In Classical Christian Education, 7th and 8th grades are called Logic School. Students in this age group are navigating a growing desire for independence and an amplified need for wisdom. Their view of the world is expanding and it’s natural for them to demonstrate a tendency toward debate and critique. They no longer want to know just the “what” of information, but are compelled to press further, often asking “why” questions.

Valor’s curriculum and approach is aligned with this stage and designed to build on these natural tendencies in a way that helps students learn well. During these grades, Valor focuses on helping students ask good questions and seek answers rooted in truth. Students begin training in logic, which helps them differentiate between arguments that are logical and stances that are unreasonable. In English, they build on the foundations of good communication, learning to articulate ideas with clarity and intention. Students begin a second cycle through all the eras of history, unpacking events at a deeper level and identifying how humans have demonstrated folly and wisdom through the ages.

Peer relationships become increasingly important at this stage, and so Valor’s Logic School emphasizes community-building efforts such as a Logic School Retreat, service projects, and more.

The following is an example curriculum map for 7th and 8th grade.