2. WHAT IS PERSUASIVE WRITING?
Persuasive writing, also known as the argument
essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that
one idea is more legitimate than another idea.
It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a
certain point of view or to take a particular
action. The argument must always use sound
reasoning and solid evidence by stating
facts, giving logical reasons, using
examples, and quoting experts.
3. WHAT IS AN ARGUMENT?
In writing, an argument is a claim
supported by reasons and evidence.
A claim is a writer’s position on a
problem or issue.
Example: Crunchy Puffs are an
important part of a nutritious
breakfast.
4. WHAT IS AN ARGUMENT?
An argument or claim is an opinion
rather than a fact.
For Example:
Crunchy Puffs is a breakfast cereal.
(Fact that cannot be argued)
Crunchy Puffs are an important part
of a nutritious breakfast. (Opinion
that can be argued)
5. PROVIDING REASONS
The strength of an argument depends not
on the claim but on the reasons that are
used to support the claim.
Support is what persuades the reader to
accept the writer’s claim.
6. FOR EXAMPLE
CLAIM
All students in the United States should
learn a foreign language.
Reason 2 Reason 3
Reason 1
Studying a Knowing other
Students in other
language helps languages is
countries learn
students excel in important in the
foreign language.
other subjects. business world.
7. EVIDENCE
Each of your reasons need evidence to help prove
your claim and support the reason(s).
Statistics- Facts, numbers, and information can be
very convincing.
Expert opinions- Important people or experts can
make your argument seem more convincing.
Personal Observations (anecdote)- Personally
observing evidence or situations that would support
your argument.
Charged language and striking images- Getting
people to feel happy, sad, or angry can help your
argument.
8. EVIDENCE
Statistics- In a study of 20 countries, 17 countries
required all students to learn at least one foreign language.
Expert opinions- Dr. Seuss found that students who took
foreign languages had higher grade point averages than
those who didn’t.
Personal Observations (anecdote)- Companies are often
International; employees must be able to communicate
with customers and with each other.
Charged language and striking images- If students don’t
learn a foreign language, they will increase America’s
poverty rate. Do you want your children to struggle to put
food on the table?
9. WHAT IS A COUNTER ARGUMENT?
A counter-argument is an argument
opposed to your claim, or part of your
claim. It expresses the view of a person
who disagrees with your position.
10. WHY SHOULD I ADDRESS A
COUNTERARGUMENT?
Why would you include a counter-argument in
your essay? Doesn’t that weaken your argument?
Actually, no. Done well, it makes the argument
stronger.
This is because it gives you the chance to respond to your
reader’s objections before they have finished reading. It also
shows that you are a reasonable person who has considered
both sides of the debate. Both of these make an essay more
persuasive.
11. HOW SHOULD I ADDRESS THE
COUNTER ARGUMENT?
A counter-argument should be expressed
thoroughly, fairly and objectively.
Do not just write a quick sentence and then
immediately rebut it.
Give reasons why someone might actually hold that
view. A few sentences or even a whole paragraph is
not an unreasonable amount of space to give to the
counter-argument.
Again, the point is to show your reader that you have
considered all sides of the question, and to make it
easier to answer the counter-argument. It’s easier to
respond to a point you have already spelled out—and
it’s easier for your reader to follow you.
12. EXAMPLE OF ADDRESSING A
COUNTER ARGUMENT
People should think carefully before buying unusual
pets.
(1) Some people would say that owning an
exotic pet is a wonderful experience. (2) They
might say that exotic pets make the owner
stand out in a crowd. (3) They also might
say that owning an exotic pet is a unique and
rewarding experience. (4) However, these
unique animals also come with unique
challenges especially when they mature.
13. HOW DO I FORMAT A PERSUASIVE
ESSAY?
Introduction: Introduce your topic
along with stating your claim
Reason 1 Reason 2 Reason 3
Discuss the 1st reason Discuss the 2nd reason Discuss the 3rd reason
you have that supports you have that supports you have that supports
your claim- along with at your claim- along with at your claim- along with at
least one piece of least one piece of least one piece of
evidence. evidence. evidence.
Paragraph addressing the counterargument.
Conclusion: Restate your claim and remind your
reader of your evidence. NO new information should
be introduced!
14. CLOSING STATEMENTS
In five sentences or less, summarize the
most important details about today’s
notes.
Turn to your shoulder partner and read
your summary.
Compare and contrast the information
you both included in your summary.
