If you have not done so already, go watch President Obama's back-to-school speech. Yes, these play every year and we are sometimes forced by our teachers to watch it, but this year's was actually intriguing and relatable. It was nice to be able to watch, rewind, and analyze specific parts of his speech because there is a lot of good advice and arguments included within it. Besides the fact that I really enjoyed this speech, it was also full of material for me to rhetorically analyze. That means that this assignment was actually more enjoyable than I had expected it to be.
Obama's tone throughout his speech was not condescending at all. In fact, he speaks to the students as equals. I believe this is to establish his credibility (ethos). He obviously is trying to appeal to his audience, students, by speaking to them as if they are adults and their opinions matter, because that is what every child and teenager wants.
Much of Obama's speech included rising intonation. This usually built up to an important point that he was trying to emphasize to his audience. Falling intonation usually was used during his transitions, as they did not need to be as emphasized as his main points were.
He uses rolling cadences generally when his most important points are discussed. The most important words and phrases are said with more power and volume to emphasize their significance and importance. This reminds me of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech. The phrases which he wished to be most remembered had the most oomph behind them.
Obama does not seem rigid in his stance, but rather relaxed and formal at the same time. He makes sure to turn his body from side to side, I assume to let the audience know that he is speaking to all of them instead of talking at one object above their heads. He is not fidgeting, but is keeping his composure physically. Obama stands up straight, and uses hand gestures when appropriate.
As the president, Obama is expected to be well dressed, especially when delivering an important speech such as the one on education you have just watched. He lives up to this expectation by wearing a suit and tie. He makes sure to make up for his formal appearance by connecting with the audience within the first couple lines of his speech, making him much more personable.
Obama appeals to the students by saying he understands the pressures and difficulties of high school and that big tests, responsibilities at home, sports, and projects are hard to balance and deal with all at the same time. This increases his credibility (ethos) and appeals to the student's interests. He also appeals to the audience by treating them as adults and recognizing that they are not just kids, but are the future of America and that their opinion matters. this is important to every teenager, so including this in the speech was clearly to appeal to the students.
Obama's primary argument is to not take the easy route in high school just to maintain a high GPA, but rather to take classes that interest and challenge you as a student. He also argues that we students are the future of the United States and we should not take this responsibility lightly. Obama also takes the time to recognize teachers and their importance and dedication.
The diction Obama uses is clearly chosen so that it will be understood by the main audience, students. Obama's word choice is easy to understand for children of all ages, so it expands his audience and the reach of his message. This is done intentionally so that the speech has an impact on as many people as possible.
Now that I have heard Obama's speech on education, I have decided not to drop out of school and try my very hardest.. just kidding, but I actually really enjoyed his message and they way the speech was delivered. Oh Obama, you dog, you.
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