A Lesson on Rhetorical Devices Ethos Pathos Logos

A Lesson on Rhetorical Devices: Ethos, Pathos, Logos Persuasion or Convincing Others

What is Rhetoric? Rhetoric (n) - the art of speaking or writing effectively (Webster's Definition). According to Aristotle, rhetoric is "the ability, in each particular case, to see the available means of persuasion. " He described three main forms of rhetoric: Ethos, Logos, and Pathos. In order to be a more effective writer, you must understand these three terms. You will better understand their meanings which will make your writing more persuasive.

Three Forms of Rhetoric… Ethos Logos Pathos

Ethos (Credibility) § Ethos: ethical appeal – the source's credibility, the speaker's/author's authority We tend to believe people whom we respect. One of the central problems of argumentation is to project an impression to the reader that you are someone worth listening to, in other words making yourself as author into an authority on the subject of the paper, as well as someone who is likable and worthy of respect. practical skills & wisdom virtue, goodness goodwill towards the audience

Ethos Example: Product: Subway Sandwiches Ethos Personality: Jared Fogul, who lost over 100 lbs by eating Subway sandwiches Why is Jared Fogul credible?

Logos (Logical) Logos: the logic used to support a claim (induction and deduction); can also be the facts and statistics used to help support the argument. Persuading by the use of reasoning. An effective and persuasive reason that supports your ideas.

Logos Example: Idea: Students should be allowed to use cell phones during school hours. Use your device for research! List three supporting facts and/or statistics that will support the aforementioned idea.

Logos Example continued… Few of our children breath fresh air in their schools, which are being sprayed, inside and out, with millions of pounds of deadly, nervous system destroying pesticides. What are the details provided in this claim?

Logos Example continued… Few of our children breath fresh air in their schools, which are being sprayed, inside and out, with millions of pounds of deadly, nervous system destroying pesticides. What are the details provided in this claim?

Pathos (Emotional) Pathos: persuading by using your emotions to appeal to the reader's emotions. Emotional appeals, are used to persuade. Language choice affects the audience's emotional response, and emotional appeal can effectively be used to enhance an argument. How? Anecdotal writing or narratives within persuasive writing

Pathos Example: How does this advertisement appeal to emotion? Why?

Come up with your own examples for this topic: High school extra curricular activities like cheerleading and marching band should be considered on the same level with athletics. Ethos: - Logos: - Pathos: --