Mary Chitty

Dr. Angela Miss

UWRT-1102

Rhetorical Analysis-Mini Paper

My rhetorical analysis looked at the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation (CRF) and the

positive impact they have on the Charlotte community. For the past few years tainted drinking

water has been an issue in our society. In my analysis I dove deeper into understanding how the

water became polluted and how the CRF helped protect the citizens right of clean, safe water.

My analysis aimed to provide useful information regarding water quality and regulations for

residents of Charlotte. I believe this is a topic many citizens overlook, and by doing so it can

become dangerous.

During my analysis, I strived to appeal to both logos and pathos of my reader. Providing

concrete evidence and examples from academic journals or other reputable sources to explain the

health effect of coal ash which targets my readers sense of logic and reason. I also provided a

cause and effect analysis that showed the political influence of the coal ash situation. Providing

shocking statistics and evidence along with the use of figurative language helped me target my

audiences emotion. Through my approach I tried to sway the audience to understand the

helpfulness of the CRF.

One aspect in my analysis I did not attempt to include was to demonstrate fairness

towards the state legislature and Duke Energy. I originally tried to provide a level playing field

for all parties involved, however, the available sources did not offer much positive information

for the power company and the state government. Lack of sources and strong scientific facts
leaning in favor of the CRFs mission, I felt it would be an unnecessary trouble to continue my

search for sources to help provide an unbiased essay.