8.2 Final Exam (Essay #4)

This is it: the finishing line. Ok, almost...I know many of you are still working on the revision of the rhetorical analysis of Tompkins' essay and your final paper; for this reason, I have extended the deadline, but you may take this today if you like. You are more than ready for it. 

For this final exam, you will have 3 hours to complete a rhetorical analysis of a single argumentative essay. This exam is based on the Writing Placement Assessment (WPA) at San Diego State University, which we reviewed earlier in the course, Unit 4.5.  It is not close to the challenge Tompkins' essay gave you. 

To be more specific (hint, hint): You will be expected to do the following:

1. Explain the author's argument by identifying his purpose and audience (rhetorical situation) and briefly summarizing the content and form of the text (tip: don't forget your "Academic Meaty Sentence" that includes his major claim);
2. identify and describe two persuasive strategies the author uses to support his argument and analyze how those strategies might persuade the reader to support the claim;
3. discuss any assumption/s on which the argument is based;
4. evaluate the extent to which his audience would find the argument convincing.

Once you start the essay, you cannot close it and come back, so make sure you are in a quiet place and have set aside three full hours. Do not wait till the last minute.

Finally, thank you for the privilege of engaging with you. Though our time together was short, and there were delays to an occurrence in my personal life, I am moved by your patience and impressed by your commitment. You should feel good about yourself.

And I wish you the best as you continue to pursue your academic and personal goals. The world is better off due to people like you. I mean that. 

Enjoy the holidays!

My very best,

Sydney