Ethos, Pathos, Logos
Building Your Argument
Counterarguments
Tone in the Real-World
English Trivia
100

Which rhetorical appeal is being used when a speaker cites their years of experience to gain trust?

Ethos (credibility)

100

What is the main point or thesis statement in an argument called? (_______, reason, evidence)

Claim

100

What does "rebuttal" mean?

A rebuttal is a response that disproves/challenges the counterargument.

100

You are writing a letter to a local city council to persuade them to build a new park in your neighborhood. What tone would be most effective in your letter?

A formal and respectful tone, showing the importance of the park for the community while being polite and professional.

100

Who wrote "The Tell-Tale Heart"?

Edgar Allen Poe

200

Does this statement use ethos, pathos, or logos?

“Studies show that this medicine reduces symptoms by 80%.”

Logos (facts, reasoning, statistics)

200

Provide an example of a claim.

Example: School uniforms should be mandatory.

200

Why is including a counterargument important in persuasive writing?

The writer has considered multiple perspectives, making their argument more credible.

200

You are writing a persuasive speech for a student government election. Your goal is to convince classmates to vote for you. What persuasive technique should you use to connect with your peers?

Be relatable and use a conversational tone, while addressing students’ needs and concerns directly.

200

Who wrote Romeo and Juliet?

William Shakespeare

300

Does this statement use ethos, pathos, or logos?

"Every day, thousands of animals are left homeless—help us give them a second chance."

Pathos (Emotional Appeal)

300

What should you consider about your audience to make your argument more persuasive?

Their values, ages, education levels, and interests.

300

If someone argues that "video games promote violence," what might a counterargument be?

"Video games can teach problem-solving skills and teamwork, and most players do not exhibit violent behavior."

300

You are writing a post on social media to convince people to support a charity. What persuasive technique should you use? 

Using emotional appeals and a heartfelt tone, such as stories of individuals helped by the charity.

300

What is the most commonly used letter in the English alphabet?

E

400

Does this statement use ethos, pathos, or logos?

“If we don’t take action now, our planet will suffer irreversible damage.”

Pathos (emotional)

400

What is “repetition” used for in persuasive writing?

To make your point in several different ways to reinforce the message.

400

If someone argues that "homework should be banned," what would a counterargument be?

"Homework reinforces learning and helps students practice skills outside the classroom."

400

You’re writing a petition to your school to allow later start times. What’s an effective way to appeal to both parents and students?

Use logical appeals (e.g., studies on sleep and student performance) and/or emotional appeals (e.g., the well-being of students and the need for better rest).

400

What is the term for a word that describes a noun?

Adjective

500

Does this statement use ethos, pathos, or logos?

“I have worked in the field of environmental science for over a decade, so I can assure you this solution is effective.”

Ethos (credibility)

500

List a common mistake in persuasive writing.

 Ignoring counterarguments, using too much emotion without evidence, overgeneralizing.

500

When responding to a counterargument, what should you avoid?

Avoid dismissing it without explanation or resorting to personal attacks.

500

A local restaurant wants to persuade customers to try a new dish on the menu. What persuasive techniques would they use in their advertisement?

Descriptive language highlighting the unique flavors, visuals of the dish, and maybe a special offer or limited-time promotion to create urgency.

500

What is the term for a word that has the opposite meaning of another word?

Antonym