?Write a thesis-driven rhetorical analysis of a text related
to our theme of virtual technology. We’ll be looking specifically at texts that directly address a
contemporary ethical problem or question related to virtual reality and/or social media.
Bring readers into the context of the reading. In what larger conversation is the author
participating? What ethical problems or questions appear in this text? Why are they
important? What’s at stake? Introduce the text to the reader, briefly summarize its
main idea, and make a claim (thesis) for the author’s rhetorical strategies. A strong
claim is both contestable – reasonable people might disagree – and predictive – it will
set up expectations for your reader.
Develop your main points around specific rhetorical strategies. Consider how the
author constructs the argument, not whether or not you agree. Analysis relies on
objective judgments. Remember also that rhetoric encompasses any tools available
for persuasion. For example, would it be useful to talk about the argument in terms of
ethos, logos, and/or pathos? Or on purpose, audience, and/or genre? In terms of their
use of language? Diction? Figurative language? Sentence structure? Syntax?
Support your main points with concrete examples (evidence) from the text. To
develop and support your own points, you will need to include specific examples in
the form of paraphrase or short direct quotations
