πͺ Words Have Power
Persuasive writing aims to convince readers to agree with your point of view or take action. You'll use it in essays, speeches, reviews, and everyday life. The best persuaders use a mix of evidence, emotion, and technique.
π― The Three Appeals
π§
Logos (Logic)
Facts, statistics, evidence, reasoning
"Studies show that..."
β€οΈ
Pathos (Emotion)
Feelings, stories, imagery
"Imagine how it feels..."
π
Ethos (Credibility)
Expertise, trustworthiness
"Experts agree..."
π§ Persuasive Techniques
π Statistics & Facts
Use specific numbers to add credibility.
Example: "Over 80% of students report..." rather than "Most students..."
ποΈ Emotive Language
Words that trigger emotional responses.
Example: "devastating" vs "bad", "heroic" vs "good"
β Rhetorical Questions
Questions that make the reader think but don't require answers.
Example: "Is this really the future we want for our children?"
π Rule of Three
Things in threes are more memorable.
Example: "This policy is unfair, unwise, and unnecessary."
Words from authorities add weight.
Example: "As Professor Smith explains..."
π€ Inclusive Language
Using "we" and "us" creates connection.
Example: "Together, we can make a difference."
π Essay Structure
OREO Structure
- Opinion β State your position clearly
- Reasons β Give 2-3 main arguments
- Evidence β Support each reason with proof
- Opinion restated β Conclude with your main point
Counter-Argument
Strong writing acknowledges the other side:
- State the opposing view fairly
- Explain why it's wrong or incomplete
- This makes your argument stronger!
Example Paragraph
"School should start later. [Opinion] Research from the University of Auckland shows teenagers' brains aren't fully awake until 10am. [Evidence] This means students are trying to learn when their brains are still sleepy. Isn't it time we designed schools that work with young people, not against them? [Rhetorical question]"
βοΈ Activities
Activity: Identify Techniques
Find examples of persuasive techniques in advertisements, articles, or speeches. What appeals and techniques are used?
Write a Persuasive Paragraph
Choose a topic you care about and write one persuasive paragraph. Include:
- A clear opinion
- At least one fact or statistic
- Emotive language
- A rhetorical question
My persuasive paragraph:
π©βπ« Teacher Notes
Curriculum Links
- English: Writing β purpose and audience
- Social Studies: Advocacy, participation
- Media Studies: Persuasion in media