Argument
This is the core statement that expresses your main position in an argument essay.
What is a thesis?
These three rhetorical appeals are commonly analyzed in a rhetorical essay.
What are ethos, pathos, and logos?
This is the minimum number of sources you must cite in a synthesis essay.
What is three?
This is the term for acknowledging the other side’s viewpoint.
What is a counterargument or concession?
This is the part of the essay where you explain how the author's choices impact the audience.
What is commentary or analysis?
Instead of summarizing sources one by one, this method organizes them by idea.
What is thematic or strategic grouping?
This type of evidence comes from personal experience or observations.
What is anecdotal evidence?
This term describes when you discuss how different rhetorical choices work together to support the author’s purpose.
What is cumulative or interactive analysis?
This is the practice of blending source material with your own ideas to support your argument.
What is synthesis?
This rhetorical strategy strengthens your argument by addressing potential objections.
What is rebuttal or refutation?
This rhetorical element refers to the author’s attitude toward the subject and audience
What is tone?
This kind of commentary shows your ability to judge a source’s reliability, bias, or relevance.
What is source evaluation or analysis?
Presenting multiple layers or sides of an issue shows this quality in argumentative writing.
What is complexity or nuance?
Successfully analyzing how the author adapts their strategies to different parts of the audience shows this skill.
What is audience awareness or rhetorical flexibility?
This advanced move involves recognizing contradictions or tensions across sources.
What is synthesis of complexity or source tension analysis?