Persuasion A “How-To” Guide

Persuasion  Focuses on problems that are serious  Focuses on problems that affect a large number of people Example: Global Warming  Goal or Aim To persuade readers that your proposed solution is sensible, realistic, and workable!

Steps of a Persuasion Essay  Step 1: Find a problem that you want to SOLVE. Sometimes it is easy to make a chart to figure out some problems Facts and Opinions Problem 1:Problem 2:Problem 3: Why it’s a problem What and whom it affects

Steps of a Persuasion Essay  Step 2: Explore Solutions Remember: Your solutions must be Realistic! For example: ProblemPossible Solutions Exposure to very loud sounds for a short or prolonged period can lead to hearing loss ~ Avoid noise levels above 120 decibels. ~ Use protective devices such as earmuffs or earplugs. ~ Alert others – especially children – to the hazards of noise.

Steps of a Persuasion Essay  Step 3: Consider your Audience Who do you want to persuade?  People affected by the problem  People responsible for causing the problem  People who can act on your realistic solutions Remember your TONE

A Good Persuasion Essay…  Identifies the problem clearly  Provides evidence of the seriousness of the problem  Proposes one or more solutions  Considers opposing opinions and contradictory evidence  Targets the audience and their point of view  Makes a convincing argument for a change in thinking or action

Supporting a Persuasion Essay  To support your essay you can use: Facts and statistics Anecdotes and examples from personal experience Expert opinions

Writing the Persuasion Essay  Introduction A strong example or statement of the problem Grab the reader’s attention!  Body paragraphs (3) Follow MEE(E)TS strategy or each body paragraph Conclusion Anticipate objections! Look for weaknesses in your proposed solution, and see if you can strengthen your argument Present the “other” side State what you want your readers to do! Predict what will happen in the future if not action is taken

Persuasion Brainstorm  After you have your problem – stumped by solutions? Try asking these questions… How will it work? Who is involved? What will happen? Why is this solution better than other possible solutions? (give facts, examples, and statistics) How much will it cost? Who will pay for it?

Persuasive Introduction - Summer School Clip