The Classical Difference and Standarized Tests
I have been committed to Classical Christian education for more than twenty years. It is a joy to share with this wonderful school the differences Classical education makes in the lives of this learning community. Beginning with this article, I will offer various posts on the real distinctions or differences between a Classical Christ-centered education and other models of education. While there are differences in both quality and quantity, one that is most immediately impressive to parents is the measurable difference that Classical education has on standardized testing.
The primary purpose of standardized tests (SAT, ACT, CLT) is that they serve as one among several gauges for probable academic success on the college level. Year after year, students at Classical Christian schools outperform their counterparts at other schools on standardized tests. The measurable data from Classical Christian sources and from Standardized Test sources demonstrates the Classical advantage.
The primary purpose of standardized tests (SAT, ACT, CLT) is that they serve as one among several gauges for probable academic success on the college level. Year after year, students at Classical Christian schools outperform their counterparts at other schools on standardized tests. The measurable data from Classical Christian sources and from Standardized Test sources demonstrates the Classical advantage.
How is it possible that the Classical difference is this impressive? There are at least three interrelated reasons:
- The Grammatical, Logical, and Rhetorical foundation
At the core of Classical education is the medieval trivium. The thirteen years from kindergarten to graduation from Veritas is based on the historical insights of "the place where the three roads meet" and this rich educational experience is rooted in the very best of the Greek, Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance educational practices. This exposure to Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric offers a formation of mental habits far superior to educational philosophies that are less than one hundred years old.
- Vocabulary building advantage
With Latin being the "birth tongue" of approximately 50% of our English language, it makes perfect sense that a familiarization with Latin significantly improves knowledge of English vocabulary. Latin also shapes the mind and soul into seeing the world in a distinctive manner heightening reasoning skills.
- Intellectual training
Drawing from the Great Books, the Great Tradition, and the Great Conversation, Veritas students interact with the wisdom of the ages. Our students are taught to "think Christianly" about all things. This historical and philosophical perspective provides a mind fully furnished with truth and understanding.
After seeing this, many wonder why everyone doesn’t seek a Classical Christian education for their children. The reasons for not pursuing K-12 Classical Christian education for our children certainly range. Of those reasons given, not doing well on standardized tests must be banished from the consideration. The numbers, in this case, do not lie. The Classical difference is clearly a desired difference.
After seeing this, many wonder why everyone doesn’t seek a Classical Christian education for their children. The reasons for not pursuing K-12 Classical Christian education for our children certainly range. Of those reasons given, not doing well on standardized tests must be banished from the consideration. The numbers, in this case, do not lie. The Classical difference is clearly a desired difference.