Rhetoric Alive! Principles of Persuasion is a
classical rhetoric course from Classical Academic Press that teaches students
how to communicate persuasively and effectively using Aristotle’s principles of
rhetoric.
Students learn to build credibility (Ethos), reason
logically (Logos), and appeal to emotion (Pathos) while mastering the Five
Canons of Rhetoric: invention, arrangement, style, memory, and delivery.
Key Curriculum Features:
In-depth
study of Aristotle’s Rhetoric with clear explanations and modern
application
Analysis
of famous speeches from ancient and modern speakers
Practice
with three main speech types: Deliberative, Ceremonial, and Judicial
Strong
development of both writing and oral presentation skills
Focus
on thoughtful discussion and critical analysis of persuasive texts
Program Components:
Student
Edition: Consumable, non-reproducible book with instruction, analysis
exercises, and presentation assignments
Teacher
Edition: Detailed guidance, sample syllabi, grading rubrics, answers,
charts, and teaching support
Rhetoric Alive! stands out for its systematic,
classical approach that combines rigorous study of rhetoric with practical
speaking and writing practice. It is an excellent choice for classical
homeschoolers and high school students who want to develop confident, persuasive
communication skills rooted in timeless principles.
Browse all Rhetoric Alive! curriculum materials below!
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Teaching Method
Traditional
Teacher-centered curriculum commonly used in classrooms that may include a text, teacher manual, tests, etc.
Charlotte Mason
A methodology based on the work of a 19th century educator who maintained that children learn best from literature (Living Books), not textbooks.
Classical
A methodology based on the Latin Trivium (three stages of learning), including the grammar stage (memorization and facts), logic stage (critical thinking), and rhetoric stage (developing/defending ideas).
Unit Study
A thematic or topical approach centered around one topic that integrates multiple subject areas.
Montessori (Discovery)
A methodology based on the work of a 20th century educator that emphasizes student and sensory-driven discovery learning and real-life applications.
Other
Other methodologies
Religious Content
Secular
Contains content contrary to common Christian beliefs (i.e. evolution).
Neutral
Avoids religious or theoretical topics or presents multiple viewpoints without preference.
Christian/Religious
Faith-based or including instructional religious content.
Learning Modality
Auditory
Learns through listening, talking out loud or reading out loud.
Visual
Learns through seeing, prefers written instructions and visual materials.
Kinesthetic/Tactile (Hands-On)
Learns through moving, doing and touching.
Multi-Sensory
Curriculum that employ a variety of activities/components.
Presentation
Sequential
Curriculum progresses through well-defined learning objectives. Emphasizes mastery before moving to the next topic.
Spiral
Topics and concepts are repeated from level to level, adding more depth at each pass and connecting with review.
Conceptual/Topical
Focus is on the “why,” often with a unifying concept as well as specific skills; coverage may be broader.
Teacher Involvement
Low Teacher Involvement
Student-led materials; parent acts as a facilitator.
Medium Teacher Involvement
A mix of teacher-led time and independent student work.
High Teacher Involvement
Teacher-led lessons; may utilize discussions, hands-on activities and working together.
Additional Materials Required
No other materials needed
Everything you need is included.
Other Materials Required
There are additional required resources that are a separate purchase.
Other Materials Optional
There are additional resources mentioned or recommended but are not absolutely necessary.
