What is Rhetoric?

Quickwrite and wrap-around Schools across the country have differing policies regarding homework. Write what you think the homework policy should be in terms of time per class, and how it should be graded. Give your reasons.

What is rhetoric? And why bother studying it? “the art of effective expression (speaking & writing) and the persuasive use of language” We study rhetoric because: it helps us to better identify and appreciate appeals to our ethos, pathos, & logos (more on this to come) it helps us to become more effective persuasive speakers and writers It helps us to recognize when we are being persuaded

Descriptive Language/Imagery- The author uses very descriptive, vivid language to appeal to the readers senses. In rhetoric, images are often chosen to invoke emotional responses or ethos.

Tone The attitude of the writer or the speaker either towards the subject or the audience. Common Tone Words: Aggressive, pessimistic, sarcastic, cheerful, scholarly, angry, understated, gloomy, sorrowful, etc. Son: Father Can I have an Xbox One? Father: Sure son, you can have 10 of them.

Allusions Allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance. The writer expects the reader to possess enough knowledge to spot the allusion and grasp its importance in a text. “Don’t act like a Romeo in front of her.” – “Romeo” is a reference to Shakespeare’s Romeo, a passionate lover of Juliet, in “Romeo and Juliet”.

What is the Allusion?

Repetition Repetition is a literary device that repeats the same words or phrases a few times to make an idea clearer. There are several types of repetitions commonly used in both prose and poetry. Example -”I looked upon the rotting sea, And drew my eyes away; I looked upon the rotting deck, And there the dead men lay.” Rime of the Ancient Mariner” by S.T. Coleridge.

Metaphors/Similes/Symbols Each of these is a version of comparison. Metahor- indirect comparison. Simile- a direct comparison (using like or as) Symbol- one thing(object or image) representing another to give it an entirely different meaning that is much deeper and more significant. “All the world’s a stage, And all the men and women merely players”--- As You Like it..

Diction Diction can be defined as style of speaking or writing determined by the choice of words by a speaker or a writer Through diction a writer conveys tone, mood, and atmosphere to the reader. Formal Diction Informal Diction Colloquial Diction We should enjoy ourselves immensely. It’s going to be awesome! We are going to get crazy up in here!

Rhetorical Question A rhetorical question is asked just for effect or to lay emphasis on some point discussed when no real answer is expected.

Parallel Structure Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as "and" or "or.“ In rhetoric- to emphasize a point or stir the emotions of a reader/listener. Used to create a sense of rhythm, balance, and order in writing or speech Not Parallel Mary likes to swim, hiking, or to ride her bike. Parallel: Mary likes to hike, to swim, and to ride a bicycle. OR Mary likes to hike, swim, and ride a bicycle.

Here is a real-life example of rhetoric in action… If you were trying to persuade a parent to let you go to a party, how would you go about it? What methods would you use to get what you wanted? Rhetorical Question- Example- Do you really think I would do something bad? + Which tone would you use? Sweet? Angry? Clear and logical? What phrases would you choose to repeat? Why? Would you allude to or reference?

Rhetorical Quickwrite Choose one of the following scenarios and choose at least two methods you have learned to create an argument for getting what you want. Scenario One- Your friend is having a birthday party and their parents will not be home. Typically your parent/guardian would not let you go. Write a paragraph using at least two rhetorical techniques convincing your parent you should get to go. Also identify the tone you would use.. Scenario Two- You want to change a school policy like the school electronics policy to be more liberal like allowing students to use headphones or cell phones in certain areas, or the dress code to allow for sleeveless shirts or something.

Ethos Appeals to the conscience, ethics, morals, standards, values, and principles. Author or speaker tries to convince you he is of good character and is credible. Can walk the walk or talk the talk. Qualified to make his claims. Cites relevant authorities. Quotes others accurately and fairly.

Pathos How well the author taps into the audiences emotions Questions for considering a writer’s pathos: Does the topic matter to the audience? Does the writer include anecdotes? Does the writer appeal to your emotions, memories, fears, etc.? Is the emotional appeal effective or overwhelming? Is the writing overloaded with facts and figures?

Logos How well the author uses text and evidence to support own argument or claims. What are the reasons for the author’s conclusions? How well the author uses text and evidence to support own argument or claims. Should be well organized. Questions for considering a text’s logos: What is being argued or what is the author’s thesis? What points does the author offer to support their thesis? Are ideas presented logically?

cartoonist/filmmaker/advertiser want the reader/listener/viewer to Rhetorical Chart The core of the rhetorical chart is purpose—What does the author/speaker cartoonist/filmmaker/advertiser want the reader/listener/viewer to Feel? Think? Do?