Physics, Charlotte Mason, and Classical Christian Education

This fall our entire academy will launch into Physics! We’re skipping the dull, intimidating phase and jumping right into the fun, deep-end-of-the-pool of science this year using an innovative curriculum called Noeo Science, from Logos Press.

Rather than a thick, heavy textbook and rote memorization, this curriculum is actually a collection of “best-of-the-best” books and resources available at the library or online, and it integrates a variety of hands-on learning activities, which we’ll do in class and at home. It’s unique approach also makes it a very economical choice for our families.

At informational meetings, we have often described our vision for Two Rivers Classical Academy as a blend of Classical and Charlotte Mason styles (see what we mean by “joyful excellence” here). Noeo Science aims for that blend as well. It emphasizes narration and summarization, vocabulary development, observation, and the scientific method. The following table illustrates how Noeo pulls in characteristics of both educational styles:

Classical	Emphasizes vocabulary development, especially in the younger years. Develops critical thinking skills and logic through the use of the scientific method. Incorporates the classical stages of learning (i.e., the Trivium of grammar, logic, and rhetoric).
Charlotte Mason	Provides the best books available (including “living books”). Utilizes a child’s natural curiosity to acquire knowledge. “Studies serve for delight.” Uses narration and notebook rather than worksheets, tests, or repetitive drills to evaluate learning.

Finally, the little scientists at TRCA (and their dads and moms) will have a fantastic view of the attributes of God throughout creation. Our children won’t be sheltered from science because of some scientific theories that deny God. Instead, we’ll aim to immerse them in the sciences and equip them to pursue and love God so that “His invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” (Romans 1:20)

Excerpts from Noeo Science.