Loaded Words In persuasive writing

Purpose of Persuasive Writing to convince a reader to see the subject from the writer's point of view or to agree with the writer’s opinion using rhetoric

Word Choice We need to think about the words we use and choose each word wisely certain words can help to make readers feel positive or negative about an idea. We call these words loaded words

Loaded Words “Loaded words” are loaded with the potential to generate strong emotions or feelings – positive or negative For example, using words like healthy or safe cause a positive reaction from most people.

Loaded Words Words like germs or caution might cause a negative reaction from most people.

Loaded Words Writers use loaded words (emotional language) to sway opinions The words reflect the bias of the writer Connotation – the suggested meaning of a word, based on emotion; either positive, negative, or neutral Denotation – the actual dictionary meaning of a word

Loaded Words New Excuse Denotation – recent origin(dictionary) Connotation – improved, better (positive) Excuse Denotation – explanation (dictionary) Connotation – weak reason (negative)

Loaded Words in Writing Where are the loaded words in this sentence? How do these words express positive or negative opinions? The gorgeous model slinked down the runway. Gorgeous and slinked; gorgeous is positive, while slinked is negative.

Loaded Words in Writing How could this sentence be rewritten to change the loaded words to neutral language? The model walked down the runway. It is clear that the words are neutral – no opinions are being expressed. *Class practice sentences