Rhetoric isn't just a club in high school. Whether in advertising, at work, or in a political speech, people and companies are always trying to persuade us to see things their way.
Talking Points:
- According to Arisitotle, there are three types of persuasive speech:
- “Judicial” rhetoric is about facts and judgments of the past.
- “Demonstrative” rhetoric makes a proclamation about the present.
- “Deliberative” rhetoric focuses on the future.
- Effective deliberative rhetoric takes three forms:
- “Ethos” is how you convince your audience of your credibility.
- “Logos” is the use of logic and reason.
- “Pathos” appeals to emotion and is often used in our media-saturated, social network culture.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Do you enjoy public speaking? Why or why not? Share a story about a time you had to speak publicly. What happened?
- What’s one of the greatest speeches, lectures, or lessons you remember?
- Describe the three types of persuasive speech. Which is your strongest? Which is your weakest? Explain.
- Describe the three forms of deliberative rhetoric. Which is your strongest? Which is your weakest? Explain.
- What are some ways people can be manipulative with their rhetoric? Give an example.
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
