1. AP Language RHETORICAL ANALYSIS Test Strategy
Olson and Bailey

2. What it is …What it is not
The analysis question asks the writer to analyze the methods that author employs in his or her writing to convey the author’s attitude, opinion, or conviction about some topic.
The analysis question does NOT ask the writer to agree, disagree, or qualify.

3. Some things NOT to do Tell the reader the essay was well written
Tell the reader the essay held your interest
Reference the author by first name only or a nickname, “Honest Abe” – “Uncle Walt”
Whole name on 1st reference, last name after
Bulk up a sentence with jargon, complexity
Think and write clearly with appropriately controlled diction and syntax.

4. Discussion of Rhetorical Strategies
Diction
Identify key words
Negative or Positive Connotation
DO NOT say “author uses diction to create meaning”
Syntax
Short sentences are always abrupt, intense, and confrontational
Long Sentences are more thoughtful and permit reflection
Parallel Syntax functions like a train gathering steam
Rhetorical Questions manipulate the reader to provide the answer he or she wants
Repetition provides emphasis
Figures of Speech
Be versed in the main figures of speech (schemes & tropes)
Know what they do to the reader, for the writer
Rhetoric
Use PELIDS to identify and remember basic rhetorical strategies

5. PELIDS P pathos E Ethos L Logos Most ads are emotional
Speeches use imagery and high connotation
Cannot say author uses pathos alone
Need to discuss purpose
E Ethos
Credibility
L Logos
Rational and reasonable
Is evidence valid?

6. PELIDS part 2 I Inductive Deductive S Syllogism
Uses examples to convince reader of logical validity
Ask if examples are valid, then the validity of the claim
Deductive
Makes claims then builds an argument based you accepting those claims are true
Ask if claims are valid, then the validity of conclusions made by those claims
S Syllogism
Provides two premises and then offers a conclusion
God Created mankind, all of God’s creations are good, mankind is good