Where does one find this study material? Your local library. It’s simply children’s
classical literature.
Classics are defined as such because
they span all races, generations, and levels of intellect. Most were written in a
time when language was more complex,
writers had a true gift for storytelling,
and life was different. A wealth of knowledge can be gleaned from these masterfully written works, and your entire family can truly enjoy learning together by
using this approach.
Classics are defined as
such because they span
all races, generations,
and levels of intellect.
A classical literature unit study can
include all of your school subjects. His-
tory can be studied through the adven-
tures of pirates and pioneers. Geography
is fascinating when you are mapping the
journey of the Nautilus around the globe.
Language and vocabulary are brought to
an entire new level when students find
out that Tarzan spoke several different
languages and taught himself to read
through picture books. Writing and criti-
cal thinking are easily practiced at any
point by simply stopping and asking,
“What do you think happens next?”
Don’t be afraid of the complexity of the
language in these books. I highly recom-
mend the use of audio books for any re-
luctant readers. Students can read along,
and your young readers can simply listen.
Everyone will be enthralled with the ex-
cellent theatrical performances recorded
within the audio books. People have
been passing down stories for centuries
by spoken word; don’t neglect the power
of hearing a story told by someone in
reader’s theater fashion. Children may
be hesitant to pick up some classical lit-
erature and simply read it, but when an
excellent performer brings it to life, they
will relish these tales.
One of our special favorites is Twenty
Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Jules
Verne. As we read this book, we studied
longitude and latitude, learned about
different ships and their special parts,
talked about the physics of the depths of
the ocean, and watched special footage of
narwhals in the icy ocean. Those are topics that likely would not have been “fun”
to study on their own, but once brought
to life by the author, these subjects were
all studied with eager anticipation in
order to understand exactly what was
happening in Verne’s grand adventure
through the oceans of the world.
Do you have an adventurous child?
Treasure Island can provide a study of
geography, language, money, weights
and measures, and maps. Have your
child draw out the treasure map, complete with all the landmarks and a compass rose. Print out a map and trace the
voyage, or plan your own voyage. Learn
about islands, peninsulas, coastlines, and
A wealth of knowledge
can be gleaned from
these masterfully
written works . . . .
depths of the ocean. Make a list of every
unknown word and define it. Research
currency differences between countries.
Take time to count money and make correct change. Lastly, take the opportunity
to discuss character traits and why the
Bible is even revered by the worst of the
pirates. This book allows for some deeply
spiritual discussions about humanity and
what is important in this life.
