1. Persuasive Writing Getting the Votes

2. Good Persuasive Writing: Has a clear position Has convincing evidence Is based on research Is logical Anticipates opposing views Hooks reader from the beginning

3. Sitting on the Fence Someone who seems to be on both sides of the issue at once. Fence sitters do not make strong persuasive writers

4. An Thesis Example It might be a good idea to require a minimum of two years of military service for all eighteen-year-olds unless they already have a job and act fairly mature.

5. Identify the Problems For the writer For the reader

6. Taking a Clear Stand Help this writer get off the fence. Rewrite the thesis statement about military service so it makes a clear stand. Share your theses

7. Convincing Strategies? Repeat your argument using other words. …it’s just a good idea…it makes sense Use words like very and really. …it’s a really good idea. Have a tantrum on paper. …anyone who thinks military service is not a good idea is crazy.

8. Key 1: Be Prepared Gather information about your topic

9. Key 2: Be Logical The right information makes the difference between an argument that wins votes and an argument that leaves people indifferent.

10. Key 3: Be Creative Try to think of an original twist to your essay to make it stand out from the crowd.