Chapter 5: Evaluating the Author’s Techniques Academic Reading, Fifth Edition by Kathleen T. McWhorter

Learning Objectives: To identify connotative language To understand figurative language To recognize bias To discover missing information To evaluate generalizations To identify assumptions To recognize manipulative language

Denotative and Connotative Meanings Denotative Meaning- a words standard meaning Connotative Meaning- the feelings and associations that may accompany a word used by writers to stir reader’s emotions or to bring to mind positive or negative associations

Examples of Connotative Meanings Sister denotative meaning: a female sibling connotative meaning: a playmate with whom you shared your childhood Dinner denotative meaning: an evening meal connotative meaning: a relaxed time to share food and conversation with family and friends

Figurative Language Figurative language makes a comparison between two unlike things that share one common characteristic. It is a powerful tool that allows writers to create images or paint pictures in the reader’s mind.

Types of Figurative Language Simile – uses the words like or as to make the comparison The computer hums like a beehive. Metaphor – states or implies the relationship between two unlike items often using the word is The computer lab is a beehive. Personification – compares humans and nonhumans according to one characteristic, attributing human characteristics to ideas or objects The sun mocked us with its relentless stare.

Evaluating Figurative Language Why did the writer make the comparison? What is the basis of the comparison, that is, the shared characteristic? Is the comparison accurate? What images do you have in mind? How do these images make you feel? Is the comparison positive or negative? Are several different interpretations possible?

Is the Author Fair or Biased? Is the author acting as a reporter—presenting facts—or as a salesperson—providing only favorable information? Does the author feel strongly about or favor one side of the issue? Does the author use connotative or figurative language to create a positive or negative image? Does the author seem emotional about the issue? Are there other views toward the subject that the writer does not recognize or discuss?

What Isn’t the Author Telling Me? Ask yourself the following questions: What important information is omitted? (What have you not told me?) What contradictory evidence is not reported? Has the author selectively reported details to further his or her cause? Does the author explain incomplete comparisons? What else do I need to know?

Does the Author Make and Support Generalizations? What is a generalization? A generalization is a reasoned statement about an entire group based on known information about part of the group. Think of the following: Does the author provide specifics about the generalization? Try to think of exceptions to the generalization.

What Assumptions Does the Author Make? What is an assumption? An assumption is an idea or principle the writer accepts as true or makes no effort to prove or substantiate Examples: You are as arrogant as your sister. (The assumption is that your sister is arrogant.) When you’re mature, you’ll realize you made a mistake. (The assumption is that you are not mature now.)

Why Writers Use Manipulative Language Achieve a particular effect Communicate their message in a particular way Appeal to specific groups of people

Types of Manipulative Language Clichés A tired, overused expression. Curiosity killed the cat. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Jargon Words, phrases, and specialized terms used by a particular academic field or special interest group that is not readily understood by the general public. Allusions References to well known religious, literary, artistic, or historical works or sources.

Types of Manipulative Language Euphemisms A word or phrase that is used in place of a words that is unpleasant, embarrassing, or otherwise objectionable. Doublespeak Deliberately unclear or evasive language. Hyperbole A deliberate, excessive, and obvious exaggeration.

Examples of Manipulative Language Curiosity killed the cat. (Cliché) TTYL = talk to you later (used in e-mail) (Jargon) He has the patience of Job. (Allusion) Capital punishment is controversial. (Euphemism) Vertically deployed antipersonnel devices (bombs) (Doublespeak) The Internet holds the answer to all your questions. (Hyperbole)

Read the articles on political science and complete the exercises following each selection. “Look at What They’ve Done” by Anna Quindlen “Architect Is Off the Mark on Ground Zero Mound” Editorial, March 11, 2002, Engineering News-Record