Introduction to Logic (9-12)
Class Overview
This Logic class equips high school students with foundational tools for clear, accurate, and godly thinking—skills essential for college academics, debate, apologetics, persuasive writing, discerning truth in media/culture, and everyday decision-making in a world filled with arguments and claims.
Throughout the year, students will master both informal and formal logic through the video-based Introductory Logic curriculum. They will learn to define terms precisely, form and evaluate statements, construct and test valid syllogisms, translate everyday language into logical form, recognize and refute fallacies, and apply reasoning thoughtfully.
Learning extends far beyond passive watching. Students will engage in active discussions, analyze real-world arguments (from news, ads, social media, Scripture, and debates), practice fallacy detection, build syllogisms, participate in logic games, group challenges, and mini-debates.
Assessments are moderate: occasional quizzes, unit tests, and practical exercises help build academic skills for high school and beyond. Many take a fun, low-stress format—like logic tournaments, group fallacy hunts, or argument-building games—to reduce anxiety and boost confidence. I truly believe the best way to master logic is to practice it—through analysis, construction, discussion, and joyful discovery.
Above all, my hope is that students not only sharpen their reasoning abilities but also grow in appreciation for logic as a gift from God, reflecting His rational nature and enabling us, made in His image, to think clearly, seek truth, discern wisely, and glorify Him in our minds and words.
Coursework + Coursework at Home (Homework):
At Ethos Academy, we offer core classes through a hybrid learning model, which means students will complete weekly coursework at home in addition to in-class instruction. This work is essential to student success in the course.
Please plan for an average of 120 minutes per week of homework.
Some weeks may take as little as 40 minutes, while others may take up to 120 minutes.
All coursework is completed in the Introductory Logic Student Course Book (required workbook with exercises, reviews, and space for notes).
Understanding the Curriculum
The course follows a clear progression: starting with precise definitions (genus/species, extension/intension, rules for defining), moving to statements and their relationships (categorical statements, Square of Opposition, consistency), then formal arguments (syllogisms, moods/figures, validity testing via rules/counterexamples), everyday language application (translations, enthymemes, hypothetical syllogisms), and finally informal fallacies (distraction, ambiguity, form).
Some sections like distributed terms, mood/figure, or complex translations may feel challenging at first, and that is expected. Wrestling with these concepts builds real skill. The Student Course Book supports students by breaking concepts into manageable steps, providing exercises, key points, definitions, and review questions to focus on core ideas without overload.
Students are encouraged to persist, ask questions, and celebrate progress—even partial understanding now sets a strong foundation for deeper study later.
This course is not charter reimbursable.
Classroom Supplies
Please bring these to every class:
The Introductory Logic Student Course Book (required) ·
Composition book (for video notes, in-class arguments, and extra practice)
Pencils and erasers (logic often involves rewriting/correcting) ·
Highlighters (multiple colors for marking premises/conclusions, fallacies, etc.)
Required Curriculum
Introductory Logic Student Course Book (required; includes all exercises and space for work) Available via Compass Classroom.
Optional: Complete packaged set with DVD/videos if preferred for offline/home review (~additional cost via Compass Classroom). This would be best for students who need to review concepts visually even after being reviewed in class.
Payment Information
This one-hour course tuition is $200 per semester, plus a $10 materials fee for copies and classroom supplies.
The materials fee is collected during the registration period.
The materials fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
⚠️ Charter Funding Notice: This class includes religious content and is not eligible for charter funding/reimbursement.
Parent Partnership, Student Expectations & Classroom Culture
High school is prime time for developing independent, discerning thought, and this class supports that growth. Parent partnership helps reinforce habits at home.
Parent Partnership
Parents encourage application by discussing arguments in daily life (news, sermons, family decisions), modeling clear communication, and offering gentle accountability. Your support makes a big difference. Reach out anytime with questions or updates.
Student Responsibility
Students take ownership by:
Attending class ready to engage with videos and discussions
Completing at-home exercises in the Student Course Book thoughtfully and on time
Checking Ethos LMS regularly for assignments, due dates, and clarifications
Assignments are always clearly communicated in class, via notes, and on the Ethos LMS platform. Tracking and completing work builds valuable discipline and time management skills used throughout adult life.
Classroom Culture & Expectations
We aim for an encouraging, intellectually lively space where questions are welcomed, ideas are tested respectfully, and mistakes become learning opportunities. When videos play, a teacher explains, or a peer shares, students listen attentively without side talk. Social time and humor fit into activities but never derail focus.
Together, we maintain a respectful, focused, truth-seeking environment where everyone sharpens their mind and enjoys reasoning well.
Contact Information
I’m thrilled to partner with you and your student in this journey toward clearer, more godly thinking. Contact me anytime via text, call, or email with questions, concerns, or celebrations.
It is a privilege to walk alongside your family, and I pray this year brings sharper discernment, greater confidence in truth, and deeper awe at God’s gift of reason as we pursue His thoughts after Him. I look forward to helping your student thrive!
Charissa McCune
208-286-8173