MLA format exercise

Rhetorical Analysis examines how a text is deliberately constructed or composed to create a persuasive argument (considering elements like rhetorical appeals, strategies of development, and presentation). Be sure to choose a text that will lend itself well to such an analysis.

Write a persuasive analysis of the text with a strong thesis statement, considering not only WHAT that text is arguing but also HOW it is making that argument. Specifically, you need to develop a persuasive claim as to how the primary text is designed to make a particular argument in relation to its:

• Rhetorical situation and/or

• Context, and/or

• Use of rhetorical appeals (such as pathos, logos, ethos), and/or

• Use of one or more strategies of development such as narration, definition, comparison/contrast, division-classification, description, example.

The goal is not to talk about as many elements as possible but instead to focus on those elements that you feel most contribute to the creation of the text’s overall argument.

Remember that while you will need to delve into information, examples, and evidence that helps to support your analysis of rhetorical modes, you will need to keep the focus of the paper related to the objective of the piece you are analyzing. Remember to use the basic elements of writing that we have covered so far to develop your essay (introduction, thesis, topic sentences, transition sentences, examples, conclusion, etc.)

Things to Remember: The purpose of the assignment is to demonstrate that you can effectively demonstrate the ability to rhetorically analyze texts through writing. Therefore, your essay should not stray from the scope of a rhetorical analysis essay into other writing formats (analysis, compare and contrast, etc).

Purpose/Objectives: This assignment will give you experience with academic writing and rhetorical analysis. It will also help prepare you to engage in more advanced forms of academic writing.

Grading: Student papers will be graded using the rubric provided on the syllabus for this course and will be graded on their content, organization, development, expression, and mechanics.