ethos

Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

How to Identify Rhetorical Appeals

Ethos: Appeal to Credibility or

Authority

•- Uses experts, professionals, or trusted
sources.

•- Mentions qualifications, experience, or
reputation.

•- Example: 'Doctors recommend this
treatment.'

•- Look for words like: expert, research,
study, proven.

Open Ended

What tells you this is Ethos (appeal to credibility)?

Ethos (Credibility & Trustworthiness)
"As a doctor with over 20 years of experience in cardiology, I strongly recommend that everyone undergo regular heart screenings. Studies have shown that early detection can prevent serious health issues, and my years in the field have proven how crucial these check-ups are for maintaining long-term health."

Pathos: Appeal to Emotion

• - Uses personal stories, vividlanguage, or emotional
images.

• - Makes the audience feel happy, sad, angry, or inspired.

• - Example: 'Imagine a child going to bed hungry every
night.'

• - Look for emotional words: love, fear, struggle, hope.

Open Ended

What tells you this is Pathos (appeal to emotion)?

Pathos (Emotional Appeal)
"Imagine a child going to bed hungry every night, unsure of when their next meal will come. No child should have to experience this level of suffering. By donating just a small amount each month, you can help provide food and hope to families in need."

Logos: Appeal to Logic and Reason

• - Uses facts, numbers, or logical arguments.

•- Based on evidence and clear reasoning.

• - Example: 'Studies show students in smaller classes
perform better.'

• - Look for data, statistics, research, and cause-effect statements.

Open Ended

What tells you this is Logos (appeal to logic)?

Logos (Logical Reasoning & Evidence)
"According to the National Institute of Health, students who get at least eight hours of sleep perform 25% better on cognitive tasks compared to those who get less sleep. If schools adjusted start times to allow students more rest, academic performance and mental health would significantly improve."

How to Tell the Difference

• - If it mentions an expert → Ethos

• - If it makes you feel something → Pathos

• - If it uses facts or logic → Logos

• - Writers often use all three together!