Non fiction

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1. Methods of Proof – LAAVISH

Method

What it means

Logic

Reasoning, facts, cause & effect

Authority

Expert opinions or credible sources

Analogy

Comparison to explain a point

Value

Morals, ethics, beliefs

Intuition

Common sense, gut feeling

Sign

Evidence that points to a conclusion

History

Past examples or precedents

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2. Persuasive Techniques / Rhetorical Devices

Device

Definition

Tone / Mood

Author’s attitude / emotional atmosphere

Diction / Syntax

Word choice & sentence structure

Anecdote

Short personal story

Analogy

Extended comparison

Imagery

Vivid description

Metaphor

Direct comparison (X is Y)

Simile

Comparison with like/as

Personification

Human traits to nonhuman things

Alliteration

Repetition of initial sounds

Juxtaposition

Contrast side by side

Allusion

Reference to history, literature, etc.

Repetition

Repeat words/phrases for emphasis

Anaphora

Repetition at beginnings

Symbolism

Object stands for an idea

Hyperbole

Exaggeration

Oxymoron

Two opposite words together

Irony

Expectation vs. reality

Euphemism

Softer wording for harsh truth

Understatement

Making something seem smaller

Balance

Parallel structure in phrases

Climax

Building ideas to a peak

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3. Rhetorical Appeals

Appeal

Definition

Logos

Logic, reasoning, facts

Pathos

Emotions, feelings

Ethos

Credibility, trust, ethics