It is difficult to pinpoint the perfect definition of rhetoric.

The word has a wide range of meanings

and interpretations, and carries with it both positive and negative connotations. I believe that rhetoric is a

method of speaking that took root as soon as humans began to influence each other using nonviolent

techniques. While I acknowledge that rhetoric is the prime choice of weapon for swindlers and deceivers,

I tend to agree with Wayne Booths more impartial definition: rhetoric gives meaning. Rhetoric is

employed to give speech color and substance and therefore make a speakers message more absorbable to

his or her audience. If there is one thing I have taken away from this class, its that rhetoric is inseparable

from language; where there are people communicating with one another, there will be rhetoric, working

behind the scenes as an agent of influence.

The genre analysis assignment was a great precursor to the literature review assignment. It

required me to hunt for multiple theme-related genres and then dissect them carefully in order to draw

connections that would reinforce my research. That assignment set the stage for the literature review

project, which was a larger beast that required much more research and time to construct. The research

process was surprisingly enjoyable; putting together all of the information that I had found into a

cohesive, well-structured paper, well, that was a bit trickier. The assignment gave me an excellent

foundation in writing long, research-extensive academic papers. Conducting my primary research was an

interesting experience, particularly because I had never before used my own self-harvested data in a

major project. With the documentary assignment, I had free rein to express my opinions and really be

creative with my approach. It was fascinating to see my peers take on the world through their

documentaries.

The readings were very interesting and relevant to our ever-changing world. Its amazing to

watch language and rhetorical techniques shift and transform in our globalizing, technology-saturated

society. I think that the discussion boards helped immensely to keep my mind sharp throughout the

semester. It also allowed me to connect to my peers in a neat way. The dialogue was always open in this
class, and I believe thats what made it such a transformative experience. I feel very prepared to confront

the more intensive academic papers in my future classes.