Concluding Paragraphs in the Persuasive Essay

When writers want to convince their readers of an opinion or point of view they can write a persuasive essay.

In the final or concluding paragraph of a persuasive essay, the author summarizes by restating the opinion or thesis and also by restating arguments.

Let’s look at some examples of concluding paragraphs.

Loyalty, affection, and protection are three things that a dog will give to their owner, unquestionably and unconditionally. When it comes to choosing an animal companion, you will find no better pet than the loyal, lovable, dog.

Does the author restate the thesis? Loyalty, affection, and protection are three things that a dog will give to their owner, unquestionably and unconditionally. When it comes to choosing an animal companion, you will find no better pet than the loyal, lovable, dog.

Does the author restate the thesis? Loyalty, affection, and protection are three things that a dog will give to their owner, unquestionably and unconditionally. When it comes to choosing an animal companion, you will find no better pet than the loyal, lovable, dog.

Does the author restate the arguments? Loyalty, affection, and protection are three things that a dog will give to their owner, unquestionably and unconditionally. When it comes to choosing an animal companion, you will find no better pet than the loyal, lovable, dog.

Does the author restate the arguments? Loyalty, affection, and protection are three things that a dog will give to their owner, unquestionably and unconditionally. When it comes to choosing an animal companion, you will find no better pet than the loyal, lovable, dog.

What are the author’s arguments? Why does he think that dogs make the best pets?

Let’s look at another example.

Let’s review the facts. Soccer is the most popular sport, it does not require much equipment, almost anyone can play, and it helps people be in top physical shape. Is it any wonder that I think soccer is the world’s best sport?

What is the author’s thesis? Let’s review the facts. Soccer is the most popular sport, it does not require much equipment, almost anyone can play, and it helps people be in top physical shape. Is it any wonder that I think soccer is the world’s best sport?

What is the author’s thesis? Let’s review the facts. Soccer is the most popular sport, it does not require much equipment, almost anyone can play, and it helps people be in top physical shape. Is it any wonder that I think soccer is the world’s best sport?

What are the author’s arguments or reasons? Let’s review the facts. Soccer is the most popular sport, it does not require much equipment, almost anyone can play, and it helps people be in top physical shape. Is it any wonder that I think soccer is the world’s best sport?

What are the author’s arguments or reasons? Let’s review the facts. Soccer is the most popular sport, it does not require much equipment, almost anyone can play, and it helps people be in top physical shape. Is it any wonder that I think soccer is the world’s best sport?

As you work on your concluding paragraph, make sure that you have restated you thesis and also your arguments.

I will be coming around to talk with some of you about concluding paragraphs and I will be asking some of you to share at the end of the workshop.

Ann Arbor Public Schools Office of Curriculum and Instruction 2007