What is Classical Education?

One of the first questions prospective parents ask is what is Christian Classical Education and how does it differ from “traditional” education. Classical education focuses on learning styles, content, and approaches that are attuned to students’ needs while traditional education often uses convenience and “social norms” as guidelines. In order to better explain the differences in classical and traditional education, we include the following charts adapted from two classical education journals. (See citations included for original sources).

Classical education is a conscious return to the ancient goal of education: teaching children to think and learn for themselves by imparting to them the tools of learning. It is an approach to education that is rooted in the ancient medieval concept of the Trivium. The Trivium is comprised of three basic tools of learning: Grammar (the tool of knowledge), Logic (the tool of reasoning) and Rhetoric (the tool of communication and expression).

The Trivium can be viewed as (1) An approach to subjects, (2) An approach to students, and (3) A set of subjects.

The Three Functions of the Trivium

(Chart adapted from Classical and Christian Education, Gregg Strawbridge, 1997, Reformed Thought Publications)

Trivium Stage

An Approach to Subjects

An Approach to Students

A Set of Subjects

Grammar

 Mastery of fundamental facts & rules Emphasis on core-knowledge Elementary age - Concrete thinkers Information sponges Memorization comes naturally Latin (The study of an ancient language that builds learning skills, develops English vocabulary, and enhances appreciation of classical culture)

Logic

 Mastery of sound reasoning & critical thinking skills. Emphasis on comprehension Junior High age Beginning to think abstractly. Growth of reasoning & analytical thinking abilities Logic (The study of the science of sound reasoning)

Rhetoric

 Mastery of communication skills. Emphasis on expression, articulation & application High School age Abstract thinkers Interest in self-expression, communication & creativity Rhetoric(The study of the effective use of language in speech and writing)