Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition Practice Exam

What are the three major rhetorical appeals used to persuade an audience?

1. Ethos, Pathos, and Mythos

2. Ethos, Logos, and Pathos

3. Logos, Ethos, and Syntax

4. Logos, Pathos, and Ethos

The correct answer is: Ethos, Logos, and Pathos

The correct answer identifies the three major rhetorical appeals employed to persuade an audience as ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos refers to the credibility or ethical appeal of the speaker or writer; it revolves around the authority and character they convey in their message. By establishing trust and credibility, an author can enhance their persuasiveness since audiences are more likely to listen to someone they regard as knowledgeable and reputable. Logos is related to logical reasoning; it encompasses the use of facts, statistics, and logical arguments to appeal to the audience's sense of reason. A sound logical structure helps to present arguments in a way that is coherent and makes sense to the audience, often reinforcing the author's position or claim through rational evidence. Pathos appeals to the audience's emotions. By invoking feelings such as pity, anger, happiness, or fear, the speaker or writer can connect with the audience on a deeper, more instinctual level, making the message more impactful and memorable. This combination of ethos, logos, and pathos forms a fundamental framework for persuasive writing and speaking, enabling authors to reach their audiences effectively on multiple levels. Other options either include incorrect terms or fail to align with this established framework.