The Torch
A deep dive into classical education
Principle 5: Wonder and Curiosity
Over the last two weeks, I have worked with K-2 scholars in the computer lab for our Winter FastBridge testing windows in order to monitor their reading and math growth from the beginning of the year. My favorite part of this time with our scholars is their excitement when they inevitably find for themselves that they know how to answer questions on the screen because of what they have done in class. Their faces light up from this realization, and are eager to see what is to come for the rest of the year.
The fifth principle of classical education is “Wonder and Curiosity”. In Latin, the word for “wonder” is miror or admiror, connected to the idea of “looking in amazement”, which is what we see embodied on their faces when our scholars find their own knowledge. Dr. Christopher Perrin, the cofounder of Classical Academic Press, states that classical education should enable students to see the true, good, and beautiful by presenting our curriculum in a way that can (and should) inspire and elicit wonder. For example, after teaching the Aeneid several times, I could pass by the miracle that is the very existence of this epic poem that is over two thousand years old. But why not present that miracle to my students as a starting point, and share together how wonderful it is that is exists?
John D. Mays, the author of From Wonder to Mastery, an excellent book about the sciences in classical education, maintains that “wonder is the fountain from which flows curiosity, and curiosity is in turn the precursor to discovery”. According to Mays, scientists are inherently curious because they wonder at the world. Scientists see how intricate, how deeply interconnected and complicated the world is, and how they would like to contribute to the body of knowledge through curiosity and discovery. Stepping into any science class at Nova Classical Academy reinforces that curiosity while observing our scholars engaging in experiments and testing theories in order for deeper discovery.
At the end of November, I had the great honor to drive my mother out to Arizona over three and a half days. As we traveled through Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, onto Oklahoma, Texas, and New Mexico, we found ourselves in conversation about topics that we had not yet explored with each other. We ventured into discussion on some difficult themes, and I found myself working with wonder and curiosity from this experience. Wonder came from the fact that I still have not discovered everything that my parent has lived through in her life and curiosity to learn more. We also shared a moment of wonder while beholding the white sands of New Mexico for the first time together, which was truly a sight that took my breath away.
I encourage our community to find wonder and curiosity when we are able through deep discussion in our own lives. If you are interested in engaging in wonder and curiosity with our Equity Team, we are hosting an equity focused family education night on Thursday, February 8th from 6-7:30 pm. All families are welcome, and food and babysitting will be provided. There will be a social hour followed by thoughtful study and conversation. For planning purposes, please complete this brief form if you plan to attend by Friday, February 2nd.
May we find wonder and curiosity in our adult lives,
Dr. Missy Johnson
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As a teacher and student of Latin and Greek, the classical model was a natural choice for me as an educator. I hold the teaching of grammar, logic, rhetoric, and virtues in high regard for learners of all ages and backgrounds. Nova Classical’s community model is inspiring, and I hope to bring thoughtfulness and openness to the Great Conversation.