Let's solve this
Ethos, Logos, Pathos Quiz step by step. The goal is to identify whether each statement primarily uses:
-
Ethos: Appeal to credibility or authority
-
Logos: Appeal to logic or reason (facts, statistics, data)
-
Pathos: Appeal to emotions (sympathy, fear, pride, etc.)
---
Here’s the breakdown for each question:
---
1) "60% of the time, it works every time." – Anchorman
- This is a humorous quote that plays on logic but is clearly absurd and not meant to be taken seriously.
- It uses
statistics ("60%") but in a way that mocks logic.
- However, since it's a joke, it's more about
humor and irony, which leans toward
pathos (emotional appeal through humor).
- But technically, it *uses* a statistic →
Logos.
✔ Answer: Logos
*(Even though it's funny, it references a percentage — a logical claim.)*
---
2) By donating only fifty cents a day, you can help give a child clean drinking water.
- Appeals to
empathy and
compassion — making people feel emotionally moved to act.
- Focuses on helping children, evoking sympathy.
- The small cost ($0.50) makes it seem manageable, increasing emotional appeal.
✔ Answer: Pathos
---
3) “Choosy moms choose Jiff.” – Jiff Peanut Butter Commercial
- This is a classic advertising slogan that appeals to
trust and social proof.
- It suggests that *smart*, responsible mothers (credible figures) choose this product.
- It builds
credibility through association with "choosy" (wise) moms.
✔ Answer: Ethos
---
4) The Centers for Disease Control recommends getting a flu vaccine each fall.
- Cites a
trusted medical authority (CDC), so it's relying on
credibility.
- The recommendation comes from an expert source.
✔ Answer: Ethos
---
5) Nearly 25% of all car accidents are caused by drivers using cell phones while driving.
- Uses a
statistic to support a logical argument.
- Based on data and facts.
✔ Answer: Logos
---
6) My coach suggested I cross-train on Sundays to work different muscle groups.
- This is a
personal suggestion from someone in a position of authority (coach).
- Relies on the
credibility of the coach as an expert in fitness/training.
✔ Answer: Ethos
---
7) Since my little brother has to start school before me, I should let him shower first.
- This is based on
fairness, family duty, and empathy.
- Appeals to
emotional reasoning — caring for younger sibling.
- Not logic or authority, but
feelings.
✔ Answer: Pathos
---
8) Smoking around kids is dangerous because the defenseless children are exposed to dangerous chemicals that can lead to coughing and difficulty breathing and could even lead to deadly asthma attacks.
- Uses
fear and
empathy — highlights harm to vulnerable children.
- Words like “defenseless,” “deadly,” “asthma attacks” evoke strong emotion.
- While there are facts, the
primary appeal is emotional.
✔ Answer: Pathos
---
9) Michael Jordan is better than LeBron James because Jordan won six championships and James has only won two.
- This uses
comparison based on facts (number of championships).
- It’s a
logical argument using measurable achievements.
✔ Answer: Logos
---
10) Listerine is recommended most by dental professionals.
- Appeals to
authority — dental professionals are experts.
- Suggests trust in their judgment.
✔ Answer: Ethos
---
✔ Final Answers:
| # | Answer |
|---|--------|
| 1 |
Logos |
| 2 |
Pathos |
| 3 |
Ethos |
| 4 |
Ethos |
| 5 |
Logos |
| 6 |
Ethos |
| 7 |
Pathos |
| 8 |
Pathos |
| 9 |
Logos |
| 10|
Ethos |
---
Summary:
-
Ethos: 3, 4, 6, 10 → Appeals to authority/expertise
-
Logos: 1, 5, 9 → Appeals to logic/facts/statistics
-
Pathos: 2, 7, 8 → Appeals to emotion/empathy
Let me know if you'd like this formatted for printing or need explanations for students!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of identifying ethos pathos logos worksheet.
