Lesson Overview
This assignment is designed to help students think critically about how we use rhetoric in everyday communication—specifically through text messaging. Students will examine a (real or hypothetical) text message exchange and analyze the rhetorical elements involved in crafting an effective message.
Before the Lesson
- Ensure students understand that the goal is to apply rhetorical analysis to real-world communication (texting).
- Emphasize the connection between rhetoric and digital communication they use every day.
- Re-teach or review the rhetorical situation framework.
- Model the task with a sample text message exchange (real or created).
- Walk through identifying rhetorical elements using sticky notes or a chart.
Materials and Resources
- Slideshow with directions and space for student submissions
- Link to the text thread creator tool (e.g., https://ifaketextmessage.com/ or another you’ve chosen)
- Devices (laptops, tablets, or smartphones) for students to create their text message threads
- Internet access for using the online tool and submitting digital work
- Assignment instructions (printed or digital)
- Example text thread and completed rhetorical chart (model example provided by the teacher)
- Graphic organizer or chart template for rhetorical analysis (can be a printable worksheet or a digital document that students complete)
- Physical sticky notes if working on paper or printed screenshots
- Screenshot instructions (especially if students are unfamiliar with how to take and insert screenshots on their device)
- Textbook or class notes covering rhetorical situation elements (context, exigence, speaker, audience, message)
- Anchor charts or posters for visual reminders (optional but helpful)
What To Do
1. Prepare Materials
- Review and print or upload the assignment sheet.
- Bookmark or link the text thread creator tool (e.g., https://ifaketextmessage.com).
- Prepare a model example (text exchange + rhetorical analysis).
- Print or share digital versions of the rhetorical chart or sticky note template.
2. Set Up Technology
- Confirm students will have access to devices and Wi-Fi.
- Test the text message generator tool.
- Set up a submission platform (can use class slideshow provided).
3. Introduce the Objective (5–10 min)
- Explain that students will analyze how everyday text messages involve rhetorical choices.
- Review key terms: context, exigence, speaker, audience, and message/purpose.
- Briefly show your example text exchange and how you analyzed it.
4. Review Assignment Instructions (5 min)
- Walk through each part of the assignment:
- Create a (real or made-up) text exchange using the generator.
- Insert a screenshot.
- Use sticky notes or a chart to analyze rhetorical components.
- Reflect on the rhetorical choices made in the message.
5. Brainstorm Topics (5–10 min)
- Invite students to brainstorm possible situations that would require a text response (e.g., making plans, addressing a misunderstanding, responding to a school announcement). Connect to the concept of “immediate context” as it relates to the rhetorical situation.
- Optional: Provide a list of sample prompts.
6. Create the Text Message Exchange (15–20 min)
- Students use the online tool to write and design their conversation.
- Remind them to take a screenshot once they’re done.
- Support students who need help generating ideas or using the tool.
7. Analyze the Rhetorical Situation (15–20 min)
- Students insert their screenshot into a doc or slide.
- Use digital sticky notes or a chart to break down:
- Context
- Exigence
- Speaker
- Audience
- Message/Purpose
- Provide guiding questions as needed.
8. Reflect on Rhetorical Choices (10 min)
- Have students write a short paragraph explaining the rhetorical strategies they used (tone, word choice, timing, etc.).
- Encourage specific examples from their message.
9. Collect and Review Work
- Students submit their completed assignment (screenshot + analysis + reflection).
- Check that each rhetorical element is addressed clearly.
10. Debrief
- Discuss insights:
- What made some messages more effective than others?
- How does understanding rhetoric help in everyday communication?
- Optional: Share a few strong examples (with permission).