CR #4: Matt Williams' Talk

Directions: Write a 1-2 page rhetorical analysis and evaluation of the sustainability talk given by Matt Williams. First, explain the basics of Williams rhetorical situation (what he’s arguing and to whom he’s making this argument). Next, evaluate how successfully he makes his argument by closely analyzing the various rhetorical choices he has made (every word in his talk and every bit of logic he used was a choice—the question is, was it the right choice?). You should be making an overall judgment concerning the persuasiveness of this talk (he was successful/unsuccessful), using specific examples as support for your assertions (show how particular rhetorical tactics he used are strong or weak, overdone or ignored, etc.). Think about the kinds of things we’ve been discussing in class, and that you used in the first paper.
Remember to cover the following when applicable:

• Consideration of rhetorical situation:
• Purpose
• Audience
• Persona
• Use of rhetorical appeals
• Ethos
• Pathos
• Logos
Guidelines:
• 1-2 pages (you’ll probably need 2 to cover everything sufficiently)
• MLA format (1 inch margins, 12 pt. TNR font, double spaced, etc.)
• Offer a thesis that states your evaluation of his argument
• Organize into paragraphs. I’d suggest some sort of brief opening and closing paragraphs, along with well developed body paragraphs that each prove a particular point about the talk.
• Use specifics rather than generalities. Point the reader to particular moments in the talk that prove what you are arguing.
• And as always, proofread!

Due Wednesday 2/13

*We will also be using Williams’ talk as a springboard for discussing good sources. Did you notice how he kept mentioning the credibility of his data sources? Does that sound like one of the appeals to you? (There’s a hint for your CR).