Writing Assignment #1

Rhetorical Analysis of Visual Argument

(more fun than it sounds, I promise)
Comp 1312- Fall, 2017
Purpose: The purpose of this assignment is to work through the writing process. We will also work on critical think-
ing, reading and writing and knowledge of conventions with this project. This project will enhance your persuasive
writing because we will learn, in a very real world way, some of the concepts involved with writing AND viewing ar-
guments. These concepts include: Aristotles appeals (ethos, pathos, logos), visual analysis, text analysis, audience
awareness and both rhetorical and design choices (medium). Remember that visual arguments are implied, not explicit.
There will be some good thinking involved.

What You Do: For this project, you will select and analyze a visual argument of your own choosing. You may focus
on a product you use or in which you are interested, a cause about which you are passionate or anything else that strikes
you as an interesting visual argument. Your medium can be almost anything, but it must be VISUAL (e.g. magazine
ad, newspaper ad, online ad, billboard, bumper sticker, tee shirt). No videos or radio for this project. You will select
your visual argument and then answer, in some way, the following questions:
1. What conversation does this argument join? What is the issue? What is at stake? Why
did you choose it?
2. Describe the visual elements present. What choices did the designers make? What does
it look like? Were they the right choices?
3. What is the arguments claim? What value, perspective, belief or position are the de sign-
ers/writers asking you to adopt/consider?
4. Who is the intended AUDIENCE for this argument? How do you know?
4. What appeal is used (ethos, pathos, logos) or what combination of appeals is used? Is it
the right appeal for this audience?
5. Consider the medium. Is it the right one for the audience? Is there a better way to
appeal to this audience?
6. If you were going to change to a different audience but address the same issue, what
changes would you have to make?
7. What is the counter argument? What is the piece pushing against?
7. Is this argument effective? Why or why not?
8. What did you learn from this project? Be specific!
9. How will this project help you with your persuasive writing?

Guidelines:
750 word minimum: worth 100 points
If there is research that you put in, please cite that information in MLA format.
Peer Review: Thursday, September 14
Final Draft: Thursday, September 21
You MUST HAND IN a copy (digitally preferred) or send a link to your visual argument with your final pro-
ject