Dr. Beth S. Bennett
REPORT #1

For this set of reports, each class member is being asked to report, explain, and assess an individual instance of social commentary or protest rhetoric. Essentially, as members of an open society which permits social comment, we have two choices when we disagree with what seems to be the norm in that society: (1) ignore our disagreement and conform or (2) acknowledge our disagreement and speak out, in some form, for change. These reports should deal with individuals who for some reason have picked the second choice.

As you prepare your report, you should analyze how this rhetorical effort functions as social protest. Minimally, you should consider the following aspects of the rhetorical situation carefully in your analysis:

  1. What issue is the individual raising in comment or protest?
  2. What argument does the individual make against the social norm?
  3. What is the status of the protester in comparison with those in control?
  4. Why has the individual resorted to social protest rhetoric in this particular form?

Remember that effecting actual social change is only one possible outcome; it may not be the actual goal of the individual involved. Consider, instead, the question -- did this rhetorical effort satisfy the needs and goals of the person who made it? In contrast, how was that effect probably perceived by the larger social order generally?

A one-page abstract of your analysis is due the class session prior to reports.
It must be posted in WebCT in the presentation module. The abstract should explain how you have analyzed all the specific aspects of the rhetorical situation, as you have considered them. The analysis should provide some basis for what you include in your class report, but it should not be the "script" for that report.

As you plan the presentation of your report, remember that you have several goals: (1) to present your information fully and clearly, (2) to speak for at least 5 minutes, but no more than 10, and (3) to involve your audience in the report. Although you may use minimal notes during your presentation, do not read to us.

Feel free to use audio-visual aids in your presentations. If you need special equipment (i.e., VCR/monitor, tape player, overhead projector, easel), please make arrangements with the instructor in advance.

TO SEE REPORT EVALUATION FORM

The key to successful presentations is a well-planned organizational structure or format. It helps you remember the material, enables you to cover points efficiently, and allows the audience to comprehend your account more fully. Consider the following suggested format:

I. INTRODUCTION

A. Identifying the rhetorical situation for the audience
B. Providing your rationale for examining this instance of social comment or protest
C. Stating clearly what is your purpose(s) in the report and giving a preview of the main ideas to be covered in the report

II. BODY OF THE REPORT

A. Explanation of your analysis of the rhetorical context -- why was this person expressing social comment or protest?
B. Analysis of the message itself of the social critic -- what did this social critic advocate?
C. Assessment of how the rhetorical effort worked for the social critic -- how did the rhetorical effort function rhetorically for the critic?

III. CONCLUSIONS

A. Identify any immediate effects of this social comment/protest
B. Consider any potential, long-range effects
C. Judge the effectiveness of this social comment/protest as rhetoric

TO: COURSE INDEX
Beth S. Bennett, bbennett@bama.ua.edu. Created 18 January 1999.