Lesson Introduction

In this lesson you will learn about rhetoric and its uses. You will be introduced to the Rhetorical Triangle, the cornerstone of rhetoric, and begin to learn how to analyze pieces for rhetoric, determining what rhetorical choices were made and how they enhanced or detracted from the speaker or author's argument/message.

Lesson Learning Objectives

I Can...

Task(s)

I can describe what is meant by the term rhetoric and explain why knowledge of rhetoric is important to all writers, readers, speakers, and to all informed citizens of any community, state, or nation.
I can identify the vocabulary/terminology that is specific to the study of rhetoric.
I can describe the basic elements of persuasion and make judgments about the effectiveness of a writer’s or speaker’s efforts to persuade an audience.
I can consider how the rhetorical context influences the language choices of a writer or speaker.
I can apply the concepts of rhetoric learned in the previous assignment to the specific qualities of public speeches.
I can identify the rhetorical approaches writers use to get their points across.
I can develop questions and theories about an author’s arguments based on my interpretation of the text.
I can evaluate an author’s implicit and explicit assumptions and beliefs about their subject.
I can engage in collaborative annotation.
I can apply the concepts of rhetoric learned in previous assignments to the rhetorical choices I encounter in my every day life.

Click to see related standard(s) covered.

[11-12.RV.1] Acquire and accurately use academic and content-specific words and phrases at the college and career readiness level; demonstrate independence in gathering vocabulary knowledge when considering a word or phrase important to comprehension or expression.
[11-12.RN.3.3] Determine an author’s perspective or purpose in a text in which the rhetoric is particularly effective (e.g. appeals to both friendly and hostile audiences, anticipates and addresses reader concerns and counterclaims) and analyzing how style and content contribute to the power and persuasiveness of the text.
[11-12.SL.3.1] Evaluate a speaker’s perspective, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, as well as assessing stylistic choices such as word choice, points of emphasis, and tone.
[11-12.RN.4.1] Delineate and evaluate the arguments and specific claims in U.S. and world texts, assessing whether the reasoning is valid and the evidence is relevant and sufficient; analyze the impact of false statements and fallacious reasoning.
[11-12.S.2.1] Initiate and engage in a range of collaborative discussions on grade-appropriate topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing personal ideas clearly and persuasively.
[11-12.RV.2.2] Students are expected to build upon and continue applying concepts learned previously.

1.1.1 Rhetorical Terms and Definitions
1.1.2 "I Have a Dream"
1.1.3 Rhetoric in Everyday Life
1.1.4 Writing to Thomas Jefferson

To-Do

Please proceed through the rest of the lesson to complete the assignments listed in the Task(s) column above.