Dekalb Christian Home Educators

 

Elementary Classical Studies: Bible, History, Geography, Latin, Language Arts, Science, Fine Arts

Teacher: Rosalind "Roz" Austin
Teacher Assistant: Jessica Taylor
Date/Time: Monday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Room: Classroom 25
Department: Elementary
Grade Level: 6-10 years old
Maximum Enrollment: 15

Teaching Team: Roz Austin & Jessica Taylor


Elementary Classical Studies is a comprehensive curriculum specifically designed for 3rd through 7th grade learners, covering a broad range of subjects within the classical tradition. The class aims to provide students with a holistic education rooted in the Christian faith. 


Semester Fees:

Class $300, Supplies $50


Materials to Purchase:

Mystery of History Volume 2: The Early Church and the Middle Ages


The Classical Approach

A classical education is one that is language-centered, which means that students will do a great deal of reading, listening, and writing.  Furthermore, the classical education observes three stages of training the mind.  The three-stage process is called the “trivium” of learning. 


Stage One: Grammar 

Kindergarten through 3rd or 4th grade

The authors of the book The Well-Trained Mind consider these ages as the most absorbent. They believe it is not so much a time of “self discovery” as it is the accumulation of new ideas, new words, new stories, and new facts.


Stage Two: Logic 

4th or 5th through 8th grade

Students begin to process information they’ve obtained and question it. Their ability to process things more logically and think abstractly is more developed.


Stage Three:Rhetoric

9th grade and beyond 

Students apply the information that has been learned.


This course is designed to foster a culture of inquiry. Nurturing a classroom culture that values questioning and inquiry, will empower students to move easily into the Logic stage of the trivium.  They will ask questions, seek answers, and explore the world with curiosity and enthusiasm. Classes will include open discussion, reflective writing, inquiry based projects, and opportunities for peer collaboration.

This course aims to

  • Foster a deep understanding of the Christian perspective in History and Science,
  • Develop foundational knowledge of Latin language and grammar,
  • Enhance critical thinking and analytical abilities,
  • Cultivate creativity and artistic expression through fine arts exploration, and 
  • Promote curiosity and enthusiasm for further study of history, culture, and science.


Subject Areas

Latin

Visual Latin 

https://compassclassroom.com/visual-latin-homeschool-curriculum/

Visual Latin uses a combination of short videos and worksheets for different learning styles.  The clear explanations and fun humor keep children engaged, while combining the best aspects of the natural and traditional methods.  In addition, every lesson  includes translations of the simplified Latin Bible.

Language Arts

Shurley English

https://www.shurley.com/

Shurley English has assembled a unique combination of features to help students build a solid literacy foundation. Our experts organized the series logically, sequentially, and systematically for success. Abstract language arts concepts become clear and logical, using concrete, multi-sensory strategies that support all types of learners. 


Science

Science in the Ancient World (selected)

https://bereanbuilders.com/ecomm/product/science-in-the-ancient-world/

The course covers the scientific work of natural philosophers who lived from about  AD 90 to the  AD 1450. It concentrates mostly on what these scientists got right, but it does spend some time discussing what they got wrong, because even the mistakes that scientists make can sometimes advance our understanding of the natural world. When the students are taught something that is now known to be incorrect, they are made aware of this fact!


Because the course covers science as it was developed, it covers a wide range of topics including human anatomy, medicine, optics, heliocentrism, geocentrism, sound, music, magnets, how steam is used to generate power, the motion of objects through a medium, combustion, levers, pulleys, plant growth, plant anatomy, tree ring dating, the atmosphere, astronomy, the basics of graphing, plastics, density, water flow, friction, and erosion. Throughout the course, students learn that most of the great scientists who lived from AD 500 to the end of this time period were devout Christians who did science because they thought they could learn more about God by studying His handiwork.


History 

Mystery of History Volume 2

The Early Church and the Middle Ages

https://themysteryofhistory.com/world-history-curriculum/medieval-history/

Volume II covers world history from the ascension of Jesus Christ (c. A.D. 33) to the invention of the printing press (1456). Where most medieval studies hover over the Dark Ages of Europe, The Mystery of History Volume II goes further to blend the history of the early church with worldwide events of the Middle Ages―on one meaningful timeline.


Fine Arts

Fiber Arts

Fine Art whose material consists of natural or synthetic fiber and other components, such as fabric or yarn. It focuses on the materials and on the manual labor on the part of the artist as part of the works' significance, and prioritizes aesthetic value over utility.


Exploring Colors

Use wet on wet watercolors to gain technical skill handling water colors, explore the unique qualities of individual colors, and discover the range of nuances and tones within each color.


Music 

Use rhythm sticks as learning tools to enhance the development of auditory skills, fine motor skills, sense of rhythm, body awareness, and coordination of mind and body.  Sing songs to enhance mood, memory, and concentration through its ability to engage multiple areas of the brain.


Each class will include assignments for deeper study at home.  Assignments are designed to reinforce learning and encourage creativity. Assignments may include:

Reading Assignments

Students are assigned readings from textbooks, historical fiction, or primary sources related to the weekly topic. They are encouraged to take notes and reflect on the readings at home


Language Practice

Students practice Latin vocabulary and grammar exercises provided or from online resources


Research Projects

Students may undertake research projects on scientific discoveries or ancient inventions and present their findings in class or at the Science Fair


Creative Projects

Students are encouraged to engage in creative projects, essays or stories inspired by weekly themes


Review and Reflection

At the end of each week, students review their notes, reflect on what they've learned, and prepare questions or discussion points for the next class.



Elementary Classical Studies  offers a dynamic and engaging curriculum that provides students with a well-rounded education. Students will embark on a rewarding journey of discovery and exploration, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and appreciation of our Christian heritage.