Rhetorical Devices
An author repeats the phrase “We will rise” at the beginning of consecutive sentences.
What is anaphora?
A character avoids eye contact and gives short answers during a conversation. What can the reader infer?
The character is uncomfortable, nervous, hiding something or upset.
What does diction refer to in literature?
An author's word choice
What makes textual evidence strong?
It directly supports the claim and is relevant/specific.
What is the primary purpose of transition words in writing?
To connect ideas logically.
A Contradiction that reveals a deeper truth
What is Paradox?
What is the difference between an explicit statement and an inference?
An explicit statement is directly stated; an inference is implied through evidence.
Short, fragmented sentences often create what effect?
Tension, urgency or emphasis
Which is stronger evidence:
a vague summary or a direct quotation?
A direct quotation.
Which revision best improves clarity and conciseness?
“Due to the fact that the test was difficult, many students struggled.”
A. Because the test was difficult, many students struggled.
B. Owing to the difficult nature of the test, many students struggled greatly.
C. The difficult test caused many students to struggle a lot.
D. Many students struggled because of the fact that the test was difficult.
What is A?
" I can resist anything except temptation." This is an example of what rhetorical technique?
What is Irony?
Why might an author intentionally leave information unstated?
To encourage reader interpretation, create suspense, or deepen engagement.
Why would an author shift from formal diction to informal diction?
To change tone, reveal character, or connect differently with the audience.
Why is commentary important after citing evidence?
It explains how the evidence supports the argument.
Which quotation BEST supports the claim that the character feels isolated?
A. “She laughed with the others at lunch.”
B. “He waved as he entered the crowded room.”
C. “Although surrounded by people, she felt invisible.”
D. “The hallway buzzed with conversation.”
What is C?
An author deliberately understates a serious situation for effect.
What is understatement?
Question:
A narrator describes a mansion as “beautiful but rotting beneath the surface.”
What larger idea might the mansion symbolize?
Decay, corruption, hidden problems, or false appearances.
How does syntax affect tone?
Sentence structure influences pacing, emphasis, emotion, and readability.
A student includes evidence but never explains it.
What writing weakness exists?
Lack of analysis/commentary.
What type of evidence would MOST strengthen an argument about school start times?
A. Personal opinions
B. Scientific sleep research
C. Unrelated anecdotes
D. Fictional examples
What is B?
Explain how parallel structure can strengthen an argument
It improves clarity, rythm, and emphasis while making ideas more persuasive
A speaker praises freedom while describing oppressive conditions.
What literary concept is most likely present?
Irony
Analyze why an author might use complex syntax during moments of reflection.
To mirror complicated thinking, internal conflict, or deeper analysis.
Explain the relationship between claim, evidence, and reasoning.
Evidence supports the claim, while reasoning explains the connection.
“For decades, scientists warned policymakers about rising sea levels, yet meaningful action remained frustratingly limited.”
The author’s tone in the passage is BEST described as:
A. indifferent
B. celebratory
C. frustrated
D. humorous
What is C?