Rhetorical Analysis and Creation of Charity (.org) Websites: Mina Thompson

Students learn how to use rhetorical appeals when evaluating established charity websites and creating their own websites. Students first learn how to identify the classical rhetorical appeals of Ethos, Logos, Pathos, and Kairos on non-profit, .org, or charity, websites; finally, in their class groups, they create a digital charity website that utilizes those same appeals for an imaginary audience.

Instructions:

1. Students first write a short essay (min. 500 words) in which they choose an .org website or non-profit website to analyze. Students can also use an organization in which they have a personal interest; they shouldn’t just choose any organization to complete the assignment. They should choose a .org in which they’d be willing to contribute their money, their time, and/or their commitment, if they could!

A. Identify and point out particular rhetorical appeals examples of website:

1. Logos: if…then; either…or; facts and data; or anecdotes;

2. Ethos: personal experience, appeal to experts, or expressions of good will;

3. Pathos: promises of gain, enjoyment; fear of loss or pain; or expression of anger/disgust;

4. Kairos: the opportune time/space; or the time and space context in which the evidence/proof is shown.

B. Write an analysis by using the suggested prompts below for a good essay framework:

1. Introduction: identify the website and give a general opinion about the website.

2. Background: provide background or historical context and a summary of the website; also analyze its purposes and target audience.

3. Analysis: explain how each of the rhetorical appeals (ethos, logos, pathos, and kairos) are represented in the website. Point to particular areas of the website to support the analysis.

4. Media analysis: point out images, podcasts, or YouTube links found on the website, and explain their relevance and effective placement within the website space.

5. Conclusion: rhetorically analyze this website’s sponsors, target audience and persuasive appeals.

II. In their groups, students will imagine that they have the necessary funds and resources to create a worthy charitable organization. They need a website to introduce and advertise it! Use ALL of the appeals of Ethos, Logos, Pathos, and Kairos, to design their website. Many students are using www.wix.com or www.weebly.com with much success. www.Wix.com is apparently the easiest to use according to some testimonials (hey, that’s logos!).