As you read the passage, consider how [the author] uses
- evidence, such as facts or examples, to support claims
- reasoning to develop ideas and to connect claims and evidence
- stylistic or persuasive elements, such as word choice or appeals to emotion, to add power to the ideas expressed
Consider the following:
- ethos (How does the author establish credibility and exactly why does that credibility add to the argument?)
- logos (What facts, statistics, appeals to authority, convincing anecdotes, specific examples does the author use?) How and why are the examples of logos effective?
- pathos (How does the author use emotional appeals to persuade?) How and why are the examples of pathos effective?
- Is the main claim well supported? Which supporting examples are most effective and how and why do they strengthen the argument?
- Does the author effectively address counterclaims and prove that his/her claim/point of view is more convincing? What examples/proof is provided to rebut or refute another person's claim (counterclaim)? Which particular rebuttals or counterclaims are especially effective? How? Why?
- Does the author make any concessions? A concession is an acknowledgment that the author considers some aspect of an opposing argument valid. By conceding a point, the author demonstrates his/her fairness and willingness to admit that other people make good points, which adds to the credibility of the author of the argument in front of you.
- Consider the organization/structure of the argument. How and why is the order of the material presented convincing? How and why are the choices that the author makes strategic?
- Comment on the tone/voice of the author, if appropriate. In what ways, does he/she sound fair and reasonable? What is your proof? How does the author create this effect? Where in the text especially?
- Does the author utilize sub-claims (additional "mini-argumentative" points) that further support the main claim? What are those sub-claims and how and why are they particularly effective?
- How are the diction (word choice) and syntax (phrasing) effective? Does the sentence structure and writing style make you more likely to side with the author? Which particular sentences are very well written and convincing? How and why?
- Is there description/imagery/vivid language? Which particular examples are effective? How and why?
- How is the overall (mood) of the piece appropriate and why does the mood strengthen the main argument/assertion/claim? For example, maybe the mood is passionate and/or enthusiastic. How and why does the enthusiasm persuade you? Which words show enthusiasm and passion?
- Are there instances of figurative language--similes, metaphors, personification, etc.? How and why is the author's use of figurative language effective? Cite and comment on why specific examples are persuasive.
- Does the author ever directly address the reader? Why is this effective? How do you relate to the point he/she is making?
- Does the author use rhetorical questions? How and why are they effective?
Staple the Proofreading Checklist to the front of your essay.
