Media Writing: Rhetoric and Practice

Rhetoric is a skill to effectively inform, inspire and convince an audience through the use of language and imagery. Today, we most often see it used by advertisers, journalists and politicians to shape our views of products, policies and contemporary social issues. To be able to use rhetoric effectively - and to recognize when it is abused - is a most powerful skill for media professionals. This subject enhances students’ media and communication skills by developing their rhetoric skills in speaking and writing. Students will learn to identify and examine the persuasive techniques employed in various media genres before applying them in their own text production. Through in-class simulations, students will experience authentic industry practice in working in an advertising agency, as a freelancer and editor of a major news organisation, and as a professional speechwriter. Students will be exposed to different scenarios and tasks to develop the vital skills needed for their future professional careers. Subject material will help students discuss and challenge diverse points of views, critically evaluate opinions and arguments, identify and apply rhetorical techniques, and develop and deliver conclusive arguments across key media genres. Students will also learn essential strategies for planning, researching, and editing their work as well as that of others. All these skills will help students become more effective communicators and prepare for their future careers.