Classical Model

In the classical model of education, the learning process is separated into three stages of learning: grammar, logic, and rhetoric. These stages together are referred to as the “trivium.” During the grammar stage or elementary years, the building blocks are laid to provide students with foundational knowledge in all subject matter. The focus is on gathering information as students learn the skills needed to comprehend the information that they are being taught. As students enter the middle school years or “logic”stage they are going beyond basic comprehension skills and are being asked to delve deeper. They are shown ways to make comparisons, to examine cause and effect, and to answer the question of “why?” During this stage, teachers help them to see how different fields of study relate to one another and instruct them in making logical connections. In the final stage of “rhetoric,” which coincides with the high school years, students are guided in the art of purposeful and meaningful self expression. They are taught how to write and speak with clarity, focus, and originality.

Grammar

Cultivate a love of learning and greater understanding of the world around them through the use of play, games, music, and memorization.
Introduce students to great stories and literature as they learn about the Bible, history, science, art, and music.
Lay a firm foundation in the skills of language development including phonics, vocabulary, reading fluency, and comprehension.
Instruct students as they learn how to express themselves verbally through the skill of narration and tactically through written expression.
Aid students in their development of a strong sense of number.
Provide students with the opportunity to express their creativity in art and music.
Aid in the development of the student's Christian character.

Logic

Engage in the inquiry process.
Apply and analyze content that will be taught in each class.
Learn to accurately compare and contrast, and to identify cause and effect.
Interact with the scientific method.
Participate in critical thinking that builds skills in logic and systems of thought.
Learn to read text for greater analysis as they interact with author’s purpose and symbolism.
Produce greater pieces of writing as they practice the skills of outlining and paragraph structure.
Grow in their ability to take notes and maintain an appropriate level of organization.
Grow in the Fruits of the Spirit.
Be provided with the opportunity to serve students in the lower grades as they practice building responsibility, leadership skills, and exercising compassion.

Rhetoric

Using the information gained through grammar and the reasoning gained through logic, students will move to philosophical thinking that comes out in speaking and writing.
Learn to write and speak with greater influence and originality.
Hone thinking and communication skills.
Participate in classes in which they are challenged to develop and strengthen their world view.
Draw greater connections.
Grow in their ability to reason.
Continue to grow in the fruits of the spirit
Learn about and contribute to "the great conversation" as they read and interact with the "Great Books."
Begin to explore branches of learning and enrichment that peak their interest.
Engage in the community through the exploration of service projects and apprenticeship opportunities.