Step 1: Select one of the two speeches provided. Then identify the author’s purpose. Determine whether or not the author is successful in achieving his purpose.
Step 2: Analyze the rhetorical strategies the author uses. Select two rhetorical devices or strategies the author uses. Provide an example of the device in each paragraph.
Rhetorical Strategies
1. Metaphor
2. Extended metaphor
3. Simile
4. Anaphora
5. Repetition
6. Chiasmus
7. Telegraphic statements
8. Irony
9. Understatement
10. Sarcasm
11. Humor
12. Appeals (logos, ethos, pathos)
13. Diction
14. Contrastive language (using words that are opposite- “Every time I got up, he let me down.”)
15. Oxymoron
16. Alliteration
17. Assonance
18. Parallelism
19. Litotes
* There are additional strategies, but these are the most popular.
Step 3: Write the essay.
Refer to the suggested format for guidance in organizing your essay.
Suggested Format
Introduction
In the introduction paragraph, do the following:
· Begin with a hook
· ID the subject of the speech
· ID the occasion for the speech
· ID the target audience
· ID the tone of the essay
· Provide the thesis statement/claim at the end of the introduction paragraph: name the author, identify the purpose of the speech, state that he uses rhetorical devices (without naming the devices) and write whether or not you believe the speech is effective in achieving its purpose.
Body 1
In the body paragraph, do the following:
· Start with a topic sentence that identifies a specific rhetorical device, and bridge this to the purpose of the speech.
· Explore why this device may have been used.
· Provide the example(s) of the rhetorical device in the speech.
· State your opinion and to its effectiveness.
· Finish with a concluding statement.
Body 2
In the body paragraph, do the following:
· Start with an across paragraph transition + topic sentence.
· Follow the same directions as Body 1.
Conclusion
In the conclusion paragraph, do the following:
· Start with a simple sentence summary or telegraphic statement.
· Revisit the main points of your essay.
· Review the strategies and whether or not you believe they were effective.
· Provide suggestions to others who are speaking out about this topic.


