space exploration to the discovery of America. He begins by stating that we “set sail on this new sea”,
and elaborates by emphasizing that the United States can use its power to help determine whether
that “new ocean” will be a “sea of peace” or rather a dangerous mistake. He continues to make
metaphorical comparisons by posing rhetorical questions about climbing a mountain and making a trans-
Atlantic flight – past examples of once-impossible tasks that were undertaken and achieved through
hard work and perseverance.
Another important feature of Kennedy’s speech is his use of facts and supporting evidence to bolster his
argument. Kennedy acknowledges that we “will be behind for some time in manned flight”, but avers
that we “shall make up and move ahead.” He follows this claim with specific supporting evidence. He
begins by discussing scientific advancements in knowledge and technology that he believes will allow
the United States to achieve this goal. He then goes into detail about the positive economic effects
that will be brought about by the investment in the space program, and ties these facts to the overall
theme of the essay by analogizing space exploration to the settlement of the western United States: he
describes Houston as “once the furthest outpost on the old frontier of the West” and imagines it as the
heart of a new technological center.
A third device used by Kennedy is reference to local events, history, and pride as he speaks in Houston.
By asking “Why does Rice play Texas?”, Kennedy humorously plays on the long-time football rivalry
between the football teams by putting it in the same category as the first trans-Atlantic flight. Later,
he specifically describes plans to invest in advanced technology at Rice, as well as the city of Houston
(“your City of Houston”), the region, and the state of Texas as a whole.
By using these techniques of analogy, supporting evidence, and reference to local facts and history,
Kennedy created a very complex and interesting speech. While many of his other speeches may be
better known, this speech is an excellent example of the depth of his rhetorical skill.
Score
Reading: 6
Analysis: 4
Writing: 6
SAT Experts Say: This is a solid essay that demonstrates sufficient comprehension of the speech, its
central ideas, and important details, and that uses evidence from the speech to support its argument. In
addition, the essay follows a clear, logical progression of ideas and shows effective use of language in
writing. There is also a clear introduction and conclusion. However, this essay would lose points in the
Analysis category, as the student doesn’t go far enough in explaining the importance of the speech’s
features.
Sample Essay 6
This speech is about how we should go to the moon. He starts by talking about how it’s like an ocean and
it could be a hostile theater of war, so we should protect ourselves when we set sail in space.