Rhetoric Curriculum
Rhetoric is the capstone stage of a classical and Christian school. Rhetoric students are taught to present themselves in a way that is polished and persuasive, in both written and oral form. Once again, the emphasis is on building upon knowledge and skills gained in previous stages. It is in the Rhetoric program that RCCS graduates are prepared to enter the world of higher education and/or work. The goal of the program is to equip students with a solidly Biblical worldview, and to prepare them to be articulate vehicles for the knowledge and understanding they have accrued in previous stages.
The three years in Rhetoric coursework begins with a study of the history of Rhetoric, with a special focus on classical and Biblical rhetors, as well as a study of current rhetorical examples (e.g., public speeches and dialogues). They learn the components of the art of rhetoric, are taught to skillfully use the techniques they have acquired in other subject areas, and complete a senior thesis. In their last year of the program, they are taught Biblical apologetics-the art of learning to defend their faith and the gospel of Jesus Christ using rhetorical tools. In this stage, the emphasis remains on providing a broadly based liberal arts program, which will prepare them for lifelong learning.
In Humanities, they are given course work in Medieval, Renaissance and Reformation History in grade 10. In grade 11, they focus on the Early Modern period. In grade 12, they study Modernity, as they learn to thoughtfully consider the ideas that form the basis of our current culture. Both breadth and depth of exposure are goals as students progress through major works and anthologies in each of these areas. Taught in Biblio-centered manner with applicable field trips, these courses are geared toward helping them to understand their culture, and the current political and philosophical climate. Grammar and writing skills continue to be stressed, as well, as they continue instruction in English. They finish their study of a Romance language in grade 11, and can take 4th year Romance language as an elective.
In math, students follow either the standard grade-level track or an accelerated track. Students in the standard track take Geometry in Grade 10, Algebra II in Grade 11, and Precalculus/Trig in Grade 12. Students on the accelerated track take Algebra II in grade 10, Precalculus/Trig in Grade 11, and Calculus in Grade 12. For seniors on the accelerated track, Calculus is offered as an Advanced Placement course.
In the area of the physical sciences, students build upon their study of 9th grade Biology, moving on to Chemistry in grade 10 and Physics in grade 11. In grade 12, students may choose a science elective. Past offerings include AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Physics, and Astronomy.
Rhetoric students work toward a cumulative project in their senior year. Under the guidance of a faculty mentor, each student selects a topic area, prepares a written thesis, and defends it orally to a small group of faculty mentors. Thus, students exercise their research and rhetorical skills in a more formal, yet supportive environment.
