What is she trying to persuade the audience about writing?

She is trying to persuade the students by trying to get the students to think critically and write about how communication and persuasion are constructed.

What kind of ethos is used?

She is credible for her course because she is Dr. Lisa King which means she has a Ph.D. in her field.

How does ethos help or harm her persuasive effort?

It helps her with her persuasive effort because she informs the students with detailed information about the course and what they need to be prepared for.