Freedom Writers Writing Prompt: In Class Exercise

Arsitotle studied rhetoric some 200 years ago in ancient Greece. He defined rhetoric as the process of recognizing and using persuasive strategies (p. 6). Argumentation (making, supporting and defending a claim, p.1) is the study of HOW people are persuaded into their beliefs. ETHOS or speaker credibility is one way people can be persuaded. Credible sources shape many beliefs, while non-credible sources promote doubt and even suggest dishonesty. Write about credibility, or ethos in the scene of the film you just watched. Is Hillary Swank's character believable/credible? Why or why not? What are some of the arguments the film seems to be rasing about teachers, ethnic diversity, violence and schools? Am I credible? Are you?