DTW GED PREP

Rhetorical Techniques in Persuasive Writing and Speech

Writers and public speakers often use rhetorical techniques to engage their audience and strengthen their message. These techniques help make a speaker’s or writer’s words more powerful, memorable, and persuasive.

Here are some common rhetorical techniques:

• Alliteration: Repeating the same letter or sound at the beginning of closely connected words to draw attention (e.g., “safe and sound”).
• Analogy: Comparing two different things or situations to clarify an idea or prove a point.
• Enumeration: Listing ideas or grouping them into categories to provide structure and emphasis.
• Repetition and Parallelism: Using repeated phrases or sentence structures to create rhythm and reinforce meaning.
• Juxtaposition of Opposites: Placing opposing ideas side by side to highlight contrast.
• Qualifying Statements: Adding conditions or limitations to a statement, often using words like “might,” “may,” or “some.”

Sample Passage

Directions: Read the excerpt below, then answer the question.

That is the true genius of America, a faith—a faith in simple dreams, an insistence on small miracles; that we can tuck in our children at night and know that they are fed and clothed and safe from harm; that we can say what we think, write what we think, without hearing a sudden knock on the door; that we can have an idea and start our own business without paying a bribe; that we can participate in the political process without fear of retribution, and that our votes will be counted—at least most of the time.

—From President Barack Obama’s Keynote Address, 2004

Question: What rhetorical technique does President Obama use in this passage?

A. Analogy
B. Alliteration
C. Qualifying Statements
D. Repetition and Parallelism

✅ Correct Answer: D

Explanation:
Obama uses a series of repeated sentence patterns, starting with “that we can…” This technique—repetition and parallelism—creates rhythm and helps emphasize the values he is describing. It also makes his message more engaging and easier to remember.