48 compelling selections by both well-known and emerging writers. Ranging from E. B. White and George Orwell to Amy Tan and Sarah Vowell, the writers provide diverse perspectives on topics that engage and challenge students to think and write purposefully. Student essays and a variety of source-based selections model the best writing and research practices.
Practical instruction in the rhetorical methods. Part Two presents in-depth instruction in ten rhetorical methods. Chapter introductions address the purpose, audience, and organization of each method, with annotated examples that show the methods at work in different kinds of writing. Part Three collects well-known essays that show how the best writers mix the methods to achieve their purposes.
Comprehensive coverage of reading and writing. Part One guides students through critical reading, the writing process, and academic writing, with annotated examples that illustrate reading an essay, responding to an essay, and working with sources. In Part Two, each rhetorical chapter contains readings supported by two headnotes, a two-part journal prompt, several writing suggestions, and three sets of discussion questions that encourage critical thinking and reading.
Innovative “Writers on Writing” feature. In their own words, professional and student writers alike convey the details and challenges of their writing and revision processes and help students see that even the best writers work hard to write well.
Emphasis on visual literacy. An in-depth analysis in Chapter 1 teaches students how to view images critically. Then each Part Two chapter begins with an intriguing visual and offers suggestions for approaching it with a critical eye. In addition, seven illustrated essays demonstrate the interaction of text and visuals.