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. Normally, you would have
to attend the speech. However, COVID-19 has prevented this from happening. You
may now watch a speech on YouTube.
Make sure you are selecting a speech that
is a minimum of 10 minutes.
When analyzing a speech, context, content and delivery must
be considered. Therefore, this critique must include the following topics, as
discussed in class:
A. 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.
B. 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 following the Guidelines
for Conducting an Audience Analysis (see below).
C. 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.
D. 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.
E. 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 and should be typed, about 5-6 pages, not including the title and
reference pages.
Evaluation of the paper will be based on
these criteria (100 points):
1.Treatment of Topic/Organization (as
described above) (80 pts)
2.Mechanics and Delivery (grammar, spelling,
neatness, 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.
Please see the Sample Rhetorical Criticism Essay provided below.