Rhetoric courses help students to develop skills in speaking, writing, listening, and critical reading, and to build competence in research, analysis, and argumentation. We pay special attention to the practical, social and political bases of rhetoric from its beginnings in classical Greece through to its increasing importance in the present day. You begin by studying what a “rhetorical act” is and how it is shaped by the desire of a writer or speaker to influence an audience concerning a controversial issue. This prepares you to articulate controversial positions of your own in a way that skillfully takes into account the interests and concerns of your audience.
The Writing Center helps all in the University community improve their writing, including attitudes and self-confidence about writing.
Our Speaking Center tutors work with students to improve their public speaking skills, gain confidence in joining class discussion, and improve basic conversational language skills.