Rhetorical Modes Matrix

Rhetorical modes are various methods for effectively communicating through language and writing.

Complete the following chart to identify the purpose and structure of the various rhetorical modes used in academic writing. Provide at least two tips for writing each type of rhetorical device.

Rhetorical mode
Purpose
Explain when or why each rhetorical mode is used.Structure
Explain what organizational method works best with each rhetorical mode.
Tips Provide two tips for writing in each rhetorical mode.
NarrationWhen :The art of storytelling
Why: To tell a store.Chronological order is an organization method that arranges ideas according to time.

Knowing the purpose of your story from the beginning.

Important to do a plot summary.

IllustrationWhen: Clearly demonstrates and supports a point through the use of evidence. Why: Organize the evidence in terms of importanceOrder of importance is a method of organization that arranges ideas according to their significance.

Demonstrate your point using evidence.

Explain your examples using strong, supportive details.
DescriptionWhen: Typically describe a person, place, or object using sensory details. Why: Overall impression of the person place or object described in the body.Spatial order is a method of organization that arranges ideas
according to physical characteristics or appearance.

Your description should focus on the five senses.

Properly convey the impression of what is being described.
ClassificationWhen Break a subject down into smaller parts. Why: An introductory paragraph that introduces broaderThe organizing strategy of a classification essay is dictated by the initial topic and subsequent subtopics.

Introduce the broad topic and then break it up into subcategories.

Use details and interesting information in each subcategory.

Process analysis

When: Introduces readers to process and the foal of process after reading the essay. Why: you trying to show how something works

The organization of a process analysis essay typically follows chronological order.

Explain the process in clear, definitive steps.

Choose a process you know well so you can more access finer details. DefinitionWhen: To avoid terms that are too simple.
Why: Define something.

Think in terms of concepts rather than physical objects.

Choose a topic complex enough to be discussed at length.
Comparison and contrast

When: Choose two or more subjects that connect a meaningful way. Why: Evaluative tool

Choose two or more subjects that connect in a meaningful way.

Illuminate unexpected similarities.
Cause and effect When: To produce an event or condition.
Why: To determine how various Phenomena are related.

Strong evidence is important.

Leave the reader with a clear understanding of the relationship that was analyzed. Persuasion When: Advance knowledge and ideas in a positive way. Why: To convinced, motivate or move readers toward a certain point.Support and explain your opinion with evidence.