How to WRITE a STRONG Rhetorical Analysis Response (7 Tips)

Summary

In this informative video, Tim Freitas shares seven essential tips for writing a strong rhetorical analysis for the AP exam. He emphasizes the importance of breaking down the prompt to understand the rhetorical situation, using a concise thesis statement as an introduction, and avoiding jargon like ethos, pathos, and logos. Freitas advises on crafting topic sentences that combine what and why, using cause-and-effect language in commentary, and concluding with universal applications of the text. By following these strategies, students can enhance their analytical writing skills and perform effectively on exam day.

Takeaways

• 📝 Use the prompt to gather information before reading the passage, focusing on the speaker, audience, and purpose.
• 🎯 Formulate a question based on the prompt that you can answer as you analyze the text.
• 📜 Your thesis statement can serve as the introduction, allowing you to start your analysis right away.
• 🚫 Avoid using terms like ethos, pathos, and logos; instead, describe the rhetorical choices explicitly.
• 🔍 Replace the word 'use' with more precise verbs when discussing rhetorical devices.
• 🗣️ Each topic sentence in body paragraphs should include both the rhetorical choice and its purpose.
• 🔗 Incorporate cause and effect language in your commentary to deepen your analysis.
• 🌍 Conclude your essay by connecting the text's ideas to a broader context or universal application.
• 🎥 Refer to additional linked resources for deeper insights into writing a strong rhetorical analysis.
• ✅ Follow these steps to enhance your rhetorical analysis and improve your performance on the AP exam.

Q & A

What is the first tip for writing a strong rhetorical analysis?

The first tip is to learn how to use the prompt to your advantage by identifying elements of the rhetorical situation, including the speaker, audience, and purpose, which will aid in comprehension.

How can breaking down the prompt help during reading?

By identifying key components of the prompt, such as the purpose and audience, students can create specific questions to answer while reading, enhancing their focus and comprehension.

What does the speaker recommend for the introduction of the essay?

The speaker suggests using a strong thesis statement as the introduction paragraph, rather than writing a lengthy introductory paragraph, to save time and guide the paper.

What terminology should be avoided in the analysis?

The speaker advises against using terms like ethos, pathos, and logos in the analysis, emphasizing that these terms are vague and do not convey clear meaning.

What is an example of a better way to describe emotional appeal?

Instead of saying 'the author uses pathos,' it is better to describe the specific emotional elements, such as saying 'the ASPCA shows a beaten dog to evoke sympathy.'

What does the speaker suggest regarding the verbs used in the analysis?

The speaker recommends avoiding the verb 'use' when discussing rhetorical choices and instead suggests using more precise verbs like 'compare' or 'contrast.'

What should be included in each topic sentence of the body paragraphs?

Each topic sentence should include what rhetorical choice is being made and why that choice is significant, often using the phrase 'in order to' to articulate the purpose.

How can cause and effect language enhance commentary?

Using cause and effect language, such as 'because' or 'therefore,' helps to clarify the relationship between the rhetorical choice and its effect on the audience, providing stronger commentary.

What is the purpose of the conclusion in a rhetorical analysis?

The conclusion should connect the analysis to broader ideas and implications, rather than simply restating the thesis, by demonstrating the relevance of the text to contemporary life.

What is the overall goal of these tips for students preparing for the AP exam?

The goal is to equip students with effective strategies for analyzing rhetorical pieces, thereby enhancing their performance on the AP exam and helping them achieve high scores.