Persuasion in Arguments: Speeches, What was the main argument

Persuasion in Arguments: Speeches

APA format

Each speaker, whether in a small, group setting or on an international stage, is trying to convey a message to their audience through some sort of argument. If there is no argument present, the message is less emergent to the audience, making it less effective. The effect of their speech depends on their ability to clearly communicate their message to the audience while not alienating them with the argument of the message.

For this assignment, we are evaluating the effectiveness of the speaker in constructing and conveying their message through an argument, using materials from the last few weeks. We are not evaluating the message itself or agreeing or disagreeing with the message. 

Go to this website

https://www.ted.com/talksLinks to an external site.

Pick one of the speeches to evaluate. After watching the speech, answer the following questions:

1. What was the main argument of the speech? Provide a  short  summary, remembering that you will need to cite this speech. 

2. What support (logos) does the speaker offer for their message? What types of evidence does the speaker use, and is it effective? Explain why or why not.

3. Is this argument new or innovative? Does the speaker offer any reason why we should listen to this argument or why it is important at this point in time? What pathos appeals does the speaker use, and do they use them effectively?

4. Do you think the argument was delivered well by a speaker that can be trusted (ethos)? I am not interested in whether you agree with the message – we are evaluating the ethos of the speaker and their ability to deliver the message. What was effective or ineffective? What contributed to their ethos?

5. Is the argument phrased in a way that will stick with the audience? Provide some analysis of word choice, sentence structure, grouping, etc. that add to the acceptability of the argument.

While you are going to answer all of these questions, the final submission should be written in essay format, using appropriate, college-level writing, supporting materials with correct APA citations and references, and a cover page. Your paper should not be a list of answers or a bullet point response - create an argument that answers all of the questions in a paper that is readable and interesting. This short paper should be 4 pages not including the cover page or reference page.