A Phenomena-Based Physics, Vol. 1 for Grade 6

A Phenomena-Based Physics
By Manfred von Mackensen
Translated and edited by John Petering
AWSNA Publications, 1994-97
Vol. 1 for Grade 6; 66 pages; paperback; $8.00

These books were written for class teachers in Waldorf Schools. At the same time, however, they can also serve as an introduction to a phenomena-centered study of physics for anyone interested in pursuing this approach. Von Mackensen is very careful in his methodology. As is appropriate for students of this age, he seeks to give them a broad and diverse experience of the phenomena. Developing an interest in and familiarity with the phenomena is the primary concern. Only gradually, after rich experience has been gathered, do theoretical considerations come into play.

Each of the three volumes begins with the same basic general introduction to the teaching methodology. Then the various fields of physics appropriate to the age group are introduced. A discussion of the main topics in the particular field is followed by detailed descriptions of a series of simple experiments.

Contents, Vol. 1: Grade 6
Introduction
Preface
Teaching, Technology and Life
The Landscape of Science
Alternative Science, No Thanks?
Developmental Psychology
Pedagogical Methods
To the Teacher

Grade 6 Overview

Grade 6 Acoustics
Acoustics Born out of Music
About the Origin of Tones
The Larynx
Unified Overview
Literature on Acoustics
Experimenting in Acoustics

6th Grade Optics
How should we seek knowledge?
Beginning Lessons
Seeing and the Sun
Brightness and Shadow
6th Grade Optics Experiments

6th Grade Heat
Introduction to Heat
From Molten Metal to Ice
Setting Aglow and Dying-Glow
Images for Warmth
Thermal Insulation
Heat Experiments for 6th Grade

6th Grade Electricity
The History of Electricity
How it arises and subsides
Conductors and Insulators
What is Electricity?
Images for Electricity
Further Electric Experiments
Electricity Experiments for 6 th Grade

Magnetism in 6th Grade
Natural Magnetism
Magnetization
De-Magnetization
Compasses
Magnetic Declination
Magnetic Inclination
Magnetism Experiments for 6th Grade