The Classical Historian is a Socratic,
discussion-based history curriculum that teaches students how to analyze
debatable historical questions, gather evidence, think critically, form
opinions, and defend them coherently. Using a step-by-step process, it develops
strong research, writing, and argumentation skills while exploring significant
events and ideas from a Christian perspective.
The program is designed for teacher-student interaction and
builds lifelong analytical and communication abilities.
Key Curriculum Features:
Socratic
dialogue method with open-ended, period-specific questions
Step-by-step
instruction in historical analysis, fact vs. opinion, evidence evaluation,
and essay writing
Weekly
lessons combining 1-hour class discussion and independent research/writing
Progressive
skill-building from shorter essays to multi-page research papers
Strong
emphasis on critical thinking, outlining, thesis statements, and revision
Flexible
for multi-age use with adaptable essay requirements
Program Components:
Curriculum
Guide: 32-week lesson plans for the teacher with reading assignments,
discussion prompts, and writing instruction
Student
Manual: Fill-in-the-blank guide with essay questions, pre-writing
activities, and analysis tools
Teacher’s
Edition: Complete student manual with answers, detailed grading helps,
and sample essays
Teaching
Socratic Discussion DVD Set and Manual: Instruction in the Socratic
method (one-time purchase)
Other
Required Resources: Specific historical texts and primary sources available
from the publisher
The Classical Historian stands out for its classical
methodology, Socratic approach, and practical skill-building that turns
students into confident historians and communicators. It is an excellent choice
for homeschool families seeking a rigorous, discussion-rich history curriculum
that develops strong analytical and writing abilities.
Shop all Classical Historian courses, books, and sets
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Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
