Rhetoric Class Descriptions and Supply Lists

Rhetoric

The Great Conversation IV

In this course, Rhetoric students will immerse themselves in the Great Conversations of Ancient Times. Through readings of literature from the Ancient World as well as through lively discussions, their minds will be enlightened, trained, and developed while their hearts are turned toward what is long-lasting and true. Students will be required to read several book selections and excerpts from Veritas Press’s Omnibus IV Primary curriculum.

This year the students will also take virtual college courses that also pertain to Ancient History. This is a free opportunity for students to transition to college-type courses as well as receive certificates of completion.

Required Curriculum: Omnibus IV Teacher Edition which includes downloadable materials and various literature texts (see supply lists below).

At Home Requirements: In order to participate in class meetings, students will be required to complete weekly readings and assignments using the Omnibus IV text as well as read excerpts and watch videos from Hillsdale College.

History of Antiquity

Class time will be devoted to discussion and application of the lessons learned during the week from Dave Raymond's Antiquity History course. Students will learn how to apply and refine a Christian worldview to major developments in Ancient History.

Required Curriculum: Dave Raymond’s History Series: Antiquity History video and student/teacher set.

At Home Requirements: Students will watch the assigned history videos, complete assigned activities, and come prepared to discuss topics learned during the week.

Speech and Debate

This course is divided into two semesters. First, by using The Argument Builder, students will build compelling and persuasive arguments of their own. It is a blend of logic and rhetoric. Students first study the logical structure of good arguments, and then study how to use several lines of argument such as the use of examples, analogy, comparison, testimony, and statistics. Students learn to become skilled argument makers!

 

The second semester, students will use Everyday Debate & Discussion: A Guide to Socratic Conversation, Informal Discussion, and Formal Debate. Students will learn how to conduct informal and formal debates as well as how to develop good arguments by using solid logic and the resources available in their own thinking as well as the world around them.

 

Required Curriculum: The Argument Builder and Everyday Debate & Discussion

At Home Requirements: Students will complete assigned workbook activities, prepare written tasks, and present oral arguments or speeches.

Teacher editions are optional but recommended.

 

Understanding the Culture

Understanding the Culture outlines the key social issues of our time and shows students how to engage their biblical worldview and transform our post-Christian culture. Students will learn to analyze our society’s culture through readings, videos, and activities and then discuss and debate those key issues to better prepare them as they head out and become cities on a hill in a secular world.

Required Curriculum: Understanding the Culture: A Survey of Social Engagement Student Manual and Textbook. Teacher Manual is optional.

At Home Requirements: Students will complete the readings, watch the assigned history videos, complete assigned activities, and come prepared to discuss topics learned during the week.