Can-Do Task: Give a Short Persuasive Toast

Can-Do Task: give a short persuasive toast or mini-speech using at least one rhetorical device.

Notice

  • Task: write a 4–6 sentence toast for a colleague’s retirement, using at least one metaphor/simile, one rhetorical question or rule of three, and a warm, slightly formal tone.
  • Aim for rhythm — read it aloud and notice where the parallel structures naturally create emphasis.

Rule

Self-check: does your toast use at least two different devices from this module? Does it sound natural when read aloud, not forced or overstuffed with figures of speech?

Practice

  1. Model opening line using a rhetorical question:
    Answer: Example: “How do you sum up twenty years of hard work, good humour, and quiet dedication in a few sentences?”
  2. Model line using the rule of three:
    Answer: Example: “You’ve been a mentor, a friend, and the person who always kept us laughing.”
  3. Model closing line using a metaphor:
    Answer: Example: “This office won’t be the same without you — you were the glue that held this team together.”

Connect

Build a few rhetorical sentences of your own with the Sentence Builder.

Try Sentence Builder →

CEFR: C2

Azizul Hakim
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