Formal and Informal Logic, Critical Thinking, Persuasive Argumentation, Identifying Fallacies
Grades 9-12

Course Description:
In a culture saturated with opinions, advertisements, and debates, the ability to think clearly and argue well is more important than ever. The Art of Argument introduces high school students to the skills needed to recognize bad reasoning, avoid common fallacies, and construct persuasive, logically sound arguments.

Over six weeks, students will explore dozens of real-world examples, from political ads to editorials, as they practice identifying flaws in arguments and strengthening their own reasoning abilities. Through lively discussion, collaborative exercises, and creative projects, students will become confident thinkers, writers, and speakers who know not only what they believe — but why they believe it.

Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students will be able to:

• Recognize and define a wide range of informal logical fallacies

• Critically evaluate arguments for emotional manipulation, false assumptions, and statistical errors

• Develop sound, persuasive arguments supported by clear reasoning

• Strengthen oral communication through debates and discussions

• Apply critical thinking to real-world media, writing, and conversations

Course Includes:

• Weekly 60-minute live sessions (discussion-based, highly interactive)

• Guided Readings from The Art of Argument

• Media and Advertisement Analysis Exercises

• Debate Practice and Logical Response Writing

• Final Project: Correction or Construction of a Persuasive Argument

Materials Needed:

• The Art of Argument textbook by Classical Academic Press (student supplies)

• Notebook or journal for notes and exercises

• Internet access for reviewing real-world media examples (optional)