Theories in action Custom Essay

Due date: Oct 3

Choose 6 concepts from the first unit (chs 1-3) to talk about. If you talk about a concept with multiple

components, you must first describe the entire concept and then talk about each component that applies to the

piece (Burke’s dramatistic pentad, all 3 of Aristotle’s artistic proofs, etc)

Directions: for each of the theories you have chosen, provide the following:

a. Briefly explain the theory or concept in your own words. Be sure to explain the key elements of the

theory or concept.
b. Find and example of the theory “in action.” In other words, you are to find a real-life example that

demonstrates how this particular type of persuasion is being applied. Utilize newspaper articles, cartoons,

advertisements, political statements, courtroom proceedings (arguments used in a case), religious doctrines,

PR statements from organizations, editorials, cult doctrine, etc. Your example must be handed in with the

assignment. You many not use an example that has previously been used in class. You may only illustrate one

theory per example (this means you need to collect 6 examples!).
c. Briefly explain how the theory is evident in your example. You must connect the theory/concept to the

others somehow so that your paper “flows” coherently (for example like a chapter in a textbook).
d. Don’t forget to also have an introduction and conclusion to this paper.

NOTE: I DO NOT want you to just type in the concept in the internet, find an example provided by someone else,

and borrow it for this paper. You must find original examples. I cannot tell if you really understand the

concept by borrowing it from others. You must also find concepts/theories IN ACTION. That means it is not good

enough to find “theoretical” examples (e.g. giving the example that a certain euphemism is doublespeak.

Instead, you must find an example of the current USE of that euphemism as doublespeak.)

Role and Audience: Address your paper to other Communication Studies students who are taking this class and

might use your paper as a study guide.

Format: You are limited to 3 pages, double spaced, 12 point type, with no extra spaces in between paragraphs,

with standard margins. Cite your sources (including our text) using APA. Appendices should be labeled in text

(i.e. “see table A” in parentheses) and then they appear at the end of your paper (e.g. “Appendices” as a

header like you would use “References” to be followed by Appendix A, Appendix B, etc.)

Criteria for evaluation:

Grammar and correctness: 20 percent (spelling, punctuation, etc.)

Readability: 20 percent (your paper should be clearly organized, make clear main points and supporting points,

flow from one point to the next, and make a cohesive argument. There should not be any confusing or unclear

passages. Your writing should be appropriately geared toward your intended audience.)

Quality of analysis: 60 percent (you should be able to clearly identify your 6 theories in action, explain

these in your own words, and explain how the theory is evident in your examples.