Overview
This assignment connects to rhetoric and composition by showing how everyday conversations are rhetorical acts. Using Maslow’s Hierarchy, students analyze how needs shape persuasion, expression, and listening within relationships. The recorded dialogue emphasizes oral composition, where tone, delivery, and audience awareness matter as much as content. By applying the communication model, students practice reducing miscommunication and developing clear, purposeful exchanges—skills central to rhetorical theory and effective communication.
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Part 1: Relationship Needs Form (Preparation – Not Recorded)
- Choose one person: a parent, spouse/partner, or close friend.
- Both of you will separately complete the form before meeting.
- For each level of Maslow’s Hierarchy (Physiological, Safety, Love & Belonging, Esteem, Self-Actualization), detail in writing:
- How your needs are being met in the relationship.
- How your needs are not being met in the relationship.
- What you would like to see differently.
- Note: Sometimes our physiological needs are not met when we are angry or depressed. We deprive ourselves of eating, sleeping, and sometimes breathing. Our environments have impact on that and you should consider if this person impacts that.
- For each level of Maslow’s Hierarchy (Physiological, Safety, Love & Belonging, Esteem, Self-Actualization), detail in writing:
- This form will not be recorded or turned in — it is for preparation and honesty.
Part 2: Genuine Dialogue (Recorded)
- Sit down together and record a real conversation (audio or video).
- During the conversation, each person should:
- Share what they wrote on their form.
- Express how they feel about their needs being met or unmet.
- Listen without interrupting, then respond with understanding and care.
- The conversation should not feel like a script — it should be an authentic dialogue.
- Minimum recording length: 8–10 minutes.
Part 3: Reflections, Compromise & Communication Plan (Recorded)
- After discussing the needs, continue recording yourselves reflecting together on:
- Which needs you are able and willing to meet for each other.
- Which needs you cannot or will not meet.
- What compromises you are willing to make.
- Using the Communication Model (sender, message, channel, receiver, feedback, noise, context), record a short discussion on:
- How you will approach sensitive issues in the future.
- Examples of how you can reduce miscommunication and increase clarity.
- A simple, practical plan for how you will check in with each other moving forward.
Jordan Wiggins 