The Power of Persuasion: Rhetoric WebQuest

Introduction

ASSIGNMENT 9: WEB QUEST MODEL

Welcome: The Power of Persuasion: Rhetoric WebQuest

Description: This WebQuest will guide students through the fascinating world of rhetoric, exploring the art of persuasive communication. Students will analyze speeches, advertisements, and other texts to identify rhetorical devices and understand how they are used to influence audiences.

Grade Level: 9-12

Curriculum: English Language Arts/Communication Studies

Keywords: Rhetoric, Persuasion, Argumentation, Ethos, Pathos, Logos, Rhetorical Devices, Public Speaking

Author(s): Thomas Walls

Task
  • You are a team of rhetorical analysts hired by a non-profit organization to evaluate the effectiveness of persuasive messages. Your team will select three different persuasive texts (e.g., a political speech, a public service announcement, a print advertisement). For each text, you will:
    • Identify the target audience and the message's purpose.
    • Analyze the use of ethos, pathos, and logos.
    • Identify and explain at least three other rhetorical devices used.
    • Evaluate the overall effectiveness of the message in achieving its purpose.
  • Your team will then create a presentation (PowerPoint, Google Slides, Prezi, etc.) summarizing your findings and presenting your evaluation to the non-profit organization.
Process
  1. Team Formation: Divide into teams of 3-4 students.
  2. Text Selection: Each team member will propose a persuasive text for analysis. As a team, select three texts that represent different genres and target audiences.
  3. Research & Analysis: Individually, research and analyze one of the assigned texts, focusing on the elements outlined in the "Task" section. Take detailed notes and gather evidence to support your analysis.
  4. Team Collaboration: Meet with your team to share your individual analyses and discuss your findings. Work together to synthesize your ideas and develop a cohesive evaluation of each text.
  5. Presentation Creation: As a team, create a visually engaging and informative presentation summarizing your analysis and evaluation of the three persuasive texts.
  6. Presentation Delivery: Present your findings to the class (representing the non-profit organization).
Evaluation
  • Evaluation:
    • Your team's presentation will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
      • Accuracy of Rhetorical Analysis (30%): Correct identification and explanation of ethos, pathos, logos, and other rhetorical devices.
      • Depth of Analysis (30%): Thoroughness and insightfulness of the evaluation of each text's effectiveness.
      • Clarity and Organization (20%): Clear and logical presentation of information, with well-organized slides and effective use of visuals.
      • Collaboration and Teamwork (10%): Evidence of effective collaboration and equal participation from all team members.
      • Presentation Skills (10%): Engaging and professional delivery of the presentation.
Conclusion
  • Conclusion:
    • Congratulations! You have now completed your mission as rhetorical analysts. Through this WebQuest, you have gained a deeper understanding of the power of persuasion and the techniques used to influence audiences. You have also developed valuable skills in critical thinking, analysis, collaboration, and communication. Consider how you can apply these skills to become a more informed and discerning consumer of information in your daily life.
Credits
  • Credits:
    • WebQuest Design: Thomas Walls
    • Image Resources: (List any websites where you obtained images)
    • Content Resources: (List any websites or books you used for background information on rhetoric)
    • Special Thanks: (Acknowledge anyone who provided assistance or support)