30 - Rhetorical Analysis Questions

What is a rhetorical analysis?

A rhetorical analysis breaks down a test to show how it works to achieve its purpose. Rhetorical analyses study how authors use specific devices to strengthen their argument, and how these devices then affect the audience. A rhetorical analysis is not supposed to be an argumentative or persuasive about the author’s position, but if they asserted their position well.

What is the format for writing a rhetorical analysis?

A rhetorical analysis should focus on the author, their claim or purpose for writing the article, and whom they are writing for (audience). Each body paragraph should introduce a specific part of the text, show the devices being used, and then explain how those devices enhance the argument. The analysis must show a connection between the textual evidence and the audience, as well as the connection between the audience and the implications of the claim.

How much time do you have to write the rhetorical analysis essay on the AP English exam?

You have about 40 minutes of writing time, plus a total of 15 minutes reading time for all of the questions. This allows 45 minutes total per question.

What are the qualities of a successful intro for a rhetorical analysis timed write?

The introduction paragraph of a rhetorical analysis should give the reader a sort of background to the text, author, and central claim of the text. The audience of the article also needs to be addressed, as well as which rhetorical devices the author used to appeal to the designated audience.

What are the qualities of a successful body paragraph for a rhetorical analysis timed write?

Each body paragraph must focus on one of the devices described in the introductory paragraph. All paragraphs must showcase well-chosen textual evidence that is supported with at least two sentences of analysis per one sentence of evidence.

What are the qualities of a successful conclusion for a rhetorical analysis timed write?

A conclusion paragraph must summarize the devices shown in the rest of the essay, as well as revisit the thesis of the paper. The conclusion should also reiterate the text, author, and audience, but not introduce anything new that was not analyzed in the body paragraphs.

What should you NOT do in a rhetorical analysis?

You should not use any sort of personal engagement in rhetorical analyses. Pronouns like “I”, “you”, or “we” should only be used if you are included in the spectrum of the desired audience, but even then, you should be careful. Rhetorical analyses are also not argumentative or persuasive, so any personal engagement in that aspect is also inappropriate.