Symptomatology is typically the last block for Waldorf students. It is an examination of the history of human consciousness from a symptomalogical point of view. That is, what are the "symptoms" or themes that characterize the evolution of consciousness and development? The students give daily presentations on different topics such as: the beginning of the universe, emergence of homo sapiens, development of language and writing, agriculture and domestication of animals, migration patterns, beginnings of world religions, empire building, emergence of Christianity, rise of Islam, Greece and the birth of Socratic philosophy, Mongol movement, forms of government, economic patterns, Colombian Exchange, British Empire, colonization and slavery, global conflict, scientific revolution, the Enlightenment, the Renaissance, technological revolution, globalization, art as a reflection of human consciousness, and others. Each day, the students present their topics, leading to a very engaging and often insightful discussion. 

Concurrently, the students looked back on their education in parallel to these themes by visiting the classes and interacting with the students throughout the school. Beginning in the Kindergarten in the realm of wholeness and goodness, the seniors look back to a time where there was no time and the world was full of possibilities only limited by their imagination. Then, throughout the grades, the seniors experience the development of childhood as one of an emerging individual, who must overcome social, emotional, and intellectual challenges to find what is truly unique about oneself. Finally, a glance back at their own adolescence reveals a perspective different from the one they experienced in the middle of this tumultuous time. As Waldorf education is a recapitulation of the development of human consciousness, the Symptomatology block not only ties all of their historical studies together, but also gives a picture of their own education in a Waldorf school. 

The block also provided a wonderful opportunity for high school and lower grade students to join together and have fun.  The seniors said their time with the younger students was great fun and also impactful in their understanding of Symptomatology. 

Added Aby Jaeger, "as someone who only joined in high school, I have gained a deeper understanding of Waldorf education, free of the cliches. Also, interacting and playing with the children informed the discussions we had about human development."

Activities included a hands-on activity (making herbed butter) with Grade 5, Capture the Flag with Grade 6 and a cozy, rhythmic morning spent creating drawings with Miss Terri's kindergarten, who also surprised the seniors with homemade oatmeal.