H10 English 2021 Rhetoric Devices Study Guide

Active Voice

In sentences written in active voice, the subject performs the action expressed in the verb; the subject acts

Ad hominem

Attacks the character of the person rather than the logic of their claim. 

Repetition

The simple repeating of a word or phrase in close proximity, within a sentence or poetical line, with no particular placement of the words, this makes emphasis.

Statistics

A quantity that is computed from a sample; specifically an estimate based on sampling

Irony

Characterized by often poignant difference or incongruity between what is expected and what actually is stated

Bandwagon

Attracting public support by unifying the audience. Using the popular support of a cause/stance to persuade others to support it well

Pathos

Refers to the emotional impact on the audience

Testimonial

Narration of a first or third person account to support the argument

Antithesis

The use of opposition or contrast emphasized by parallel structure

Hints of Logos?

• Scientific facts
• Historical analogies
• Statistics
• Citations from experts
• Definitions

Hints of Ethos?

• Author’s background/experience with the issue
• Appearing sincere, knowledgeable and fair minded

Anecdote

A short entertaining account of some happening, frequently personal or biographical and used to bring humor or to illustrate a particular characteristic or trait

Parallel Structure

Two grammatical structures similar in form and function, connected by conjunction. Parallel Structure sometimes uses repetition

Allusion

Referring to another significant text, historical figure or event to be sufficiently well known to be recognized by the readers to support the argument. Allusions add depth and universal significance to a passage

Rhetorical Question

A question posed only for dramatic or persuasive effect; A question to which the asker does not expect an answer

Chiasmus

A rhetorical device in which words, grammatical constructions. or concepts are repeated in reverse order or in the same or modified form

Anastrophe

The departure from normal word order for the sake of emphasis. Normal syntax is violated

Logos

Refers to the structure of the argument

Ethos

Refers to the character of the speaker- credibility. 

Anaphora

The repetition of introductory words or phrases for effect. This creates a rhythm and establishes a pattern, giving the reader a contextual framework for understanding the ideas

Figurative Language

Using literary devices to persuade the audience. These devices may include metaphor, simile, imagery, hyperbole, symbolism, and personification

Juxtaposition

Putting together two contrasting elements that are so unlike that the effect is surprising, witty, or even startling

Hints of Pathos?

• Vivid descriptions
• Anecdotes and testimonials
• Figurative Language
• Tone