The Rhetoric School is North Star's capstone academic phase. In a classical high school, the Rhetoric School (grades 9-12th) is the culmination of the Trivium, where students move from mastering facts (Grammar School K-6th) and reasoning (Logic School 7-8th) to learning to effectively communicate truth, synthesize knowledge, form arguments, and present ideas persuasively, integrating all subjects into a coherent understanding of the world and preparing them for leadership and thoughtful engagement. Socratic discussion, persuasive essays, and vigorous debate form the building blocks for their senior year academic thesis presentation. From discussing Plato to dissecting frogs to memorizing Scripture, the rhetoric stage is devoted to the Good, the True and the Beautiful.
100%
College Acceptance
Senior
Thesis Required
Socratic
Discussion Method
Students develop the ability to present Truth, Goodness, and Beauty in a way that is clear, persuasive, and winsome.
Mirroring how Socrates taught his students in ancient Greece, North Star Rhetoric teachers regularly engage our students in Socratic discussions. These conversations are a cooperative effort to explore ideas, challenge assumptions, and uncover the truth.
Students learn to research, analyze, persuade, and intelligently defend positions on complex topics.
The idea of a thesis defense originated in medieval European universities as a core component of the scholastic method. It was heavily influenced by the ancient Greek tradition of oral debate and logic, specifically the questioning techniques of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle. North Star seniors research and write a thesis paper over the course of an entire school year. Each May, North Star seniors publicly present and defend their thesis to a tribunal of North Star faculty.
North Star graduates are well-prepared for college and beyond. Our rigorous curriculum develops the skills — critical thinking, clear communication, and intellectual curiosity — that lead to success in higher education and life.
"The rhetoric stage prepares students to express themselves eloquently and persuasively. They synthesize knowledge, develop their own convictions, and learn to communicate truth with wisdom and grace."
Contact us to learn more about our Rhetoric School program.
