Effective Introductions

What is the main difference between the introduction of a rhetorical analysis and the introduction of an argumentative essay?

• Argumentative essays need to have a thesis statement. Rhetorical analysis essays don't.

• Rhetorical analysis essays provide topic information in the introduction. Argumentative essays don't.

• The introduction to a rhetorical analysis essay explains the rhetorical situation of a text. Argumentative essays don't.

The thesis of an argumentative and/or synthesis essay should respond directly to the prompt and should...

• be defensible.

• go beyond the prompt.

• include your interpretation of the subject.

• All of the above!

The thesis of a rhetorical analysis essay should analyze the author's...

• exact words, as stated in the text.

• beliefs about the topic at hand.

• rhetorical choices made to achieve their purpose.

Which of the following is not considered a rhetorical device?

• Imagery

• Alliteration

• Explanation

• Syntax

Which of the following is not an example of a rhetorical strategy?

• Structure

• Metaphor

• Tone

• Appeals

Jefferson uses repetition and allusions to achieve his purpose of declaring independence from Great Britain.

This thesis is...

• device-driven.

• strategy-driven.

Stanton utilizes a formal tone and appeals to American values in order to promote equality among men and women in the United States.

This thesis is...

• device-driven.

• strategy-driven.

Read the speech carefully. Then write an essay in which you analyze the methods that Green uses to persuade his fellow African Americans to join the Union forces.

This prompt is...

• an argumentative essay prompt.

• a synthesis essay prompt.

• a rhetorical analysis prompt.

Carefully read the following passage from Testaments Betrayed, by the Czech writer Milan Kundera. Then write

an essay in which you support, qualify, or dispute Kundera’s claim. Support your argument with appropriate

evidence.

This prompt is...

• an argumentative essay prompt.

• a synthesis essay prompt.

• a rhetorical analysis prompt.

Carefully read the following seven sources, including the introductory information for each source. Then synthesize information from at least three of the sources and incorporate it into a coherent, well-developed essay that argues a clear position on whether the USPS should be restructured to meet the needs of a changing world, and if so, how.

This prompt is...

• an argumentative essay prompt.

• a synthesis essay prompt.

• a rhetorical analysis prompt.