New Classical Education
ACA is transitioning to a classical Christian style of teaching and learning. We want to prepare our graduates not only to make a living, but also to make a profound difference in the world in which they emerge. What does that mean for ACA students?
Memorization & Recitation
Memorization sharpens the mind and instills volumes of knowledge producing wisdom.
Recitation develops poise and confidence with the ability to communicate effectively persuasively and with eloquence.
The following is from the Classical Christian Schools publication Discover Classical Christian Education – The Essential Guide for Parents
Stages of a classical Christian education
Grades K-2
Traits
- Obviously excited about learning
- Enjoys games, stories, songs, projects
- Short attention span
- Wants to touch, taste, feel, smell and see
- Imaginative and creative
In the classroom
Guided discovery; explore; finds things; use lots of tactile items; sing; play games; chant; recite; color; draw; paint; build; use body movements; short creative projects; show and tell; drama; hear/read/tell stories; field trips.
Grades 3-6
Traits
- Excited about new, interesting facts
- Likes to explain, figure out, talk
- Wants to relate topic to their own experiences
- Likes collections and organizing items
- Likes clever chants and rhymes
- Easily memorizes
- Can assimilate another language well
In the classroom
Lots of hands-on work; projects; field trips; drama; make collections, displays, models; integrate subjects through above means; teach and assign research projects; recitations; memorization; drills, games.
Grades 7-8
Traits
- Still excitable but needs challenges
- Critical, enjoys debate
- Likes to organize items
- Show off knowledge
- Wants to know “behind the scenes” facts
- Curious about why for most things
- Act as though they are more knowledgeable than adults
In the classroom
Time lines, charts, maps, visual materials; debates, persuasive reports; drama re-enactments, role playing; evaluate and critique (with guidelines); formal logic; research projects; oral/written presentations; guest speakers; trips