“The Truth About Lying”
Judith Viorst (368-372)
The function of the expository essay is to explain, or to acquaint
your reader with a body of knowledge. By explaining a topic to the
reader, you are demonstrating your own knowledge.
Samples of expository essays include:
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Essays that described how to do something.
Essays that analyze events, ideas, objects, or written works.
Essays that describe a process.
Essays that explain/describe an historical event.
Vocabulary
Incorruptible
Evasion
Credibility
Mellifluous
Supersede
Presumptuous
Adamant
Misconception
Instructions: Using full sentences, answer all questions on a separate sheet of paper.
1. a) Viorst uses classification as a way to organize her thoughts on lying. Why do you think
she chooses this as a way to structure her essay?
b) Why have the categories of lies been ordered the way they have?
2. Identify the purpose, audience, tone and mood of the essay.
3. a) How would the tone of the essay be different if the author had used third-person point of
view instead of first-person?
b) In places, Viorst uses the second-person (i.e.“you”) to address the reader. What effect
does this have?
4. Jot down your answers to the questions Viorst asks you. Are there any contradictions in
your responses? Explain the contradictions in Viorst’s responses. What do these
contradictions communicate about human nature and lying?
5. Identify two rhetorical devices or methods of development or techniques of persuasion. Be
prepared to share these responses with the class.
Analyzing Rhetorical Devices, Techniques and Methods of Development
When examining a writer’s use of rhetorical devices, techniques and methods of development in an
essay, it is important to be aware of their relationship to the thesis. Whether you begin with a working thesis
or examine the devices to arrive at a thesis based on your findings, the rhetorical
device/technique/method of development is intrinsically linked to a purpose that is tied to the thesis of
the essay. Sometimes they are used to enhance or highlight an idea. Other times, they are used to help
further illustrate, clarify, or elucidate some complex concept.
Rhetorical Device
Direct Quotation and
explanation of Usage (connect to
Connection to the thesis and
Intended Effect on Reader
the definition of device)
Colloquial
Language
By using terms such as “yuk” and
“mumbo-jumbo” Suzuki uses
terms from informal
conversational speech.
The use of colloquial language
establishes a conversational,
informal tone that Suzuki uses to
draw readers into a more intimate,
relaxed mood which makes him
seem more down-to-earth and “in
touch” with his audience. It also
creates a distinct voice to his writing
which makes it memorable and
more engaging.