Classical Education at Light of Christ Academy
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What is Classical Education?
Classical education can be understood as an approach to learning which has as its final goal the formation of the whole person in wisdom and virtue. The method of education in the classical tradition at Light of Christ Academy is to immerse the student in the great ideas of the great thinkers in the history of Western civilization; to make the students themselves participants in the ongoing search for a proper understanding of man, nature, God, truth, goodness, and beauty. In this way, education becomes an adventure in human formation which inspires wonder, rather than mere preparation for the workforce. Reading, analyzing, and discussing the original works of the great thinkers is one way that classical education encourages the student to become an active participant in his or her education.
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THE GRAMMAR STAGE (PreK-3rd)
The grammar stage teaches the child the foundational knowledge for all subjects. They learn the grammar of English (Phonics), Latin, History, Math, Science, Scripture, and Catechesis. During this stage, the child tends to find memorizing information enjoyable, and it builds his confidence and knowledge of any given subject. Students in this stage memorize Bible verses, poetry, timelines, and songs that help them build a foundation of knowledge that will aid their formation throughout their education and for the rest of their lives.
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THE LOGIC STAGE (4th-6th)
The logic stage builds on the grammar stage and flows naturally as students begin to question the information they are given. This stage adds a level of depth to the information the student has acquired in the grammar stage and gives the questioning student the right tools to answer the many questions that arise. Students tend to enjoy debate, as they begin to sort out the order of the knowledge acquired thus far in all subjects. Literature is a major component to this stage as it helps the student apply the heroic virtue they have encountered through books to their own experiences. Students continue their study of Latin and work to improve writing, reading, and spelling.
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RHETORIC STAGE (7th-8th)
Finally, rhetoric is the point of emphasis across all subjects. Although the students will continue to learn and develop their rhetorical skills throughout high school and beyond, it is during this time that the focus becomes writing and speaking beautifully and persuasively in defense of the integrated truth they have come to behold. This stage encourages students to practice and learn the art of public speaking, persuasive writing, friendly debate, and apologetics. It prepares the students to continue their education at any high school and have the confidence and ability to be virtuous Catholic soldiers and leaders.
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Socratic Method
One important teaching tool that history has shown to be most effective is called the Socratic Method. This employs teacher-guided discussion amongst students, to allow them to become active participants in their learning, rather than merely passive receptors of information. Both Montessori and Classical education at Light of Christ Academy employ this idea of peer-assisted learning. Recent studies have shown that only employing the lecture method of education produces brain activity more minimal than sleep!
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