ENG 100
Dr. Sutton
Short Writing #2
We all hold “unpopular opinions,” or viewpoints that may not be shared by a majority of our peers or the general population (in online writing, these viewpoints are sometimes called “hot takes”). Nancy Armour’s “Participation Awards Do Disservice” on pp. 402–404 in your textbook is an example of an essay that may divide readers’ opinions. In this essay, you will write a rhetorical analysis of Armour’s article. Based on the prewriting questions below, analyze Armour’s tone, her use of logos, ethos and pathos and assess the strength of her argument. Remember that you are not writing an essay-length summary or response to the article. Assume you are writing to a general educated audience, using third-person voice (in other words, avoid using “I” or “me” in your analysis).
Your paper should be no less than one page, typed (a minimum of 250 words) using a standard font (like Times New Roman) in 12-point, double-spaced with standard 1” margins on all sides. You will turn the paper in to the “Assessments” “Assignments” “Short Writing 3” folder on the class Blackboard site.
This paper is worth 2 points of your final grade and is due on Blackboard by class time on Wednesday, September 29th.
Grading Rubric:
2 points = the paper accurately summarizes and analyzes the author’s use of rhetoric without responding to or reviewing the original article. The paper has few if any grammar/mechanics errors.
1 point = the paper is not centered around a rhetorical analysis or make use of supporting evidence but is instead a response or extended summary. Grammar and mechanics errors make the paper difficult to understand.
0 points = the paper does not make an analysis or have a relevant point, with numerous grammar/mechanics errors.
Short Writing 3: Prewriting Questions:
What is the author’s main idea in “Participation Awards Do Disservice”?
Based on at least one example, how would you characterize Armour’s tone? Which rhetorical techniques does the author use to support her main idea?
Where are places where Armour uses logos, ethos, and pathos to prove her point? Are those persuasive appeals effective? Why or why not?
In your conclusion, assess how effective her overall argument is. Be specific.
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