In the context of classical Catholic education, the Trivium refers to the three foundational arts of grammar, logic (or dialectic), and rhetoric, which are seen as essential for developing critical thinking and communication skills.

Kindergarten through fifth grade studies highlight the Grammar skills of the Trivium, and middle school studies centralize logic skills of the Trivium. Students will engage in the Rhetoric skills of the Trivium, and engage in Quadrivium curricula upon matriculation to Chesterton Academy.

The middle school program fits into the logic stage of the Trivium. The Logic stage of understanding relies on its etymological derivative, the Logos, the Second Person of the Holy Trinity. As such, personal encounters with the Logos is central to the curriculum; most significantly through: morning Mass, and mid-day Eucharistic adoration; furthermore, it is Jesus, our Christhead, who leads the class in the daily Divine Office class prayers: Office of Readings, Lauds, Terce, & Sext.

The Trivium offers a precision in thinking that is frequently reflected in the use of categories. Traditinally, the writings of Aristotle commonly inform The Trivium. Categories is among Aristotle’s works that present his theory of logic. This year, we will study Aristotle through the lens of St. Thomas Aquinas. 

In middle school, Aristotelian logic is introduced to students during the 2nd semester of study, through the works of the philosophy scholars at the Thomistic Institute, Rev. Sebastion Walshe, O. Praem, Dr. Peter Kreeft, and Dr. Mortimer Adler.

COURSES OF STUDY

2nd Semester:  February 3rd - June 4th

OLPA Logic Stage Classroom Resources

Holy Spirit Prayer of Saint Augustine 

 Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, That my thoughts may all be holy. 

Act in me, O Holy Spirit, That my work, too, may be holy. 

Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, That I love but what is holy. 

Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, To defend all that is holy. 

Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, That I always may be holy.