Geometry & Arithmetic
Course Description
The Quadrivium I course covers the first two of the mathematical liberal arts: Arithmetic and Geometry. It features interdisciplinary study where students explore numerical relations, Euclidean reasoning, logical demonstration, and mathematical thinking. Integral to this work is the challenge for students to contemplate order as it unfolds in the integration of mathematics, the natural sciences, philosophy, and the Great Conversation in the history of ideas.
The revival of the Liberal Arts Tradition in Classical Education has focused almost exclusively on the Trivium (the first three of the seven liberal arts that focus on mastery of language and include grammar, logic, and rhetoric). The Quadrivium I and II courses provide an opportunity for students to bring to fulfillment the formation they began with the Trivium. These courses feature an overview of the four mathematical ways of grasping the order that fills our world. The same four ways that were an essential part of the education received by the greatest minds in Western Civilization.
Geogebra File from Week 2 Problem: https://www.geogebra.org/geometry/e4r5ahxy
Textbook: A Brief Quadrivium ($75)
Amazon
Catholic Education Press
Compass Recommendations
Largely Considered the Best for Geometric Construction: Staedtler Mars Comfort 551 (around $20)
I have not used this model, but many good sources rate it highly.
Best Bang for the Buck: Alvin Model 494 (around $13)
Great for comfort, ease of use, and precision. This is the brand used for professional drafting and by architecture students.
Economic Choice for a Kit: Mr. Pen 7 pcs Set (around $13)
Geometry kit is not needed for the course. However, this set features two different size compasses and a nice box.
Absolute Budget: Mr. Pen Simple Set (around $5)
It will get the job done.
The Splurge Models: ALVIN Compass Bow Drawing Set (around $70)
Staedtler Mars Metal 6″ Compass (around $45)
Very nice. But well beyond necessity. I do not have experience using these. They are wishlist, hard to justify cost for a hobby, compasses.
Recovering the Lost Art of Assessment 