Write an essay that shows your understanding of rhetoric.

Objective:
Write an essay that shows your understanding of rhetoric. Essentially, you are developing an essay that combines the rhetorical devices you wrote about in the previous three short essays.

Method:
We have learned to ask the question: “What point does this make?” This could apply to a visual image, essay, articles, blogs, and websites. We also analyze the point by addressing its rhetorical context; in other words, when making the point, how does an author/institution appeal to its audience, credibility and argument? Answer the question: How does the commercial appeal to its audience? What tools are used to engage its audience and display its message?

For this paper, choose one of the videos below. After viewing your choice, analyze how the video’s rhetorical appeals are utilized.
Method:
Introduction
Begin with introduction that “hooks” your audience. Why should they read your essay?
What will you begin with? An introduction of the product? The appeal of sports figures? The importance of pets?
Lead to your thesis or main idea of your essay.
Body Paragraphs
Include a brief summary of the commercial in your body paragraph. This should be no more than three to five sentences.
In your remaining body paragraphs, analyze the rhetorical appeals.
How is pathos used? How would an audience react to the video? What feelings, beliefs, and/or values does the video evoke?
What aspects make up credibility? Is it the company of institution promoting the video? The product itself?
What is the “argument” of the video? What is the ‘evidence’ or selling points utilized to convince an audience?
You may find that all three appeals work in unison or one or two of the appeals is more prominent.
Discuss whether or not you believe the commercial is effective rhetorically.
Conclusion
Finalize your thoughts by wrapping up your ideas and including any concluding thoughts.
However, resist inserting any new ideas that have not be discussed throughout your essay.

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