Dr. Beth S. Bennett
REPORT #2

For this set of reports, each class member is being asked to report, explain, and assess how an individual instance of rhetoric functions (or functioned) as rhetoric of control, given the existing institutional and social norms in which it is (or was) communicated.

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

  1. Who represents the legitimate power for issuing control?
  2. Does this instance of control rhetoric originate from that legitimate base of power or some other?
  3. Who is personally responsible for creating this instance of control rhetoric?
  4. What is the purpose of this rhetoric, i.e., how is it intended to control or influence public opinion or behavior?
  5. What is the message of control being expressed, i.e., what aspect of the status quo is being reinforced?
  6. To what social problem, if any, is this rhetoric a response?

Remember that suppressing or halting social unrest is only one possible outcome; it may not be the goal of the individual or institution involved. Consider, instead, the question -- did this rhetorical effort satisfy the needs and goals of those responsible for making 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 before the 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. Background for the rhetorical situation which brought forth the selected instance of control rhetoric
B. Providing your rationale for examining this instance of control rhetoric
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 is this message understood or being expressed as reinforcing of the status quo?
B. Analysis of the message itself -- what specific ideology or set of values is being advocated?
C. Assessment of how the control rhetoric functioned for the status quo -- how did it respond to social critics or political unrest or individual non-compliance?

III. CONCLUSIONS

A. Identify any immediate effects of this rhetoric of control
B. Consider any potential, long-range effects
C. Judge the ramifications of this control rhetoric and social change

TO: COURSE INDEX
Beth S. Bennett, bbennett@bama.ua.edu. Created 2 April 1999.