Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric: Classically-Inspired Language Arts

Welcome to a Grammar, Logic, and Rhetoric class for 8-12-year-olds inspired by classical education! Explore language, reasoning, and effective communication. Learn grammar, logical thinking, and persuasive rhetoric. Engaging lectures, interactive activities, and group discussions will enhance your skills. No prior experience required -- students may join at any time!  Let's embark on this enriching journey together!

The class will be divided into weekly sessions, each focusing on one aspect each of grammar, logic, and rhetoric. Sessions will include a mix of theory, practical exercises, and interactive discussions to keep the young learners engaged and enthusiastic about their learning journey. 

Week of <September 16th>: Developing Rational Thinking and Persuasion
* Grammar: Understanding sentence structure: clauses and phrases.
* Logic: Analyzing argument structure
* Rhetoric: Exploring the use of rhetorical devices in speeches and writings

Week of <September 23rd>: Common Rules, Patterns, and Errors
* Grammar: A look at etymology and common Latin/Greek roots of words
* Logic: Fallacies : Recognizing common errors in arguments.
* Rhetoric: Analyzing famous speeches for their persuasive techniques

Week of <September 30th>: Mastering the Art of Expression and Persuasion 
* Grammar: Verb tenses
* Logic: Debate, with an emphasis on the importance of seeking truth through thoughtful inquiry and discussion
* Rhetoric: Writing techniques for crafting engaging essays, stories, and persuasive pieces.

Week of <October 7th>: Synthesis
Students work on and then give a speech on a student-selected topic, and the other students provide constructive critiques to help them refine their skills.

Week of <October 14th>: Effective Communication and Public Speaking
* Grammar: Parts of a sentence
* Logic: Inductive vs. deductive reasoning
* Rhetoric: Tips and techniques for confident and persuasive public speaking. Students will practice delivering short speeches.

Week of <October 21st>: The Power of Persuasion in Writing
* Grammar: Sentence types (declarative, interrogative, imperative, and exclamatory) 
Logic: Logical fallacies (ad hominem, strawman, and slippery slope)
Rhetoric: Focus on sentence variety and structure for better writing. Analyzing and critiquing persuasive essays and op-eds. Students will work on crafting persuasive paragraphs.

Week of <October 28th>: Debates and Critical Thinking
Grammar: Subject-verb agreement
Logic: More logical fallacies (appeal to authority, appeal to emotion, appeal to tradition)
Rhetoric: Focus on the art of combining short, simple sentences into more complex ones to improve writing style.