The Practice Presentation - Rhetorical devices in literary texts (Grade 7)

Greta isn't asking because she needs information. She asks this rhetorical question to prompt Conner to think critically about his anxiety and to help him see that the outcome he fears is manageable.

Greta says, "You know this. Just look at me." and then repeats, "You know this." The repetition is a rhetorical strategy to emphasize the point and make it stick in Conner's mind.

In the beginning, Conner's dialogue is described as a "mumble" and a "whisper." By the end, his voice is "a little stronger" as he begins his presentation, showing a shift in confidence.

Conner explicitly says, "What if I forget everything?" and "What if my voice shakes and everyone laughs?" This directly states his fears.

The phrases in 'Expresses Lack of Confidence' are all statements of doubt and fear made by Conner. The phrases in 'Expresses Encouragement' are all statements made by Greta to build Conner's confidence by reminding him of his knowledge and past successes.

Before using other strategies, Greta gives a direct command: "Okay, first, take a deep breath. Seriously. Breathe in... breathe out." This is the first step she takes to help him.

Each of Greta's statements is a deliberate rhetorical choice. The question 'So what...' is designed to make the fear seem smaller. Reminding him of the science fair connects a past success to the present challenge. Repeating 'You know this' acts like a mantra to build belief. The command to breathe directly addresses the physical symptoms of nervousness.