How to Write a Persuasive Essay

What is persuasive writing?

Copying permitted

Persuasive writing tells the writer’sopinion and why the readershould agree.

What is the goal of persuasive writing? to state the writer’s opinion to give reasons why the reader should agree to convince the reader to take action

Copying permitted

Step 1: Read the prompt carefully before you begin.

Writing Situation: Many eighteen year olds who are old enough to vote, choose not to register, not participating in elections. Do you think it is important to register and exercise your right to vote?

Consider the reasons one would want to register and participate in elections.

Directions for Writing: Now write a persuasive essay stating whether or not eighteen year old should register and participate in elections. Give reasons to support your position arguing in such a convincing manner that others will agree with you.

Step 2: Take a stand.

Think about the stand that will provide two reasons for argument.

Rhetoric

The persuasive power of words was discussed by Aristotle around 350 BC. He presented an analysis of rhetorical strategies, which included three elements: logos, pathos and ethos:

Logos

An attempt to persuade the audience (or reader) through sound reasoning.

Reliable evidence, e.g. facts, definitions, statistics and other data that appeals to the logic and intelligence of the audience.

Pathos

An appeal to the emotions of the reader or audience.

Attempt to induce a particular state of mind in e.g. anger, understanding, sympathy, tolerance

Taps into the sentiment or feelings of the audience or readership.

Ethos

Appeal of the speaker or writer in terms of his / her credibility and experience

Presents, directly or indirectly, a profile that sets a stamp of authority on the words used to persuade.

Aristotle’s model of persuasion

Pathos

Ethos

Logos

Step 3: Prepare the graphic organizer.

Now fold your paper into 4 squares.

Step 4: Complete the graphic organizer.

Unfold the paper and draw a box in the center. In the center box write a sentence to convey your stand.

Step 3: Complete the graphic organizer.

Voting is not only the privilege but the responsibility of every 18 year-old.

Write one reason you think 18-year olds should vote.

Example: Every vote counts and is important.

Example: Some people claim teenagers are too immature. However, if they can go to war, they can vote.

Summarize your reasons.

Example: Voting is your way to state your concerns and beliefs.

Write another reason you think 18-year olds should vote.

State the other side’s opinion (counterargument and rebut it.

It is important to exercise the right to vote. Through this process beliefs and concerns are conveyed. Although many election contests are won by comfortable margins, some have been so close that a single vote has made the difference. Citizens must show the world the importance of voting in a democracy.

Remember:

You cannot use I. Since you are writing the paper, the reader knows it is your opinion!

You cannot use You. Use: a person, someone, people, citizens, one, he, she, they, etc.

Avoid contractions like can’t, don’t, won’t, etc.

Your Topic

State legislators are pushing schools to adopt an “exit exam.” This would be a comprehensive test that all seniors wanting to get a diploma would have to take. A passing grade would be required to graduate.

Step 1: Think about the topic

Directions for Writing: Now write a persuasive essay stating whether or not seniors should be forced to take an exit exam in order to graduate. Give reasons to support your position arguing in such a convincing manner that others will agree with you.

Step 2: Take a stand.

Think about the stand that will provide two reasons for argument.

PROS CONS

Step 3: Prepare the graphic organizer.

Now fold your paper into 4 squares.

Step 4: Complete the graphic organizer.

Unfold the paper and draw a box in the center. In the center box write a sentence to convey your stand.

Step 3: Complete the graphic organizer.

Every seniors should be required to prove his/her readiness for graduation by taking and passing an exit exam.

Write one reason you think seniors should take the exit exam.

Example: Students would be forced to take their classes seriously.

Example: Critics argue that students have already passed all of their classes and that proves they should graduate. However, students are responsible for their education.

Summarize your reasons.

Example: The exit exam proves that the student has completed the work required.

Write another reason you think seniors should take the exit exam.

State the other side’s opinion (counterargument and rebut it.

Today’s world is more complicated than ever. Students need to retain all that they learn in high school in order to compete for spots in top colleges and jobs. By making seniors take an exit exam, schools will be placing the responsibility for learning on the shoulders of the students and not the teachers. There is a core body of knowledge that everyone should know upon graduation.

Remember:

Start with a hook and transition to the topic of exit exams.

Do not use ‘you’ or ‘I.’ Do not use contractions. Do not use slang words. Watch your tone. Use logical reasons for support.