“Rhetorical Analysis and Critical Thinking Questions for Greta Thunberg’s “How Dare You” speech to the United Nations Questions for Rhetorical Analysis and Critical Thinking
1. Identify the SOAPSTONE aspects of this speech.
Speaker:
Occasion:
Audience:
Purpose:
Subject:
Tone:

2. How does Greta Thunberg use ethos (appeal to authority) in her speech? Give ONE example with text evidence.

3. How does Greta Thunberg use pathos in her speech? Give THREE examples with text evidence.

4. How does Greta Thunberg use logos (facts) in her speech? Give THREE examples with text evidence.

5. Anaphora is the rhetorical device of beginning several sentences with the same or similar wordings in order to gain momentum (“pump up the crowd”) or drive the speaker’s point home. Give examples of when Greta Thunberg uses anaphora.

6. Write in your own words: what was the ultimate goal of Greta Thunberg’s speech? What was her message, and what ¨call of action” did she send her audience?

7. List three of Greta’s arguments for taking action against climate change:
a.
b.
c.

8. List three counter arguments that someone could make against her points:
a.
b.
c.

9. Write a personal reflection (at least five sentences) to her speech. Do you agree or disagree with her points? Explain your reasoning by making specific points.