2.4: Types of Support
2.4.1: Reasons - Why Do You Think That?
Read this article on main points and sub-claims. How do main points differ from sub-claims? How can you support sub-claims in your writing?
2.4.2: Evidence - How Do You Know?
Read this article and watch the linked video. Is it possible to over quote? How do you know if you are choosing the best information for your essay?
2.4.3: Ethos
Read this article. Ethos refers to a rhetorical appeal that relates to credibility of the author or orator.
2.4.4: Logos
Read this article. Logos is the Greek word for "logic.” Logos refers to a logical rhetorical appeal when making an argument.
Read this article for a description of inductive and deductive reasoning.
To prepare for writing your Unit 2 essay on the topic, "Are reality television shows more 'show' or more 'reality'?" put together some examples of logical support for your argument.
Note: If you completed this activity prior to February 27, 2017, you can find your response here. However, the previous version of this activity did have a mistake in its instructions and writing prompt, so it is strongly encouraged that you complete this updated activity.
2.4.4.1: Fallacies - Do Not Use These!
Read this article to learn about logical fallacies and how to avoid them. Logical fallacies occur when the chain of reasoning breaks down, which invalidates the conclusion. Try to identify any logical fallacies in your writing by revisiting one of the writing activities for this course or another course
Read this article.
2.4.4.2: Logical Fallacies Examples and Exercises
Take this quiz.
This assessment is based on a resource from Thomas Edison State University and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. You can access the original version here.
2.4.5: Pathos
Read this article to learn more about pathos. Pathos is the Greek word for "emotion,” and the rhetorical method of pathos refers to appealing to the emotions of one's audience in order to persuade. Without offering evidence, pathos can be little more than an invalid, emotional response in your writing; however, using all rhetorical appeals (ethos, logos, and pathos) is the best way to strengthen an argument. Make sure to provide appropriate evidence when using pathos in your arguments.
In an essay of 500 to 750 words, compare and contrast the use of pathos, ethos, or logos in two works you have studied. If you'd like, you can use the academic articles that have been used up to this point in the course as your two works, or, you can compare other works that you have read or seen that attempts to make use of pathos, ethos, and logos.
Which work uses these rhetorical strategies more effectively? Which rhetorical strategy do you believe is the most powerful in terms of supporting the author's claim or main idea? Support your argument with specific examples from the works that you are comparing. Use the revision, proofreading, and formatting techniques you studied in Unit 1 to edit and format your paper.
Note: If you completed this activity prior to February 27, 2017, you can find your response here. However, the previous version of this activity did have a mistake in its instructions and writing prompt, so it is strongly encouraged that you complete this updated activity.