Images are everywhere in our lives, and we are regularly persuaded by images. They appear on magazines, billboards, posters, television, in galleries and books, and even on our own clothing. Even though we may not consciously think about it, these images make arguments.
In this essay, we will choose one particular text that uses an image or series of images to make an argument. The more we look carefully at the meanings hidden in visual texts, the more we can enhance our skills of critical thinking and evaluation.
Assignment Details:
I want you to choose an image, such as an advertisement, logo, piece of art, etc., and evaluate it for its effectiveness as an argument. In your evaluation and analysis, consider these prompts:
What is the purpose of the image? To persuade? Sell something? Provide humor? Inform?
Who is the intended audience? How might the intended audience react – or how might the un-intended audience react?
How does your chosen image use the rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos . . . and possibly kairos) to persuade its audience?
Is this image effective in its attempt to persuade the viewer? What are the effective elements? What falls short or needs improvement?
Add any additional insights or opinions you have. (For example, why you chose his image.
This essay will be 3-5 pages, (not including the Works Cited page). If you reference the prompts above, then you should be able to describe and analyze the text you have chosen, identify its use of any rhetorical appeals, explain the message the image is trying to make, and discuss your reason(s) why you think this is effective or not.
