Living Memory: A Classical Memory Work Companion

From the author of Latin Centered Curriculum (Memoria Press), this comprehensive K-12 resource for memorization, copywork, and dictation provides a vast array of memorization material in all academic areas, as well as Latin and Greek. Weighing in at a hefty 450 plus pages, this book provides you ample choices for memory work, and has been designed for use with any classical curriculum or simply as a handy reference for home or school. At first glance, the sheer size of this book appears to be overwhelming. However, the author reminds us this book has been created to provide 13 years worth of memorization options and we simply integrate what we feel is the best selection.

Beginning with the importance of memorizing, this detailed book takes you through the steps of how to memorize and includes general principles to make memory work easier; you are then set free to select memorization selections from a vast array of subject areas. Read on for more details! The Latin chapter is divided into six parts: Grammar and Vocabulary; Proverbs; Poetry and Prose; Scripture; Prayers; and Hymns and Carols. The first three sections contain mostly secular material, while the last three are religious. The Greek chapter is divided into five sections: Grammar and Vocabulary; Proverbs; Poetry and Prose; Scripture; and Prayers and Hymns. These selections are drawn from both classical and ecclesiastical Greek, and the author has also included some background information on Easter Christian traditions. Translations are provided throughout. The Arithmetic and Mathematics chapter includes an extensive resource selection, including (but not limited to): addition/subtraction fact families, properties and orders, prime numbers, multiplication table, Euclid's Definitions and Common Notions, and the Pythagorean Theorem. The Grammar and Composition chapter is designed to support the study of classical languages and to reinforce principles taught in your individual writing program. It includes grammar rhymes, grammar rules, and 100 commonly misspelled words. The Literature chapter contains five sections: Literary facts and lists; Sayings, Proverbs, and Famous Quotations, Teaching Rhymes, Poetry and dramatic speeches from Shakespeare's plays. The Religion chapter contains six sections: Scripture, Prayers, Catechism, Poetry, Hymns and Carols. Using the King James Version of the Bible, the religious selections include material drawn from the Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant traditions. The Geography chapter contains a large number of lists from both a World and US Geography perspective. The World History chapter covers events and personalities from around the globe, with the emphasis on those topics of enduring importance. Please note: dating encompasses an old earth perspective, dating back to 35,000 BC. The United States History and Civics chapter stresses key dates in American history, as well as the founding documents of our nation. Patriotic songs, verse and oratory are also included. The Natural Sciences chapter brings together lists and mnemonics for basic information in the natural sciences and is written primarily for elementary and middle school. It is best if the child memorizes material in this chapter, as it is encountered in their course of studies in the science curriculum of your choice. Extensive reference charts are found at the end of the book. These are meant for quick reference in Latin and Greek and are not meant to replace a Latin or Greek curriculum. They are, however, a good basis for Latin and Greek recitation.

As you can see, this extensive resource book provides ample opportunities for memorization success. I was impressed with the extensive selection in each academic area, and believe this truly will be a valuable resource for families who desire to incorporate memorization from the classical perspective. 450 pgs, sc. ~ Deanne