“But she [the teacher] will bear in mind that the child of six has begun the serious business of his education, that it does not matter much whether he understands this word or that, but that it matters a great deal that he should learn to deal directly with books.”
Charlotte Mason – Towards a Philosophy of Education, pp. 173
“We will begin with saying what will be generally allowed to be true, namely, that book-learning is only a small part of true education; its fullest requirements are very varied. We must cultivate besides obedience, self-control, reverence, respect for authority, the power of concentration, the ability to observe and to take in the qualities and the appearances of the natural objects around us; devotion to duty and enthusiasm; tenderness and affection and sympathy. With some these three last seem to be spontaneous.”
Thoughts and Suggestions on Early Education, Miss Clough, Volume 1, 1890/91, pg. 174
Form I Student Experience
The Form I years (grades 1-3) are an exciting time of growth, adventure, exploration and awakening. As Miss Mason states, this is a time when they embark upon the “serious business” of their education! Students will begin to narrate, continue on their journey toward literacy, refine their handwriting through copywork, begin to keep their own school journals, timelines and maps, and engage in the beginning stages of the Grand Conversation as their minds feast on the ideas presented to them.
While this is indeed serious business, Form I also remains a time of wonder and delight. Lessons are short because focused attention is required. Time is given in the afternoons for notebooking, further reading, play and exploration. Poetry is relished and read often. Stories are engaging and full of life. Narrations can involve pictures, drawings and even theatrical retellings. We teach them to deal directly with books, but we do not overwhelm or overburden them. Form I is a time to be savored and enjoyed by parents and students alike.
In the context of their Sursum Corda classes Form I students are building on the same skills they are learning at home. Consistency and affirmation of those skills goes a long way to encourage these new students on their journey. Living books alongside engaging activities and explorations fill their classes. Students will be challenged to narrate according to their level, work diligently on their notebooks, participate in small group discussions and learn the social graces that come with learning in community.