The Torch
A deep dive into classical education
What is the Difference between the Classics and Classical Education?
In classical pedagogy, we utilize a practice called copia. Copia is when students generate as many words or ideas from a starting word as they are able. For instance, if the starting word were “red”, associations could be: color, love, heart, anger, stop, Valentines Day, Christmas, hooded sweatshirt, little Corvette, crimson, blush, embarrassed, ruby, et cetera. We use this for students to expand their writing skills, as well as understand that there are more ways than one to express themselves.
As I was considering the definitions of terms like Classics and Classical Education, I had an impromptu copia with the word “classic”: classic cars, classic movies, classic rock, classic works of art, music, and literature. It is easy to understand how this word is open to interpretation since it is used in so many different ways.
So that we all have the same working definition in regards to Nova Classical Academy, I’ll simplify!
Classic: a word that indicates value based on the maturity (age) of a thing. Example: “I love classic cars, which is why I’m going to buy a 1971 Ford Mustang!”
Classics: a term that refers to the study of Latin and Ancient Greek language and civilization. Example: “My daughter is going to study Classics at the University of Chicago. I’m so proud!”
Classical: a word that refers to the culture of the past and to art forms which belong to a long-standing and formal tradition. Example: “Thanks to the classical education at my son’s school, he is able to point out my lack of virtue at the dinner table.”
As you can see, these terms are all inter-related, but do not mean the same thing. At Nova Classical Academy, we believe that the study of Latin and Ancient Greek language and civilization (Classics) are integral to our curriculum. We also believe that classical pedagogy (culture of the past AND long-standing and formal tradition) —the use of the grammar, logic, and rhetoric stages of learning—is core to our Nova Classical Academy identity.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is a great time to think about the aspects of our traditions that are long-standing and hold value to us. I know I will be cooking while listening to a little classic rock, and dreaming of that '71 Mustang.
May your break be full of blessings,
Dr. Missy Johnson
Academic Director
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.