Name: ____________________________________________ Period: ______
VISUAL RHETORIC SHEET
Before beginning this unit, students should read, annotate, and
understand the concepts in “Chapter 2: Modern Approaches to
Argument”.
Visual Rhetoric for JumpStarting AP English Language
taken from a workshop by Mary-Grace Gannon (Xavier High School, New York)
Goals:
1. To develop a common-working vocabulary to speak confidently about
rhetoric
2. To discuss rhetoric by viewing advertisements, cartoons, and/or paintings.
3. To understand how the subject, audience, speaker, and context operate in
a chosen rhetorical piece
4. To reinforce the concept of Aristotle’s rhetorical triangle and to build a
foundation for the discussion of rhetoric
Review.
Define the following terms as outlined in “Chapter 2:
Modern Approaches to Argument” …
1. In your own words, explain “The Rhetorical Triangle” by using the
following key words: Rhetorical Context, Message, Writer, Audience, and
Purpose
2. Define the following terms associated with “The Toulmin Scheme”:
a. Claim:
b. Reasons:
c. Warrant:
Types of warrants:
● Authoritative: rely on expert testimony of a recognized authority
● Motivational: rely on a particular audience’s convictions, virtues, and values
● Substantive: closely resembles more traditional forms of logical reasoning such as
cause-effect; a substantive warrant is based on evidence that can be checked,
measured, and quantified.
d. Grounds:
e. Backing:
f. Conditions of Rebuttal:
g. Qualifier:
3. Summarize the purpose of using the Rogerian Approach when stating an
argument.
4. What is the difference between “The Text Says/The Text Does” Analysis?
Class Discussion:
We will view three visual texts and answer
questions collaboratively on your worksheet:
a. Patek Philippe Ad. Artistotle’s Rhetorical Triangle.
b. Allstate Ad. The Toulmin Model of Argumentation.
c. “Beasts of Burden” by Peter de Séve. Identifying a Position.
Assignment.
In a group of no more than three students, locate
three advertisements. One ad should focus on Artistotle’s Rhetorical
Triangle; the other on The Toulmin Model of Argumentation; the last
one on Identifying a Position. Complete the worksheet that accompanies
each ad (sheets located in this packet).
As a group, develop ONE colorful PowerPoint Presentation that
includes:
1. One slide containing the title of the presentation, the first and
last names of each group member, the instructor’s name, and
the class period.
2. Three ads with your comments taken directly from the
worksheet. NOTE: One ad should focus on Artistotle’s
Rhetorical Triangle; the other on The Toulmin Model of
Argumentation; the last one on Identifying a Position.
3. CREATIVITY!!!!!!!!!!
Be prepared to present in front of the class. You become the teacher for
the day.