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RWS 305W: Writing in Various Settings

Prompt for Projects 1 and 2: Memoir with Persuasive Message

In this persuasive memoir you will tell a story to a particular audience in a specific setting for a clear rhetorical purpose. The audience, setting, and rhetorical purpose will be decided by you.

In your introduction use metadiscourse (explaining what you will be explaining).

Examples:

In this letter I will tell you about an experience I had and argue that…

In this slide show I will tell you about an experience I had and argue that…

In this short film I will tell you about an experience I had and argue that…

In your introduction also make it clear who your readers are, which particular setting this is in, and what your argument and purpose are. Let readers know that you will be telling them a story and that your purpose is to get them to take your advice. Also provide your own credentials so that they know they can trust you.

Make three points in your project as you convey your story to your readers. Write three clear claims with verbs. Be directive with your advice. Then complement your claim with your memoir. Tell a story that helps to bolster your credibility and to convince your readers to take your advice. Since this is a persuasive memoir project, include that personal story throughout your project, not just as an afterthought. Furthermore, do not let the memoir take over the argument. Blend the two.

Conclude by reiterating the three points you made, in the same order in which you explained them before, reminding readers of your story, clarifying your argument, and trying to convince your readers to take your advice.

For Project 1 you will choose one of these options. For project 2 you will choose another one of these options. You may do both projects on the same subject, tell the same story, and possibly offer the same pieces of advice.

Optional: work in groups of 2-4. Write one project together. Each group member must upload a copy of the project.

Option A: Written Rhetoric

Write a short letter telling a story and offering advice.

1-2 pages. Format: Single-space this letter and put extra spaces between paragraphs.

Structure

Address your letter to your readers (Dear ___,)

Paragraph 1: Introduction with metadiscourse

Paragraph 2: Point 1 with story used to support your claim

Paragraph 3: Point 2 with story used to support your claim

Paragraph 4: Point 3 with story used to support your claim

Paragraph 5: Conclusion (Reiterate your points, clarify your argument, and convince your audience.)

Sign your letter with your name and credentials.

1.