Download How to Write a Rhetorical Précis

How to Write a Rhetorical Précis
A rhetorical précis is a specific type of summary emphasizing the rhetorical features of the text
in clear, precise language. Essential information within the rhetorical précis includes the writer’s
name, the genre and name of the piece, the way in which this information is delivered, the main
point, how the point is developed, and the relationship between the writer and audience. This
information is presented in four very specific sentences as outlined below.
Sentence 1: Give the name of the author, the genre, and the title of the work. Be sure to use text
analysis verbs and a “THAT clause” to state the author’s major assertion/thesis.
Example: In “America Needs Its Nerds,” an op-ed article in the New York Times, Leonid
Fridman asserts that the American attitude of anti-intellectualism must end for America to
remain a competitive global force.
In
, a/n
(Write the name of the article)
,
(Write the genre.)
author
(Write the name of the author.)
that
(Use a marker verb.)
(Write the major
assertion or thesis of the article.)
Sentence 2: Explain how the author develops and supports the thesis/assertion. Explain this
organization technique chronologically.
Example: Fridman supports his claim through a series of contrasting examples displaying the
attitude toward scholars and intellectuals in America and other countries.
supports his/her claim (through, by)
(Write the author’s name.)
.
(Write the techniques the author uses to develop and support his assertion/thesis.)
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Copyright © 2009 Laying the Foundation , Inc., Dallas, TX. All rights reserved. Visit: www.layingthefoundation.org
How to Write a Rhetorical Précis
Sentence 3: Give the author’s purpose followed by an IN ORDER TO phrase.
Example: Fridman’s purpose is to bring attention to what he sees as a damaging attitude in
order to bring about change.
purpose is to
(Write the author’s name as a possessive.)
(Write the author’s purpose.)
in order to
(Write a statement of the author’s ultimate goal in writing the piece.)
.
Sentence 4: Write a description of the intended audience and/or of the relationship the author
attempts to establish with his audience.
Example: Based on his insistent and accusing tone, coupled with pointed examples, Fridman is
writing for American sports lovers who have negative attitudes toward learning and the learned.
Based on the
,
(Write a basis for the inference about the audience—such as tone, language, examples)
(Write the author’s name.)
is writing (to/for)
.
(Write a description of the intended audience.)
.
®
Copyright © 2009 Laying the Foundation , Inc., Dallas, TX. All rights reserved. Visit: www.layingthefoundation.org