As students enter Junior High they feel a need to impress others with the amount of knowledge they have. Usually this is displayed by an insatiable amount of arguing. This excitement should not be quenched; rather it should be channeled, helping students to become discerning thinkers.
Students are encouraged to ask questions in order to gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge they already have. They should learn to not lean upon their own understanding, but acknowledge the light others and especially scripture can shed upon any subject.
Each day begins with devotions: a scripture reading and prayer. Bible, literature, and history are taught together instead of separately. Students read literature in a historical context to see what can be revealed about history and the culture of a specific time period. Understanding is refined through classroom discussions.
Students also begin learning elements of logical reasoning. As they read, research, and write, they practice finding points of an argument and try to identify any fallacies. Many opportunities are given for informal speeches and debates during classes including science, math, and literature (exploring plot and themes). Students improve writing as they learn more about English and Latin Grammar. At this time students learn or refine typing and paper formatting skills.
It is no small task for teachers to guide students’ learning at this time. Each Junior High teacher has to be a Bible teacher in a way, helping their students discern truth from falsehood in the subjects taught. Teachers have to encourage the students to move from arrogance in knowledge to grace in arguing the truth and clarity in thinking.
See our Junior High curriculum lists for more of what is taught specifically.
Ancient History and Christendom Rotation Curriculum
U.S. History Rotation Curriculum
