Wysocki & Lynch: A Rhetorical Approach to Communication Ch. 1 & 2

I noticed in the first two chapters that Wysocki and Lynch were discussing the importance of context, audience, and purpose in regards to communication.  These are the important concepts that Bitzer discussed in his writing about rhetoric.  Obviously if audience, purpose and communication are being repeated in various works, then they are extremely important for good communication.

I really enjoyed how the Wysocki and Lynch reading gave important tips for how to perfect a communication project.  There were great examples that helped to reinforce the information.  The best tip was to create a statement of purpose.  I feel that this is similar to a thesis; however it seems that the process to create a statement of purpose is a great way to develop what the communication project will focus on.  A statement of purpose is great for mapping out an outline so that the communication stays clear and goes well.

I never really understood what context mean in regards to rhetoric.  I figured that it was what was in the speech and that's it.  In Wysocki and Lynch they explain the importance of forming the communication project context around where the project will be shown and what event or occasion the project will be shown at.  By considering place and occasion, the creator of the speech can see what is appropriate to include and what should be left out.