1. Introduction to Rhetoric II
The Rhetorical Square

2. Subject
: What is the piece about?

3. Purpose Persuade Inform Entertain
Why did the author write this piece? What is he/she trying to do?
Persuade
Inform
Entertain

4. Persona
How does the writer (or narrator) portray himself to the reader?
How would you describe him? How knowledgeable is he? How trustworthy? What does he like or dislike? Is he biased in any way?

5. Argument What is the message of this piece of writing?
This might be explicit (stated in a thesis statement, for example) or implicit (you have to figure it out yourself by reading and inferring).

6. Audience
Who does the writer assume is going to read this piece? To whom is he writing? Trying to convince?
Think about the level of vocabulary, the diction, possible allusions, and possible bias.

7. Levels of Questioning – Ender’s Game
Level 1 – Can be answered with clear, stated (explicit) information from the text.
I.e.: What is Ender’s real first name?
Andrew
Level 2 – Answers would be suggested (implicit), but still within the text – require analysis and interpretation.
I.e.: Why is Colonel Graff so cold to everyone?
He is a career soldier who is dedicated to saving his world and doesn’t have time for emotional attachments.
Level 3 – Go beyond the text. Inspire discussion, debate, and consideration of complex issue.
I.e.: Why is it so easy for adults to decide to manipulate children?

8. Levels of Questioning - TKAM
Level 1 – Can be answered with clear, stated (explicit) information from the text.
I.e.: What is Scout Finch’s real name?
Jean Louise
Level 2 – Answers would be suggested (implicit), but still within the text – require analysis and interpretation.
I.e.: What is the real reason Tom Robinson is convicted?
The jury is unwilling to completely get rid of their racist view of the world in spite of all the evidence proving Tom innocent of the crime.
Level 3 – Go beyond the text. Inspire discussion, debate, and consideration of complex issue.
I.e.: Are there any truly effective ways to fight prejudice?