Argument Analysis Essay Assignment (100 points)
Assignment:
Write a five paragraph essay analyzing
Letter from Birmingham Jail
Question
: What is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s main purpose and how does he use rhetorical appeals throughout his
Letter from Birmingham Jail to construct this argument? Remember, his essay can be broken into
3 sections: Section 1 (paragraphs 1-14); Section 2 (para. 15-30); Section 3 (para. 31-47), so search for the best examples throughout all three sections.
Rhetorical Appeals:
Logos
- Deductive and Inductive Reasoning; Concession/Refutation
Ethos
- Artistic: establishment of character; Concession/Refutation
Pathos
- Imagery; Figurative Language; Inflated diction/syntax/tone
I.
II.
III.
Introduction
A. Opening Sentence
: Engage and attract the reader with a strong lead sentence general to the subject. 1. fact
2. quote
3. common knowledge
B. Objective Information
: Inform the reader of specific and pertinent background on the topic.
1. civil rights
2. MLK bio
3. Birmingham
C. Thesis Statement
: Answer the question with a well-developed and very specific sentence.
1. explain his argument/thesis
2. list examples you’ll analyze
Body Paragraphs
A. Topic Sentence
: Deliver a sentence that tells the reader of the supporting evidence you’ll use.
B. Evidence
: Use summary and direct quotation to support your topic sentence, and merge textual evidence (in other words, direct quotation) with your own words.
C. Explanation
: Connect the evidence to your thesis and explain how it proves your point.
D. Closure
: Conclude your topic and transition to the next paragraph.
Conclusion
A. Revisit your essay’s thesis by wrapping up your analysis.
B. Make a relevant connection between the text and the world we live in.
C. Leave the reader with a final thought on the issues the passage or essay addresses.
The essay must be:
Typed
Double-spaced
TNR or Cambria
10 pt font
Shared on Google Drive or printed