RHETORICAL CRITICISM ESSAY

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RHETORICAL CRITICISM ESSAY
 Objective: To demonstrate the use and effects of rhetorical devices in a publicly delivered speech, and to familiarize students with basic public speaking concepts.
 Directions: This essay assignment requires reflection and analysis based on observation of a publicly delivered speech utilizing concepts covered in class. You must choose ONE of these speeches to analyze:

  •  The “Last Lecture” by Randy Pausch    
  • National Convention Keynote Speedh by Barbara Jordan 
  • RNC Convention Speech by Condoleeza Rice. 
  • Inaugural Address by John F. Kennedy  
  • 2nd Inaugural Address by George W. Bush 
  • 2012 DNC by Speech Julian Castro 
  • CPE’s Keynote Speech by Dr. Freeman Hrabowski  
When analyzing the speech you have chosen- context, content and delivery must be considered. Therefore, this critique must include the following topics, as well as an introductory and concluding paragraph:
Use these headings:
Speaker and Subject Identification: (a) biographical background of the speaker and credibility in subject area, (b) identification of the subject and the relationship of subject to the speaker. This task will require the selection and citation of sources to back your claims.
Audience and Occasion Analysis: (a) a description of the occasion for the speech, including why you chose to observe the speech, and (b) a description of the audience using the information learned in our unit on audience analysis
Structure of the Speech: (a) identify the general and specific purposes, (b) identify the central idea, (c) identify the main points and supporting materials, and (d) describe the organization and development of ideas and the adequacy of the introduction and conclusion.
Delivery of the Speech: (a) identify and critique the vocal delivery techniques including use of language and transitions, and (b) identify and critique the physical delivery techniques including use of visual aids and body movement.
Effectiveness of the Speech: (a) critique the audience response to the speech, and (b) analyze the overall effectiveness of the speech.
This assignment should be written in formal essay style (APA format- using headings!), should be typed, use Times New Roman size 12 font, and should be 1500 – 2000 words, not including the title and reference pages.

Evaluation of the paper will be based on these criteria (100 points): 
  1. Rhetorical Criticism  (as described above)    (80 pts)
  2. Mechanics  (grammar, spelling, APA style)   (20 pts)
The paper should consist of approximately eighty percent argument based on personal observation and twenty percent definitions of the concepts from class to support or refute your argument. The essay will be assessed in accordance with guidelines published in the APA Style Guide (6th ed.).
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