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Cordis Academy combines the best parts of all of the homeschool philosophies with a creative twist to develop students who are well-educated, historically grounded, well read, independent learners who can think logically, solve problems creatively, and approach life in a complete and integrated manner. We believe by emphasizing learning from a whole-hearted and individual standpoint, Cordis Academy can aide busy homeschooling parents in instructing and training the heart, soul AND mind of each student.
From the Classical Method, we glean the study of humanity based on a Biblical and historical approach. Students must first learn to distinguish good from evil and then learn to love and do the good. This is accomplished by acknowledging, learning about and discussing varying non-Christian worldviews and comparing those views to God's truth as found in scripture. Thus, students learn to actively put Biblical principles into practice of everyday life and become discerning to those non-biblical viewpoints expressed in various segments of society both directly and indirectly.
From the Great Books Method, we expose children to the literature of the world based on the six historical time periods of the arts - Ancient, Medieval/Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern. This is done in an integrated format with each class in literature being tied to the historical time period being studied during that school year.
From the ideals of the Principle Approach we teach our children how to research, reason, relate and record so that they become active participants in their own education. Students are taught organizational, time management and study skills necessary, not just to pass standardized testing, but in order to enable them to become lifelong and independent thinkers and learners.
From the Robinson Method we teach the children to be responsible, self-reliant and self motivated learners by encouraging them to follow their inquisitive natures and to explore learning unaided from teacher or parent. Activities are suggested for at-home in-depth study on a variety of topics. This enables students to follow their God-given curiosity and desire to learn in specific areas of interest while still meeting graduation requirements.
From the Charlotte Mason Method we have adopted the idea that learning is a way of life, not simply something you do from 9-3 during the ages of 5-18. We are creating lifelong learners by introducing them to the arts and humanities and immersing them in the best that humanity has to offer. Not only are we committed to helping students in this area, but also to encouraging and enabling parents with instruction and materials necessary to creating an environment of learning at home.
From the Unschooling Approach we believe that learning happens best in the real world and that if we trust children, they will naturally lean towards who God created them to be. By offering a wide variety of creative teaching options, we allow children to explore their areas of interest so that they can choose a path to develop more fully for their own lives. We also plan to offer math and science labs that not only do textbook suggested lab assignments but also engage the student in applying the principles learned in real-life "lab" situations.
From the Unit Studies Approach we bring in the ideas of unifying all teaching subjects around a central core so that the learning is much more integrated and accessible to children as a whole. In addition, we believe that children learn best through hands on activities and real world activities.
It is our ultimate goal that each student reach his full potential, realizing that both academics and attitude contribute to their success. Therefore, we admit students of all levels and abilities. In order to maintain a high standard of excellence and diligence, a covenant between Cordis and each family must be signed for final admission to the program.
Because of the benefit of the exposure to the arts, Cordis students must also attend The Master's Academy of Fine Arts on Thursday mornings.
Benefits
By enrolling in Master's Academy and Cordis Academy parents and students receive:
- A fine arts education that is being nationally accredited and based on the national arts standards.
- An academic program that supplies class instruction for students during one day per week and integrates curriculum with the yearly historical emphasis of Master's Academy. All instruction is based on an integrated and creative approach to learning.
- A way to integrate your student's academic instruction with their arts interests and with corresponding schedules.
- Instruction in all core courses necessary for High School graduation
- Access resources through Restoration Publishing - no more homeschool fairs!
Proposed Courses Being Offered for 2008-2009
Social Studies (History)
- (Based on the time period being offered at Master's Academy)
- Ancient History
- Medieval and Renaissance History
- Baroque History
- Classical History
- Romantic History
- Modern History
English
- (A combination of grammar, writing and literature based on the "great books" and tied to the time period being offered in history)
- English I
- English II
- English III
- English IV
Math
- Pre-Algebra
- Algebra I
- Algebra II
- Geometry
- Pre-Cal/Trigonometry
Science
- General Science
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
*All science classes include labs.
In keeping with our integrated philosophy, Cordis Academy enrollment is only open to those students who are also enrolled in Master's Academy.
Classes meet on Wednesdays, typically from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Curriculum operates on a benchmark system with typical assessments of benchmarks taking place approximately every 8 weeks. All subject and project oriented assessment will receive a grading rubric to enable the student and parent to understand exactly what is expected.
Students/Parents receive assignments that are to be completed during the course of the week. Students and Parents must work together to be sure the assignments are completed in a timely manner.
Classes will begin in late September and conclude in April.
This 12 minute video, hosted by the executive director Lori Lane, focuses on the importance of an integrative approach to learning. It covers the need for this form of education as well as some of the specifics of Cordis Academy. If you would like further information about Cordis Academy please contact us or email us at info@mafa-qtown.org.
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