OBJECTIVE
For this assignment, you will answer the following questions: What are three ways that rhetoric and politics are connected? That is, how does rhetoric affect politics and/or the reverse? You may talk about the history of rhetoric, any of the theoretical ideas we have covered, rhetoric in contemporary political life, or some combination. Use an example for each of the three ways you discuss, and quote your readings where appropriate.
WRITING YOUR PAPER
Your paper should have three sections: introduction, analysis, and conclusion.
In the introduction, open your paper compellingly, drawing readers into your ideas. Stress the significance of what you analyze and leave the reader wanting to know more. At the end of the introduction, you must offer a clear thesis and an effective preview. When readers leave the introduction, we should know exactly what you argue and how your paper will proceed.
In the analysis section, support your claim about how rhetoric and politics are connected. To accomplish this, you’ll need to back your argument with clear, persuasive evidence from the text/readings/example. Provide quotations that illustrate what a rhetor/example is doing to demonstrate the connection between rhetoric and politics. Focus on key ideas and strategies that demonstrate that connection and tease out the implications of the rhetoric. The best papers will incorporate concepts from class.
In the conclusion, you should summarize your main ideas and offer a critical judgment of your chosen topic’s effectiveness, ineffectiveness, problems, persuasiveness, etc. Whatever your judgment, state that judgment clearly and explain why. Take your time developing a critical assessment of that connection.
FORMAT
This 3-4 page paper should be typed in Times New Roman font, size 12, double-spaced, with 1-inch margins. Your writing tips should be listed shorthand at the top of your paper.
Remember that citing sources effectively helps build your ethos as a writer. You should give full citations for any sources you use in the writing of your paper— including your textbooks or any readings posted on Brightspace. I do not mind what citation style you choose (Chicago, MLA, APA, etc.) so long as you are consistent. Choose one format. You will turn in a Works Cited with your paper. Your Works Cited will not count toward the 3–4-page requirement.
Do not plagiarize. Do not use AI. Your words must be completely your own and you must cite with page numbers. While you may discuss ideas with your classmates, your paper must be yours and yours alone.
GRADING DETAILS
The paper will be graded on (1) the creativity, significance, and insightfulness of your argument; (2) your ability to support the argument with compelling evidence from the text and context; (3) the quality of your writing.
The below-average paper (“D” or “F”) is seriously deficient in the criteria required for the “C”.
A “C” Paper: This paper reflects adequate work given the assignment expectations. Though the major steps of the writing process are clear (introduction, body, conclusion), the author of a “C” paper still has a ways to go in terms of making a compelling argument. Claims, though present and accounted for with evidence, might be vaguely constructed/supported or presume too much about the reader’s foreknowledge. A “C” paper is lacking in clarity, content, and refinement.
A “B” Paper: This paper is better than average and stands as evidence of an author who knows the subject matter very well. Claims in this paper are supported through clear reasoning and ample evidence. Though advanced in the art of argumentation, the author of a “B” paper still has minor—yet important—hurdles to jump: grammar/punctuation errors (especially those we have covered in class), citations might be sporadic or vague, transitions between ideas might be clumsy, or the introduction/conclusion might lack the necessary engagement and finesse expected from a meticulous writer.
An “A” Paper: This paper represents truly exceptional work. The author of an “A” paper has done more than argue his or her position well. He or she has made a compelling and justified case that builds on existing belief and knowledge. The author demonstrates command of language and gives attention to detail in all areas.
Grading Scale
A+ 98-100% B+ 88% C+ 78% D+ 68% F < 60%
A 95% B 85% C 75% D 65%
A- 92% B- 82% C- 72% D- 62%