1. Rhetorical Strategies
How to Write a Persuasive Speech
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2. Rhetorical Strategies
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Persuasive Mantra
Elements of the Speech
Rhetorical Strategies

3. Elements of the Speech
Format:
Introduction
Body
Conclusion

4. How to Structure the Introduction
1st sentence: In the past, …
2nd sentence: Today, however,
3rd sentence (a.k.a. the Thesis): Although some believe (state opposing side’s opinion), (give your belief).
Click below to see examples of a thesis written out.
Example 1 - Useful if you have three arguments.
Example 2 - Useful if you have three or more arguments.

5. Example Thesis 1
Although teenagers don’t like dress codes and school uniforms, having expectations about school attire improves student behavior, saves money, and reduces clothing competition.
** Using the above thesis as the structure of your speech, you would write a paragraph about improving student behavior, then a second paragraph about saving money, and a third addressing the reduction of clothing competition. **

6. Example Thesis 2
Although teenagers don’t like dress codes and school uniforms, having expectations about school clothing solves many problems in the end.
** This thesis is less specific and leaves you open to writing about the “many problems” that are solved. **

7. What is a Thesis?
A thesis is the most important sentence in your paper! It becomes the outline of your entire essay.

8. What to Include in the Body
Arguments for your side
Arguments against your side
It seems weird to bring up the other side, but the best way to win your argument is to point out their argument so you can knock it down with yours!
Evidence, facts, statistics, quotes – a.k.a. CONCRETE DETAILS

9. What to Include in Your Conclusion
1st sentence: Restate your thesis.
2nd sentence: This sentence is a passionate sentence that explains why your audience needs to join your side.
3rd sentence: This sentence contains the consequence of ignoring your call to action.

10. Persuasive Mantra “Take a stand and give me 3”
Choose a side! DO NOT WAIVER!
Give 3 reasons to support your stand

11. Rhetorical Strategies Menu
What is a
Rhetorical Strategy?
Alliteration
Metaphor/Simile
Allusion
Repetition
Antithesis
Rhetorical Question
Hyperbole
Rule of Three

12. What is a Rhetorical Strategy?
A rhetorical strategy is a specifically chosen type of writing that will help you win your argument.

13. Alliteration
Definition – the close repetition of consonant sounds, usually at the beginnings of words.
Examples: Dynamic Duo, Terrific Trio, or Magical Math

14. Allusion
Definition – a reference to a person, object, or event from the Bible, mythology, literature, or popular culture.
Examples:
“If you tell him that, you are opening up
Pandora’s Box.”
“They thought they were Romeo and Juliet.”

15. Antithesis
Definition – a technique of putting two opposite ideas near each other in a sentence to create a powerful effect.
Examples:
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”
-Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
“Ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.” -John F. Kennedy
“We are caught in a war, wanting peace.” -Richard Nixon

16. Hyperbole Definition – use of exaggeration to emphasize a point.
We use hyperboles naturally and often.
Examples:
“I was waiting a year for you to get off the phone!”
“That bag weighs a ton.”

17. Metaphor/Simile
Definition – short comparisons of the characteristics of two unlike things.
A simile uses “like” or “as” to make those comparisons; a metaphor makes a direct comparison.
Examples:
“…the manacles of segregation…” - Martin Luther King, “I Have a Dream”
He is comparing manacles (chains) to segregation (separation/discrimination), making it a metaphor.
“Our ignorance is like a vast sea, deep and wide.”
The comparison is made using the word “like,” so this is a simile.

18. Repetition
Definition – repeating a word, phrase, or sentence throughout a speech to create some kind of rhythm.
Example:
“Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!” -Martin Luther King

19. Rhetorical Question
Definition –questions used for effect that are not to be answered. This draws the audience’s attention to a specific area.
Example:
“Are we really free when we cannot walk happily into our closets and choose clothes that allow us to express ourselves?”

20. Rule of Three
Definition – a technique of grouping together three words, phrases, or sentences.
Examples:
“I came. I saw. I conquered.” -Julius Caesar
“… a government of the people, by the people, for the people…” -Abraham Lincoln, “The Gettysburg Address”