See Extension Exercise: Exercise 28: Killer dog on loose: Paragraph sample
Mr Samson emphatically contends that there must be stricter regulations to control the ownership of dangerous dogs. He uses anecdotal evidence relating to the death of Sammie Hol to provoke people’s anger at the reckless attitude of dog owners and to attack inadequate government regulations. Jay depicts the owners as irresponsible and claims that their careless actions left the community “at the mercy of an unruly dog”. These comments are designed to instil a sense of fear in members of the community and reinforce the dangers associated with killer dogs. He asks rhetorically, “How does a man’s pit bull terrier end up in the front room of the house down the road?” Jay further discredits the owners by implying that they think that the dogs will give them a feeling of power. “They represent a symbol of power.” In an accusatory/high-minded tone, Jay discredits shameful owners and policy makers who are “toying with our safety”. Again, readers are likely to feel incensed at the fact that the laws appear to prioritise the rights of dog owners over the safety of the public. Finally, Jay also discredits the government’s rules and regulations, which he believes are inadequate because there are too many attacks and the fines of $4,500 are inadequate. “Evidently the government is not doing enough.”
- Return to Red Workbook Tasks: Overview
- Return to Lesson 4: Evidence and Reasons