Writing and Rhetoric

This book was written specifically for the Freshman Composition Program at BYU, and I used it to teach during my master's program. It is hands down the most accessible introduction to the discipline that a non-professional could hope for. Each chapter covers a specific area of rhetoric--from founding an argument on commonplaces and shared values, through analysis of an argument, rhetorical situation, proofs and fallacies, to stylistic concerns, invention and arrangement, and delivery--without getting bogged down in historical or theoretical details. The writers themselves adhere to the basic tenets of good rhetoric, presenting the information with sufficient thoroughness instead of attempting an exhaustive delivery that would leave an audience bewildered and exhausted. Even if you aren't attending BYU I highly recommend this exceptional introductory text as a companion to any introductory course in composition and rhetoric.