Class 5
Class 5
I. Introduction
Welcome to Class 5! Today, we'll dive into the world of rhetorical skills and strategies,
an essential aspect of mastering the SAT Writing and Language section.
I. Introduction
In the previous class, we focused on developing skills related to "Command of
Evidence," an important aspect of the SAT English section.
Command of Evidence questions require you to use specific evidence from a passage
to support your answers.
II. Importance of Command of Evidence
We discussed why mastering Command of Evidence is crucial:
o It tests your ability to find and use evidence effectively.
o It ensures that your answers are grounded in the text.
o It's essential for both the SAT Reading and Writing sections.
III. Types of Command of Evidence Questions
We explored the different types of Command of Evidence questions, which include:
1. Citing Evidence for a Claim: Providing evidence to support a statement or
assertion.
2. Citing Evidence for an Interpretation: Using evidence to explain the meaning
or significance of a passage.
3. Citing Evidence for a Revision (in Writing): Selecting evidence to justify a
change or improvement in a passage.
IV. Strategies for Answering Command of Evidence Questions
We discussed effective strategies to tackle these questions:
1. Refer Back to the Passage: Always return to the relevant part of the passage
to find evidence.
2. Consider Context: Ensure the selected evidence fits the context and supports
your answer.
3. Watch for Trap Answers: Be cautious of evidence that might seem correct but
doesn't align with the question's context.
Introduction
Rhetoric is the art of effective communication and persuasion through the use of
language and various techniques.
In the context of the SAT, understanding rhetoric is crucial for excelling in the Writing
and Language section.
Definition of Rhetoric
Rhetoric involves the strategic use of language to influence or persuade an audience.
It goes beyond the mere conveyance of information and focuses on crafting
messages to achieve specific goals.
Elements of Rhetoric
Rhetoric comprises several elements, including:
1. Rhetorical Devices: These are specific techniques and figures of speech used
by writers to convey meaning, create emphasis, and persuade.
2. Appeals: Rhetorical appeals are strategies used to persuade an audience
based on logic (logos), emotion (pathos), or credibility (ethos).
3. Tone: The author's attitude or emotional stance toward the subject matter.
Tone can influence the reader's perception of the text.
4. Style: The manner in which an author expresses ideas, including word choice,
sentence structure, and overall writing style.
Purpose of Rhetoric
Rhetorical techniques serve various purposes, including:
o Making a persuasive argument.
o Evoking emotions in the reader.
o Clarifying complex ideas.
o Enhancing the overall impact of the writing.
Analyzing Rhetoric
To effectively analyze rhetoric in SAT passages, you should:
o Identify rhetorical devices used.
o Consider their purpose and impact on the passage.
o Evaluate whether they achieve the author's intended effect.
Conclusion
Understanding rhetoric is a fundamental skill for excelling in the SAT Writing and
Language section.
It enables you to recognize and analyze persuasive techniques, enhancing your ability
to improve and express ideas in written passages.
Understanding rhetoric will play a significant role as you tackle SAT questions related to
passage improvement and expression of ideas, helping you become a more effective and
strategic writer.
I. Introduction
Rhetorical devices are powerful tools that writers use to convey meaning, create
emphasis, and persuade their audience.
Recognizing and understanding these devices is crucial for analyzing passages in the
SAT Writing and Language section.
II. Simile
Definition: A simile is a figure of speech that compares two unlike things using the
words "like" or "as."
Example: "Brave as a lion."
Purpose: Similes create vivid imagery and make comparisons more relatable to the
reader.
III. Metaphor
Definition: A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly equates two unlike things
without using "like" or "as."
Example: "The world is a stage."
Purpose: Metaphors convey complex ideas and evoke vivid mental images.
IV. Analogy
Definition: An analogy draws parallels between different situations or concepts to
clarify or emphasize a point.
Example: "Life is like a journey."
Purpose: Analogies help readers understand unfamiliar concepts by relating them to
something more familiar.
V. Hyperbole
Definition: Hyperbole is an exaggeration for emphasis or effect.
Example: "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse."
Purpose: Hyperbole creates dramatic impact and exaggerates for humorous or
emotional effect.
VI. Irony
Definition: Irony involves a contrast between what is said and what is meant, or
between what is expected and what actually happens.
Example: "It's a fine day for a picnic" on a rainy day.
Purpose: Irony adds depth and complexity to a text, often with a satirical or critical
undertone.
VII. Repetition
Definition: Repetition is the deliberate use of the same word or phrase for emphasis.
Example: "I have a dream."
Purpose: Repetition reinforces key ideas, creating a memorable impact on the
reader.
VIII. Parallelism
Definition: Parallelism involves using similar structures or patterns in sentences or
phrases.
Example: "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield."
Purpose: Parallelism creates balance, rhythm, and clarity in writing. It makes ideas
flow smoothly and is often used in speeches and persuasive writing.
IX. Oxymoron
Definition: An oxymoron combines contradictory or opposing words to create a
unique effect.
Example: "Bittersweet" or "deafening silence."
Purpose: Oxymorons provoke thought and add complexity to descriptions.
X. Alliteration
Definition: Alliteration is the repetition of the same consonant sound at the
beginning of words in close proximity.
Example: "She sells seashells by the seashore."
Purpose: Alliteration creates musicality and rhythm in language, making phrases
more memorable.
XI. Personification
Definition: Personification attributes human qualities or characteristics to non-
human objects, animals, or ideas.
Example: "The wind whispered through the trees."
Purpose: Personification makes descriptions more vivid and relatable.
XII. Onomatopoeia
Definition: Onomatopoeia is the use of words that imitate sounds associated with
their meaning.
Example: "Buzz," "clang," or "murmur."
Purpose: Onomatopoeia adds sensory elements to writing, helping readers engage
more deeply with the text.
XIII. Euphemism
Definition: A euphemism replaces harsh or unpleasant words or phrases with milder
ones to soften the impact.
Example: "Passed away" instead of "died."
Purpose: Euphemisms are used to be more considerate or less direct, often in
sensitive or formal contexts.
1. In the sentence, "Her words cut like a knife," what type of rhetorical device is used?
A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Hyperbole D) Personification
2. Which rhetorical device involves the repetition of the same consonant sound at the
beginning of multiple words in a sentence or phrase? A) Alliteration B) Assonance C)
Onomatopoeia D) Oxymoron
3. Identify the rhetorical device in the sentence: "The car roared to life." A) Simile B)
Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
4. What is the purpose of using anaphora in a speech or text? A) To create a vivid image
B) To express contradictory ideas C) To emphasize a point through repetition D) To
appeal to the audience's emotions
5. In the sentence, "The stars danced in the night sky," what type of rhetorical device is
used? A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
6. Which rhetorical device involves the use of exaggerated language for emphasis? A)
Hyperbole B) Irony C) Oxymoron D) Allusion
7. Identify the rhetorical device in the sentence: "He is as busy as a bee." A) Simile B)
Metaphor C) Hyperbole D) Personification
8. What is the term for a rhetorical technique where a statement or claim is made less
absolute or more moderate? A) Hyperbole B) Litotes C) Metonymy D) Paradox
9. In the sentence, "The rain seemed to cry from the heavens," what type of rhetorical
device is used? A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
10. What is the term for a rhetorical device that involves addressing an absent or
imaginary person or entity as if they were present and able to respond? A)
Apostrophe B) Alliteration C) Euphemism D) Metonymy
11. Identify the rhetorical device in the sentence: "The city never sleeps." A) Simile B)
Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
12. What rhetorical device involves using contradictory or opposing words or ideas in a
phrase or sentence? A) Alliteration B) Antithesis C) Metonymy D) Onomatopoeia
13. In the sentence, "His smile was as bright as the sun," what type of rhetorical device is
used? A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
14. What is the term for a rhetorical device where a part of something is used to
represent the whole or vice versa? A) Metonymy B) Alliteration C) Oxymoron D)
Paradox
15. Identify the rhetorical device in the sentence: "The wind whispered through the
trees." A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
16. What rhetorical device involves the use of words or phrases that appeal to the five
senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell)? A) Alliteration B) Hyperbole C) Imagery
D) Simile
17. In the sentence, "Time flies when you're having fun," what type of rhetorical device
is used? A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
18. What is the term for a rhetorical technique where two contrasting ideas are
juxtaposed to create a paradoxical effect? A) Allusion B) Paradox C) Metonymy D)
Euphemism
19. Identify the rhetorical device in the sentence: "The darkness wrapped around him
like a shroud." A) Simile B) Metaphor C) Personification D) Hyperbole
20. What rhetorical device involves the use of a word or phrase that imitates the sound it
represents? A) Onomatopoeia B) Hyperbole C) Alliteration D) Metaphor
Answers:
1. B) Metaphor
2. A) Alliteration
3. C) Personification
4. C) To emphasize a point through repetition
5. B) Metaphor
6. A) Hyperbole
7. A) Simile
8. B) Litotes
9. C) Personification
10. A) Apostrophe
11. D) Hyperbole
12. B) Antithesis
13. A) Simile
14. A) Metonymy
15. C) Personification
16. C) Imagery
17. D) Hyperbole
18. B) Paradox
19. B) Metaphor
20. A) Onomatopoeia
Practice Set 3
Passage 1:
In the 1960s, during the height of the civil rights movement, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered
his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech in front of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The
speech is known for its powerful rhetoric and calls for racial equality. Here is an excerpt from
that speech:
"I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and
tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a
dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We
hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.' I have a dream that one
day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave
owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood."
Passage 2:
In Jane Austen's novel "Pride and Prejudice," the character Elizabeth Bennet engages in a
heated discussion with Mr. Darcy. Here's an excerpt from their exchange:
"You are too generous to trifle with me. If your feelings are still what they were last April, tell
me so at once. My affections and wishes are unchanged, but one word from you will silence
me on this subject forever."
Passage 4:
In William Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," the character Hamlet delivers his famous soliloquy:
"To be or not to be, that is the question: Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings
and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles And, by
opposing, end them."
Passage 5:
In her novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," Harper Lee explores themes of racial injustice and moral
growth. Here's an excerpt from the book:
"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until
you climb into his skin and walk around in it."
Passage 1:
1. The central message of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech is the call for
racial equality and unity in America.
2. King uses repetition as a rhetorical device with the phrase "I have a dream" to
emphasize the vision of a better future and to make his message more memorable.
3. An example of metaphor in this passage is "the sons of former slaves and the sons of
former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood."
This metaphor symbolizes racial harmony and unity.
4. King's reference to the American dream connects the struggle for civil rights to the
fundamental principles of the United States, emphasizing that the dream of equality
is part of the American identity.
5. The phrase "table of brotherhood" signifies the vision of a racially harmonious
society, and it supports King's message by portraying a vivid image of unity and
equality.
Passage 2:
6. The tone of Mr. Darcy's speech in this passage is serious and earnest.
7. The use of conditional statements, such as "If your feelings are still what they were,"
contributes to the rhetorical effect by showing Mr. Darcy's vulnerability and desire
for clarity in their relationship.
8. Mr. Darcy employs straightforward and sincere language in this passage, revealing his
earnestness and determination.
9. The purpose of Mr. Darcy's statement, "My affections and wishes are unchanged," is
to express his unwavering love for Elizabeth and his commitment to her.
10. Elizabeth Bennet's response to Mr. Darcy's speech reflects her initial skepticism and
reluctance to accept his affections.
Passage 3:
11. The main idea of Emerson's statement in this passage is that true genius lies in
believing in one's own thoughts and truths, rather than conforming to the opinions
of others.
12. Emerson uses the word "genius" to emphasize that individuality and independent
thinking are characteristics of greatness.
13. An example of parallelism in this sentence is the repetition of the phrase "to believe."
It reinforces the importance of individual belief.
14. Emerson's emphasis on individual belief and truth aligns with the broader theme of
self-reliance, highlighting the value of independent thought.
15. Emerson conveys the message that embracing and trusting one's own thoughts and
beliefs is a powerful expression of individual potential.
Passage 4:
16. Hamlet is contemplating the central dilemma of whether it is better to endure the
sufferings and uncertainties of life ("to be") or to end one's own life ("not to be").
17. The use of antithesis in the phrase "To be or not to be" creates a stark contrast
between existence and non-existence, adding depth to Hamlet's internal conflict.
18. An example of metaphor in this soliloquy is "The slings and arrows of outrageous
fortune," which compares life's hardships to projectiles launched at a target. It
emphasizes the idea of enduring difficulties.
19. Hamlet's internal struggle reflects the broader themes of existentialism, morality, and
the consequences of one's actions.
20. This soliloquy provides insights into Hamlet's profound inner turmoil, his
contemplative nature, and his philosophical approach to life and death.
Passage 5:
21. Harper Lee's message in this passage is the importance of empathy and
understanding others by seeing things from their perspective.
22. The metaphor of "climb into his skin and walk around in it" emphasizes the idea that
true understanding comes from experiencing life as someone else, highlighting the
importance of empathy.
23. The rhetorical device used in the phrase "You never really understand a person until"
is anaphora, which reinforces the idea of understanding through empathy.
24. This passage relates to the broader themes of racial prejudice, social justice, and
moral growth in "To Kill a Mockingbird."
25. Empathy plays a crucial role in the character development of Scout and Jem as they
learn to see the world from others' points of view and confront the injustices and
prejudices in their society.
Practice Set 3
Passage 1:
In the 19th century, the Industrial Revolution transformed the way people lived and worked.
Factories and machines became commonplace, leading to both economic growth and social
change. One significant consequence was the shift from rural to urban living as people
flocked to cities in search of factory jobs. While this period brought about innovation and
prosperity for some, it also led to harsh working conditions and income inequality.
2. Which of the following best describes the overall tone of the passage? A) Optimistic
B) Critical C) Indifferent D) Humorous
3. What is the main idea of this passage? A) The Industrial Revolution brought
prosperity and equality to all. B) The shift from rural to urban living was detrimental
to society. C) Factories and machines had no impact on the 19th century. D) The
Industrial Revolution had both positive and negative effects on society.
Passage 2:
The rainforests of the Amazon basin are home to a vast array of plant and animal species,
many of which are not found anywhere else on Earth. These ecosystems are often referred
to as the "lungs of the planet" because they play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide
and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. However, deforestation in the Amazon threatens
these vital ecosystems and contributes to global climate change.
9. What is the purpose of the passage? A) To inform readers about the unique species
in the Amazon rainforests B) To advocate for the continuation of deforestation C) To
highlight the benefits of deforestation for the environment D) To emphasize the
importance of preserving the Amazon rainforests
10. What is the significance of the Amazon rainforests being referred to as the "lungs of
the planet"? A) It suggests that the rainforests are responsible for oxygen production.
B) It indicates that the rainforests are vital for human respiration. C) It emphasizes
the need for more research on the rainforests. D) It implies that the rainforests have
no impact on the environment.
Passage 3:
The concept of time travel has long captured the imagination of both scientists and writers.
While time travel remains a staple of science fiction literature, some physicists have explored
the possibility of time dilation, a phenomenon predicted by Einstein's theory of relativity.
Time dilation suggests that time can pass at different rates depending on one's relative
motion and gravitational field.
12. What is the tone of the passage? A) Sceptical B) Imaginative C) Analytical D) Annoyed
13. According to the passage, what does time dilation suggest? A) Time always passes at
the same rate regardless of conditions. B) Time can pass at different rates due to
relative motion and gravity. C) Time travel is a common phenomenon in literature. D)
Physicists have disproven Einstein's theory of relativity.
14. What is the purpose of this passage? A) To explain the concept of time dilation B) To
criticize the use of time travel in literature C) To argue against the theory of relativity
D) To promote time travel as a real possibility
15. How does time dilation relate to Einstein's theory of relativity? A) It contradicts the
theory of relativity. B) It is unrelated to the theory of relativity. C) It is predicted by
the theory of relativity. D) It has no impact on the theory of relativity.
Passage 4:
In recent years, social media has become a pervasive force in society, influencing how
people communicate, connect, and consume information. While it offers benefits such as
instant communication and global connectivity, it also raises concerns about privacy,
misinformation, and the impact on mental health.
17. What is the tone of the passage? A) Celebratory B) Critical C) Indifferent D) Comedic
18. According to the passage, what are some concerns raised by the influence of social
media? A) Improved mental health and privacy B) Misinformation and
communication challenges C) Global connectivity and instant communication D) The
benefits of social media
19. What is the purpose of this passage? A) To promote the use of social media B) To
criticize the impact of social media C) To explore the history of social media D) To
inform readers about the benefits of social media
20. How does the passage characterize the influence of social media on society? A) As
entirely positive with no drawbacks B) As mostly positive with some concerns C) As
entirely negative with no benefits D) As irrelevant and inconsequential
Passage 5:
The concept of "happiness" has been the subject of philosophical inquiry for centuries.
Philosophers from Aristotle to Kant have explored the nature of happiness and its
relationship to morality and well-being. While there is no universal definition of happiness,
many agree that it encompasses a sense of contentment, fulfillment, and positive emotional
states.
22. What is the tone of the passage? A) Skeptical B) Analytical C) Definitive D) Critical
23. According to the passage, how do philosophers like Aristotle and Kant contribute to
the discussion of happiness? A) They provide universal definitions of happiness. B)
They emphasize the importance of negative emotions. C) They explore the nature of
happiness and its connection to morality. D) They dismiss the concept of happiness
as irrelevant.
24. What is the purpose of this passage? A) To define happiness in absolute terms B) To
discuss the historical exploration of happiness by philosophers C) To argue that
happiness is impossible to attain D) To provide tips for achieving happiness
25. How is happiness generally described in the passage? A) As a universal and easily
definable concept B) As a state of constant excitement and euphoria C) As a sense of
contentment and positive emotional states D) As an unattainable goal that should
not be pursued
Answers Set 2
Passage 1:
1. C) Economic growth and social change
2. B) Critical
3. D) The Industrial Revolution had both positive and negative effects on society.
4. B) The availability of factory jobs
5. B) Harsh working conditions and income inequality
Passage 2:
6. B) Absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen
7. A) Critical
8. C) Destruction of vital ecosystems
9. D) To emphasize the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforests
10. A) It suggests that the rainforests are responsible for oxygen production.
Passage 3:
11. C) The concept of time dilation
12. C) Analytical
13. B) Time can pass at different rates due to relative motion and gravity.
14. A) To explain the concept of time dilation
15. C) It is predicted by the theory of relativity.
Passage 4:
16. C) The impact of social media on society
17. B) Critical
18. B) Misinformation and communication challenges
19. D) To inform readers about the benefits of social media
20. B) As mostly positive with some concerns
Passage 5:
21. B) Philosophical inquiries about happiness
22. B) Analytical
23. C) They explore the nature of happiness and its connection to morality.
24. B) To discuss the historical exploration of happiness by philosophers
25. C) As a sense of contentment and positive emotional states