Rhetorical Appeals
Rhetorical Devices Vocabulary
Identify:
Claim, Fact, or Opinion
Random
100

a rhetorical appeal that focuses on the credibility, character, and trustworthiness of the speaker or writer.

ethos

100

refers to the author's attitude or emotional stance toward the subject matter or audience in a piece of writing

tone

100

Identify the thesis: 

Over the past decade, social media has transformed the way we communicate, connect, and share information. While it offers countless opportunities for networking and access to information, it has also led to negative consequences, particularly among teenagers. Studies show that excessive social media use is linked to increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness among young people. Therefore, limiting social media usage and promoting digital literacy are crucial steps in protecting teenagers' mental health and fostering a healthier online environment.


"Therefore, limiting social media usage and promoting digital literacy are crucial steps in protecting teenagers' mental health and fostering a healthier online environment."

This sentence clearly states the main argument and suggests the direction of the discussion that follows.

100

"Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor because it's so rich and creamy."

Opinion

100

[1] Ladies and gentlemen, I'd planned to speak to you tonight to report on the state of the Union, but the

events of earlier today have led me to change those plans. Today is a day for mourning and remembering.

[2] Nancy and I are pained to the core by the tragedy of the shuttle Challenger. We know we share this pain

with all of the people of our country. This is truly a national loss.

The opening statement ("I'd planned to speak to you tonight to report on the state of the Union..."), reveals further information about which of the following?


a. speaker
b. audience
c. context
d. exigence

c. context

200

a rhetorical appeal that relies on logic, reason, and evidence to persuade an audience. It involves using facts, data, statistics, examples, logical reasoning, and clear arguments to support a claim.

logos

200

The part of a rhetorical situation that inspires, stimulates, provokes, or prompts writers to create a text.

exigence

200

Identify the claim:

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, with rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, and extreme weather events becoming more frequent. Despite the overwhelming scientific consensus on the reality of climate change, some still argue that human activity plays only a minor role. However, research clearly shows that carbon emissions from fossil fuel consumption are the primary drivers of climate change. Immediate action to reduce these emissions is essential to mitigate the worst effects of global warming and protect future generations.


"Immediate action to reduce these emissions is essential to mitigate the worst effects of global warming and protect future generations."

This statement asserts a position that the rest of the paragraph supports with evidence and reasoning.

200

"The Earth orbits the Sun once every 365.25 days."

Fact

200

Identify the speaker of the passage: 

“As a lifelong educator with over 30 years of experience in the classroom, I have seen firsthand how technology can enhance the learning experience for students. From interactive whiteboards to educational apps, the integration of modern technology in education has revolutionized the way we teach and learn. It is crucial for schools to invest in these tools to keep up with the evolving demands of the 21st century.”


The speaker is identified as a lifelong educator with over 30 years of experience. This description provides context about the speaker’s background and expertise, which influences their perspective on the integration of technology in education.

300

a rhetorical appeal that targets the emotions, values, and beliefs of the audience to persuade them.

pathos
300

Which rhetorical device uses the same grammatical structure to create rhythm in writing? For example: 

“To succeed in life, we must work hard, think critically, and act decisively.”

a. restatement
b. analogy
c. repetition
d. parallelism 

d. Parallelism 


300

Identify the tone: 

As I walked through the abandoned park, the silence was almost deafening. Overgrown weeds tangled with rusted playground equipment, and the once vibrant colors of the swings and slides had faded to dull gray. It felt like the park had been forgotten by time itself, a haunting reminder of joy lost and dreams left behind.


Melancholic or nostalgic.

The description of silence, overgrown weeds, and faded colors conveys a sense of sadness and loss, reflecting a tone of melancholy.

300

"Exercise improves cardiovascular health and helps in weight management."

Fact

300

What is the author's purpose:

“In today’s fast-paced digital world, maintaining personal privacy is more important than ever. With the rise of data breaches and online tracking, individuals must be proactive in protecting their personal information. Implementing strong passwords, using encryption tools, and being cautious about sharing personal details online are crucial steps in safeguarding privacy. This guide aims to inform readers about the risks and provide practical tips for enhancing their online security.”

a. to entertain
b. to inform
c. to persuade

c: to inform-  The author is providing information and practical advice on how to protect personal privacy in the digital age, aiming to educate readers about the risks and solutions.

400

What rhetorical appeal is being used?

"According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Americans generate over 35 million tons of plastic waste each year, yet only 8.7% of it is recycled. Studies have shown that plastic takes up to 1,000 years to decompose in landfills, releasing harmful chemicals into the environment as it breaks down. By implementing stricter recycling programs and reducing single-use plastics, we can significantly cut down on this waste and minimize environmental damage."


Logos

400

What rhetorical device is being used: "When I was in college, my best friend Sarah was the life of the party—always smiling, making everyone laugh, and excelling in her classes. But what most people didn't know was that behind her bright smile, she was struggling with depression. One day, she confided in me that she felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to ask for help. It was a wake-up call for me. I realized that even the people who seem the happiest can be facing battles we know nothing about. That’s why it’s so crucial to check in on those we care about and break the stigma surrounding mental health."

a. anaphora
b. anecdote
c. paradox
d. juxtaposition 

B. Anecdote: tells personal stories 

400

Identify the author's purpose: 

In recent years, the fast fashion industry has exploded, offering trendy clothing at incredibly low prices. However, this convenience comes at a significant cost. The production of cheap garments often involves exploitative labor practices, excessive water consumption, and the use of harmful chemicals that damage the environment. By choosing to support sustainable fashion brands and reducing our consumption of disposable clothing, we can make a positive impact on both the planet and the lives of garment workers worldwide.



In this paragraph, the author's purpose is to persuade readers to consider the negative impacts of fast fashion and encourage them to make more sustainable choices. The author aims to inform readers about the harmful effects of fast fashion and inspire them to take action toward more ethical consumption.



400

"Reading novels is a more enjoyable hobby than watching television."

Opinion

400

Identify the exigence of the passage: 

“With the recent spike in food allergies among children, it’s become crucial for schools to update their lunch menus and ingredient labeling. Parents and healthcare professionals are increasingly concerned about the safety of allergen-free options, highlighting the need for immediate changes to prevent allergic reactions.”


"The recent spike in food allergies among children," which is driving the need for updated lunch menus and ingredient labeling in schools.

500

What is the rhetorical appeal? 

"As a pediatrician with over 20 years of experience and a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, I have seen firsthand how vaccines save lives. I have conducted extensive research on vaccine safety and efficacy, and my practice follows the latest guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Trusting science and adhering to recommended vaccination schedules is the best way to protect our children from preventable diseases."


ethos

500

This sentence is an example of: 

"The city was alive with lights and energy, yet the quiet of the surrounding countryside seemed to whisper a timeless peace.”

In this passage, juxtaposition is evident in the contrast between:

  • “The city was alive with lights and energy” (vibrant, bustling city life)
  • “The quiet of the surrounding countryside” (serene, peaceful rural area)
500

Identify the two types of evidence below: 

To combat the rising issue of childhood obesity, many experts advocate for increased physical activity in schools. Studies have shown that children who engage in regular exercise have lower rates of obesity and improved academic performance. For example, a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that students who participated in daily physical education classes had a 15% lower rate of obesity compared to those who had less frequent physical activity. This evidence underscores the importance of incorporating more physical activity into school curricula to address this growing concern.


  • The studies showing a correlation between regular exercise and lower rates of obesity.
  • The specific statistic from the National Institutes of Health study indicating a 15% lower rate of obesity among students with daily physical education classes.
500

"All students should have year-round access to technology for their education."

Claim

500

“The ancient ruins stood silent and imposing under the twilight sky. The crumbling stone walls, once majestic and full of grandeur, now whispered tales of a bygone era. Each weathered arch and broken column spoke of a time long past, evoking a sense of reverence and melancholy in those who beheld them.”

The diction used "Ancient ruins" to suggest what? 

Suggests something old and historically significant.

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