ERWC—Rhetoric of the Op-Ed Page Unit
“Change of Heart” Editorial
Second-Read, Descriptive Outlining and Analysis Questions
Thus far, we have considered the preview questions, explored background on the author Jeremy Rifkin, completed the first read—or reading “with the grain”—and discussed summaries of each paragraph. Now, engage in the second read—or the reading “against the grain”—and follow the directions/answer the questions below.
1. Label each paragraph with an E, P, and/or L. E______P______L______
2. In the chart provided below, write one sentence explaining WHY you labeled E, P, and/or L. As you analyze the use of ethos, pathos, and logos, be sure to ask yourself: “How is Rifkin appealing or ATTEMPTING to appeal to MY (the reader’s) sense of logic, emotions, and/or ethics? How is Rifkin attempting to appear credible (ethos/ethics) or how is he attempting to discredit others (ethos/ ethics)?”
PARAGRAPH / Explanation of Rhetorical Appeals1
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3. Respond below to the following question: How well did the ethos, pathos, and logos work for you? Why? How well did the entire editorial work for you? Remember that the goal of any persuasive piece is, ultimately, to CHANGE THINKING AND BEHAVIOR. So, did Rifkin’s piece persuade you to change your thinking and behavior about the treatment of animals?
Dividing Text into Sections (Write directly on the article in your workbook.)
1. Draw a line across the page where the introduction ends.
2. Divide the body of the essay into sections (use topics as division points).
3. Draw a line where the conclusion begins.
Descriptive Outlining
Write brief statements describing the rhetorical function of each paragraph or section. Write your brief statements directly on the article in your workbook.
ASK: What does each section do for the reader? What is the writer trying to accomplish? What does each section SAY? What is the content?
Post-Outline Reflection
After descriptive outlining, ask questions about the article's organizational structure: Which section is most developed? Which section is least developed? Does it need more development? Which section is the most persuasive? The least persuasive? Write a few sentences below.
Analysis Questions
1. Identify Rifkin’s thesis. Underline it.
2. Review Rifkin’s major claims and assertions—do you agree or disagree with him and why?
3. What counter-arguments does Rifkin make? What counter-arguments SHOULD he make that he does not make?
4. Do you trust the author? Do you think the author is deceptive? Why or why not?
5. Consider the emotional effect of this piece—do you think Rifkin is trying to manipulate your emotions? Why or why not?