Rhetorical Analysis
Purpose: Write a 3-4 page rheotrical analysis or essay that focuses on an issue or
conflict in one or two stories in Literature for Composition (i.e. selfishness in “Senior
Picture Day” and “The Necklace” or gender roles in “Ripe Figs” and “The Story of an
Hour”) Explore the conflicts, relationships, attitudes and assumptions of the characters,
narrators and societies.
Due Date: Turn in final draft and portfolio on Friday, September 23
Engaging Introduction: Clearly identify the issue or main conflict in your thesis.
Describe your stories, topic, thesis and rhetorical purposes (to analyze, reflect and
compare).
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Argument and Assumptions: Develop your thesis and argument about your story and
topic. What were your assumptions about the characters and conflicts? How do these
stories challenge or support those assumptions?
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Provide Evidence: Support your argument with evidence and quotes from the stories
and research. Respond to your reader’s objections and counter-arguments.
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Making Connections: Compare these stories, and their assumptions about your issue.
How are they meaningful or relevant today? Reflect and explore the conflicts,
relationships, attitudes and assumptions in your conclusion.
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Editing and Documentation: Provide an MLA Works Cited page, and document
quotes from the play and other sources. Use correct spelling, grammar and mechanics.
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Average Score;
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GRADE:
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1-2 =F (0-50)
The Student did not complete the assignment, or did not follow the directions.
 Introduction:
 Organization:
 Description:
 Conclusion:
3-4 =D (50-69)
The Student completed the assignment, but performed below average.
 Introduction:
 Organization:
 Description:
 Conclusion:
5-6 =C (70-79)
The student performed average or minimal work.
 Introduction:
 Organization:
 Description:
 Conclusion:
7-8 =B (80-89)
The student performed above average, interesting and detailed work.
 Introduction:
 Organization:
 Description:
 Conclusion:
9-10 =A (90-100)
The student performed original, creative an exceptional work.
 Introduction:
 Organization:
 Description:
 Conclusion: