By exploring the uses of plain, middle, and grand styles, the author examines how theories of classical rhetoricians can be applied to Atticus Finch's speeches in "To Kill a Mockingbird." In the high school English classrooms the author has encountered, "rhetoric" has not been a focus or even a passing discussion. It forms the basis for how they teach students to communicate, but most, if not all, students are unfamiliar with the term let alone its functions. According to the author, Atticus speaks to instruct. He expresses his point in a way that his daughter will understand, but he avoids childish words. Students who are prepared to contribute effectively to society need to master the plain style. A high level of clarity and precision is demanded in the public sphere. Students can use Atticus's speeches as an example of quality plain style. When Atticus steps off of his front porch and onto the street, he reaches into his pocket and pulls out a new speech style. While the plain style informs, the middle style informs and delights. Once students speak fluently in the middle style they can graduate to the grand and achieve the highest level of eloquence. As teachers, according to the author, with the help of Atticus Finch, educate students on how to be eloquent and how to employ the three styles of oratory and other classical techniques, they will be equipped with the tools needed to incite change in their spheres.