Rhetorical Appeals - Quick Notes

Goals of the Assignment

Analyze a source for the use of the three rhetorical appeals: ethos, pathos, and logos
Use two sources: one to analyze the chosen source, one to define ethos/pathos/logos
You may cite the textbook or library sources for definitions (confirm with your instructor)
Five-paragraph essay format: Introduction, Ethos paragraph, Pathos paragraph, Logos paragraph, Conclusion
Paraphrase or direct quotes with citations; every cited source needs a reference entry
Learn APA formatting and citations; use syllabus and Zoom APA sessions for help
Prewriting leads to rough draft (Week 1) and then to Week 2 rough draft
Use the prewriting assignment and topic list/resources in the syllabus
Draft body paragraphs first to outline the introduction later

You need at least two sources: one you analyze, one to define the rhetorical appeals
Possible sources: textbook definitions or library resources; verify with instructor
You can search for keywords: Aristotle, rhetorical appeals, ethos, pathos, logos
The second source adds authority to the definitions used in your analysis
Keep the source list minimal (two sources) to simplify citation and references

Essay has five paragraphs: Introduction, Ethos paragraph, Pathos paragraph, Logos paragraph, Conclusion
The order of ethos/pathos/logos can be varied as you see fit
Each body paragraph follows a consistent mini-structure
Thesis outlines the entire essay and guides paragraph order
Use specific examples (quote or paraphrase) with citations to support claims
There is no single right answer; judgments about effectiveness must be supported with evidence

Topic sentence: states the paragraph’s claim about how the source uses a specific appeal
Introduce the source you are discussing
Provide a specific example (direct quote or paraphrase) with citation
Explain how the example supports the topic sentence and its significance
Concluding sentence: ties the paragraph back to the overall claim
This pattern repeats for Ethos, Pathos, and Logos

Introduction elements: hook (optional), background information, and a thesis statement (last sentence)
Thesis: X is the claim; A, B, C are supporting topics corresponding to Ethos, Pathos, Logos
Thesis blueprint (example): X ext{ is the claim, } A,B,C ext{ are supporting topics}
Thesis should reflect the order of the body paragraphs
Conclusion: briefly summarize what was done in the body, restate thesis, and explain why it matters; avoid introducing new information
Consider drafting the introduction after the body paragraphs for clearer thesis placement

Prewriting assignment due in Week 1 and feeds into Week 2 rough draft
Topic list provided in the syllabus under Topic 2, Resources; choosing a topic saves time
Read/watch the source, then use the preanalysis worksheet to capture initial notes
Open the source while completing the worksheet for easy reference
Use the class messages forum to ask instructors questions; responses typically within 24 hours
The prewriting work leads to a stronger rough draft and clearer feedback

In-text citations: usually Author/Year; if no author, use the organization; if no date, use ext{n.d.}
Reference entries differentiate by source type:
- With a specific author: Author, A. A. (Year). Title. Publisher (italics)
- Without a specific author (e.g., some websites): Title (italics) as the author in the reference
For websites, use the last updated date if no publication year is available
The syllabus and Zoom sessions offer extensive APA formatting guidance
If unsure, share a link to the source with your instructor for quick feedback

Minimum of two sources: one for analysis, one for definitions
Include paraphrase or direct quotes with proper citations
Include reference page entries for each source
Ensure the introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion align with the thesis and body order
Apply APA formatting consistently in citations and references
Use prewriting and the review process to strengthen the draft

Define terms early to set boundaries for how you’ll use ethos, pathos, and logos
Use specific, attributed examples from your sources to support judgments
Remember: there is no right answer about effectiveness; back your judgment with evidence
Stay connected with instructors via the messages forum for feedback and clarity