Reflection:
I had never written a rhetorical analysis essay before taking English 400. Before this class, I had written research papers, but never a paper where I had to attempt to use persuasion to persuade my target audience. The rhetorical analysis essay helped me fulfill the course outcomes “engage in the process of citizen leadership by investigating multiple perspectives on important public issues,” analyze the effectiveness of their own texts and processes for specific rhetorical situations,” and “understand how the knowledge, skills, and values learned in general education are interwoven and interrelated, and how they can contribute to the process of citizen leadership.” Before I began writing this assignment, I chose two different artifacts that were interesting and controversial. I chose the films Lean on Me and Freedom Writers to analyze. I read over my journal entries and notes to refresh my memory of the different rhetorical devices I learned in class. After refreshing my memory of the rhetorical devices, I watched the films and took notes on the rhetorical devices used in the films. I was able to see how different rhetorical devices used in the films were effective in persuading the audience. In my rhetorical analysis essay, I was able to explain how the movies used pathos, logos, and ethos to appeal to the audiences watching the films. This analysis taught me how I can use rhetorical devices to appeal to different audiences and persuade them, while participating in active citizenship. After completing this analysis, I am able to use what I have learned in the classroom in my future jobs and assignments. I can use what I learned to be appealing to different audiences, whether it is advocating for an important issue or asking for grant money for an organization.