Analyzing Franklin's Rhetorical Strategies

In Benjamin Franklin's "Speech on the Convention," how does Franklin use rhetorical questions to persuade his audience?

• To express doubt about the Constitution

• To emphasize the importance of unity and compromise

• To criticize the delegates' decisions

• To highlight his own achievements

What can be inferred about Franklin's attitude towards the Constitution from his speech?

• He believes it is perfect and without flaws.

• He acknowledges its imperfections but supports it for the greater good.

• He thinks it should be completely rewritten.

• He is indifferent to its contents.

Which of the following best describes the structure of Franklin's speech?

• A series of anecdotes followed by a conclusion

• A logical argument with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion

• A collection of unrelated points

• A narrative with a chronological sequence of events

Identify the central ideas in Franklin's speech and how they interact to build his argument.

• The need for a strong central government and the importance of individual rights

• The necessity of compromise and the imperfection of human endeavors

• The superiority of the American Constitution and the flaws of other governments

• The importance of economic policies and the role of the military

How does Franklin's use of the phrase "I confess that I do not entirely approve of this Constitution at present" function rhetorically in his speech?

• It shows his complete disapproval of the Constitution.

• It establishes his honesty and builds credibility with the audience.

• It undermines the efforts of the other delegates.

• It suggests that he has a better alternative.

What does Franklin mean when he says, "Thus I consent, Sir, to this Constitution because I expect no better, and because I am not sure, that it is not the best"?

• He believes the Constitution is the best possible document.

• He consents to the Constitution despite its flaws, as he doubts a better one can be created.

• He is uncertain about the Constitution's effectiveness.

• He refuses to support the Constitution.

Evaluate the effectiveness of Franklin's concluding remarks in his speech. How do they serve to reinforce his overall message?

• They criticize the delegates for their lack of effort.

• They call for unity and collective support for the Constitution.

• They highlight the weaknesses of the Constitution.

• They focus on Franklin's personal achievements.

If a government results in despotism, what must be true?

• The government must begin again.

• The government has become tyrannical.

• The government has failed at having unlimited power.

• The government cannot be as great as it previously was.

Select the two central ideas of Franklin's speech.

• The Constitution is perfect; the delegates are infallible.

• The Constitution has flaws; compromise is necessary for progress.

• The Constitution is flawed; it should be rejected.

• The Constitution is irrelevant; other issues are more important.

How does Franklin's admission of his own fallibility affect the persuasiveness of his speech?

• It undermines his credibility.

• It makes him appear weak.

• It enhances his credibility by showing humility.

• It has no effect on his persuasiveness.