The persuasive discourse (p.192-

194)Day 7

What is a persuasive discourse?

• A formal speech

• Intends to persuade the listeners that the speaker's opinion on an issue is the right one.

• It is supported with arguments backed up by statistics, examples and expert opinions.

The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a persuasive essay.persuasive essay.

The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a persuasive essay.persuasive essay.

Introduction

• Begins with a grabber (rhetorical questions, provocative statements, short anecdotes).

• At the end of the introduction provide a preview statement (thesis statement + three arguments).

Body

• The speaker's three arguments are developed.

• Each argument is introduced with a transition term.

• Back up your arguments with at least two of the following types of evidence: statistics, expert opinion, example.

Conclusion

• Begins with a transition term (To conclude, in summary, to finish) followed by a summary statement (a rephrased summary statement).

• The speaker ends with a clincher (connecting with the introduction, demonstrating the importance of a thesis statement, offering a solution).

Persuasive strategies

• Keep it short and simple.

• Repeat yourself.

• Use transition terms (see p.198)

• Ask questions (rhetorical and directed).

A few don'ts

• Don't read your speech.

• Don't stand in one place.

• Don't talk to just one or two people in the audience.

• Don't avoid making eye contact.