Rhetorical Modes By Chris Perry

Rhetorical modes are terms used to describe the main purpose of the authors writing. “ modes of discourse” There are four main types of rhetorical modes: Exposition, Argumentation,, Descriptive, and Narration.

Exposition (Expository) investigating and analyzing an idea by defining, informing, and explaining. (Typically the type of essay on the AP exam) Ex: In Cold Blood, Martin Luther King, Booker T. Washington Essays

Argumentation( argumentative) arguing a point in order to prove if a statement is valid or to convince the reader. Persuasive falls under this category Is torture ever effective? Do curfews keep teens out of trouble? and Should animals be used for research?.

Description( Descriptive) used to describe a person, place, experience, or emotion. Allows artistic freedom for the writer, and generally used to have a student recall a past experience. Uses all 5 senses in a good descriptive essay. Example topics: Describe your best friend, Describe yourself, Describe the area you live in.

Narration( Narrative) used to tell a story, about an event, or a string of events. Allows the writer to creatively express themselves. Not always a story. Example topics: An embarrassing experience, A moment of failure or success, and a memorable journey.

Work Cited Baker, Jack. "Purdue OWL: Essay Writing." Welcome to the Purdue University Online Writing Lab (OWL). The Writing Lab. Web. 01 Oct "Argument Essay Topics - 50 Controversial Topics for Argument Essays and Speeches." Homework Tips - Help With Homework. Web. 01 Oct Writing Topics - Narration - Prompts and Topic Suggestions for Narrative Paragraphs, Essays, and Speeches." Grammar and Composition - Homepage of About Grammar and Composition. Web. 01 Oct Google Images