AP Language RHETORICAL ANALYSIS Test Strategy Olson and Bailey What it is …What it is not • The analysis question asks the writer to analyze the methods that author employs in his or her writing to convey the author’s attitude, opinion, or conviction about some topic. • The analysis question does NOT ask the writer to agree, disagree, or qualify. Some things NOT to do • Tell the reader the essay was well written • Tell the reader the essay held your interest • Reference the author by first name only or a nickname, “Honest Abe” – “Uncle Walt” – Whole name on 1st reference, last name after • Bulk up a sentence with jargon, complexity – Think and write clearly with appropriately controlled diction and syntax. Discussion of Rhetorical Strategies • Diction – Identify key words – Negative or Positive Connotation – DO NOT say “author uses diction to create meaning” • Syntax – – – – Short sentences are always abrupt, intense, and confrontational Long Sentences are more thoughtful and permit reflection Parallel Syntax functions like a train gathering steam Rhetorical Questions manipulate the reader to provide the answer he or she wants – Repetition provides emphasis • Figures of Speech – Be versed in the main figures of speech (schemes & tropes) – Know what they do to the reader, for the writer • Rhetoric – Use PELIDS to identify and remember basic rhetorical strategies PELIDS • P pathos – – – – Most ads are emotional Speeches use imagery and high connotation Cannot say author uses pathos alone Need to discuss purpose • E Ethos – Credibility – Need to discuss purpose • L Logos – Rational and reasonable – Is evidence valid? PELIDS part 2 • I Inductive – Uses examples to convince reader of logical validity – Ask if examples are valid, then the validity of the claim • Deductive – Makes claims then builds an argument based you accepting those claims are true – Ask if claims are valid, then the validity of conclusions made by those claims • S Syllogism – Provides two premises and then offers a conclusion • God Created mankind, all of God’s creations are good, mankind is good