Grammar School (Kindergarten - 5th)

When we learn a new subject, we must first learn its grammar, that is, the basic facts and rules that form its foundation. At Tall Oaks, we emphasize the grammar of each subject from kindergarten through sixth grade, a time when children, because of their stage of development, enjoy memorizing information in chants, songs and other repetitive activities. We teach spelling and reading with a strong phonics-based program that teaches the students why words are spelled the way they are. Our students learn to write by imitating good writing. They learn the foundations of mathematics, a basic chronology of history, English grammar, Latin, (beginning in third grade), and a survey of the Bible.

Logic 
Middle School (6th-8th

When the grammar of a subject is learned, we can go on to the Dialectic/Logic Stage, in which we apply reason to the facts we have learned in order to see inter-relationships, understand cause and effect, and analyze arguments. Although we teach logical thinking and analytical reasoning at all ages, we emphasize these skills and teach formal logic and debate in the middle school years. We teach our students to construct good arguments and to detect fallacious ones. We seek to develop in our students a Biblical worldview consistent with the truth that God reveals. Whether the subject being taught is mathematics, science, literature, geography or the arts, we help our students develop an integrated understanding of God and His creation.

Rhetoric
High School (9th-12th)

The capstone of a classical education is reached in the high school years when our students learn the rhetorical skills that allow them to master a subject and communicate it to others. They learn to conduct research, form their own conclusions, and effectively and persuasively communicate their understanding. 

The leaders of every field have reached this level of learning, which we call the Rhetoric stage. By the time our students reach high school, they are developmentally ready to begin formal training in rhetoric, and to practice applying that training in all their subjects. We give them opportunities to hone their rhetorical skills through written work, including major theses in their junior and senior years, as well as oral presentations. They learn to defend their faith humbly and intelligently. They develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed in higher education or to tackle any subject they want or need to learn. Tall Oaks students are equipped to be lifetime learners and leaders.