What is Classical Christian Education?
Classical Christian education is a proven approach to teaching that uses an integrated biblical worldview curriculum to develop critical thinking skills through a rich exposure to history, literature, classical language, math, science, and the arts.
The Classical Christian Method of study is organized according to the “Trivium,” the three-phase approach to education that capitalizes on developmental characteristics of students as they mature.
- The Grammar stage (K-6th grade) emphasizes the acquisition of basic facts in each subject. Young students enjoy absorbing information through songs, recitation, repetitious activities, and educational games.
- The Logic stage (grades 7-9) focuses on organizing facts learned in the Grammar stage while helping students address the question, “Why?” A formal study of logic gives focus to the naturally argumentative nature of students in this stage. Other tools of learning include debates, as well as research and persuasive writing projects.
- The Rhetoric stage (grades 10-12) refines the students’ ability to persuasively express the grammar and logic of a subject through written and oral presentations, as well as debate.
The classical Christian Method emphasizes the basics including mathematics, history, the sciences, and language studies including a study of Latin and classic literature. With a concentration on the great works of Western Civilization, an emphasis on the integration of knowledge, and a belief that all subjects present an opportunity to understand more of the nature and character of God.
Midland Christian School believes that the most effective way to create both an academically rigorous and Christ-centered school is through the proven model of the classical Christian approach to education. A Classical education requires three distinct areas of study. These are the formal study of Latin beginning in the 2nd Grade, of formal Logic in the 7th through 9th Grades, and of formal Rhetoric in the 10th through 12th Grades. Each of these is critical to building the skill of understanding language, the skill of sound reasoning and the skill of persuasive communication.
Essentially, the classical Christian approach emphasizes the need to become thinkers and learners.
