The Lost Tools of Writing, Level Two builds on Level 1 while focusing on the judicial address (sometimes called “forensic oratory”), one of the three kinds of rhetoric defined by Aristotle.* In classical rhetoric the student tried to persuade an audience of a defendant’s guilt or innocence. The judicial essay refines the persuasive essay and is directed toward what has happened and how the audience should respond. LTW Level 2, then, is for students who have learned the persuasive essay in Level 1** and in addition to the above, are looking for guided direction in: 

• Evaluating arguments
• Fostering imaginative and strategic thinking
• Applying sound judgment in decision-making
• Arranging ideas for maximum impact
• Building a case for prosecution and defense
• Identifying goals, obstacles, and means of persuasion
• Promoting harmony by resolving the discord of injustice
• Developing poise and stye in delivery
• Preparation for the rhetoric course