How do you write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

<p>In my AP English Language class, I'm having trouble with rhetorical analysis essay. I want to know a general structure for a rhetorical analysis essay or how do you express your analysis in the form of an essay.</p>

<p>^^^^Bump^^^^</p>

<p>analyze the choice of words, why would the rhetor/writer use those specific words to accomplish his goal (his rhetorical purpose)</p>

<p>it all comes down to “why” IMO…</p>

<p>Basically, your first paragraph is introducing what you may talk about and the essay that you read. You will state in here what sort of rhetorical devices the author uses and the general reason as to why. What I did was devote a paragraph to each rhetorical device and thoroughly explained it in the order of an assertion, then evidence from the story/essay/whatever, and finally elaboration on how it connects to your initial thesis (your thesis is the sentence you wrote on what rhetorical devices and why they were used). Then you conclude your essay going from a narrow sort of topic to a more broad (but don’t use a generalization) statement at the end.</p>

<p>This was my basic format when I had to do it. Last years essay was about how I believe satire was used… I’m not sure though. I got a 5 on the exam also.</p>

<p>Some things to think about:
-Make it REALLY clear that you understand the purpose of whatever you’ve read.
-Your thesis should touch on the three major rhetorical devices used. If they’re only two that stand out, use the 3rd paragraph to discuss word choice
-Sophisticated syntax and vocabulary is the key to moving up on AP Language essays. You’ll know what I mean if you look at a released rubric.
-Touch on audience and historical context if you know anything about the occasion.</p>