Teaching Methods
Charlotte Mason's educational philosophy and foundational principles
give rise to particular methods of teaching, which are key elements in
the curriculum and classroom practice of Ambleside School of Hout Bay.
Narration is the key means by which
the child assimilates knowledge. Children are expected to 'tell
back' what they have just
seen, heard or read. The narration may be oral, written, drawn or
dramatised,
and should be performed after just one reading of the material.
Oral and written narration require the use, as much as possible, of the
original language, detail and sequence of the piece being narrated.
In a group setting, children narrate in turn, helping one another to
remember as accurately as possible - in an atmosphere of collaborative
learning, rather than of competition. Children readily learn to
focus their attention,
and are equipped for life with a powerful learning tool. Narration
requires the child to quickly synthesise the material, organise it
in his/her mind, and determine how best to communicate it.
Charlotte Mason was particularly insistent on the use of living
books, rather than dry, factual textbooks. Living books
are typically written by a single author with a passion for the subject
matter, and are usually written in a conversational or narrative style.
For example, a personalised account of a voyage around the world is a
better text than a list of names, places and dates - key facts are
learnt much more readily in conjunction with a lively narrative.
Textbooks are used only when essential (such as for Mathematics), or if
they meet the criteria of being 'alive' and engaging.
