Some say that in an information-laden world, knowing facts isn't as important as knowing where to find them. Consider this statement for a moment. Do you agree? What are the implications and patterns?

While it is certainly true that students today need to learn solid skills in how to access the tremendous amounts of information available, there is no subsitute for possessing internalized core knowledge.

Memorized information gives the student helpful, accessible information in immediate recall that will benefit him the rest of his life. Here are four examples:

1. Daily usage benefits
For example, people can "look up" how to spell the one hundred most commonly mispelled words and how to properly use English grammar, but they typically don't. And since they don't take the time to do so, theireveryday usage or accuracy is hampered. The student who knows these things... well, he or she knows them. The student then simply uses them, quickly, effortlessly, and often. 

2. Better understanding and appreciation
The student who deeply knows his subjects -- history, literature, geography, the Bible, science, math, and Latin is one who easily recognizes references and allusions in various literature, speeches, and plays, etc. This provides the student a much more vivid understanding of what is going on. She understands more, because she "sees" more. A student who has to "look up these things" probably won't, and so misses much.

3. Knowing language facts unlocks doors later
Why are the sciences apparently so much easier to the student who knows Latin? She can recognize meanings in scientific words because they are quite literal to her. These scientific terms are not diffcult to learn, nor were they intended to be; they were simple, clear names in Latin, and the student who knows even basic Latin easily recognizes their meaning. She doesn't have to look up most of them and isn't confused by having to figure out how to distinguish betweeen what others might find to be confusing names. Similar doors are open in literature, foreign languages, etc.

4. The "real world" appreciates core knowledge
Parents often say they want their students prepared for the "real world." Those in the business workplace should easily recognize the benefits of memorizing core knowledge. Two junior employees at a meeting hear their boss describe a problem to the group. One is able to answer the questions and to articulate possible solutions and costs in real time by her knowledge in math, geography, culture, etc. The other is unable to make the quick connections between apparently disparate details and is trying to Google for help. All other things being equal, which one will be found more favorable?