20: The Big Why and Pathos by Viggy Alexandersson
- Page ID
- 289133
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This module emphasizes the use of pathos in persuasive writing for social justice, focusing on its emotional appeal to evoke empathy and motivate action. It describes a classroom activity where students define "pathos," discuss its role, and consider its application in their writing. The text also offers guidelines for enhancing the introduction of social justice essays by incorporating rhetorical elements and a clear thesis, and includes an assessment rubric for evaluation.
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) Present in This Module:
1. Engage in a recursive process of prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and proofreading
- The classroom activity and assignment require students to expand their introduction, reflect on their personal connection to the topic, and revise their work to include emotional appeals and a clear thesis, supporting the recursive writing process.
2. Engage in a reflective process of evaluating their own drafts and those of others
- Students reflect on why they care about their topic, why readers should care, and the emotional stakes involved, which fosters self-evaluation and reflection.
3. Employ a voice, style, and tone appropriate to the topic selected and the rhetorical situation
- The focus on pathos (emotional appeal) requires students to consciously select a voice and tone that will resonate with their audience and suit the rhetorical context.
4. Direct an argument or explanation to the designated audience
- Activities and assignments ask students to consider the audience’s emotional engagement and how to make the topic relatable and urgent for readers.
5. Establish a clear framework of essay and paragraph organization appropriate to the writing task and the thesis
- The assignment rubric evaluates organization, transitions, and the logical development of the introduction and thesis, emphasizing structured writing.
6. Employ rhetorical strategies consistent with the purpose of the writing task
- The explicit focus on pathos and the integration of kairos, ethos, and logos in the assignment require students to use appropriate rhetorical strategies for persuasion.
8. Incorporate reasoning and explanations appropriate to the thesis and its supporting claims
- Students are prompted to provide reasons for their emotional investment and to articulate the logical and emotional consequences of the social justice issue.

