Overview
Classical education is a centuries-old methodology aimed at forming young minds through the emphasis on developing tools that the student can use throughout their lives. This approach aims to produce generations that have effectively mastered the art of learning so that they may skillfully acquire and apply knowledge, reason critically, and articulate persuasively. While academics at Charis are rigorous, the goal isn’t rigor in and of itself, but to instill joy of learning, creating truth seekers and active learners. We have chosen curricula that lays out a rich feast of ideas, truths, and skills using material friendly to both the classroom and also the satellite classroom at home.
Curriculum
Sometimes referred to as the Trivium (Latin for "three roads"), this approach consists of the grammar, logic and rhetoric stages, each building upon its predecessor, organizing learning around the maturing capacity of the child’s mind. The Biblical equivalent to this progression is found in the admonition to pursue knowledge, understanding and wisdom, particularly in the book of Proverbs.
Grammar (K-5th)
Rhetoric (9th-12th)
Grammar (K-5th)
The Grammar stage aligns with children's peak memorization abilities. Teachers aim to teach with the grain of this age, through use of songs, chants, hand motions, and memorizing poetry and history timelines providing a strong foundation to build upon. In science, students practice observation, sketching, and journaling during nature studies, building skills for later logic years. Through the "Art of Narration" in subjects like literature, picture study, and math, students retell content using "living books," fostering attention, comprehension, synthesis, and communication skills.
Logic (6th-8th)
Rhetoric (9th-12th)
Grammar (K-5th)
The subsequent Logic stage, during middle school years, fosters critical thinking and analysis as students naturally gravitate toward exploration and questioning. They learn to identify logical fallacies, construct strong arguments, define terms, and defend their views with sound reasoning and evidence. Learning the art of discourse across subjects, students deepen skills in grammar, writing, Latin, math, scientific reasoning, and experimentation, while engaging with classics like The Epic of Gilgamesh, Beowulf, and Homer’s Odyssey.
Rhetoric (9th-12th)
Rhetoric (9th-12th)
Rhetoric (9th-12th)
In the Rhetoric stage, students refine their communication skills, focusing on rhetoric and writing. As they mature, their desire to express their viewpoints strengthens. We teach them to pursue truth and beauty while mastering knowledge and expression. Students study formal rhetoric, debate, and write and present a thesis to the school community. They continue core studies in math, science, Latin, Greek, and history, engaging with works like The Aeneid, Confessions, A Tale of Two Cities, and Crime and Punishment. Building on their classical language foundation, students can specialize in Greek, Latin, or another language and choose electives in common arts, active living, book studies, or service.