Rhetoric Basics
What is the classical definition of rhetoric?
The art of finding the available means of persuasion in any given case.
Which mode of persuasion deals with the speaker’s character and credibility?
Ethos
Cicero was from which ancient civilization?
Roman Civilization
What are the three main parts of a basic speech?
Introduction, body, conclusion.
How many total minutes are given for an impromptu speech?
5 Minutes
Name the three parts of the rhetorical triangle.
Speaker, message, audience.
Which mode of persuasion appeals to the audience’s emotions and values?
Pathos.
Name one area of knowledge Cicero said an orator should study.
History, ethics, law, philosophy, or politics. (I will accept any one.)
Name one of the five classical canons of rhetoric.
Invention, arrangement, style, memory, or delivery.
How many minutes are given to prepare an impromptu speech?
2 minutes
What are the three modes of persuasion according to Aristotle?
Ethos, pathos, logos.
Which mode of persuasion uses logic, reasons, and evidence?
Logos
What phrase summarizes Cicero’s ideal orator?
A good (Virtuous) person speaking well.
What are the three elements of delivery often taught in modern public speaking?
Vocal, verbal, visual.
What does the STAR acronym stand for in an introduction or conclusion?
Startling Statement, Tell a short story, Ask a question, Recite a quote
According to Cicero, the ideal orator is a “good person speaking” how?
Well
If a speaker says, “As a doctor, I recommend this treatment,” which mode of persuasion are they using?
Ethos
Why did Cicero think an orator needs broad knowledge?
To speak wisely about many topics; to defend justice and the common good; to be persuasive and virtuous.
Name two things included in vocal delivery.
Tone, volume, pace.
In the PREP method, what do the letters stand for?
Point, Reason, Example, Point.
Name one reason why rhetoric must be ordered toward the good.
Because powerful speech can be used for harm or good; because Christians are called to virtue; because persuasion without virtue is manipulation. (Accept any reasonable answer.)
Give an example of pathos a speaker might use in a speech about helping the homeless.
Using emotional language about suffering. (Accept any reasonable example.)
How might an orator fulfill Cicero’s ideal?
By grounding virtue in truth; by loving God and neighbor; by seeking truth, beauty, and the good, in their speech.
What should a strong conclusion often include besides a summary?
A call to action.
In the CAR method, what do the letters stand for?
Cause, Action, Result.