Persuasive Writing Is when the pen become mightier
Persuasive Writing Is when the pen become mightier than the sword Copyright 2002 by Rick Shelton
Expository-Persuasive Connection If the writer really wishes to change his or her reader’s mind, then just stating “Do this” or “Don’t do that” will not work. The writer needs to bring some elements of expository writing to his or her persuasive writing. Strong reasons for his or her position or opinion, supported by vivid and thoughtful examples will go much farther towards convincing the reader to adopt the writers point of view. In order to persuade, the writer must also be able to explain.
Expository-Persuasive Connection The structure of persuasive essays and the development of persuasive paragraphs mirror those of expository writing , also the techniques of questioning and planning are the same as well. As in expository writing, the persuasive writer must be able to formulate a statement about the subject. In persuasive writing, this statement is not factual or qualitative as in expository writing. It is a judgment that requires a reaction from the reader. The statement makes the writer’s opinion or position on the issue obvious to the reader.
Body Paragraph Outline Why? (is the river worth saving) The writer gives his or her First Reason How? (does it provide habitat for a large variety of native plants and animals) The writer gives specific examples What difference will this make? (preserving ecological diversity) The writer sums up the paragraph Provides habitat for a large variety of native plants and animals List/describe the plants and animals that would disappear if the river was destroyed State consequences of not following the recommendation to save the Cahaba River as they pertain to ecological diversity
Three Aspects of Persuasive Writing n Choosing a position – the writer is required to take a position regarding a certain issue or subject. n Establishing an audience – the writer needs to know whom he or she is addressing and begin to predict what will be important to them. n Asking for action – the writer will ask the audience to consider his or her opinions and vote accordingly.
Planning for a Persuasive Prompt Writing assessment prompts in the persuasive mode guide the writer by: 1. Describing the issues at hand 2. Naming the audience 3. Asking students to take a side
Persuasive Plan 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. What is the issue at hand? Who is the audience? Am I “for” or “against”? What do I want the audience to do about it? List three reasons why I am “for” or “against” Each reason gets a paragraph. Construct introductions and conclusion using the audience, issue, stance, and action.
Introduction An effective Persuasive introduction can be fashioned from the following elements of the student’s persuasive plan: the audience, the issue, the writer’s stance, and the action called for. The tone of the introduction needs to convey thoughtfulness or seriousness to the audience. The reader must understand that the writer has thought about the issue in some depth and is not simply “arguing with his or heart” but with his or her mind as well Trick of the Trade: It is always helpful to calmly acknowledge the motivations or stances of those who oppose your perspective.
Conclusion Persuasive conclusions have three very definite functions: To restate the issue To restate the writer’s stance To call for specific action from the audience Trick of the Trade: The writer will be more effective if he or she maintains a thoughtful, serious style to the end of the essay/letter. The conclusion should be reasonable and direct and serve three functions highlighted above.
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