What Is Classical Christian Education?
Classical Christian education is based on what has been called the “Trivium” or three paths. No matter how your child learns, he or she goes through three phases:
In grades K-6, students are excellent at memorizing.
In grades 7-8, students become more argument-oriented and are ready to be taught logic and critical thinking.
In grades 9-12, students continue to mature as independent thinkers and persuasive communicators. To this end, classical education teaches “rhetoric,” the art of speaking, communicating, and writing effectively.
Covenant Classical School integrates subjects like Bible, literature, history, language, art, math, and science. Students read the great works of Western literature and philosophy. Classical languages (Latin) help students understand and think with greater depth about the world around them. Formal logic and rhetoric help students become great leaders and communicators. Classical teaching methods range from class lectures, to debates, to Socratic (discussion-oriented) teaching. Independent learning skills are sharpened at all grade levels.
There is no greater task for education than to teach students how to learn. The influence of “progressive” teaching methods and the oversimplification of textbooks make it difficult for students to acquire the mental discipline that traditional instruction methods once cultivated. The classical method develops independent learning skills on the foundation of language, logic, and tangible fact. The classical difference is clear when students are taken beyond subjects taught conventionally and asked to apply their knowledge through the classical method, which develops independent logic and clear expression.
We believe that learning, hard work, and fun are not mutually exclusive. Learning should be a joyful endeavor – one that presents a challenge.
Beyond subject matter, classical education develops those skills that are essential in higher education and throughout life – independent scholarship, critical thinking, logical analysis, and a love for learning. We hope you agree that this “back to and beyond” develops timeless skills that are as important in today’s rapidly changing world as they were to our founding fathers.
A visit to Covenant Classical School quickly demonstrates the delight of students who love to learn. Learning is exciting, especially for children. In our experience, children who transfer from a conventional classroom to a classical classroom usually develop an increased appreciation for education and for the pursuit of knowledge.
https://www.covenantclassical.org/schedule-a-tour
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