A.C.E. Curriculum

The curriculum provides minimal direct instruction, instead relying on self-directed workbook completion. While this promotes independence, it lacks the explicit teaching that research shows is most effective.

Reviews emphasize that 'no lesson preparation or presentation by the parent is necessary' and the materials are 'designed for children to work independently' through workbooks

Knowledge building appears fragmented due to the PACE system's focus on isolated skill mastery rather than cumulative understanding. Social studies coverage is particularly weak in comprehensive world and U.S. history until high school.

Reviews indicate 'social studies is big on the social end but lacking in comprehensive coverage of world and United States history and geography until high school level' and that tests 'generally cover only what has recently been studied, relying largely on short-term memory'

Academic rigor varies by subject, with particular weakness in developing higher-order thinking skills. The curriculum relies heavily on recall and fill-in-the-blank exercises rather than analytical thinking.

Reviews consistently note the 'biggest weakness is that the material relies heavily upon simple recall rather than deeper thinking' and that 'students can scan for the correct answer without having to really think about the material'

The curriculum provides basic guidance through diagnostic tests and manuals but lacks comprehensive teacher training. Parents are expected to supplement with their own activities and discussions.

Reviews mention a 'Quick Start Kit' with diagnostic tests and 'Home Educator's Manual', but note that 'parents should use preparation time to develop activities that correlate with lessons' and 'discuss PACE material with students'

The PACE system incorporates regular quizzes and mastery requirements before advancement, providing some retrieval practice. However, testing focuses mainly on recent material rather than cumulative review.

Reviews note that 'children take quizzes as they complete each section of a worktext before proceeding to the next' and mention 'gating quizzes that prevent advancement without mastery', but tests 'generally cover only what has recently been studied'

The curriculum integrates biblical principles and character lessons across all subjects through Scripture memory, wisdom lessons, and cartoon characters modeling godly behavior. However, traditional academic connections between subjects appear limited.

Reviews note that 'Biblical values' and 'Scripture memory' are woven throughout the curriculum, and each PACE includes 'cartoon strips featuring Ace and friends who demonstrate how to handle everyday dilemmas in godly ways'