English 12A Unit 4
Read the excerpt from "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address." Neither party expected for the war the magnitude or the duration which it has already attained. Neither anticipated that the cause of the conflict might cease with or even before the conflict itself should cease. Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding. Both read the same Bible and pray to the same God, and each invokes His aid against the other. It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces, but let us judge not, that we be not judged. The prayers of both could not be answered. That of neither has been answered fully. The Almighty has His own purposes. President Lincoln's purpose in the excerpt is to emphasize how both sides had underestimated the length and effects of the war. How does Lincoln achieve his purpose by using irony as a rhetorical feature in the excerpt? Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address Although Lincoln's overall point is that both sides in the war follow the same religion, he is able to include an ironic jab at the rebels by noting, "It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces ..." Lincoln is able to highlight the fundamental shifts to the American landscape through an ironic tone by stating, "Each looked for an easier triumph, and a result less fundamental and astounding." Although Lincoln's overall point is that this war has resulted from the actions of men, he is also able to show the cruelty of war by ironically noting, "The prayers of both could not be answered. ...The Almighty has His own purposes." Lincoln is able to point out the recklessness of the rebels in retreating by ironically stating, "Neither party expected for the war the magnitude or the duration which it has already attained."
Although Lincoln's overall point is that both sides in the war follow the same religion, he is able to include an ironic jab at the rebels by noting, "It may seem strange that any men should dare to ask a just God's assistance in wringing their bread from the sweat of other men's faces ..."
Your teacher requires that you write an argumentative essay on the subject of privacy. You have narrowed the topic and created your claim: Personal lives of celebrities and politicians should be kept private. Which evidence would provide the most relevant support for your claim? Testimony from legal experts containing their observations about how rights of others might be violated. Anecdotes from victims explaining how public attention has negatively impacted their mental health. Statistics on how many individuals have been publicly scrutinized. Factual references regarding what other countries do to protect their citizens.
Anecdotes from victims explaining how public attention has negatively impacted their mental health.
Read the sentence. Because he was so hungry, the entire pizza was eaten by my brother. Which is a way to most clearly correct the sentence? Because he was so hungry, my brother ate the entire pizza. My brother ate, because he was so hungry, the entire pizza. My brother—he ate the entire pizza—because he was so hungry. He ate the entire pizza because my brother was so hungry.
Because he was so hungry, my brother ate the entire pizza.
LESSON 18
PERSUASION OF THE PEOPLE
Read these sentences. I smelled the delicious, _[blank]_ aroma the minute I walked into the kitchen. Grandpa stood chopping onions for his famous chili; tomatoes, garlic, and hot peppers were sizzling on the stove. Which word best strengthens the description?
Savory
Read the sentences. Alberto rode his bike to the mall. He bought some paint and plastic sheeting. He is planning to repaint his room. He threw a pen and splashed ink on one wall. In the space below, rewrite this information, using at least two complex sentences.
Since Alberto needed to buy some paint and plastic sheeting, he rode his bike to the mall. He is planning to repaint his room because he threw a pen that splashed ink on one wall.
LESSON 16
THE RHETORIC OF INDEPENDENCE
You are writing an argumentative essay about the benefits of video games. Which option best presents an arguable claim? Educational video games for adolescents outnumber those for teens by 3 to 1. Video games are mentally challenging. Violent video games should be banned. Five popular video games have online capabilities.
Video games are mentally challenging.
Which excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks" most clearly demonstrates parallelism? Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail. Some will carry memories of a face and a voice gone forever. It is my hope that in the months and years ahead, life will return almost to normal. Even grief recedes with time and grace. But our resolve must not pass.
We will not tire, we will not falter, and we will not fail.
Unclear Antecedents
When adding complexity to sentences, you are likely to use words such as he, it, and this. As sentences grow more complex, you need to clearly identify the antecedents—the nouns to which these words refer. If the reference is not clear, the sentence loses meaning. *Unclear:* Although the bicycle struck the garage door, *it* was not damaged. *Corrected:* The bicycle was not damaged although *it* struck the garage door. *Unclear:* Irene worked on a housing project with a service group over the summer. *This* may be a good career for her. *Corrected:* Irene worked on a housing project with a service group over the summer. *Coordinating volunteer activities* may be a good career for her.
pluralism
a state of society in which diverse groups participate; diverseness
A quick test of what you know: Read the excerpt from the article "How Light Pollution Works." Insects can be fatally drawn to certain wavelengths of light in droves, and it doesn't help that bats often follow to forage. Some animals are prone to breed more, others to breed less. Bioluminescent species are suddenly faced with tireless competitors: artificial lights. Which words in the excerpt would you find mainly in scientific texts? (Select all that apply.) forage bioluminescent tireless wavelengths
bioluminescent wavelengths
Misplaced Modifiers
can make the sentence unclear, or even nonsensical. *Incorrect:* Elliot kept all the medicine on his bedside table *that his doctor had prescribed for him.* *Corrected:* Elliot kept on his bedside table all the medicine that his doctor had prescribed for him. *Reworded:* Elliot kept all his prescription medications on his bedside table.
complex
consists of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. The dependent clause has its own subject and verb, but it does not express a complete thought. To recognize a dependent clause, look for a transitional word such as if, while, because, unless, and since. *While* the orchestra played a waltz, the ballet dancers whirled around the stage. You need to have $20 in cash *if* you want to park in the garage near the stadium. The band will not agree to play at the dance *unless* we provide $100 in advance. Note that the clauses in these examples cannot stand alone. The word groups While the orchestra played a waltz and unless we provide $100 in advance, for example, must be combined with the content of the main sentence to express a complete thought.
What options best identify the topics from which themes of the Declaration of Independence can be derived? (Select all that apply.) Declaration of Independence equality freedom tyranny military
equality freedom **PARTIAL** freedom military **PARTIAL**
Read the passage from a science lesson. Human respiration is a chemical process that results in the release of energy. In this process, organic compounds transform into different compounds through exergonic reactions. Which term in the passage would most likely be used only in a scientific context? exergonic compounds organic energy
exergonic
simple sentence
has one independent clause and no dependent clauses. However, a simple sentence can have multiple subjects and multiple predicates (verb structures). My cat sleeps all day. Bonnie and Evelyn went shopping and stopped for ice cream.
Domain-Specific Vocabulary
ikely to be defined in specialized glossaries and in unabridged dictionaries. More general reference sources might not include the domain-specific meanings. An example appears in this sentence: Writers often employ hyperbole to make a point in a humorous way. The word hyperbole is a domain-specific vocabulary word.
If Barbara fervently disagrees with Dan, how does she disagree with him?
in an intense manner
Read the sentence. When you analyze an audience, understanding an audience's biases means _[blank]_. Which option best completes the sentence? knowing their values and beliefs and using those to convince them to agree with you knowing what level of vocabulary they will be able to comprehend without having to use a dictionary knowing their preconceived notions and addressing them objectively knowing what topics might upset them and avoiding those topics in the essay you are writing
knowing their values and beliefs and using those to convince them to agree with you knowing what topics might upset them and avoiding those topics in the essay you are writing **INCORRECT**
Antithesis
literally means "opposite," and in rhetoric, antithesis describes the rhetorical feature of placing extreme opposites in close proximity, usually within the same sentence. This creates a strong contrast, which can make the tone of the writing seem more dramatic or can highlight an aspect of the author's argument.
unrequited
not returned or repaid in kind; unreciprocated
Diction
often defined simply as "word choice." The author chooses each word in a document or speech, so in a small way, each word shows the author's purpose. Sometimes, authors purposefully use loaded language, or language with strong emotional connotations or other associations. They may want these words to send a secondary message to their audience.
covert
secret; stealthy; hidden, concealed
redress
means of seeking a remedy or correction; compensation, restitution, reparation
Read the sentence. If you evince an emotion, you _[blank]_ the emotion. Which option correctly completes the sentence? understand push away think about show
show
Read the passage. Steve and Alison told the new babysitter that their twins, Joe and Moe, were amenable children. The babysitter did not know the meaning of that word. After the parents left, the babysitter looked it up on her phone's dictionary app. The babysitter then sent her friend a text message about the children she was babysitting. What text message did the babysitter most likely send to her friend? "Hey. Just found out the twins I'm babysitting are pretty obedient kids. Yay!" "Hey. Just found out the twins I'm babysitting are pretty difficult kids. That stinks!" "Hey. Just found out the twins I'm babysitting have pretty big appetites. Wow!" "Hey. Just found out the twins I'm babysitting have pretty serious medical issues. Poor things!"
"Hey. Just found out the twins I'm babysitting are pretty obedient kids. Yay!"
What common phrase contains the word abet? aid and abet abet and enable abet and ask encourage and abet
aid and abet
Which option best states a theme of the Declaration of Independence? Declaration of Independence Peaceful solutions are ideal. Injustice should never be tolerated in any situation. The colonies' claim for independence is legitimate. The colonies' choice to compromise is better than violence.
The colonies' claim for independence is legitimate.
LESSON 17
UNDERSTANDING OUR FOUNDING FATHERS
Read the sentence. One purpose of the Declaration of Independence is to show that _[blank]_. Which option best completes the sentence? Declaration of Independence living far from the British had made the Americans too culturally different to be part of the same country the British needed America's natural resources, and the Americans should have yielded to their requests the colonists endured extremely cruel and unfair treatment before revolting the Americans and the British had a historically deep, unbreakable bond
the colonists endured extremely cruel and unfair treatment before revolting
Counterclaims (counter arguments)
the opposing statements that an audience might make in relation to your claim. For example, look at a claim and counterclaim: Your claim: Teens' use of social media should be restricted. Your audience's counterclaim: Teens' use of social media should not be restricted. Reason for counterclaim: Social media sites provide an important outlet for teens to communicate with their friends in ways that they value. Refutation of the counterclaim: Yes, social media sites do provide an important social outlet for teens, but the potential psychological harm that they can cause teens far outweighs the sites' social advantages.
syntax
the way they arrange those materials to convey intended meanings.
In which sentences is the word encroach used incorrectly? (Select all that apply.) "You children always encroach into my private space," Mrs. Jones commented. "The children's toys continue to encroach into every room," Mrs. Jones commented. "I hope you will encroach into a smart young lady," Mrs. Jones commented. "Doug seems to encroach into new shoes every few months," Mrs. Jones commented.
"You children always encroach into my private space," Mrs. Jones commented. **INCORRECT**
dangling modifier
*Incorrect: Strolling across the causeway,* a cruise ship appeared on the horizon. *Corrected:* Strolling across the causeway, *Marilyn saw* a cruise ship appear on the horizon. *Incorrect: Having checked under all the tables,* the dark glasses Ernesto lost still could not be found. *Corrected:* Having checked under all the tables, *Ernesto* still could not find the dark glasses he had lost.
In which sentence is the word usurp used correctly? After a fight broke out in the lunchroom, the principal called an assembly and began to usurp the students for their poor behavior. After the mayor ordered a tax increase, the council members accused him of trying to usurp their powers. The job candidate plans to usurp his experience to emphasize his superiority over the other candidates. It is rude to usurp your soup when you dine in an elegant restaurant.
After a fight broke out in the lunchroom, the principal called an assembly and began to usurp the students for their poor behavior. **INCORRECT**
Read the sentence. After he meowed loudly for several minutes, Arnold was convinced to give the cat more food. Which options show ways to correct this sentence? (Select all that apply.) After meowing loudly for several minutes, Arnold was convinced to give the cat more food. After meowing loudly for several minutes, Arnold gave the cat more food. After it meowed loudly for several minutes, the cat convinced Arnold to give it more food. After the cat meowed loudly for several minutes, Arnold gave it more food.
After the cat meowed loudly for several minutes, Arnold gave it more food. After it meowed loudly for several minutes, the cat convinced Arnold to give it more food.
Which response best states a theme of the article "What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean in the Declaration of Independence?" What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean? A well-functioning national government exists to provide happiness to its citizens. An American ideal of financial success has been built into our national mindset from our country's earliest days. An American ideal of freedom to live as one prefers is central to our system of government. A well-functioning national government exists to protect its people from physical harm, but nothing more.
An American ideal of freedom to live as one prefers is central to our system of government
Which response represents the best example of irony as a rhetorical feature?
An author states the opposite of his or her actual argument.
You are writing an argumentative essay based on your claim that the use of cell phones while driving should be banned because it seriously endangers other drivers and their passengers on the road. Which options present a viable counterclaim? (Select all that apply.) Arguing with a friend or spouse in the car is extremely distracting, but it is not against the law. Eating in the car is not outlawed even though it takes the driver's attention away from the road. Cell phone use is as dangerous as driving drunk. Talking on a cell phone is not as bad as texting.
Arguing with a friend or spouse in the car is extremely distracting, but it is not against the law. Eating in the car is not outlawed even though it takes the driver's attention away from the road. Cell phone use is as dangerous as driving drunk. **PARTIAL** Arguing with a friend or spouse in the car is extremely distracting, but it is not against the law. Cell phone use is as dangerous as driving drunk. **PARTIAL**
Read the excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." The course of this conflict is not known, yet its outcome is certain. Freedom and fear, justice and cruelty, have always been at war, and we know that God is not neutral between them. Which response best analyzes how Bush uses antithesis to appeal to his audience's emotions? Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks Bush suggests that cruelty may be required to pursue justice, but freedom from fear will be gained. Bush reassures the American people that the war is a true battle between good and evil, and God is on the Americans' side. Bush suggests that peace cannot exist without war, and there is no such thing as neutrality. Bush reassures the American people that the path ahead has both clear and unclear parts, but God always knows the way.
Bush suggests that cruelty may be required to pursue justice, but freedom from fear will be gained. Bush suggests that peace cannot exist without war, and there is no such thing as neutrality. **INCORRECT**
Read President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." Which option most clearly explains Bush's purpose in repeatedly using antithesis as he describes plans for responding to terrorism? Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks Bush uses it to show he understands that freedom must include freedom to disagree. Bush uses it to show he aims to pit Muslims and Christians against one another. Bush uses it to show he aims to combine mercy with justice. Bush uses it to show he understands the seeming conflict in pursuing war to achieve peace.
Bush uses it to show he understands that freedom must include freedom to disagree.
Task 1: Decide on Three Tentative Claims
Create a list of 10 pet peeves—things that annoy you more than any others. Make sure they are expressed in complete sentences. Create claims using "should" or "should not" about three of your pet peeves. Each statement should make a different demand.
Which excerpts from "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address" provide examples of parallelism as a rhetorical feature? (Select all that apply.) Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations. On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago all thoughts were anxiously directed to an impending civil war. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether."
Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation's wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations. **PARTIAL**
Which option most clearly states a theme of the article "What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean in the Declaration of Independence?" What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean? Happiness is a natural state that deserves protection. The accumulation of wealth is the path to happiness that most Americans pursue. Happiness is subject to interpretation. The US Constitution and Declaration of Independence are the legal foundation for the United States.
Happiness is a natural state that deserves protection.
Which option best explains how Thomas Jefferson develops the theme that the people have the right to be ruled by a government that protects their interests? Declaration of Independence He uses an emotional description of the hopeful future that America might have to inspire his readers to join the fight for freedom. He uses an emotional description of the suffering of the innocent colonists to create empathy for them in his readers. He uses logic to argue that God gave all men rights, and men made governments to protect their rights, so men could replace governments that do not protect their rights. He uses logic to argue that the king had begun with small offenses, and then escalated to larger and more violent offenses against the colonists.
He uses logic to argue that God gave all men rights, and men made governments to protect their rights, so men could replace governments that do not protect their rights.
Read the excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." We are not deceived by their pretenses to piety. We have seen their kind before. They are the heirs of all the murderous ideologies of the 20th century. By sacrificing human life to serve their radical visions—by abandoning every value except the will to power—they follow in the path of fascism, Nazism, and totalitarianism. And they will follow that path all the way, to where it ends: in history's unmarked grave of discarded lies. Which response best explains the purpose of Bush's use of diction like "deceived," "murderous," "Nazism," and "lies" to communicate his purpose? Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks He wants to link terrorism to other immoral or evil concepts. He wants to show that terrorism is a direct continuation of Nazism. He wants to advocate a strategy of compromise with terrorists. He wants to imply that terrorism will lead to a world war, as Nazism did.
He wants to link terrorism to other immoral or evil concepts.
Irony
In the context of rhetoric, authors use irony, in which one says the opposite of one's actual meaning to emphasize an argument. Often, irony creates a sense of absurdity and shows the logical or moral appeal of the author's point. To identify irony, look for statements that would not make much sense or would not match the author's other arguments, if taken literally.
Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. Which response best explains how the excerpt expresses a theme of the document that declaring independence from Britain is morally right? Declaration of Independence It asserts the colonists' belief that a higher power approves of their claims to liberty and control of their lands and laws. It suggests that by allowing religious freedom, the colonists will have the right of God behind them in their quest for independence. It suggests that the colonists are so exhausted from British rule that they will risk punishment in the afterlife as a consequence of their rebellion. It asserts the colonists' inability to worship a king and still be faithful to God, thus leading to inevitable revolution.
It asserts the colonists' belief that a higher power approves of their claims to liberty and control of their lands and laws.
Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence. In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people. Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our Brittish brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends. Which option accurately describes how the excerpt reveals an overall purpose of the Declaration of Independence? Declaration of Independence It proves that the colonists have evolved a new national identity, separate from the British identity, and that they can no longer consider the British as brothers and sisters. It flatters the British citizens by praising their character and judgment, and encourages them to side with the colonists in the coming war. It establishes that the colonists have tried to resolve the conflict with Britain in other ways and that they are not escalating the conflict prematurely. It demonstrates that the British people have been exploiting the resources of the colonies without providing for the colonists' well-being.
It establishes that the colonists have tried to resolve the conflict with Britain in other ways and that they are not escalating the conflict prematurely.
Read the excerpt from the Declaration of Independence, which refers to the British king. He has plundered our seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people. Which option best analyzes the impact of Thomas Jefferson's diction as a rhetorical technique?
Jefferson's use of the words "plundered" and "ravaged" emphasizes the extreme cruelty and violence of the British.
Read the sentence. Jenny had to wash the car, buy groceries, and go to the bank before returning home. Which option shows the best way to rewrite this sentence? Leave as is. Jenny had to wash the car, she bought groceries, and went to the bank before returning home. Jenny had to wash the car. And buy groceries, and go to the bank before returning home. Jenny had to wash the car, buying groceries, and going to the bank before returning home.
Leave as is.
Argument
a type of writing, emphasizes logic, specifically claims, reasons, evidence and, counterclaims. As a writer of argument, you focus on two tasks: presenting your claim and its evidence to your audience presenting the opposition to the claim and why that opposition is not valid
Read the excerpt from "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address." At this second appearing to take the oath of the Presidential office there is less occasion for an extended address than there was at the first. Then a statement somewhat in detail of a course to be pursued seemed fitting and proper. Now, at the expiration of four years, during which public declarations have been constantly called forth on every point and phase of the great contest which still absorbs the attention and engrosses the energies of the nation, little that is new could be presented. The progress of our arms, upon which all else chiefly depends, is as well known to the public as to myself, and it is, I trust, reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all. With high hope for the future, no prediction in regard to it is ventured. Which option best analyzes the rhetorical impact of understatement in the excerpt? Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address Lincoln describes having "high hope for the future," which is an opposing viewpoint to that of most Americans. This provides an example of a strong leader providing hope during a bleak time. Lincoln says that "little that is new could be presented," which is surprising because the country is engaged in civil war. This calls attention to the gravity of the situation in a way that stating it outright could not. Lincoln contrasts the adverbs "then" to "now," which shows the passage of time throughout the war. This highlights the extended nature of the war and the hopelessness of many Americans. Lincoln describes the progress as "reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all," which downplays the violence of the war. This was intended to calm and comfort the uneasy populace.
Lincoln describes having "high hope for the future," which is an opposing viewpoint to that of most Americans. This provides an example of a strong leader providing hope during a bleak time. Lincoln describes the progress as "reasonably satisfactory and encouraging to all," which downplays the violence of the war. This was intended to calm and comfort the uneasy populace. **INCORRECT**
retaliation
act of reprisal; getting revenge; payback, revenge, vengeance
Read the excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." I will not yield; I will not rest; I will not relent in waging this struggle for freedom and security for the American people. Which options explain the effect of Bush's use of parallelism? (Select all that apply.) Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks Stating a sequence of related ideas echoes the need for Americans to remain patient and determined. Creating a poetic rhythm makes the words more memorable for the audience. Using "I" repeatedly shows that the president bears the greatest burden of the war. Using simple statements conveys the meaning to people who might not understand it at first.
Stating a sequence of related ideas echoes the need for Americans to remain patient and determined. Creating a poetic rhythm makes the words more memorable for the audience.
Select three general academic terms from the preceding excerpt from "Plastics, Human Health and Environmental Impacts: The Road Ahead." Write a sentence that uses each term in a different context (that does not deal with the environment).
Students obtain many benefits from studying music. The financial sector of the stock market is doing well. Financial considerations forced me to cancel my trip. The dancer's voluminous skirt whirled briskly as she moved.
Read the sentence. When wading in the city pond, broken glass and other trash can be hidden on the bottom. Which option revises the sentence to be correct? When wading in the city pond, you can encounter broken glass and other trash hidden on the bottom. When wading, the city pond can hide broken glass and trash on the bottom. When wading in the city pond, trash and broken glass can be hidden on the bottom. Broken glass and trash can be hidden on the bottom when wading in the city pond.
When wading in the city pond, you can encounter broken glass and other trash hidden on the bottom.
Read the excerpt from "US Constitution: Preamble and Bill of Rights." The Conventions of a number of the States, having at the time of their adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best ensure the beneficent ends of its institution. Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, two thirds of both Houses concurring, that the following Articles be proposed to the Legislatures of the several States, as amendments to the Constitution of the United States, all, or any of which Articles, when ratified by three fourths of the said Legislatures, to be valid to all intents and purposes, as part of the said Constitution. What impact does the use of syntax as a rhetorical feature have in the excerpt? US Constitution: Preamble and Bill of Rights The authors preface their proposals with justifications including phrases like "in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers." This element strengthens their argument by framing the proposed amendments as inseparable from the public good. The authors use formal and detailed sentence structures like "that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added." This element increases the effectiveness of the Constitution by making it completely clear how the document should be interpreted. The authors preface their proposals with justifications including phrases like "in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers." This element gives them political strength by creating a convoluted document that will mislead its critics. The authors use formal and detailed sentence structures like "that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added." This element increases their credibility by showing that they are better educated than their political opponents.
The authors preface their proposals with justifications including phrases like "in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers." This element strengthens their argument by framing the proposed amendments as inseparable from the public good.
Read the excerpt from "US Constitution: Preamble and Bill of Rights." We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America. Which statements best analyze the rhetorical impact of diction in the excerpt? (Select all that apply.) US Constitution: Preamble and Bill of Rights The authors use nouns like "Union," "Justice," "Tranquility," "Welfare," "Blessings," and "Liberty" to express the concept of shared values. The authors use verbs like "provide," "promote," and "secure" to give the sense that the government will be built to care for its people. The authors use phrases like "We the People of the United States" and "Constitution for the United States of America" to instill contemporary readers with patriotic pride. The authors use phrases like "domestic Tranquility" and "common defense" to remind American citizens that the American identity exists within the most common person.
The authors use nouns like "Union," "Justice," "Tranquility," "Welfare," "Blessings," and "Liberty" to express the concept of shared values. The authors use verbs like "provide," "promote," and "secure" to give the sense that the government will be built to care for its people.
Understatement
a rhetorical device where authors say less than what they mean, so that their words contrast with reality. Understatement draws readers' attention to what is missing or what is left out, and encourages them to think more deeply about the author's overall argument. To find understatement in a text, notice the moments when you find yourself thinking, "Well, that's putting it mildly!" The author may be downplaying an aspect of the argument on purpose in order to get your attention.
Read the excerpt from "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks," in which President George W. Bush names simple and directly opposite concepts. I also want to speak tonight directly to Muslims throughout the world. We respect your faith. It's practiced freely by many millions of Americans, and by millions more in countries that America counts as friends. Its teachings are good and peaceful, and those who commit evil in the name of Allah blaspheme the name of Allah. The terrorists are traitors to their own faith, trying, in effect, to hijack Islam itself. The enemy of America is not our many Muslim friends; it is not our many Arab friends. Our enemy is a radical network of terrorists, and every government that supports them. Which answer most clearly explains how words like "friends," "enemy," "peaceful," and "evil" depict Bush's perspective? Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks The words paint a world in which terrorists represent distinct, pure evil, and are separate from the majority of humanity. The words create a portrait of terrorists as people who have divided viewpoints and who are battling one another for power. The words communicate that terrorism is a straightforward problem that can be solved relatively quickly. The words emphasize that the coming war is a conflict between two fundamentally different religions.
The words paint a world in which terrorists represent distinct, pure evil, and are separate from the majority of humanity.
Which excerpt from "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address" most clearly provides an example of antithesis? Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union even by war, while the Government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. On the occasion corresponding to this four years ago all thoughts were anxiously directed to an impending civil war. All dreaded it, all sought to avert it. Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish, and the war came. One-eighth of the whole population were colored slaves, not distributed generally over the Union, but localized in the southern part of it.
To strengthen, perpetuate, and extend this interest was the object for which the insurgents would rend the Union even by war, while the Government claimed no right to do more than to restrict the territorial enlargement of it. **INCORRECT**
Read the excerpt from "Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address." Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman's two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said "the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether." Which option best identifies the rhetorical feature used by Lincoln in the excerpt? Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address allusion irony understatement antithesis
allusion
Jargon
another subset of domain-specific vocabulary. These words also apply only in a specific field or area of expertise, and they are often used as shortcuts to express concepts readily known to experts in that area. Unlike most kinds of domain-specific terminology, jargon is often informal and used in casual conversation, but only among specialized groups.
ead the quotation from the end of "Plastics, Human Health and Environmental Impacts: The Road Ahead." "Although there have been great benefits from using plastics, especially in the health care sector, there needs to be a second revolution of plastics in which life-cycle considerations are integrated with production and consumption decisions to handle the voluminous present-day flow of plastics, most of which are being destined for disposal after single use." Use the space below to list at least five general academic terms from the quotation.
benefits, sector, revolution, considerations, integrated, production, consumption, decisions, voluminous, destined, and disposal.
Read the passage from "What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean in the Declaration of Independence?" Exactly what gives that pleasure, again, varies widely. Researchers believe that the accumulation of wealth is a major source of pleasure for Americans. For instance, a January 2007 Gallup poll showed that 72 percent of people who made $75,000 a year or more said they were happy (WebMD). Material gain in the forms of money, property and personal possessions isn't the only way Americans pursue happiness, however. In the same poll, people who were married—no matter what their income level was—were happier than single people. Things like new cars, large houses and extensive portfolios, along with having a family and friends make us happy to varying degrees. It's up to the individual, as far as Jefferson was concerned, to determine what makes him or her happy (McMahon). The pursuit part, however, is a different story. ... When he wrote the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson avoided defining happiness, choosing to leave it to the individual to determine his or her own meaning of the word. He also may have realized that it's not enough to want to be happy: The path to happiness must be unobstructed, as long as it doesn't interfere with another's happiness, of course. Which response most accurately explains how the excerpt conveys the article's theme that the pursuit of happiness is a subjective endeavor? What Does the 'Pursuit of Happiness' Mean? by giving examples of different types of happiness and explaining that individuals must be free to follow their own paths by explaining that wealth often leads to happiness, which individuals should feel free to pursue by explaining rules for a system with inherent limitations on how involved the government can be in citizens' lives by giving suggestions of where to look for happiness and giving a warning about interfering with another citizen's path to happiness
by giving examples of different types of happiness and explaining that individuals must be free to follow their own paths
Basic Vocabulary
common, frequently used words that make up the majority of casual, everyday conversations and informal communication. Examples appear in this sentence: I shut the door very hard. The words shut, door, very, and hard are all basic vocabulary words.
Compound-complex
consist of two or more independent clauses and at least one dependent clause. The parts of a compound-complex sentence can be joined by coordinating conjunctions such as and, but, and or transitional words such as if, while, because, unless, and since conjunctive adverbs such as furthermore, therefore, however, and nevertheless dashes or semicolons *When* Esmeralda swims at the gym, she has to shower and pack up her gear, *and* she often leaves with wet hair *because* she doesn't have time to blow-dry it. *After* the heavy rains flooded the locker room, the visiting football players were stuck on their bus for two hours, *but* they still played a competitive game.
compound sentence
consists of two (or more) independent clauses and no dependent clauses. Compound sentences are usually joined by coordinating conjunctions like but, and, or, and so. Sometimes independent clauses can be joined with a semicolon or a dash. The frightened cattle scattered across the plain, *and* the cowboys rode after them. At the end of the week, all the campers went home, *but* the counselors stayed on for the next camp session. You must remember your network password *so* you can retrieve your data. Most of the party guests left early*;* a few stayed on until midnight. I got a sweater for my grandma*—*she is always cold. Note that each of the clauses in these examples can stand alone as a separate sentence: The frightened cattle scattered across the plain. The cowboys rode after them.
fervently
in an intense or deeply felt manner; intensely, earnestly
Read the sentence. After the architects looked at the building site, they design changes into their proposal for the new skyscraper. Which word best completes the sentence? absorbed placed combined integrated
integrated
Read the excerpt from Elizabeth Cady Stanton's speech "Address on Woman's Rights." As to their costume, the gentlemen need feel no fear of our imitating that, for we think it in violation of every principle of taste, beauty, and dignity; notwithstanding all the contempt cast upon our loose, flowing garments, we still admire the graceful folds, and consider our costume far more artistic than theirs. ... No! we shall not molest you in your philosophical experiments with stocks, pants, high heeled boots and Russian belt. Yours be the glory to discover by personal experience how long the knee pan can resist the terrible strapping down which you impose—in how short time the well developed muscles of the throat can be reduced to mere threads by the constant pressure of the stock, how high the heel of the boot must be to make a short man tall and how tight the Russian belt may be drawn and yet have wind enough to sustain life. Our ambition leads us neither to discovery or martyrdom of this sort. The author makes references to stocks, knee pants, and Russian belts in the excerpt to show that men are suffering for their fashion. Which option best identifies the rhetorical feature used in the excerpt? irony understatement antithesis parallelism
irony
Read the sentences. Once my mother made up her mind, she never wavered for a second. Predictably, she was _[blank]_ about her decision to convert our house to solar energy. Which word best strengthens the description? resolute profuse flexible aggrieved
resolute
Allusion
is a reference to a different text, an event, or a religious aspect, in order to enhance a description, explanation, or point the author is making. Authors may clearly identify the work they are quoting, or they may allude more subtly by weaving in the reference for effect.
Parallelism
means using the same structure in two or more parts of a sentence or list. This rhetorical feature helps organize lengthy lists, draws the reader's attention to key sections of the text, and creates rhythm within the text. Authors often use parallelism to showcase their most important points. To find parallelism, look for sentences organized into a list structure or with the same phrase repeating several times.
Academic Vocabulary
multipurpose words that people acquire as they advance through their educations. These words tend to be used within many academic disciplines and in communication contexts calling for more formality and complexity than basic vocabulary provides. Ana took precautions to protect her weak wrist so that she would not have to forfeit the tennis match. The words precautions and forfeit are general academic vocabulary words.
A quick test of what you know: Which option correctly identifies the elements that make up a complex sentence? two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses two independent clauses a series of dependent clauses one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses
one independent clause and one or more dependent clauses
Read the excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." As long as the United States of America is determined and strong, this will not be an age of terror; this will be an age of liberty, here and across the world. Which options identify the rhetorical features used in the excerpt? (Select all that apply.) Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks analogy ethos parallelism antithesis
parallelism antithesis
If you use a dictionary to find an antonym of the word deprecate, what word are you most likely to find? praise prove practice profit
praise
Technical Vocabulary
refers to domain-specific language that relates to industrial, mechanical, scientific, financial, and high-tech professional fields. These terms have specific meanings that exclusively apply in these specialized fields.
Syntax
refers to the way sentences are organized. Ask yourself these questions: Do the sentences have many short clauses separated by commas? Are the sentences short or long? Are the sentences the same length and structure as each other, or do they vary?
If you look in the dictionary, what word will you not find as a synonym for the word retaliation? revenge vengeance repayment payback
repayment
Read the excerpt from President George W. Bush's "Address to Joint Session of Congress Following 9/11 Attacks." Americans should not expect one battle, but a lengthy campaign, unlike any other we have ever seen. It may include dramatic strikes, visible on TV, and covert operations, secret even in success. We will starve terrorists of funding, turn them one against another, drive them from place to place, until there is no refuge or no rest. And we will pursue nations that provide aid or safe haven to terrorism. Which word in the excerpt provides a context clue that clarifies the meaning of the word covert? secret safe lengthy visible
secret
Read the sentence. The rhetorical feature of syntax is defined as _[blank]_. Which option best completes the sentence? strategically choosing words to create an emotional tone that attempts to persuade the reader strategically arranging words and phrases within a sentence to emphasize a point constructing arguments using a series of logical claims to create a strong factual argument constructing sentences using extended descriptions that attempt to engage the reader
strategically arranging words and phrases within a sentence to emphasize a point
Read the sentence. Nobody had expected Meg to posit the guideline during the meeting. If you looked in a dictionary, what synonym would you most likely find for the word posit?
suggest
Which options list general academic vocabulary words you could you use when writing essays for any academic discipline? (Select all that apply.) dissuade photosynthesize accumulate supersede
supersede accumulate dissuade
Which option provides a correct description of the word ascribe?
the word ascribe contains the root scribere, meaning "to write."
abet
to actively encourage or support; encourage, incite
Which option best explains why Thomas Jefferson includes a long list of the king's misdeeds in the Declaration of Independence? Declaration of Independence to add credibility to the colonists' argument to declare independence from Britain by clearly outlining the king's abuses to encourage the other founding fathers to consider the gravity of the situation and join the revolution to persuade the king to treat the colonists better so they can continue to provide for Britain to make an emotional appeal by causing the British to feel guilt for their cruel treatment of the colonists
to add credibility to the colonists' argument to declare independence from Britain by clearly outlining the king's abuses
encroach
to advance or intrude beyond set limits; trespass, intrude, creep
ascribe
to attribute to a source; assign; attribute, assign, credit
evince
to clearly demonstrate or exhibit; show, reveal, display
deprecate
to disapprove of or to discount; disparage, minimize
acquiesce
to passively accept or agree without arguing or protest; consent, agree, comply
posit
to propose; to put forth an idea for the sake of an argument; suggest, propose
Which response most clearly states a purpose of the Declaration of Independence? Declaration of Independence to set rules for the governing of the new United States of America to clearly outline the changes the colonists require in order to reconcile with Britain to justify removing King George from the throne and electing a new ruler in his place to clearly outline a philosophy for the founding of the United States of America
to set rules for the governing of the new United States of America **INCORRECT**
blaspheme
to speak or act disrespectfully toward things considered sacred, such as gods; swear, curse, revile
amenable
willing to accept something that is asked for or wanted; inclined, ready, obedient
Qualifiers
words and phrases that leave some room for the other side of the argument, the side you are not advocating. Here are some examples: occasionally, usually, sometimes many, some, most might, likely, could probably, possibly Sentence without a qualifier: College seniors do not know what they want to do with their future. Sentence with a qualifier: Many college seniors do not know what they want to do with their future.
