Critical Reading
Although it seems simple, critical reading is actually much harder than it sounds, and it is a skill that takes time to develop. We usually read for enjoyment or to obtain information and we're not analyzing every word or sentence that we read. However, critical reading is doing just that, its an analysis of the writing that you are reading. When doing critical reading you should look for a few things. The first thing to look for is which tools the author is using. These tools include metaphors, anecdotes, juxtaposition, dialogue, and many other literary tools. You should then look for what rhetorical appeals the author is using. Are they using ethos, pathos, logos, or all three. The last thing is to identify how the author is using these tools to create rhetorical appeals and whether or not they are effective in reaching their audience. Critical reading is not only helpful when doing a rhetorical analysis, but it's also a good way to learn. By reading the work of others an