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argument and persuasion - rhetorical devices

A rhetorical device is a technique of using language that will increase the persuasiveness of a piece of writing.

EXAMPLES OF RHETORICAL DEVICES
USING THESE APPROPRIATELY WILL GAIN MARKS!

1. Rhetorical question

    Can we really expect the school to keep paying from its limited resources?

2. Emotive language

    Imagine being cast out into the street, cold, lonely and frightened.

3. Parallel structures

    To show kindness is praiseworthy; to show hatred is evil.

4. Sound patterns

    Alliteration: Callous, calculating cruelty – is this what we must expect?

    Assonance: A fine time we all had, too.

5. Contrast

    Sometimes we have to be cruel to be kind.

6. Description and Imagery (i.e. using metaphor, simile and personification)

    While we wait and do nothing, we must not forget that the fuse is already burning.

7. The ‘rule of three’

    I ask you, is this fair, is it right, is it just?

8. Repetition

    Evil minds will use evil means.

9. Hyperbole (using exaggeration for effect)

    While we await your decision, the whole school holds its breath.

10. Anecdote

Click here for more on this key persuasive device.


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