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.
Narration Mainly a form of storytelling and reviewing a sequence of events and is used between the middle of your 1st and 3rd paragraph. Understand what your purpose is from the beginning. Create strong detail; keep the human senses in mind. *Make sure to include a brief description, which will serve as your intro to your subject
Illustration Clearly demonstrates and supports a point through the use of evidence Order of importance: arranges ideas according to their significance
*Envision your subject then build onto the details
*Make sure you proofread and cut out
Any grammatical errors
Description Meaning “illustrative detail”; used to describe one’s appearance, actions and personality. Start with a very short paragraph introducing or defining the subject, or a longer one a particular striking first description or summary. *The more detail you give, the better
*Always remain consistent when writing your subject
Classification To break broad subjects down into smaller, more manageable, and more specific parts Organized by breaking it down into subcategories *Make sure to break down any given topic at least three different ways
*Avoid setting for an overly simplistic classification
analysis The separation of an action or series of actions into progressive parts Divide the subject into parts and classify each into an existing category or into categories of the writer’s invention. *Analyze your subject thoroughly
*Make sure your categories match up with your paper’s subject
Definition Used in describing a…