First... let's review argumentative writing.

​Answer a few questions about argumentative writing, recalling our notes and lesson from last Friday.

What is rhetoric?

Rhetoric is a term for how you build an argument and persuade others.

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It was developed by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, and his three rhetorical devices--logos, pathos, and ethos--have inspired everyone from world leaders to car salesmen and helped make arguments more effective.​

Aristotle outlined three rhetorical devices (also called appeals) that can help us persuade others and build arguments.

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1. Logos - Also known as logic, this involves using evidence and data

2. Pathos - This involves invoking your audience's emotions

3. Ethos - Also called ethics, this requires establishing credibility and authority

Three Rhetorical Devices

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​What is Logos?

When someone uses logos, they are using evidence and data to persuade.

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Examples could include:

• Using statistics and other "hard data"

• ​Using graphs, charts, and/or tables

• Making comparisons

• Using good reasoning, meaning you have a logical argument

​What is Pathos?

When someone uses pathos, they are using emotion to persuade.

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Examples could include:

• Making your audience feel sad, guilty, or empathetic

• Using jokes and humor

• Using inspirational stories or messages

• Using an emotional tone or body language

​What is Ethos?

When someone uses ethos, they are persuading by establishing their credibility or authority.​

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Examples could include:

• Using or citing experts on the subject

• Sharing personal experiences

• ​Establishing your own expertise or authority

• ​Demonstrating to your audience that you are trustworthy and honest

​Quiz Time!

​See how much you remember about rhetoric and the three rhetorical devices.