family oriented
Our content is family-oriented, meaning everyone in the family is studying many similar topics but at varying levels. This includes history, literature, art, folk songs, hymns, poetry and more. In community, each age will be encountering classic works at age appropriate levels. For example, a family with kids ages 7 to 17 would find that each student reading (or listening to!) excellent literature often rooted in a specific era of history each week. There are ample opportunities for connection within families as they read and learn. Our intent for community gatherings is to give students opportunity for discussion, recitation and instruction as well as to provide accountability for continued progress in each area of study.
narration as composition
Instead of selecting a formal writing curriculum, we maintain a stalwart commitment to the practice of narration (which is simply the oral and/or written retelling of what one has learned/read/heard). When students are feasting on excellent literature, being offered time and space to ponder and process what they are reading as well as faithfully narrating, responding - they will have a hearty storehouse of ideas to draw from. Ideas come first when it comes to writing. Skills follow, but in a natural progression that honors the nature of each person. For more in depth reading on this topic, we highly recommend “Know and Tell: The Art of Narration” by Karen Glass.
George Orwell said “the art of writing is the art of thinking. We could not agree more. As such, it need not be broken down into a science of systems and charts and formulas. In cultivating narration as the foundation for composition, we can progress in an organic, flexible and relational way from orally sharing what one has read to written narrations explaining and discussing complex ideas and stories.
Humanities Materials:
A well curated list of engaging books, speeches and poetry that provide encounters with living ideas and narratives and inquiry into the spirit of the times we are looking at.
A Book of Centuries (timeline book)
Commonplace Book (a place to keep favorite quotes from literature and life)
Humanities Notebook (a place to keep writing responses, notes, summaries, papers related to history and literature study)
A humble, receptive posture ready to listen and look deeply at literature