Rhetoric refers to using language in speech or writing to influence or entertain people, as defined by the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary. There are three appeals of rhetoric: ethos which relies on the character or authority of the speaker, logos which uses reason-based arguments, and pathos which appeals to the emotions of the audience. When using rhetoric effectively, one must consider inventio (ideas and facts), dispositio (organization), elocutio (language), memoria (memorization), and pronuntiatio (delivery). An example is making a case for or against homework by convincing the audience through emotional and logical appeals while using an engaging speaking style.

1. Rhetoric
Ida Berger

2. What?
 ”The skill of using language in speech or writing in a
special way that influences or entertains people”
- Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary
(2010)

3. Ethos
 Appeal based on the character of the speaker
 President or king

4. Logos
 Appeal based on reason
 ”As we all know”

5. Pathos
 Appeal based on emotion
 Children in poor countries
 Fur industry

6. How to use rhetoric
 Inventio – Ideas and finding facts
 Dispisito - Disposition
 Elocutio – Language
 Memoria – Learn it by heart
 Pronuntiatio – How to hold the speech (voice)

7. How to use rhetoric (cont)
 Ex: Homework. Positive or negative?
 Try to convince the audience that your opinion is the
right one.
 Arguments
 Appeal to their feelings and reason
 Use your voice in a way that makes them listen
(teacher)

8. Sources
 Notes from class