Notes from packet

An Example of Rhetoric from Literature

• Rhetoric is not only used in nonfiction writing.  used in poetry, fiction, and drama
• example in Homer's  The Iliad, Priam uses rhetorical language to appeal to audience, Achilles

Arrangement

• arrangement- organizing of a piece
• is the text organized in the best possible way to achieve its purpose?
  

The Classical Model

• five paragraph essay used by many writers today
• introduction- writer usually establishes ethos
• narration- provides factual info and background info on subject; establishes why the subject is a problem that needs addressing; writer tries to evoke an emotional response
• confirmation- proof needed to make writer's case; strongest appeal to logos
• refutation- bridge from proof to conclusion; addresses counterargument; appeals largely to logos
• conclusion- closes essay; appeals to pathos and restates ethos
• Not by Math Alone helps to show this "classic" form of arrangement

Patterns of Development

• another way to consider arrangement is according to purpose

Narration

• refers to telling a story or recounting events
• based on personal experience or knowledge
• not only an appealing story, but also needs to support thesis
• often used as a way to enter into their topics
• draws readers in because everyone loves a good story

Description

• closely linked with narration; both include specific details
• emphasizes the senses by painting a picture
• used to make good atmosphere

Process Analysis

• explains how something works
• explain subject clearly and logically
• note major steps with transitions

Exemplification

• provides series of examples
• makes argument more clear
• Aristotle taught induction; series of specific examples leads to general conclusion

Comparison and Contrast

• juxtaposing 2 things to highlight similarities and differences
• used with examinations of two different sources
• subject-by-subject; discusses all elements of 1 subject and then turns to the next
• point-by-point; organized around the specific points of a discussion

Classification and Divisions

• important to sort materials and ideas
• sort ideas to break down a large idea into different parts

Definition

• discussions sometimes depend on definition
• used to makes sure audience and author are speaking about same idea; establishes common ground in areas of conflict
• often first step to debate or discussion

Cause and Effect

• powerful foundation for and argument is knowing the cause and effects
• casual analysis relies on logic; do not want to jump to conclusions; do not want to mistake cause for effect or vice versa 
• cause and effect is usually given away with a "why" in the title