The power of language

• Mens & Maatschappij
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 3

The power of language

Key concepts

1. Language and persuasion

2. Speech techniques

3. The role of identitiy in communication

4. Critical thinking

Introduction

Have you ever heard someone speak in a way that made you really believe in what they were saying? What do you think made their words so convincing?

Introduction

Language is not just about what we say, but also about how we say it. Some people, especially leaders, use language to influence others’ beliefs and actions. 

Can you give some examples?

Donald Trump's communication style

1. What do you notice about the way Trump speaks?

2. Does he use simple or complex language?

3. How does he address the audience (does he praise them, challenge them, make them feel powerful, angry?)

4. What emotions does his language seem to evoke?

5 key terms

1. Repetition

 Repeating key words or phrases to make a point even more memorable

5 key terms

2. Appeal to emotion

Using language to stir emotions like fear, excitement or anger

5 key terms

3. Simple, direct language

Using easy-to-understand language that makes the speaker seem more relatable

5 key terms

4. Exaggeration

Hyperbole: making statements that are larger-than-life to capture attention

5 key terms

5. Insults/labelling

Giving names to opponents or ideas to discredit them (e.g. fake news etc).

Group assignment

In groups of 3-4 students, you get an excerpt or quote. Answer the following questions:

1. What rhetorical techniques does Trump use in this quote? (prev. slide)

2. What message is he trying to send to his audience?

3. What is the emotional impact of the language? Does it make you feel excited, angry, inspired or something else? Describe.

4. Do you think this language is effective? Why or why not?

Discussion (1)

 Trumps Twitter (/ X) feed is no more, because it got suspended. Do you agree with the decision to do that?

Discussion (2)

 Why do you think certain leaders like Trump choose to speak in a particular way?

Discussion (3)

How can language influence how we view other people, ideas or even countries?

Discussion (4)

Do you think emotional language is always effective? Can it be harmful?

Homework assignment

Find a recent speech, quote or tweet from a political leader or public figure and analyze it using the rhetorical techniques discussed in class and post it here:

1. What rhetorical techniques does the speaker use?

2. What is the speaker trying to achieve with his/her language?

3. How does the language makes you feel and do you think it’s effective?