Though Edward Abbey's purpose in writing "The Downfall of a Canyon" is to prove damming the Colorado River at the Glen Canyon has harmed the river and its surrounding environment, he also presents details that can be seen as evidence that the dam improved the area. Using the details from the article to argue that the Glen Canyon area is a better place because of the water dam.

In the space below, write a five-paragraph, 600-800 word persuasive essay arguing whether or not your chosen speech is effective in communicating its message, based on how it uses rhetorical strategies. include a clear thesis statement identifying whether, in your view, the speaker's argument is effective, based on his or her use of rhetorical strategies. explain why or why not. give your audience a sense of closure by providing a clear conclusion. throughout the essay, be sure to: use formal, objective language for an academic audience, connect your ideas using transitions that clearly tie together your ideas, base your argument on evidence from the text of the speech, and provide a clear conclusion about the speech's effectiveness.