Rhetorical Appeals
Which appeal focuses on logic, facts, and evidence?
Logos
What is diction?
Diction is an author’s specific word choice.
What is syntax?
Syntax is the arrangement of words and sentences in a text.
What is repetition?
Repetition is the deliberate reuse of words or phrases to emphasize an idea.
Where did Mrs. Rossato go to high school?
Boylan
Which appeal builds the speaker’s credibility or trustworthiness?
Ethos
If an author uses words like “crisis,” “urgent,” and “immediate,” what tone is created?
An emergent or serious tone is created.
Short sentences often create what effect?
Short sentences create emphasis, urgency, or dramatic impact.
What is alliteration?
Repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words.
How old is Mrs. Rossato?
41
“Our organization has been serving this community since 1952.”
Question: Name the appeal.
Ethos
What is tone?
Tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject or audience.
Long, complex sentences often create what effect?
Long sentences can create a reflective tone, show complexity, or slow down the pacing.
What device is being used? “Is this the future we want for our children?”
Rhetorical Question
What month did Mr. and Mrs. Rossato get married?
August
Why might a speaker include personal experience in a speech?
A speaker may include personal experience to build ethos by establishing credibility and relatability with the audience.
Why might an author use formal diction instead of casual language?
An author may use formal diction to establish credibility, show professionalism, or address a serious audience.
What is the repetition of similar grammatical patterns to create rhythm and clarity?
Parallel structure
Name all the pieces of SPACECAT
speaker, purpose, audience, context, exigence, choices, appeals, tone
What is Mrs. Rossato's dog's name?
Rosie
Identify which appeal is being used (ethos, pathos, logos).
Decide if it is strong or weak.
Explain WHY it is weak (if it is).
“Trust me, I just know this is right.”
Appeal: Ethos
Weak because: The speaker gives no credentials or reason to be trusted.
Stronger version: Mention experience, expertise, or reliable sources.
Why might a writer avoid emotional language and use neutral diction instead?
To appear objective, logical, and credible.
Parallel structure is the repetition of similar grammatical patterns to create rhythm and clarity.
It creates strong emphasis and dramatic impact.
Name the Device: “The wind whispered through the trees.”
Personification
Name 2 of the following correctly:
Mia's softball team: _____________
Mia's basketball team: ___________
John Michael's baseball team: ______________
John Michael's basketball team: _______________
Stateline Fury, Jr. Thunder or Central Middle School,
Midwest Prospects, Jr. Thunder