Before taking this class I did not know how to compose or write an argument. Chapter three of Envision has taught me how to improve my argument skills. I learned the canons of rhetoric, which are the principles by which all writing, speaking, or visual arguments operate. They canons of rhetoric are invention, arrangement, style, memory, and delivery.
The invention of an argument involves the language you use to persuade your audience. You should ask yourself “What does the text mean?” “What are other examples?”. Once you develop your invention then comes the arrangement of the argument. This is very important because the way you present your ideas and material throughout your paper will shape the reader’s response. Next is style. Style is about choosing the right expression for your invention. The style is using the correct choice of language, tone, metaphors, imagery, quotations, and nuance. In choosing these words or phrases you are constructing your persona as a writer. The book gives the example of President Barack Obama choosing to give a speech about war flanked by a group of military men and women or a speech about the health care system while surrounded by doctors and nurses.
In writing your argument your persona and rhetorical stance should include three key elements; titles, introductions and conclusions. The title is the reader’s first encounter with your topic so it should frame and set up your argument. The book says “Like your title, your introduction offers your readers insight into the persona and rhetorical stance that will characterize your essay as a whole.” Here you should establish your voice, tone, persona, and clearly define your topic. And finally the conclusion should reinforce the essay’s argument while making a lasting impact on the audience.
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