Literacy
Literacy instruction is based on the Spalding Education Writing Road to Reading, a holistic multi-sensory approach for teaching explicit phonics, penmanship, spelling, reading, grammar, and composition. Cursive handwriting is taught beginning in first grade because of the well documented cognitive benefits.
Kindergarten through second grade are introduced to grammar basics as they build their vocabulary, identifying parts of speech, and applying new words to original sentences. Older students continue to apply fundamental grammar concepts and learn to make accurate grammatical constructions and use appropriate word choices as the basis for their sentences. Dictionaries are commonplace – there is no guesswork before proper mastery of the English language.
Composition
Strong written and oral skills are emphasized across all grades. Using the process of Writing with Ease from Well-Trained Mind Press, students in kindergarten through third grade learn first through through narration, imitation, copy work, and dictation exercises, that later lead to a smooth transition to more complex, original compositions. In fourth grade, students will begin the ancient Greek method of the progymnasmata or “early exercises”, using the Classical Composition sequence from Memoria Press. We believe that training in writing cannot be separated from training in virtue. Our aim is to teach students the art of putting thoughts into true, beautiful, and persuasive language. Older students learn to organize their writing in a logical and clear way, and to express ideas in the style best suited to a given audience and occasion.
Mathematics
Our students learn mastery of basic arithmetic and problem solving skills that will prepare them for advanced math and science. Mathematics instruction is based on the time-tested instruction of Saxon Math – an incremental spiral-approach to arithmetic and problem solving. A spiral-approach leads to better long-term mastery of facts, skills, and concepts. Students do not rely on technology – calculators and other electronic devices are not utilized until advanced math courses.
Latin
Why Latin? Latin is taught as the foundation of learning and mastering the English language. Latin instruction is introduced through song in first and second grades. Third graders begin more formal Latin with Latina Christiana from Memoria Press. Fourth to seventh graders will continue with the Latin Form Series, a more formal study which teaches important English and Latin grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure concepts. The Latin Form Series is equivalent to one full year of high school Latin instruction.
History and Geography
Historia magistra vitae est (history is the teacher of life). The study of history is approached chronologically and is told as a story across time. Students start by building a foundation of world history and culture and later delve into more challenging texts and materials to create a deeper understanding of events and ideas that have unfolded over time. This includes a rich and recurring examination of the moral, philosophical, political, economic, and historic traditions of our Western and American heritage.
Topics in history and geography are based on the Core Knowledge® Sequence and supplemented using the Hillsdale College 1776 Curriculum. Our faculty will enhance understanding using primary source documents whenever possible.
Literature
Students read literature selected from the best of the Western canon; timeless classics, which teach ageless virtues and speak to the human condition. Literature selections parallel our study of history and correspond to the era of study. In later years, this will include a Great Books approach to reading literature, history, science, and philosophy from original sources as they were written in that period of time. The aim is for students to engage in what Mortimer Adler referred to as the “Great Conversation”, while creating an integrated learning environment across subjects.
Science
The study of science is taught from the perspective of instilling a sense of awe and wonder of the natural world. Instruction is based on the Core Knowledge® Sequence – a hands-on approach that builds students’ knowledge of foundational ideas in life, physical, and earth/space sciences; connecting scientific learning to concepts across various disciplines, such as mathematics, history, and literacy.
The Arts
Classical education traditionally emphasized the study of the arts, represented in the quadrivium by music, but that today also include the visual arts. Like literature, the study of music and art parallels our study of history. Students will understand and appreciate great works that correspond to the era of study in each grade level. Students learn theory and style and will understand, appreciate, and imitate the great masters of history with special emphasis on active participation.
Physical Education
We believe in developing the whole person, mind, and body, through rigorous exercise, team sports, and an education in lifelong health and wellness.
