Why Learn Rhetorical Strategies?

  Rhetorical Strategies

September 25, 2015

Question for the day: under what conditions do Coke products aid the human body??  Diabetes, we know for sure.  Obesity, we understand is directly connected.  , so.....Seriously, if we understand that Coke is bad for our body in so many ways, why do we get a warm fuzzy feeling when we see those breathtaking, red, glossy semi-trucks that are full to the top with Coke products? Why?  I will tell you why!

 Language is power. Rhetorical language persuades without the slightest hint that it is manipulating us with our emotions. Part of us thinks it is good for us because it reminds us of summer at Grandma's or an especially sexy Christmas.   This is why we teach rhetorical devices or strategies  in high schools, so that our students can begin to identify when they are being persuaded by something other than the facts.   That is the power of rhetoric.  Use it. And stay away from Coke, unless you truly desire diabetes or obesity in your life. Then do it with awareness of rhetoric.

Coke. It does a body good. Wait. That's milk. Wait. That's not even true. What if you are lactose intolerant?

Week One at PDL

The first week of school has passed.  This was 12 times as smooth as last year. Organized, clear, and ready. That's how we feel.

How about you, Mr. or Ms. Senior in high school?  Take a moment to check yourself.  Are you being diligent and unstoppable on your journey to graduation?  If so, that probably means:

1. You are working several hours every day to complete your coursework.

2. You have said "No" to at least one very alluring invitation from friends this week.

3. You have finished your community service and have written up your reflection.

4. You are getting interested in picking out your destination for next fall.

If these don't ring true for you, then you have something more important in your life than graduating from high school. What is it?

The Purpose of a bicycle is to transport a person from point a to point b.  Your first 12 years of education are similar. Let's make sure it gets you where you want to be!

My Bike Lance. He gets me where I'm going, but I have to pedal.