Persuasive Essay Writing Focus on Form

A persuasive text is a text that has been created to convince an audience to do or believe something. Persuasive texts come in many forms: essays reviews petitions proposals analyses editorials letters of complaint speeches

Elements of Persuasive Text Example Begins with a clear statement or thesis about the purpose In my opinion, Superman is not as brave as Batman Includes supporting ideas and arguments (statistics, facts, examples, quotes to support) For one thing, Superman has superpowers; he knows that if he needs to, he can defeat just about anyone or anything. Batman has only his puny human strength and gadgets, but he still risks his life. Uses a clear organization or structure that builds logically from one point to the next Most persuasive texts have an introduction, body, and conclusion The conclusion should repeat the main purpose; may also have a call to action Clearly, Superman is not even half as courageous as Batman. So next time someone tells you Superman is fantastic hero, make sure you set that person straight. Usually transition words or phrases that show how ideas are connected For one thing, clearly, because, however, therefore, in conclusion, as a result

Organization Introduction Provides the argument or opinion thesis Body argument - supporting ideas and arguments evidence - facts, examples, statistics, or quotations Conclusion repeat thesis call for action

Some points to consider… Choose a position Understand the audience Do the research Identify the most convincing evidence