What is Classical Conversations?

Many people ask me what curriculum I use for homeschooling or whether or not we belong to a co-op.  Then I get asked what is Classical Conversations?  Classical Conversations (CC) is based on the classical model of learning which is divided into 3 stages:  grammar, dialectic, and rhetoric.  It uses the framework of a biblical worldview with the goal of knowing God and making Him known.  Proverbs 24:3-4 "By wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; 4 And by knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches."

The grammar stage is mostly memorizing facts.  This is the Foundations program (K4 through 6th grades).  The kids load facts from a variety of subjects (history, geography, english, latin, math, and science).  They also practice public speaking, do a science project, and complete an art or music project each week.  Starting at the age of 4 (or whatever age they start) the kids prepare a weekly presentation to give to their class.  The tutors provide feedback about eye-contact, voice volume, and visual aids.  This is to prepare them for the high school years of rhetorical speech and debate.

The dialectic stage is discovering how the facts relate.  This is the Essentials program (4th through 6th grades).  They meet in the afternoons after Foundations is finished.  The kids develop the mental skills to sort and classify facts and learn the tools necessary to become effective writers.  Next comes Challenge A & B (7th and 8th grades).  The kids become more independent and begin to learn logic and debate.

The rhetoric stage is applying the facts.  This is the Challenge I, II, III, & IV programs (9th through 12th grades).  The kids draw upon all of the grammar and dialectic skills that they have learned as they discuss and lead discussions.  In these classes they can fully express themselves in creative, meaningful, and practical applications of subjects.  They will also participate in mock trials to help develop their debate skills.

This is just a short description of CC.  I'll be posting more about it in the future.