I have a strong interest in rhetoric and seek to incorporate
rhetorical theory into the teaching of composition. The reasons for my
interest in rhetoric stems from a love of language and a curiosity
about how people use it to lift the human heart. However, as I am a
realist, I also enjoy studying the use of language in other areas of
human endeavor, such as public discourse, politics, and texts from the past. Interestingly, it was the study of rhetoric that helped
me appreciate the beauty of poetry and the art of politics. Of course,
in today's USAmerican climate the political landscape does not resonate
with poetic beauty. However, studies in postcolonial theory and
feminist theory enrich the study of political language. I am on a
life's journey to study more of the historical rhetorical theories and
history for my next projects.
Reading and writing are interconnected and I spend time teaching both reading and writing in order to encourage students entering college to engage with the two skills they will need the most.
In the meantime, I use what I know about
critical thinking with a rhetorical lense as I have students embark on
their journeys in the study of language.
Links to discussions on Language, Politics, and other topics.
Native American and Latina Women
Course Lists