Classical Composition by Memoria Press is a classical
writing program based on the ancient progymnasmata, the systematic sequence of
14 preliminary writing exercises used for centuries to train students in clear,
persuasive, and eloquent communication.
Students begin with the Fable stage and progressively master
increasingly complex forms of writing, building strong composition skills
through imitation, analysis, and practice of great writing models.
Key Curriculum Features:
Step-by-step
progression through the classical progymnasmata exercises
Strong
emphasis on imitation of excellent writing models
Development
of narrative, descriptive, persuasive, and expository skills
Built-in
review with each course reinforcing previous skills while adding new ones
Clear,
lightly scripted lessons with teacher support
Flexible
pacing: younger students complete one stage per year; older students can
accelerate
Program Components:
Student
Books: Provide space for assignments and practice
Teacher
Guides: Include introductions, guidelines, definitions, lightly
scripted lessons, and answer keys
DVDs/Streaming
Videos: Optional but helpful instructor-led lessons
Entry Point:
Introduction
to Composition prepares younger students (typically grades 3–4) with
foundational sentence and paragraph skills.
Regardless
of grade level, all students new to the program begin at the Fable stage.
Memoria Press Classical Composition stands out for
its time-tested classical methodology, logical progression, and focus on
producing eloquent, well-organized writers. It is an excellent choice for
classical homeschoolers and families seeking a rigorous, historically grounded
writing curriculum.
Browse all Classical Composition levels and sets
below!
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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.
