Walter Isaacson Says/Does

Inquiry: How does the says/does method help me to analyze the arrangement of a text?

1. Opener: Review outlines from last class. How does organization strengthen or weaken Gladwell's message?

2. Review: what are the possible starting points for reading and writing a rhetorical analysis?

3. Group Activity: Says/Does Analysis of Isaacson's Parts
How does Isaacson convey his meaning?

1. Work in groups of 2 or 3
2. Paraphrase what each paragraph is saying in the margins (the “says” part)
3. Divide Isaacson’s chapter into parts (by paragraphs)--as many as you think are sensible.
4. Answer the following questions in your group:
1. Describe what each part does to the meaning of the text? How does it contribute to the overall purpose?
2. What is the effect of each of the parts on the audience? How does it persuade them?
3. Where does Isaacson give us his thesis or central idea?
4. How do all of the parts build up to or off of this central idea?

Homework for Wednesday:

• Write a rhetorical analysis of Walter Isaacson's Chapter on Ben Franklin. Choose three points for focus, with one being arrangement. Consider in this paragraph how the arrangement of his argument strengthens his main point.
• Finish vocab for Wednesday