The Intent/Effect Tactic: A Practice of Rhetorical Listening

Abstract

Recent scholarship shows that teachers across English studies continue to struggle with discussions of race in their classrooms. In this article, I offer the intent/effect tactic as a tool teachers can use to analyze and respond to racially problematic assertions. By asking students to consider not only intent but also effect, we can help them craft a practice of rhetorical listening that can lead to more productive dialogue.