5 Laws of Learning
Biblical principle: measurable results and rewards relate to accountability: "...reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God..."
The prime method of learning is achieved by children working through booklets (PACEs) in various subjects, reading supplied texts,filling in blanks in questions, linking words with definitions, writing sentences and short essays, doing simple science experiments, searching dictionaries and atlases, solving mathematical problems, using computers, watching videos and in many other ways.
What is a PACE?
ACE has taken the conventionally styled textbook and divided it into bite-sized, achievable, work texts called PACEs. Each PACE is similar to a unit in a textbook. Each level consists of 12 PACEs in each subject. PACEs integrate Godly character-building lessons into the academic content, and self-instructional activities are carefully designed to develop thinking skills and create mastery learning.
Students begin their PACE work by noting their goals, the concepts they will learn, a Bible verse, and a corresponding character trait. From the beginning of each PACE, they know what is expected and assume the responsibility for their own learning!
Throughout the curriculum the introduction of new vocabulary words is computer controlled so that no new vocabulary word is used without the student first learning its meaning and pronunciation. Also, these words are repeated a certain number of times to ensure mastery.
Each PACE contains several Checkups, which are quizzes covering a section of the PACE. If mastery in an area is not achieved, the Checkup will reveal that weak area. Students can then take the time necessary to review and learn those concepts before proceeding to the next.
Upon completion of the activities and Checkups, students prepare to take the Self Test. Here students evaluate themselves, and a supervisor/tutor determines readiness for the final PACE Test. When the Self Test is successfully completed, the student turns in the PACE and takes the PACE Test the next school morning. The PACE Test objectively measures student mastery of the material.
The 5 Laws
An explanation
Learning, in the ACE system, depends upon a number of interdependent factors. In order to explain these factors, the illustration of a donkey pulling a man on a cart is used and a series of ‘laws’ formulated.
The following Five Laws of Learning sum up the ACE academic philosophy as illustrated by the donkey and cart:
Law 1. How heavy is the load?
The pupil must be on a level of curriculum where he can perform.
Biblical principle: all children are different:"...For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall much be required..."
Law 2. How long is the stick?
The pupil must set achievable goals he can complete in a prescribed period of time.
Biblical principle: reflects good judgment: "For which of you ... sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost...?"
Law 3. How effective are the controls?
The pupil must be controlled and motivated to assimilate, use, or experience the material.
Biblical principle: necessity for discipline, guidance, and responsible leadership: "Train up a child in the way he should go..."
Law 4. How hungry is the donkey?
The pupil's learning must be measurable.
Biblical principle: motivation is that inner desire prompted by the concerned parent teacher: "Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord..."
Law 5. How big is the carrot?
The pupil's learning must be rewarded.