Noah Webster Academy Curriculum Overview
At Noah Webster Academy, our curriculum is rooted in the Principle Approach® as outlined by the Foundations for American Christian Education (FACE). This classical, biblical method of education equips students with the tools to think critically, reason biblically, and act purposefully. Our goal is to cultivate both academic excellence and moral character, preparing students for their God-given purpose in life.
Core Elements of the Principle Approach:
- Biblical Integration: Every subject at Noah Webster Academy is taught from a biblical worldview, emphasizing how God's truth permeates all areas of life. Unlike many other Christian schools that merely sprinkle biblical principles into academics, NWA places Christ as the foundation of every subject. Our teachers intentionally uncover and highlight God's presence within all areas of study.
- Character Development: Through the study of Scripture, history, and literature, students learn timeless principles of virtue, integrity, and responsibility.
- Critical Thinking: Students are encouraged to analyze, evaluate, and apply knowledge to solve problems and make informed decisions.
- Mastery of Foundational Skills: Emphasis is placed on strong language, writing, oral recitation, math, and reasoning skills to build a firm academic foundation.
Subject Highlights:
History
In middle school, our history curriculum prioritizes a deep exploration of American history with an exclusive reliance on primary historical sources. Students delve into the writings, speeches, and records of the Founding Fathers, analyzing the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and other foundational documents. This approach ensures an authentic understanding of the principles, values, and biblical worldview that shaped the United States.
The curriculum emphasizes how these founding principles continue to guide our nation today, equipping students to interpret current events through the lens of American exceptionalism. By studying the original texts and the historical context in which they were created, students gain a deep understanding of the correct application of original constitutional principles in modern times.
Through primary source analysis, and research projects, students develop advanced critical thinking skills. They learn to evaluate historical narratives, discern the moral and spiritual dimensions of historical decisions, and draw connections between past and present. This rigorous study of history fosters a deep appreciation for the unique role of the United States in world history and inspires students to uphold the ideals of liberty, justice, and faith in their own lives.
Language Arts
At Noah Webster Academy, the middle school language arts curriculum is rooted in the study and appreciation of classical literature, fostering an understanding of language as a meaningful and purposeful gift from God. Through rigorous instruction in grammar, writing, and literary analysis, students are challenged to explore the moral, cultural, and aesthetic dimensions of great works. The Bible serves as a foundational text, complemented by timeless pieces of classical literature that inspire and deepen students’ critical thinking and faith.
Examples of literature studied in the middle school curriculum include:
- The coming-of-age journey in Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield.
- The exploration of self-discipline, industry, and faith in The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin.
- The epic narrative of redemption and faith in Lew Wallace’s Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ.
- The timeless themes of adventure and heroism in Homer’s The Odyssey.
- The fascinating life and discoveries in The Walls of Windy Troy: A Biography of Heinrich Schliemann.
- The enduring legends of virtue and chivalry in Howard Pyle’s The Story of King Arthur and His Knights.
- The poetic grandeur of Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Idylls of the King.
- The tragic complexity of the human condition in William Shakespeare’s Hamlet.
- The patriotic romance of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s The Courtship of Miles Standish.
- The historical and spiritual insight of The Pilgrim Dynamic—Seed of Our Christian Republic.
This curriculum equips students with the tools to analyze and appreciate the richness of language, encouraging them to recognize its power to convey truth, inspire virtue, and reflect God’s design for humanity.
Science
At Noah Webster Academy, the middle school science curriculum invites students to explore God’s creation through a rigorous and engaging study of the natural and numerical order of the world. Building on their God given sense of curiosity, students will develop precision in observation, analysis, and critical thinking skills. Utilizing the Apologia Christian curriculum, students will not simply memorize isolated facts but will learn to place those facts within a broader, meaningful context that highlights the purpose and interconnectedness of scientific discovery.
Middle school science includes complex, engaging hands-on labs designed to inspire exploration and deepen understanding. Students conduct detailed dissections, design and test engineering projects, analyze chemical reactions, and explore the complexities of physics through experiments with motion and energy and the construction of model rockets. These labs challenge students to apply scientific principles in dynamic and creative ways, fostering a sense of wonder for God’s intricate design and purpose in creation.
This curriculum equips students with a solid foundation in biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science, preparing them not only for academic success but also to view science as a way to glorify and better understand the Creator’s work.
Math
Horizons Math Curriculum integrates a Christian worldview, helping students understand mathematics as a reflection of God’s order and design in creation. By emphasizing logical reasoning and problem-solving, the curriculum highlights how math reveals God’s consistency and precision in the world around us.
With a spiral learning approach, Horizons ensures students build a strong foundation while continually reinforcing skills through engaging, hands-on lessons. Each concept is taught incrementally, fostering mastery and confidence. By connecting mathematical principles to a biblical perspective, Horizons Math equips students not only with academic excellence but also with an appreciation for God’s intricate design in all aspects of life.
Life Skills
At Noah Webster Academy, our Life Skills program is designed to fulfill the vision expressed in Noah Webster’s 1828 definition of education: to "fit [students] for usefulness in their future stations." This program equips students with the practical knowledge and abilities needed to thrive in everyday life while fostering leadership, financial stewardship, and civic responsibility. Through engaging courses and activities, students are prepared to make meaningful contributions to their families, communities, and future careers.
The curriculum includes such areas as:
- Essential Life Skills: Practical abilities such as cooking, laundry, home maintenance, basic carpentry, and DIY projects.
- Financial Literacy: Budgeting, saving, understanding credit, and managing personal finances.
- Health and Wellness: Nutrition education, meal planning, and promoting an active, healthy lifestyle.
- Leadership Development: Teamwork, decision-making, and conflict resolution strategies to build confidence and interpersonal skills.
- Civic Responsibility: Understanding civic duties, community engagement, and the principles of good citizenship.
- Creative Problem-Solving: Applying ingenuity to real-world challenges through hands-on projects and activities.
By combining practical skills with character development, the Life Skills program inspires students to become capable, confident, and compassionate individuals, fully prepared for the roles they will fulfill in their families, communities, and beyond.