Learning to think like a philosopher requires engaging with some of the best thinkers throughout all time, and where better to start than Plato?

This course is designed to introduce beginning students of philosophy to the practice of engaging with challenging texts and uncovering their deeper themes and philosophical insights.

This is a perfect course for high schoolers ready for real education. Plato is included in the "Great Books of the Western World" series, which is a well-known collection of classic Western literature and philosophy. The specific volume titled "Plato" is in the series and contains his key works, reflecting his foundational role in Western philosophy.

In the Fall Semester, we will focus on two of Plato’s dialogues: The Apology and The Crito. These texts, which center on the trial and imprisonment of Socrates, offer a powerful entry point into questions about truth, moral integrity, duty to family, obedience to the state, the role of education, and more.

The total reading for the semester will be approximately 50 pages, allowing students to slow down and spend more time grappling with the complexity of both the language and the ideas. Students will be encouraged to read the assigned passages multiple times and come to class prepared to engage in meaningful discussion.

Our slow pace also allows space for exploring the historical and cultural context of ancient Greek society, helping students develop a more accurate lens through which to interpret the texts.

Each week, students will complete narration assignments (retellings of the reading) to build reading comprehension and retention. In class, we will practice the Socratic method — engaging in structured dialogue, responding to challenging questions, and refining our understanding through logic and respectful debate. This includes working through arguments, examining counterarguments, and striving to reach sound conclusions.

Through this process, students will strengthen their logical reasoning, critical thinking, and confidence in articulating ideas — skills essential for thoughtful engagement with modern questions and public discourse.

Kennedy is beloved by all her students for her intellectual sharpness combined with a confident and gregarious love light. Her analytical process in clear to follow, helping her students feel confident in their ability to grow their logical and rational abilities. Kennedy brings beauty and light through her appreciation of all things humanities. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Utah Valleu University and a Masters Degree in Humanities from Ralston College. She studied abroad in Greece and delved into its language in order to study New Testament documents in their original language. She has taught classes in Speech and Debate, Logic, and Classical Literature. 

Kennedy is a disciple of Christ, and served Him on a mission in Poland.