Final answer:
True, parallel construction utilizes consistent wording throughout the main points in a speech for symmetry, clarity, and memorability. It's a key component of parallelism, which includes repetition of structures to emphasize ideas and organize content effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, parallel construction uses the same or similar wording for the main points of a speech. This rhetorical strategy is known as parallelism, and it is employed to create symmetry, balance, and memorability in the text.
An excellent example of parallelism in use is President John F. Kennedy's inaugural address, which utilizes this technique to reinforce his message about collaborative efforts for the success of liberty.
When drafting a speech or writing, parallelism and repetition can function as organizational tools to structure the presentation and highlight key ideas.
Additionally, they are used to make the content more engaging and easier for the audience to follow. It is crucial to review and edit speech drafts for not only content but also for rhetorical devices like parallelism, signpost language, and tone, to ensure that the writing is clear, persuasive, and effective.
As explained in Chapter 19, most paragraphs in a well-constructed speech are unified under a single thesis statement and feature appropriate transitions to connect ideas.
Within these paragraphs, parallelism plays a key role in supporting the thesis and making the argument more compelling. Therefore, in your writing, ensure that each paragraph's content adheres to the main purpose and thesis statement, and utilizes rhetorical devices to strengthen the argument.