Classical Education

The underlying philosophy of The Geneva School of Manhattan is the time-proven method of classical learning.

In basic terms "classical" refers to the classical period of the Greek and Roman civilizations, from which we obtained ancient teaching in mythology, art, architecture, and languages. Classical education has produced the greatest thinkers, leaders, and scientists in the Western world from the time of the Greeks until the late nineteenth century, including America's founding fathers. Classical training in literature, Latin, history, and rhetoric was the norm until the twentieth century, when a gradual shift to a progressive model eroded the stalwart foundation of classical learning.

In the last decade classical learning has reemerged as educators have spoken out about the merits of the classical method. This method uses the trivium (meaning "three roads") as the foundation of all academic pursuits. Brilliantly befitting the natural stages of child development, the three-phase model aligns itself with these stages in the following ways:

• Grammar phase. In the grammar stage, children are taught the fundamentals of learning through memorization, rhyme, and song. The fundamental elements provide the framework for all future academic building blocks.
• Logic phase. Students engage in critical thinking and learn the fine points of logical argument and reasoning.
• Rhetoric phase. Students further develop their use of grammar and logic in order to articulate their opinions clearly and persuasively.

In keeping with the classical method, Geneva School integrates subjects of history, literature, language, art, and music. Students read the great works of literature and philosophy and study classical languages. With this integration of classical method and robust curriculum, our students become apt communicators and acquire a love of learning.