Unit & Timeline

Objectives

Materials

Rhetorical Analysis

Tone & Diction

Rhetorical Devices

5 Weeks

Reading Standards:

RL.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in the text, including figurative and connotative meanings; analyze the impact of specific word choices on meaning and tone, including words with multiple meanings or language that is particularly fresh, engaging, or beautiful. (Include Shakespeare as well as other authors.)

RL.9-10.6: Analyze a case in which grasping the point of view requires distinguishing what is directly stated in a text from what is really meant (e.g., satire, sarcasm, irony, or understatement).

Writing Standards:

W.9-10.1: Write arguments to support claims in an analysis of substantive topics or texts, using valid reasoning and relevant and sufficient evidence.

a: Introduce precise, knowledgeable claim(s), establish the significance of the claim(s), distinguish the claim(s) from alternate or opposing claims, and create an organization that logically sequences claim(s), counterclaims, reasons, and evidence.

b: Develop claim(s) and counterclaims fairly and thoroughly, supplying the most relevant evidence for each while pointing out the strengths and limitations of both claim(s) and counterclaims in a discipline-appropriate form that anticipates the audience’s knowledge level, concerns, values, and possible biases.

d: Establish and maintain a formal style and objective tone while attending to the norms and conventions of the discipline in which they are writing.

e: Provide a concluding statement or section that follows from or supports the argument presented.

Speaking and Listening Standards:

SL.9-10.3: Evaluate a speaker’s point of view, reasoning, and use of evidence and rhetoric, assessing the stance, premises, links among ideas, word choice, points of emphasis, and tone used.

These standards address various aspects of analyzing text, understanding point of view, and writing arguments with valid reasoning and evidence. Students will engage in the analysis of texts, including the use of rhetorical devices and the evaluation of arguments presented by authors and speakers. These skills are foundational for developing critical thinking and argumentation skills.

Readings:

-        John F Kennedy Speech, “An Immigrant Contribution”

-        Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Letter to Birmingham Jail”

-        Henry David Thoreau, “Civil Disobedience”

-"Crip Camp" Documentary