Rhetorical Analysis
Juxtaposition
Placing two contrasting ideas to highlight differences. May appeal to logos
How should you organize your essay?
Introduction, evidence that builds upon itself, final conclusion. Create a building argument.
Analogy
Find a similar situation in a different context. Can further validity of a claim!
Powerful verbs to implement instead of "shows" or "does"
For evidence: argues, claims, asserts, underscores, utilizes, exhibits, notes, demonstrates
CHOOSE DEPTH
Analyze everything
Focus on the why, not just the what.
Why is the author doing this, why are you writing in this way, etc. Identify it, and build on it
Diction
The writers deliberate choice of words. May create a tone, or sense of urgency.
What is the purpose of your commentary?
To connect the ideas to the thesis as well as to each other.
Questions to ask yourself
What is your goal/purpose? Why are you right? Why is this relevant/important?
Think about these in the conclusion
What does the order in which you write the essays offer?
You can find evidence for you argument essay in the other ones.
Antithesis vs Juxtaposition
Antithesis contrasts ideas in structure, juxtaposition contrasts ideas side by side
Tone
A mood/attitude on a subject established by the writer possibly through diction, organization. May appeal to pathos.
How many sources should you aim to use?
At least 3. And cite!
CHORES Abbreviation
Current events, history, observations, reading, experience, sports/science.
Be specific about examples--credibility. You can make up data.
How long for each essay?
40 minutes
Logos
Syntax
The arrangement of words/organization. Ex: Parallelled syntax-->repitition, inquisitive syntax--->rhetorical questions
How should you go about your thesis?
Base it on the prompt and make your stance clear.
Counterargument
Include this in the thesis, and then disprove it. This supports credibility and sophistication in your argument.
Write the authors purpose or your purpose before an essay. SPACE
Pathos
SPACE Abbreviation
Speaker, Purpose, Audience, Context, Exigence
How long for reading?
Qualifiers
Changing words that suggest an absolute or general statement to be more specific. Ex: possibly, usually, often. (But don't add too many and make the argument sound uncertain)
How long for the thesis?
Not long at all!
Ethos
The appeal to credibility. It is used by a writer to establish a background, skills, or expertise to speak on the issue.