Rhetorical Analysis: “I Will Never Know Why” Common Mistakes/Errors

Common Mistakes in RA Essays ALWAYS introduce the author/title of work in the first introduction paragraph (think rhetorical precis) After mentioning the author’s full name, refer to them by their LAST NAME only!

Common Mistakes in RA Essays Fluid Quote Integration Go beyond just “She states” or “For example” Integrate the quotes into the sentence Klebold shows her dedication to others when she mentions that she “work[s] with disadvantaged people” (2). Instead of: Klebold says, “I work with disadvantaged people” (2).

Common Mistakes in RA Essays ESSAY STRUCTURE: Clear, coherent thesis that does not simply list all of the rhetorical strategies Tying the TS of body paragraphs to the thesis Tying all EX/CM to the thesis

Common Mistakes in RA Essays Level of Depth in Analysis Do not let the quotes “speak” for you- you need to take apart the quote and explain HOW it relates back to the thesis Go that extra step in explaining how the quote supports your thesis/TS