This article provides a strategy for writing commentary in AP Lang rhetorical analysis essays, demonstrated with a 2015 Caesar Chavez prompt.
Five Key Words to Guide Commentary
•Use these words in order: because, since, thus if, furthermore, and ultimately moving the audience to.•These words force you to explain assumptions and connotations, connecting evidence to your thesis.•Practice makes this easier over time.Applying the Strategy to a Sample Paragraph
•Highlight specific language from the evidence that relates to your claim (e.g., Dr. King, nonviolence).•Write sentences starting with each key word to build commentary step by step.•Repeat key ideas and synonyms to maintain focus without sounding repetitive.Key Takeaways
•Commentary explains how evidence proves the topic sentence and thesis.•Using 'because, since, thus if, furthermore, and ultimately moving the audience to' structures effective analysis.•Assume audience knowledge and emotional connotations to deepen commentary.Conclusion
Following this systematic approach will improve your rhetorical analysis commentary.
