Rhetorical Analysis Paragraph
Skill focus: Rhetorical Analysis Paragraph
Today's practice is rhetorical analysis paragraph. Coach for argument before style. Ask, 'Could a reasonable person disagree with this claim?' If no — it's not yet a claim. Revise for clarity first, then voice. Voice without clarity is noise.
- pencil
- paper
Write a one-sentence claim about anything. Then write one sentence that argues against it. That's the start of argument.
- 1
Rewrite this fact as an arguable claim: 'Most students use phones at school.'
Parent tip: Push for a defensible position.
- 2
Identify the strongest evidence type for the claim above: (a) personal anecdote, (b) peer-reviewed study, (c) social media post.
Parent tip: Source quality matters as much as content.
- 1
Write a one-sentence claim about a current issue.
- 2
Rebut the counter-claim in one sentence.
- 3
Draft a 150-word paragraph using your claim, evidence, and rebuttal.
- 4
Write a college-application-style sentence about a small personal moment.
- 5
Write a thesis statement for an essay on a book you've read.
- 6
Revise a sentence by removing every unnecessary word.
- 7
Outline an introduction in three sentences: hook, context, thesis.
- 8
List two pieces of evidence — at least one from a credible source.
- 9
Identify and correct any passive voice in your last paragraph.
- 10
Write a counter-claim someone could make against your argument.
Revise your favorite sentence above for stronger word choice. Read both aloud.
What is one sentence you wrote today that you're proud of? Why?