Waldorf Block: G4: Fourth Grade Math

In Waldorf education, fourth grade marks a significant shift in math instruction. Students, having built a solid foundation in arithmetic in earlier grades, delve into fractions as a core topic. This focus on "parts of a whole" aligns with the fourth grader's developing sense of self and their relationship to the larger world. Fractions through cooking, factoring, long division, weights and measures, reduction and expansion of fractions, insights from Steiner and creative approaches to all concepts. Illustrations included as well as access to all the fourth grade Main Lesson Book pages for math. This block includes ten videos by Waldorf Teacher Nicole Martinez as well as ten additional videos by Waldorf Teacher Mellie Lonneman.

Unveiling Waldorf 4th Grade Math: A Journey of Discovery and Deep Understanding
In Waldorf education, fourth grade marks a significant shift in math instruction. Students, having built a solid foundation in arithmetic in earlier grades, delve into fractions as a core topic. This focus on "parts of a whole" aligns with the fourth grader's developing sense of self and their relationship to the larger world.
What to Expect in the Earthschooling Waldorf 4th Grade Math Block:
  • Hands-on, Experiential Learning: This curriculum embraces a multi-sensory approach to math. We will explore fraction through manipulatives, art, movement, and storytelling. For example, fractions will be introduced through stories about dividing food or through hands-on activities like dividing objects into equal parts.
  • Emphasis on Understanding: The Earthschooling Waldorf curriculum prioritizes deep conceptual understanding over rote memorization. Students are encouraged to discover mathematical concepts through exploration rather than simply being given procedures to follow. This approach aims to develop flexible thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Integrating Math with Other Subjects: Math is woven into the broader curriculum. For instance, a math block on fractions might be linked to local geography and mapmaking, as students explore dividing up areas.
  • Building Foundational Skills: While fractions are a main focus, previous math concepts are reviewed and strengthened. Students continue to practice long multiplication and long division, as well as mental math strategies.
  • Creative Approaches: Waldorf math blocks encourage creativity and artistic expression. Students might use chalk drawings, painting, or form drawing to visualize mathematical ideas.
  • Developing a Love of Learning: Waldorf math aims to cultivate a positive learning experience and a joy of learning in students. By making math engaging and relevant, Waldorf education helps students develop into confident and capable problem solvers.
Earthschooling Waldorf 4th Grade Math Block Key Topics:
  • Introduction to Fractions: understanding what fractions are and how they are expressed
  • Equivalent Fractions: learning to recognize and find fractions that represent the same value
  • Adding and Subtracting Fractions: with like and unlike denominators, including mixed numbers
  • Multiplying and Dividing Fractions: including by whole numbers and mixed numbers
  • Factors and Multiples: essential for working with fractions
  • Simplifying and Expanding Fractions: reducing fractions to their lowest terms and finding equivalent fractions
  • Long Multiplication and Division: continued practice of these multi-digit operations
Why Choose Earthschooling Waldorf Math?
Research indicates that the Waldorf approach, with its emphasis on hands-on learning, integrated curriculum, and focus on developing a deep understanding of concepts, leads to strong academic performance in math, often exceeding traditional approaches in the long run.

In summary, a Waldorf fourth grade math block offers a unique and engaging approach to fractions and other key mathematical concepts, fostering a love of learning and building a solid foundation for future academic success.


Your Instructor


​​Mellie Mae Lonneman
​​Mellie Mae Lonneman

Mellie Mae Lonnemann lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband and two sons. Mellie was a class teacher at the Green Meadow Waldorf School in Chestnut Ridge, NY before the arrival of her first son, Joseph. She then taught homeschool students morning lessons, clay art, quilting, and gardening. She taught handwork at the Asheville Waldorf School before the birth of her second son..Mellie received her Waldorf Teacher Certificate from Sunbridge Institute, a BFA with a concentration in ceramics from Alfred University, and an Art Certificate in Professional Maiolica from the Ballardini State Institute of Art in Faenza, Italy. Mellie loves spending time outdoors, being creative, and learning from her beautiful sons! She wishes to impart a love for learning through curiosity, discovery and creativity. 


Course Curriculum


  Fourth Grade Math Block (With Mellie Lonneman)
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Waldorf Math Block: Part II: With Waldorf Teacher Mellie
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Fourth Grade Math Block (With Nicole Martinez)
Available in days
days after you enroll

Frequently Asked Questions


When does the course start and finish?
The course starts now and never ends! It is a completely self-paced online course - you decide when you start and when you finish.
How long do I have access to the course?
How does lifetime access sound? After enrolling, you have unlimited access to this course for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.

Get started now!