Monthly Archives: October 2011

by Ellen Mandeville

“Let no one ignorant of geometry enter here.”

– inscription above the gate of Plato’s Academy in Athens

The ancient Greeks believed that the universe was ordered upon logical, discoverable, mathematical theorems; and that discovering mathematical theorems gave humanity a view into the workings of the universe. Mathematics is foundational to all of learning in that it demands clarity of thought, develops logical thinking, inspires self-reliance in thinking, and trains students to think abstractly. (The Educated Child, pp. 279-280, by Bennett, Finn and Cribb)

Continue reading →

– from the back cover of The Educated Child

1

Parents are the first and most important teachers.

2

Your teaching must not stop when schooling starts.

3

The early years build the foundation for all later learning. Make it sturdy.

4

American schools are underperforming. Trust but verify.

5

Learning requires discipline; discipline requires values.

6

Follow your common sense.

7

Content matters: what children study determines how well they learn.

8

Television is an enemy of good education.

9

Education reform is possible. You can change the system.

10

Aim high, expect much, and children will prosper.