Memory Development

Since memorization is foundational to the Trivium model, direct instruction in memorization tools is taught at all grade levels. Memory work is difficult, requires discipline, hard work, commitment, and repetition but the rewards in discipleship and academics cannot be overstated. Biblically, memorization is crucial to Christian growth as it is written in Psalm 119:11 (NKJV) "Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You." 

Our memory instruction program is based on the ancient Greek / Roman "Loci" methodology. Ancient peoples were known for impressive acts of memory. For example, it was not uncommon for Jewish men in ancient times to memorize the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). The ancient Greeks did not consider a man educated until he could give the same hour-long speech perfectly, twice - by memory. 

At the Academy, we teach the Loci method for memory which requires three basic components: a location, (a picture file in the mind such as a familiar room or a melody), a code (a unique picture attached to the picture or melody) and a specific action or movement (of the pictures in the mind or of the physical body based on a melody). 

The Loci system has been proven effective for thousands of years but it requires considerable effort to master. Our goal is that the Loci system is second nature by the time students graduate.

Apologetics taught K-12

Based on past studies, more than 80% of children who grow up attending a Christian church will abandon an active Christian faith between the ages of 18 and 21. This corresponds directly with college exposure showing that "apologetic" information is greatly lacking for most students. The Academy strategically uses Bob Jones University Press curriculum to integrate a biblical worldview and the study of apologetics into all grades and all subjects. The goal is that a graduating senior from the Academy will have powerful rational tools to defend against the intellectual assault so often thrown at students in university

Collaboration with Parents in Education of Students

Biblically speaking the main responsibility for the education of children lies with parents (Duet. 6:7, Prov. 22:6, I Tim. 5:14, Eph. 6:4). As a result, parents need to be intimately involved in the education of children, but parents today are often overwhelmed by outside responsibilities, lack sufficient time, or feel ill-equipped to be fully involved. The solution is for the Academy to structure at-home instructional tools any parent can follow to participate in their child's education with assistance from Academy teachers who act as co-laborers.