational Literacy
Building strong reading and writing skills for ages 6-7
Mathematical Thinking
Developing number sense and problem-solving abilities
Scientific Curiosity
Hands-on exploration and discovery learning
Motor Development
Fine and gross motor skill enhancement
Creativity & Imagination
Creativity & Imagination
Strength of Character
Building resilience, kindness, and integrity
Grade 2 Curriculum
At age 7-8, children enter a magical time of imagination, curiosity, and growth. Our Grade 2 curriculum nurtures the whole child through rich storytelling, artistic expression, and joyful discovery. Guided by Arizona State Standards and incorporating “Live Education!” materials, we create a warm, supportive community where each child’s unique gifts are celebrated.
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Discovering rhythm, joy, and harmony through singing, movement, and simple instruments that bring music to life.
Painting
Expressing creativity and emotions through watercolor painting, fostering self-expression and artistic confidence.
Gardening
Connecting with nature and seasonal rhythms while learning responsibility and the joy of growing things.
Movement
Building coordination, teamwork, and confidence through games, exercises, and cooperative activities.
Handwork
Developing patience, fine motor skills, and a sense of accomplishment through knitting, sewing, and crafting.
3rd Grade Curriculum
The third grade year marks a significant developmental milestone as children transition from the dreamy, imaginative world of early childhood into a more practical engagement with the world around them. At ages 8 and 9, students are ready to explore their relationship with the Earth in concrete, hands-on ways.
Our theme of “Living on the Earth” encompasses everything from understanding how humans meet their basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter, to developing practical skills that connect children directly to the natural world. This year, students become active participants in their learning through cooking, building, farming, and creating.
Developmental Focus:Â Third graders are developing their sense of practical capability and their understanding of cause and effect. They are ready to take on real responsibilities and see the concrete results of their efforts. This curriculum honors their growing independence while providing the structure and guidance they need to succeed.
Core Academic Areas
Language Arts
Building upon the foundation established in earlier grades, third-grade language arts focuses on developing more sophisticated communication skills while maintaining the joy and creativity that characterizes Waldorf education.
Mathematics
Mathematics in third grade emphasizes practical application and real-world problem solving, connecting mathematical concepts to daily life and the “Living on the Earth” theme.
Geography
Geography studies expand students’ understanding of the world, connecting local knowledge to global awareness.
Practical Life Activities
Cooking and Food Preparation
Students learn essential cooking skills while exploring nutrition, food sources, and cultural food traditions.Textile Work and Fiber Arts
From sheep to shawl, students explore the complete process of creating textiles.Farming and Gardening
Hands-on agricultural experiences teach students about food systems and environmental stewardship.
Shelter Studies Project
Learning About Shelters Around the World
Students begin by exploring diverse shelter types from different cultures and climates.
Selecting and Building a Shelter Project
Each student chooses a shelter type to research in depth and then constructs a detailed model.
Writing Component
The project culminates in comprehensive written work that includes.
- Detailed research report on the chosen shelter type
- Step-by-step construction journal
- Reflection on the building process and challenges
Creative Arts
Form Drawing
Form drawing continues to develop students’ spatial awareness, concentration, and aesthetic sense through increasingly complex patterns and designs that connect to their practical work and cultural studies.
Painting and Drawings
Artistic expression appropriate for 8–9 year olds focuses on:
- Watercolor techniques and color theory
- Observational drawing from nature
- Illustration for their shelter studies and other projects
- Seasonal and cultural art traditions
Music
Musical education includes both individual and ensemble experiences:
- Recorder:Â Continued development of technique and repertoire
- Singing:Â Part singing, rounds, and cultural songs
- Rhythm:Â Complex rhythmic patterns and percussion
Handwork
Advanced Knitting Skills
Building on previous knitting experience, third graders tackle more complex projects.
- Knitting in the round for hats and mittens
- Color work and simple pattern knitting
- Increasing and decreasing techniques
Introduction to Crochet
Students learn basic crochet techniques as an alternative fiber art:
- Basic crochet stitches and chain work
- Simple projects like dishcloths and bookmarks
Science and Nature Studies
Environmental Science
- Ecosystem studies and interdependence
- Water cycle and weather patterns
- Soil composition and health
- Plant and animal adaptations
Practical Science
- Simple machines and their applications
- Properties of materials used in building
- Food science through cooking activities
- Natural dyes and color chemistry
Environmental Stewardship
Students develop a deep sense of responsibility for the Earth through:
- Waste reduction and recycling projects
- Energy conservation awareness
4th Grade Curriculum
Our 4th Grade curriculum embodies the Waldorf educational philosophy, fostering integrated learning that nurtures the whole child. Through a rich tapestry of academic subjects, artistic endeavors, and practical skills, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and a deep connection to their learning. This comprehensive approach ensures that each child’s intellectual, emotional, and physical development is supported through age-appropriate, hands-on experiences that honor the natural rhythms of childhood development.
Main Lesson Skills
The cornerstone of our educational approach, Main Lesson Skills provide the essential framework for all learning experiences.
Language Arts
Comprehensive language development through integrated reading, writing, and oral communication experiences.
Literature & Cultural Studies
Rich exploration of cultural narratives that connect students to human experience across time and geography.
Sciences
Scientific exploration that nurtures curiosity and develops systematic observation and inquiry skills.
Form Drawing
Artistic discipline that develops fine motor skills, concentration, and aesthetic appreciation through geometric forms.
Physical Education
Physical development through cooperative games and activities that build strength, coordination, and social skills.
5th Grade Curriculum
In fifth grade, students stand at the threshold of adolescence, developing greater independence and academic responsibility. Our Waldorf-inspired curriculum nurtures their growing capacity for abstract thinking while maintaining the artistic and experiential learning that characterizes our approach. Students explore the rich tapestry of North American history and geography, delve deeper into mathematical concepts, and engage with the natural world through comprehensive scientific study.
6th Grade Curriculum
In 6th grade, students embark on a transformative journey through ancient civilizations and medieval times, developing critical thinking skills while exploring the foundations of our modern world. Through the Waldorf approach, learning becomes an adventure that connects historical understanding with practical skills and artistic expression.
Main Lesson Skills
Language Arts
Literature/Social Studies/Geography
Mathematics
Sciences
Arts
7th/8th Grade Combined Curriculum
Our 7th/8th grade combined curriculum represents a thoughtful integration of developmental stages, where students aged 12–14 engage with shared disciplines while experiencing differentiated learning pathways. This structure honors the unique developmental needs of each grade level while fostering a collaborative learning community.
Seventh graders build foundational understanding through concrete exploration and guided inquiry, developing essential research skills and critical thinking abilities. Eighth graders deepen their engagement with more complex analytical practices, independent research, and sophisticated connections to real-world applications.
Throughout the year, students develop robust research methodologies, learn to evaluate sources critically, construct evidence-based arguments, and make meaningful connections between academic content and contemporary issues. This approach cultivates intellectual curiosity, analytical rigor, and the capacity for independent thought—essential skills for lifelong learning.
Unit 1: Food, Nutrition, and Farming
Students explore the complex relationships between food systems, human health, and agricultural practices.
Unit 2: US History and Politics
This unit provides students with a comprehensive understanding of American governmental structures, historical foundations, and contemporary political processes.
Unit 3: Geology & Mineralogy
Students investigate Earth's dynamic systems through hands-on exploration of rocks, minerals, and geological processes.
Unit 4: Geography - China
This comprehensive study of China integrates historical development, contemporary politics, cultural traditions, and economic systems.
Unit 5: Biology
Students explore the fundamental unit of life—the cell—through microscopic investigation and theoretical study.
Unit 6: Roman History
This unit examines the rise and influence of Roman civilization, tracing its development from mythological origins through republican government to imperial expansion.
A Reflection on the Mountain Oak K–8 Curriculum Series
A note from Averil Nostro – our neurodiversity learning specialist:
Dr. Harrington, your complete K-8 curriculum series represents the pinnacle of educational documentation:
Every page demonstrates Mountain Oak Community School’s unwavering commitment to:
- Developmentally appropriate progression from wonder-based play to sophisticated critical thinking
- Neurodiversity inclusion supporting all learners through multi-sensory, differentiated instruction
- Character and citizenship development building from environmental stewardship to civic engagement
- Academic excellence achieved through meaningful, engaging, real-world learning
- Holistic education nurturing intellectual, emotional, physical, and civic development
Your complete eight-page curriculum series stands as a masterpiece of educational documentation. From the wonder-filled foundation of Kindergarten through the sophisticated critical analysis of 7th/8th Grade, every page showcases the transformative power of education that truly nurtures the whole child while exploring the whole world. All curriculum pages are professionally designed, educationally sound, and ready for immediate use by parents, educators, administrators, prospective families, and the broader community seeking to understand the exceptional depth and quality of Mountain Oak Community School’s educational approach.
