Visual-Oral Literacy Reflection

Coming into the Visual-Oral Literacy module I was dreading the ethnography
assignment. Research is my least favorite genre of writing because I feel that it is boring from
both a writer and a readers perspective. This module challenged me the most because I was
forced to partake in a writing style that did not interest me. I have not written many research
pieces; therefore, I was met with the challenge of determining where to begin in the research
process. I was unsure of which sources were the best to rely on for information, and was unsure
of which information would best support my stance on the topic. I was also challenged with
using the method of logos, or evidence, to appeal to a reader. For me personally, pathos is the
most effective form of persuasion; therefore, I did not feel confident in my ability to sway
readers opinions through the method of logos alone. By the end of this module, I have finally
gained an understanding of what it means to be a researcher and how I can be successful writing
in this genre. First off, I have found that data bases are the most reliable source to gather
information for a research paper. I have learned how to navigate through unimportant data so that
I am able to focus on specific data which supports my papers purpose. I have also realized that
different rhetorical analysis strategies have different purposes. Because logos is the most logical
means of persuasion, it is only appropriate that it would be used as factual support in a research
paper. I realize that a research paper can not be convincing through the use of solely pathos, as
pathos only applies to emotional appeal. Overall, I have been successful in creating an organized
research paper which convinces readers to take my stance on the topic of religion.
This module has provided me with a thorough understanding on rhetorical analysis. I
have chosen to include my response on the Art of Rhetoric because I feel as if this journal entry
demonstrates my grasp of this information. In this module, I have learned of the different

methods of rhetorical analysis from pathos, to ethos, to logos and have been successful in
determining which methods of persuasion are the most effective in arguing specific points. For
example, if creating an advertisement for toothpaste, it is more appropriate to appeal to logos
rather than pathos. In this case, factual evidence argues a more solid point than emotional appeal
would. I have also been successful in each has served their persuasive purpose. The inclusion of
my slam poem in this portfolio also demonstrates my understanding of rhetorical analysis.
Because slam poems are used to convey a powerful message, I felt as if pathos was the most
effective means of persuasion. By expressing vulnerability through my poem, I hoped that
readers could understand my struggle with loving myself. The goal of this poem was for listeners
to feel the same sadness that I have felt about societys expectations for woman. Overall, the
pieces of work that have been included in this portfolio serve as evidence of my understanding of
the visual-oral literacy module.