Rhetorical Devices
Is syntax a form of rhetorical device? If yes, what are some examples, if no, why not?
Yes, it refers to sentence structure with choices such as parallelism or periodic sentences?
What is the difference between summarizing a source and synthesizing it?
Summarizing repeats what the source says. Synthesizing connects the source to the argument and/or other sources.
What are the four sentences in order of a standard rhetorical precis?
1) Author, title, year, author’s argument
2) rhetorical devices used
3) Author’s purpose
4) Author’s tone and intended audience
This is the central claim an author makes that must be defended with evidence and reasoning.
A thesis (or defensible claim)
In “I Have a Dream,” Martin Luther King Jr. repeatedly uses “I have a dream…” at the beginning of sentences. This rhetorical device is called what?
Anaphora
Name three rhetorical devices. (NOT INCLUDING REPETITION)
Anaphora, juxtaposition, diction, metaphors, similes, allusions, etc.
What is the minimum number of sources you must use to earn 4 points in the Evidence/Commentary Section?
You must use at least three of the provided sources to support all claims in a line of reasoning.
Why is simply identifying rhetorical choices in the rhetorical analysis essay not enough?
The essay must explain how the devices contribute to the author’s purpose and overarching argument. The analysis requires explaining its effect on the audience and how it advances the argument.
If an argument acknowledges an opposing viewpoint and then responds to it to strengthen the original claim, this strategy is called what?
A counterargument and rebuttal
In “Letter from Birmingham Jail,” Martin Luther King Jr. distinguishes between “just” and “unjust” laws. What is the rhetorical purpose of making this distinction?
To appeal to moral reasoning (logos and ethos) by justifying civil disobedience as ethically necessary
How does parallelism strengthen an argument?
It creates rhythm/balance which goes on to make ideas more clear and memorable, emphasizing logical connections between points.
If two sources disagree, how can a writer effectively use both in a synthesis essay?
By acknowledging the counterargument and explaining why one perspective is more convincing or how both contribute to a nuanced argument.
What is the point of the conclusion paragraph of a rhetorical analysis essay?
Zoom out, bigger picture, and explain the broader significance in a larger context.
An argument relies heavily on emotional anecdotes but lacks data or logical reasoning. Which rhetorical appeal is being overused?
Pathos
In George Washington’s Farewell Address, he warns against political parties. What broader rhetorical purpose does this serve?
To caution the nation and establish his legacy as a unifying leader
What is the difference between anaphora and repetition?
In The Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln shifts from honoring fallen soldiers to urging the living to continue their work. What is the rhetorical effect of this shift?Phora is the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of a clause, while repetition is the repeated use of a word or a phrase anywhere in the text.
In the evidence/commentary section, how many points (MAX) can you get by summarizing the evidence, but not explain how the evidence supports the argument.
1 point
At least how many times should you read the rhetorical analysis passage?
2-3
If a writer says, “Studies from Stanford University show…,” which appeal is primarily being developed, and why?
Ethos, because the writer builds credibility by referencing a trusted source
In The Gettysburg Address, Abraham Lincoln shifts from honoring fallen soldiers to urging the living to continue their work. What is the rhetorical effect of this shift?
It shifts the speech from remembrance into a call to action, increasing urgency and unifying the audience around a shared responsibility
What is an antithesis?
A specific type of juxtaposition that makes use of parallel structure to highlight contrast.
How can you effectively earn the sophistication point?
By Crafting a nuanced argument by consistently identifying and exploring complexities or tensions across the sources.
If a student simply wrote “The author uses anaphora in paragraph 3.” Why would this statement not earn sophistication or strong commentary points?
This explanation is only identifying a device. It doesn’t explain how the repetition reinforces the author’s message or impacts the audience.
In Q3, why is simply listing evidence not enough to earn sophistication points?
Because evidence must be explained through reasoning that clearly connects it to the claim and demonstrates a deeper understanding
In Sojourner Truth’s “Ain’t I a Woman?” speech, she combines personal experience with repetition. Why is this combination rhetorically effective?
It builds emotional credibility while reinforcing her central claim about equality