This is a COAS Intensive Writing (IW) class
Fulfills COAS S & H distribution requirement
A portion of this class is reserved for majors

C305 is a course in the practical art of rhetorical criticism. It
focuses on the application of a wide variety of specific critical
methods to communication artifacts in order to determine how and for
whom they function persuasively.  Although rhetorical criticism has
its origins in the evaluation of speeches, in this class you will
have the opportunity to evaluate many different kinds of
communication artifacts, ranging from speeches to films,
photographs, and even buildings. You will have the chance to write
about the kinds of artifacts that interest you, with guidance from
me and from your peers. You will learn how to structure a clearly
organized and well-supported rhetorical criticism essay, and learn
how to improve your writing through the process of revision.
Rhetorical criticism can be a life-changing experience. Through
rhetorical criticism, we can better understand the strategies and
motives of rhetors, the underlying ideologies of communication
texts, and the implications of persuasive discourse for human
beings.


•	This course assumes that responsibility for learning rests
jointly with students and professors.  I expect you to read and
think critically, take notes on your readings and in class, be
attentive, work well with others, and demonstrate that you are
engaged in the learning process.
•	This course uses brief lectures, active discussions and
regular in-class activities to assist you in understanding and
applying course material.
•	Attendance is a required component of this course
•	Assignments include written discussion questions, 2 exams, 3
formal essays with revisions, a team (2-person) report on a
scholarly article, and class participation. You should expect to do
a great deal of writing in this course.
•	The class will use Sonja Foss’ textbook, Rhetorical
Criticism: Exploration and Practice, and a selection of critical
articles available on E-reserves.