Introduction
What are the subjects of a classical education? At Concordia Academy, we believe in the timeless value of a classical education. This approach, rooted in the traditions of ancient Greece and Rome, provides students with a well-rounded, rigorous, and thoughtful christian education that prepares them for lifelong learning and leadership.
As a Lutheran high school in Wichita, Concordia Academy is dedicated to nurturing not only the intellectual growth of our students but also their spiritual and moral development.
Let’s explore the subjects that make up a classical education and why they are so vital to our mission.
The Trivium: Foundations of Classical Education
Classical education is structured around the Trivium, which consists of three stages: Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric. Each stage builds upon the previous one, fostering a deep and comprehensive understanding of the material.
Grammar Stage
In the Grammar stage, students focus on acquiring fundamental knowledge and mastering the basics of various subjects. This stage emphasizes memorization and the absorption of facts, laying a solid foundation for future learning. Subjects in this stage include:
The Great Books of Western Tradition: Engaging with foundational texts that have shaped Western thought.
History: Learning about ancient civilizations and their contributions to modern society.
Languages: Developing skills in multiple languages to enhance communication and cultural understanding.
Latin and Greek: Studying classical languages to improve linguistic skills and understand the roots of modern languages.
Spanish: Learning a modern language to broaden cultural horizons and practical communication.
Logic Stage
The Logic stage, typically for middle school students, focuses on critical thinking and analytical skills. This stage encourages students to question, evaluate, and understand the relationships between different pieces of information. Key subjects include:
Theology: Deepening understanding of Christian faith and doctrines.
Philosophy: Exploring fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics.
Socratic Discussion: Engaging in thoughtful dialogue to develop reasoning and debate skills.
Rhetoric Stage
The Rhetoric stage, for high school students, emphasizes eloquence and the art of communication. Students learn to express their ideas persuasively and creatively. Subjects in this stage include:
Research: Conducting thorough investigations to gather and analyze information.
Creative Writing: Developing imaginative and expressive writing skills.
Academic Writing: Mastering formal writing techniques for scholarly work.
Presentation and Conversation: Enhancing public speaking and interpersonal communication skills.
The Quadrivium: Advanced Liberal Arts
In addition to the Trivium, the classical education curriculum at Concordia Academy also includes the Quadrivium, which comprises advanced studies in four key areas:
Arithmetic: Understanding the principles of numbers and their applications.
Geometry: Exploring the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids.
Applied Mathematics: Applying mathematical concepts to real-world problems and advanced studies.
Music Theory: Appreciating the mathematical and theoretical aspects of music.
Conclusion
At Concordia Academy, our classical education curriculum is not just about academic excellence but also about shaping virtuous and well-rounded individuals. Our students are encouraged to think deeply, reason clearly, and communicate effectively, all within a nurturing Christian environment. By integrating faith and learning, we prepare our students to be thoughtful leaders who can impact their communities and the world for Christ.
Our dedication to a classical education ensures that Concordia Academy remains a beacon of excellence among classical high schools in Wichita.
In choosing Concordia Academy, you are investing in a future where your child will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and character to succeed in any endeavor they pursue. Join us in our mission to cultivate students who are not only academically proficient but also spiritually grounded and morally upright.