Rhetoric School
The Rhetoric School serves students in ninth through twelfth grade and meets on campus three days a week. Building upon the foundation established in the Grammar and Logic Schools, students are challenged to think independently, communicate clearly, and express and defend their ideas with confidence and sound reasoning.
During these years, students engage with increasingly complex ideas through in depth study, thoughtful discussion, research, and writing. They are encouraged to develop a thoughtful perspective, consider differing viewpoints, and communicate their understanding with clarity and conviction. The Rhetoric years provide opportunities for students to take greater ownership of their education as they prepare for college, career, and responsible participation in the world around them.
Areas of Study
Rhetoric School students receive instruction in the following subjects:
Humanities: History, Literature, Composition, Dual Enrollment History Courses
Foreign Language: Spanish or Latin
Mathematics: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, Precalculus, Calculus, and Statistics
Science: Biology, Conceptual Physics, Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, Physics, Dual Enrollment Biology
Bible: Bible 9, Bible 10, Dual Enrollment Old Testament and New Testament Survey
Critical Thinking: Apologetics and Ethics, Dual Enrollment Introduction to Logic and Introduction to Philosophy
Thursday instruction provides additional opportunities to strengthen and extend classroom learning through additional mathematics instruction, writing, history, science labs, and fine arts and elective courses. Offerings may vary based on student enrollment and teacher availability.
Humanities Curriculum
The Rhetoric School follows a four cycle humanities curriculum, integrating the study of history and literature to help students understand the ideas, events, and cultural developments that have shaped the world.
Cycle A: United States History and Literature of the New World
Cycle B: History of the Medieval World and Literature of the Medieval World
Cycle C: History of the Renaissance and Literature of the Early Modern World
Cycle D: History of the Ancient World and Literature of the Ancient World
These four cycles provide students with a broad historical and literary perspective, allowing them to explore the connections between historical events, literature, and the development of ideas across civilizations.
Dual Enrollment and NCAA Eligibility
CCA also offers dual enrollment classes in partnership with Colorado Christian University. These courses provide eligible students with the opportunity to complete college level coursework while still in high school.
CCA is also certified with the NCAA Eligibility Center. This is an important resource for students who are interested in pursuing collegiate athletics, as they begin preparing to meet NCAA academic eligibility requirements. Families and students are encouraged to work with the school to understand the requirements and plan their high school coursework accordingly.
College and Postsecondary Preparation
As students approach graduation, CCA encourages them to thoughtfully consider their interests and plans for the future. We provide guidance as students explore college and other postsecondary opportunities, prepare for applications, and consider the academic requirements associated with their goals. Families are encouraged to attend all college informational sessions offered.
Course Planning and Academic Progress
High school coursework is planned with consideration for each student’s academic preparation, progress, and future goals. Course placement and sequencing may vary based on a student’s previous coursework and demonstrated readiness. Families are encouraged to work with CCA when planning their student’s high school academic path to ensure they are making appropriate progress toward gradation and postsecondary goals.
Graduation and Certificate of Completion
CCA maintains academic records and transcripts for students in grades 9-12. Students who successfully complete CCA’s high school graduation requirements receive a Certificate of Completion from Cornerstone Classical Academy. Graduation requirements are outlined in the Family Handbook.
Assessment and Reporting
Students in Rhetoric School receive grades using a ten point grading scale. Teachers assess student progress through assignments, essays, projects, presentations, quizzes, and tests. CCA maintains official grades and transcripts for students in grades 9-12. Unofficial transcripts are available upon request. All official transcripts will be mailed to the requesting school.
