Question

directions: read a selected passage and use the graphic organizer below to analyze how rhetorical choices - such as diction, tone, figurative language, and sentence structure - convey the authors purpose and appeal to the intended audience.

category\tyour analysis (use evidence from the text)
authors purpose\twhat is the author trying to do (inform, persuade, entertain, reveal a truth)?
intended audience\twho is the author writing for? how can you tell? (clues from language, examples, tone, historical context)
diction (word choice)\tchoose 3 words/phrases and explain how they influence tone or meaning.
1.
2.
3.
figurative language / rhetorical devices\tidentify any metaphor, simile, rhetorical question, irony, etc. explain its purpose.
tone & mood\tdescribe the overall tone. how does the language contribute to the mood or atmosphere?
syntax & structure\tare there examples of parallel structure, repetition, long complex sentences, or short impactful ones? why?
effectiveness\tdo the rhetorical choices successfully achieve the authors purpose? why or why not?

Explanation:

This is a rhetorical - analysis task. To answer, first identify the author's purpose by looking at the overall message. For the intended audience, clues can be found in language level, examples used, etc. For diction, pick words that set the tone or convey meaning. Figurative language devices should be named and their purpose explained. Tone and mood are described based on language. Syntax and structure elements are noted and their function analyzed. Finally, the effectiveness of rhetorical choices is evaluated.

Answer:

(Answers will vary depending on the selected passage. For example)
Author's Purpose: To persuade the audience to take action on environmental protection. Evidence: Use of strong - call - to - action statements.
Intended Audience: General public. Clues: Simple language and broad examples.
Diction:

1. "Dire" - creates a sense of urgency.
2. "Precious" (when referring to natural resources) - emphasizes value.
3. "Catastrophe" - heightens the sense of danger.

Figurative Language / Rhetorical Devices: "Our planet is a ticking time - bomb" (metaphor). Purpose: To emphasize the immediacy of the environmental problem.
Tone & Mood: Urgent and concerned tone. Language like "imminent threat" contributes to a worried mood.
Syntax & Structure: Short, impactful sentences like "Act now!" to grab attention.
Effectiveness: Yes, rhetorical choices are effective as they create a sense of urgency and clearly convey the need for action.