What it is, what it can do for me Rhetoric What it is, what it can do for me

Rhetoric Purposeful use of language and images Both you and your audience should be changed by the experience of understanding one another A little dead white guy history of rhetoric Why is rhetoric related to the birth of democracy? A coming together What can rhetoric do for you?

Rhetoric Who is your audience—nothing is more important!!!! Demographics: age, location, gender, nationality, dis/ability, sexuality, education-level, income-level

Rhetoric Who is your audience—nothing is more important!!!! Psychographics: values, beliefs, positions, interests, concerns What is your relationship to these people?

Rhetoric What is your purpose? Rhetoric is the purposeful use of language and images—what is your message?

Rhetoric Understanding Format: The “shape” or form a communication takes: essay, guide, brochure, poster, website, flyer, teach-in, presentation, digital story, procedural video, news article, etc. Includes audience expectations for that form Use of elements like images, illustrations, videos, words, sound or music, gestures, charts, graphs Choices authors makes about balancing these elements to achieve their purpose for your audience The arrangement of elements to lead audiences through an experience and achieve their purpose

Every Communication = an Opportunity for Change An opening to bring something to light, offer insight, or address a problem with language or images Come in many forms—in person, online, on paper Change must be possible or what’s the point? Can be subtle—add information, see something slightly differently, gain insight, change one person’s behavior Can be big—change the government, the world

What is a Rhetorical Audience? People capable of being influenced by verbal or visual expression and of bringing about change, either by acting themselves or influencing others

Describe the rhetorical audience

Describe the rhetorical audience