Bill Gates Commencement Address

After reviewing all of the materials in this unit to learn how to write a rhetorical analysis and listen/read Bill Gates’ commencement address, write a formal well organized rhetorical analysis essay.

Remember a rhetorical analysis analyzes a writer’s choices, stylistic devices, and organization; while focusing on how the writer was able to convey a central purpose. Your job as a writer is to understand how the choices the writer makes determine how the audience understands the writer’s purpose.

Your essay should be in 3rd person POV and focus on the writer, Bill Gates.

Questions to ask before you begin:

Who is the audience? (Specifically, not just NAU)

What is his central purpose?

What devices are used repeatedly throughout his speech?

What is the tone? What specific words amplify the tone of the speech?

Your essay should incorporate all of the rhetorical elements discussed thus far: SOAPSTone, ethos, logos, pathos, etc.

Your essay should use specific evidence (paraphrased or quoted) and follow MLA guidelines with at least three pages, double spaced, size 12 font, etc.

Make sure to organize your essay logically. It is best to analyze in a chronological way, meaning, discuss Green’s speech in the order that he says it.