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Competency: Rhetorical Precis for Crucible
Woodworth, Margaret K. (1988). The rhetorical précis. Rhetoric Review, 7.1, 156-164.
What is a Rhetorical Precis?
A Rhetorical Precis a four sentence paragraph that records the essential elements of
a work of literature. It is not a summary but an analysis of what the text says and does. It
follows the following format:
The four sentences of the précis:
1. Name of author, genre and title of work, date in parentheses; a rhetorically accurate verb
(such as “assert,” “argue,” “suggest,” “imply,” “claim,” etc.); and a THAT clause
containing the major assertion (thesis statement) of the work.
2. An explanation of how the author develops and/or supports the thesis, usually in
chronological order. This should be an embedded quote.
3. A statement of the author’s apparent purpose, followed by an “in order” phrase indicating
the change the author wants to effect in the audience. This is your commentary to the
quote, and it proves your point.
4. A description of the intended audience and the relationship the author established with
the audience. This explains what the author was attempting to accomplish for the reader.
Directions for Competency:
(Must be well edited and free of errors, meeting a 75% proficiency to pass.)
Create 2 Separate Rhetorical Pecis that addresses 2 of the 4questions below. :
** Discuss the role that grudges and personal rivalries play in “The Crucible.”
*How do the witch trials empower individuals who were previously powerless?
* What role does Salem’s theocracy government play in the action of “The Crucible” ?
*What role does fear play in “The Crucible”?
Use the following template to help you get started:
Precis Template: This is just a rough outline. You may adapt to fit your needs.
Sentence 1:
_________________________________________ in his __________________
Author’s Full Name
Type of Work
______________________________________________
Title of Work
________________________
Year of Distribution
__________________________ that __________________________________________
Rhetorical Verb (See Choices)
(Your Thesis)
_________________________________________________________________________.
Sentence 2:
_________________________________________ supports this (by or when)
Author’s Last Name
______________________________________________________________________.
(EMBEDED QUOTE)
Sentence 3:
__________________________ purpose is to ____________________________________
(His/Her)
_________________________________________________________________________.
Sentence 4:
This lets his audience of __________________________________ (know/understand)
(Type of Audience)
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________