Overview
This lecture explains the structure, goals, and practical details of the Classical Conversations (CC) Essentials program, focusing on its three main components: English grammar, writing, and math.
Program Structure
- Essentials is divided into English grammar, writing, and math (math games for fluency in basic operations).
- Math uses flashcards (up to 15x15) and in-class games to build speed and accuracy in math facts.
- Essentials is a three-year program; students master more each year, regardless of starting age.
- Parents remain the primary teachers and can tailor assignments as needed.
English Grammar Component
- No prior grammar experience is required; Essentials introduces and teaches grammar concepts.
- Each year starts with an overview ("fire hydrant") of grammar, then slows down to focus on details weekly.
- The program uses "charts" (labeled A, B, C, etc.) to organize grammar rules, definitions, and lists for memorization.
- Students memorize charts primarily by copying them, but also through songs, visuals, and puzzles.
- Parsing (identifying word types and roles) and diagramming sentences are core weekly activities.
- At home, students copy charts, diagram one sentence daily, and may use Onward magazine's practice pages.
Writing Component (IEW)
- IEW (Institute for Excellence in Writing) provides structured writing assignments each week.
- Students learn nine units/styles of writing across the year, starting with simple papers and gradually increasing complexity.
- All assignments use "keyword outlines" (KWOs) from provided source texts to organize ideas and prevent plagiarism.
- Assignments progress: Day 1—keyword outline; Day 2—rough draft; Day 3—add "dress-ups" (writing style elements); Day 4—final typing.
- "Dress-ups" and "sentence openers" are stylistic tools introduced sequentially to improve writing variety and quality.
- Vocabulary cards are optional but encouraged for writing enrichment.
- IEW program includes instructional videos for parents, which should be watched before starting new writing units.
Practical Tips & Tailoring
- Parents can adjust workload, select advanced or simplified materials, and help students as needed.
- Focus on content, not handwriting or spelling, during Essentials time.
- Aim for 15–30 minutes daily for grammar, and a similar amount for writing, totaling about one hour a day.
- Tutors and experienced parents are valuable resources for support and advice.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Parsing — Identifying the part of speech and function of each word in a sentence.
- Diagramming — Visually mapping the grammatical structure of a sentence.
- Charts — Organized tables of grammar rules, definitions, and lists for memorization.
- Keyword Outline (KWO) — A brief outline using keywords from a source text to plan a writing assignment.
- Dress-ups — Stylistic elements added to writing to enhance interest and variety.
- Sentence Openers — Techniques for starting sentences in different ways to vary writing.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Drill math facts using CC's flashcards for math fluency.
- Copy and memorize grammar charts weekly.
- Diagram one sentence each day using the curriculum.
- Read Essentials lessons before class each week.
- Watch IEW instructional videos before starting each writing unit.
- Utilize vocabulary cards for writing assignments if desired.
- Reach out to tutors, directors, or experienced parents with questions.