Choosing the right courses at the beginning of your studies in the Classical Liberal Arts Academy (CLAA) will help you build a strong foundation and learn how the program works. The Academy provides clear age- and grade-based recommendations to help families get started.
1. Review the Course Recommendation Guide
The CLAA provides course recommendations by age and grade level to help students and parents select appropriate starting points.
- The guide includes both modern academic subjects (English, Math, Science, etc.) and classical subjects (Latin, Logic, Theology, etc.).
- It identifies entry-level courses suitable for new students at each level.
- This helps students avoid choosing courses that are too advanced at the start.
2. Start with Entry-Level or Foundational Courses
New students should begin with one or two foundational courses to learn the structure and rhythm of CLAA study. Recommended starting points often include:
- Theology or Bible courses such as “Catholic Bible I” or “Baltimore Catechism I”
- Fundamental humanities or history courses
- Introductory Latin or Grammar courses
These courses introduce students to the Study Center, assessments, and lesson structure without overwhelming them.
3. Align Modern and Classical Studies
The CLAA program emphasizes two streams of learning:
- Modern academic courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, etc.)
- Classical Catholic courses (Trivium, Quadrivium, Philosophy, Theology, Latin, Greek)
Students are encouraged to begin with at least one foundational classical course while also selecting one modern subject appropriate to their age or grade level.
4. Consider the Student’s Age, Ability, and Experience
- Younger students (around ages 6–14) usually begin with grammar-level studies and age-appropriate modern subjects.
- Older students (high school level) may begin with more advanced classical and modern courses.
- Students with previous experience can advance more quickly, but should still avoid taking on too many courses at once.
5. Take It Slowly and Build a Routine
The first year in the CLAA is often a transition period. Students are encouraged to:
- Begin with a manageable number of courses
- Establish a regular study routine
- Add additional courses only when ready
6. Use the Study Center and Course Catalog
Once you have chosen your starting courses:
- Log in to the CLAA Study Center to browse course descriptions
- Check prerequisites and course details in the Course Catalog
- Request course enrollments through your account
Summary
- Use the age/grade recommendations to guide your choices
- Begin with one or two foundational courses, such as theology or Latin
- Balance classical and modern studies
- Match course level to the student’s age and ability
- Build a strong study routine before adding more courses
- Use the Study Center and Course Catalog to finalize selections
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