A Look Inside the CSA Curriculum (Part Two)
In our previous article, How We Integrate Faith into Classroom Learning, we explored the foundational principles of classical Christian education at Christ the Savior Academy. Now, let’s delve deeper and witness these principles come to life within our curriculum. We’ll explore how subjects like Literature, History, and Language Arts intertwine, cultivating a love of learning and a deeper understanding of our faith. This journey begins with a closer look at the Humanities. Here students encounter the timeless truths found within the great works of literature and history, fostering a deeper appreciation for God’s creation and their place within it.
A Foundation for Lifelong Learning
The early years are a critical period for a child’s development. At CSA, our journey toward academic excellence begins in Pre-Kindergarten, echoing Aristotle’s wisdom:
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.
We cultivate habits of learning, ensuring each child feels confident and prepared for Kindergarten. Observe a typical day in Ms. Laura’s Pre-Kindergarten classroom. Employing a multisensory approach, she guides her students through the exploration of letters, numbers, and colors. A recent exchange exemplifies this:
Ms. Laura: What color are we focusing on this week?
PreK Students: Brown!
Ms. Laura: Is brown a primary, secondary, or composite color?
PreK Students: Composite!
Ms. Laura: And why is brown considered a composite color?
PreK Students: Because we need one primary and one secondary color to make it!
This simple interaction demonstrates the spirit of inquiry cultivated from the very beginning. These young minds are developing essential skills of observation, analysis, and communication – cornerstones of lifelong learning.
Just across the hall, our Kindergarteners embark on an exciting journey into the world of cursive writing. While many schools have abandoned this elegant art form, we at CSA believe in its enduring value. Cursive handwriting not only fosters beautiful penmanship but also provides significant benefits for young learners, especially those struggling with letter reversals like “b” and “d”.
A Rich and Deep Curriculum
Our curriculum, rooted in classical Christian education, places Literature at its heart. Students delve into the timeless wisdom of great books and poetry, illuminated by engaging study guides. Our teachers bring the magic of storytelling to life through captivating readings of fairy tales, Aesop’s Fables, cherished Bible stories, and timeless children’s classics. We meticulously curate our reading selections. They are beautifully written enduring stories that also convey profound moral lessons.
Building upon this strong literary foundation, we prioritize the essential pillars of learning: reading, writing, spelling, and arithmetic. Then, we further enrich this education with the inclusion of Latin and Greek, History, Literature, Science, Geography, English Grammar, Recitation, Composition, and Christian Studies. And let us not forget the vital role of the arts, with dedicated time for Art, Music, and Physical Education.
Unlocking the Power of Language
At CSA, we have always embraced the power of phonics, prioritizing it over rote memorization of sight words. Our students embark on a systematic journey of mastering phonics, exploring word families, and diligently applying spelling rules. Through consistent practice, they become confident readers, fluent and accurate in their comprehension. This strong foundation enables CSA students to confidently explore the rich world of classic and noble literature.
Grammar, often neglected in many modern classrooms, holds a place of importance at CSA. We equip our students with the essential tools of effective communication – the ability to identify and understand the parts of speech, and the mastery of correct punctuation and capitalization. This robust grammatical foundation empowers students to express themselves with clarity and precision.
Developing elegant penmanship is an integral part of our language arts curriculum. Through the practice of copywork, students meticulously transcribe sayings, maxims, Scripture verses, and poetic passages, honing their handwriting skills. This emphasis on beautiful penmanship permeates every grade level, cultivated by every teacher.
A Truly Remarkable Dedication to Memory Work
From Pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade, students engage in a consistent program of memorization, building a rich tapestry of knowledge within their minds. Each month, the entire school community gathers for an assembly. Classes proudly recite newly learned pieces of memory work – poems, Bible verses, and more. Middle school students delve deeper, memorizing historical speeches and profound homilies. In language classes, students commit hymns and prayers to memory, enriching their understanding of Latin and Greek.
During these assemblies, a heartwarming sight unfolds: older students, having memorized these same pieces in previous years, often find themselves silently mouthing the words along with the younger classes. This shared experience speaks volumes about the enduring power of memory work. These carefully selected pieces of wisdom, thoughtfully chosen by each CSA teacher, become a treasure trove within the souls of our students, readily available for reflection and guidance in moments of need.
Embracing the Languages of Antiquity
Latin stands as a cornerstone of a truly classical Christian education. At Christ the Savior Academy, our Latin program transcends mere language acquisition. It serves as a powerful tool, enriching students’ understanding of grammar and unlocking the hidden depths of the English language through the exploration of Latin roots.
Our journey into the world of Latin begins in second grade, gradually deepening with each passing year. By fifth grade, students are immersed in the language, with much of their classroom instruction conducted entirely in Latin. Stories are read, lessons are delivered, and discussions unfold, all within the vibrant tapestry of the Latin tongue. This dedication to language learning yields remarkable results, with the majority of our sixth through eighth-grade students achieving distinction in the annual National Latin Exam.
While Latin serves as a gateway to our classical heritage, we recognize the profound influence of Greek also. Beginning in third grade, students embark on a fascinating exploration of this ancient language. Greek sharpens their understanding of English grammar, revealing the etymological roots of countless English words. Moreover, Greek holds immense religious significance as the language of the Septuagint Old Testament, the New Testament, and the ancient hymns and prayers of the Orthodox Church.
In essence, a truly classical Christian education cannot be complete without the inclusion of Latin. And for an Orthodox classical school like ours, the study of Greek is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a profound and enriching journey into the heart of our faith and tradition.
Exploring History and Classical Civilizations
At Christ the Savior Academy, learning is a vibrant tapestry, where the threads of Literature and Language intertwine seamlessly with the rich fabric of History, Geography, and Classical Studies. Our youngest scholars embark on their historical journey with gentle introductions to geography and history during weekly enrichment lessons.
In third grade, the captivating world of Greek mythology unfolds, followed by the grandeur of ancient Rome in fourth grade. Fifth graders delve into the fascinating era of the Middle Ages. Meanwhile, sixth graders explore the epic tales of ancient Greece alongside the Iliad. In seventh grade, students journey through the vibrant tapestry of Early American history. And, in eighth grade, they delve into the profound connection between Ancient History and the civilizations of the Old Testament.
This chronological exploration of history provides a rich context for our students’ literary pursuits. As they encounter classic literature, they bring their historical knowledge to life, enriching their understanding of the characters, events, and underlying themes. This historical lens extends beyond the realm of literature. Students also enjoy a deeper context for the natural progression and development of scientific thought throughout history.
Integrating Spirituality and Tradition
Faith is interwoven throughout the curriculum. Through captivating read-alouds, engaging narration, and meaningful memorization, students encounter the timeless wisdom of the Bible. They learn cherished Bible Stories, explore the lives of our Lord and the saints, and recite Psalms and prayers. In Icon Studies, students are introduced to the beautiful and symbolic language of the Church. They also learn about the Church’s liturgical calendar, celebrating the feasts and observing the fasts within the context of the academic year.
This multifaceted approach provides our students with a profound understanding of their own place in history, illuminating the present through the lens of the past. They develop a deep appreciation for the wisdom of the ages. Their teachers help them view their own lives in the context of the rich tapestry of human experience.
An Investment in Your Child’s Future
At Christ the Savior Academy, we believe that education transcends the mere acquisition of knowledge. We cultivate a profound love of learning, foster a relentless pursuit of truth, and strive to equip our students to become responsible and virtuous citizens. Our unique blend of Faith and Classical Education empowers our students with the intellectual and spiritual tools they need to thrive. We invite you to experience this transformative educational environment firsthand. Schedule a tour today to witness the vibrant learning community where students are nurtured, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential.
