Rhetorical structure theory

Okay kiddo, so rhetorical structure theory is like having a map or a guide that helps us understand how people communicate with each other.

Just like how we follow a map to get to a place we have never been before, people use different communication techniques and structures to convey their ideas and messages to others.

One way to think about it is like building a house - we need to have a plan or a structure in place before we can start to build it. Rhetorical structure theory helps us understand what that plan or structure looks like in communication.

When someone is communicating, they might use different patterns or structures to organize their thoughts and ideas. For example, they might start with an introduction, then present their main ideas, and end with a conclusion.

It's like putting together a puzzle. Each piece of the puzzle (or each part of the communication) fits together in a specific way to create a complete picture (or message).

Rhetorical structure theory helps us understand how these different communication structures work together, and how they can be used to create effective and persuasive messages. So next time you are listening to someone talk or reading a book, think about how the author is using rhetorical structure to convey their message to you.