Mastering the Art of Persuasion: Rhetoric, Devices, and Appeals

Khan Academy

This educational video introduces students to the concept of rhetoric, defined as the art of persuasion. The narrator breaks down the subject into two main categories: rhetorical devices (figures of speech like similes, metaphors, and hyperbole) and rhetorical appeals (strategic modes of persuasion). Through clear narration and simple hand-drawn illustrations, the video explains how these tools are used to construct arguments and influence audiences. The content covers key rhetorical terminology including specific devices and the three classical appeals: Logos (logic/reason), Pathos (emotion), and Ethos (authority/credibility). The narrator uses relatable, humorous examples—such as "galactic enchiladas" for hyperbole and a sad puppy for pathos—to make abstract concepts concrete. It also touches on more complex ideas like apophasis to show the depth of the field. For educators, this video serves as an excellent foundational tool for English Language Arts units on persuasive writing, speech analysis, or media literacy. It empowers students not only to craft more effective arguments themselves but also to critically analyze the messages they encounter in the world. By understanding these mechanisms, students become more discerning consumers of information and more powerful communicators.