Email for Discussion

As we have discussed, rhetoric and rhetorical analysis are useful as both a heuristic for the production of different kinds of texts and an analytic lens. Rhetorical analysis doesn't simply look at what message a text is conveying, but  *how* a text is conveying its message. One heuristic for analysis we have talked about thus far are the canons, which include invention, organization, style, delivery, and memory. All of these are in flux in the digital age. You can also think through the various means of persuasion, three of which we have discussed are ethos, logos, and pathos.


Dear Students,

Spring is definitely in the air! With these gorgeous sunny days, I have almost forgotten that we are in Wisconsin in the middle of March. With this feeling of spring comes the highly anticipated spring break. You have made it through the first part of a tough semester and have earned the right to relax and rejuvenate for a week.

If your plans include travel, whether on vacation or on an Alternative Spring Break, please pay careful attention to the State Department advisories about travel outside of the U.S. (http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_1168.html), and respect the people, culture, and laws of the country in which you're a guest. Some of you may choose to stay home and work or study over the break. Whatever your plans may be, try to take at least a little time out for yourselves to have fun and re-energize.

On that note, please have fun in a responsible way. If you choose to drink, know your limit and avoid dangerous situations. Do not horseplay, climb on balconies, or sit on railings. Take care of yourselves and each other. Additional resources about safety and health during spring break can be found at: http://www.safeu.wisc.edu. 

I hope you enjoy yourselves on spring break and remember that I expect to see you all back here after break in good shape and ready to finish out the semester.

Best wishes,
Lori

Lori M. Berquam
Dean of Students