PARENT RESOURCES

Rhetoric School (10th - 12th)

Rhetoric is the art of communicating well. Once a student has obtained a knowledge of the facts (grammar) and developed the skills necessary to arrange those facts into arguments (logic), he must develop the skill of communicating those arguments to others (rhetoric). During the high school years, students become concerned with what others think of them. Classical education helps students develop their minds to think and articulate concepts to others. Writing papers, researching, and orating ideas are skills required in all subjects. In these grade levels, the goal is to create a well-rounded student who can communicate effectively. We leverage these skills through the final requirement of the defense of a senior thesis. While each component has a primary focus during a particular phase, all skills are developed during all levels. A second grader will develop certain skills in logic and rhetoric. A high school student will still acquire extensive knowledge in specific subjects. Emphasis is simply placed on different phases during different ages.

The grammar years hit the sweet spot of developing a love for learning and molding diligent students who listen well, respect their teachers and peers, and enthusiastically work to their God-given potential. Every subject has a language, or grammar, which becomes the foundation of building blocks for the next two phases of the Trivium.

Developmental Traits:

  • Can synthesize and perform more independent work
  • Concerned about present events, especially relevant to their own lives
  • Desire to express feelings and own ideas
  • Idealistic, interested in justice and fairness
  • Moving toward special interests or topics
  • Place value on what others think of them

Classical Tools:

  • Assigned areas of responsibility: working with younger students, organizing activities
  • Drama
  • Guided research in major areas with goal of synthesis of ideas
  • In-depth day or multi-day educational trips (Grand Tour – 12th grade)
  • Many papers, speeches, & debates
  • Worldview discussions