Writing: Refutation and Confirmation

Service Description

Description: This writing course focuses on the art of refutation and confirmation, teaching students to critically evaluate arguments by addressing their strengths and weaknesses. When refuting an argument, students will learn to identify and articulate points that make it obscure, incredible, impossible, illogical, unfitting, and unprofitable. Conversely, in confirming an argument, they will be guided on how to present it as manifest, probable, possible, logical, fitting, and profitable. Through structured exercises and examples, students will develop the skills to dismantle flawed reasoning and bolster sound arguments, enhancing writing skills. Prerequisites: It is recommended that students have completed the Australian Progymnasmata: Chreia and Proverb course or equivalent, ensuring familiarity with foundational rhetorical and compositional techniques. This course is recommended for students in Grade 4 or 5, or older students needing to consolidate their persuasive writing skills. In class, students need to be able to follow teacher-led workbook completion and record answers during class. They need to be able to answer questions when called on in a group setting. Required Materials: Students must purchase the Australian Progymnasmata (Refutation and Confirmation) student text from Via Classica. They should also have an exercise book for additional notes. Students will also need a USB headset microphone (built-in microphones also work). Students will use Microsoft Teams and OneNote for online sessions. Course sessions: The course commences in Term 3 on Monday, 20 July, with two one-hour sessions each week on Mondays 2:00-3:00 PM and Wednesdays at 9:00-10:00 AM (AEDT/AEST). The term will end on Wednesday, 23 September. Term 4 will resume on Monday, 12 October, and conclude on Wednesday, 9 December. No classes will be held on 24 August or 26 October. Instructor: Mrs. Madeleine Dugdale