Another distinguishing feature of CE, is its very deliberate, intense study of language.
The tools used to foster skills in this area are Phonics & Spelling, English Grammar, Latin, Greek, Literature, Composition and Systematic Vocabulary Study. The primacy of language studies cannot be overemphasized! The student who has a vice-grip on language has the wide world at his disposal!
I have written extensively on these in the past, so I'll make a few remarks, then offer links to previous posts.
We lay the foundation for continuing growth in language, by teaching our students to read, and by reading to them extensively. It is essential that as they progress through Grammar school, we set before them challenging literature and vocabulary. Not that which is beyond their reach, but that which is outside their experience. The best way to cultivate mastery of the language, is to couple systematic instruction in spelling, vocabulary, and grammar, with copious amounts of intelligent talk and intelligent reading.
If our students are to be prepared to access primary-source historical documents, they must have at their disposal a substantial word-base, the inductive and deductive skills to ascertain the meaning of new words, and the grammatical proficiency to wade through lengthy, complex sentence structures - all of which enable them to comprehend and digest these works.
An excellent, aggressive classical education will incorporate all the necessary means to ensure its students have mastered the English language. Of course, I must mention that the study of Latin and Greek are extremely helpful in this regard. Not only because of the abundance of words we draw from them (in that case, roots study alone would be sufficient), but they offer greater insight into grammar and the structure of language than the study of English grammar alone provides.
If you're interested in reading more on these topics, follow the links below.
2 comments:
Hey Lori,
Just wanted to let you know I'm reading your blog and enjoying it. I told Russ last night we need to start a classical school here in Rocky Mount. Want to come and teach? :)
Well, Laura, I'm glad you're enjoying reading what you already know! As for teaching...if I find myself unexpectedly widowed and childless, I'll do it. :)
Seriously, though, that would be a wonderful ministry for you all. Have you already forgotten how much work it is to start from scratch? Kinda like childbirth, I guess...
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