Rhetoric Phase

Challenging, Authentic, Focused

Rhetoric students need a unique environment. They want to be independent but still need guidance. OAKTON works to achieve a healthy balance of this inside our classrooms. 

Learning at this stage is the culmination of the first two stages of classical education, grammar and logic, while introducing and mastering the final component, the rhetoric stage.

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Rhetoric phase prepares students to gather, analyze and finally, synthesize information. They practice the skill of communicating original ideas humbly, clearly, and persuasively.  These are the marks of leadership and wisdom.

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Teaching Methods:

• Analysis and application of timeless truths into current
  issues

• True research-based writing

• Primary source texts in history, science, literature, and
  government

• Infusion of wisdom into students' worldview

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Teenagers that Think Logically

OAKTON students use the logic training they receive in middle school to analyze their world, including the bombardment of emotionally-charged media. Through Rhetoric classes our students gain the skills to analyze any argument. This allows them to respond in a way that is wholly logical, sound, and true.

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Big Picture Objectives

Rhetoric students at OAKTON will:

• Study formal Rhetoric for each year

• Study English, History, Math and Science for four years each

• Recognize how philosophical movements affect historical events

• Understand major worldviews (Christian, Marxist, Islamic, Humanist, Post-Modern)

• Study major Science theories from a scientific, historical and philosophical perspective

• Participate in fine arts and performing arts

• World languages

• Elevate research, writing, and speaking skills

• Regularly use technology as a research and communications tool