Types of Slanters
The use of language that suggests the subject is worthy of scorn
Ridicule/Sarcasm
Capital punishment is "government-sanctioned murder"
Rhetorical Definition
They make the unfamiliar or abstract more accessible, but they need to be more similar in order to be persuasive.
Analogies/Comparison
"While more than 80 percent of high school students say they intend to go to college, only about 40 percent actually take the rigorous coursework required..."
Statistics
Imply that a particular inference is justified--"read between the lines"
Innuendo
Jim didn't cheat on the project; he merely "collaborated" with Fred.
Downplayer
They provide expert support for causal claims, predictions of outcomes, or possible solutions--still just opinions
Expert Testimony
"A very gifted English student who lacks ability in math could have their grade point average lowered..."
Hypothetical Case
The use of extravagant overstatement to move the audience to accept the basic claim
Hyperbole
"That movie was a roller coaster ride of emotions."
Rhetorical Analogy
They suggest possible positive or negative outcomes, but there needs to be a clear link between cause and effect.
Causal Relationships
"And if they can't take the classes they want, I'm afraid that more of them will drop out."
Causal Relationship
A car dealer sells "pre-owned vehicles" instead of used cars.
Euphemism
When confronted by Big Jim Dugan, Frank took the high road, instead of taking a swing.
Rhetorical Explanation
They challenge the reader to consider possible circumstances or outcomes, but there's no reason they will definitely happen
Hypothetical Cases
"The reality in fast food now is that you need a value menu to survive," market research Malcolm Knapp [says].
Expert Testimony
An opinion is expressed as if it were fact and is expressed in biased language
Rhetorical Explanation
"Think carefully about whom you vote for; you want a president who will be ready to do the job on day one."
Innuendo
Personal Experience/Anecdotes/Media Examples
Illustrative Examples
"In fact, legislation I introduced to improve high school achievement would reward schools..."
Illustrative Example (Personal Experience)