Lexicon #7: Cyclical structure

Definition: A technique in which writing ends by returning to the idea, scene, image, or message that it began with. This creates a sense of closure and cohesion by bringing the reader full circle. It’s often used to show how a character has evolved, changed, and/or developed.

Notebook Entry #2: Pick either King or Klosterman's essay!

Common Assessment #1

 Common Assessment #1 Writing Portion

“A Letter to NFL GMs” is a personal and persuasive letter written by a then NFL draft prospect, Shaquem Griffin, aiming to showcase his value beyond the statistics and traditional assessments. The letter addresses General Managers directly, emphasizing the player's dedication, resilience, and unique qualities that might not be evident from standard evaluations. It’s both a professional pitch and a heartfelt appeal, aiming to highlight the player's character, work ethic, and passion for the game, ultimately arguing why he deserves a spot on an NFL roster. 

Choose one of the two prompts for your writing portion.

Prompt #1: Write a well-written paragraph in which you examine one of Griffin’s messages and highlight which rhetorical strategies (persuasive techniques) is most effective in persuading the NFL GMs.

Prompt #2: Write a well-written paragraph in which choose a specific line or phrase from "A Letter to NFL GMs" that you feel effectively references or echoes an earlier point made in the letter. Explain how this callback adds depth or emphasis to the writer’s message. 

Criteria for Success:

• A strong claim or topic sentence

  • Examples: Griffin argues (message) by (using rhetorical strategy) or Griffin uses cyclical structure in order to (why does he callback something). 

• Specific textual evidence (at least one quote)

  • Example: Griffin explains his point when he states, "blah" (3).

• Explanation of the rhetoric’s effectiveness and persuasiveness

  • Examples: Here, Griffin suggests that...
    This argument is effective as it...

This argument is somewhat effective because...

This argument is ineffective due to...

• Your best spelling & grammar

Rhetoric reminders:

Ethos: How does the author establish credibility or authority in this letter? What choices or strategies are used to make the author seem knowledgeable or trustworthy?

Pathos: How does the author appeal to the emotions of the intended audience (NFL General Managers)? Which parts of the letter are designed to evoke an emotional response, and how do they contribute to the overall argument?

Logos: How does the author use logical reasoning to support their claims? What types of evidence or examples are used to demonstrate the validity of the author's arguments?