1. Persuasion… what is it?

2. Persuasion – Writing designed to convince a reader/listener to change his/her opinion on a subject.

3. So what strategies do we use to persuade our audience?

4. 1. Claim Example: I am going to try to convince you that chocolate is a healthy snack. State your argument.

5. 2. Big Names Example: Former U.S. president Bill Clinton thinks that junk food should be taken out of vending machines. Important people or experts can make your argument seem more convincing.

6. 3. Logos Example: A Snickers bar has 280 calories and 30 grams of sugar. That’s not very healthy. Facts, numbers, and information can be very convincing.

7. 4. Pathos Example: Your donation might just get this puppy off the street and into a good home. Getting people to feel happy, sad, or angry can help your argument.

8. 5. Ethos Example: Believe me! I’ve been there before. I’m just like you. If people believe and trust in you, you’re more likely to persuade them.

9. 6. Kairos Example: This is a one-time offer. You can’t get this price after today. Try to convince your audience that this issue is so important they must act now.

10. 7. Research Example: A recent study found that students who watch TV during the week don’t do as well in school. Using reliable research can help your argument seem convincing.

11. Next, we’re going to work to use these strategies to actually persuade an audience to do something! THE FIRST STEP: Tonight, find one persuasive piece to bring to or share about in class. It can be an article in the newspaper, a letter to the editor, a movie or book review, a commercial, or an advertisement. Then, answer the four questions on your notes about that persuasive piece.

12. Adapted from: Copyright 2006 IRA/NCTE. All rights reserved. ReadWriteThink.org materials may be reproduced for educational purposes. Images ©2006 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.