1. Persuasive Essay Body Paragraphs

2. Body paragraphs
Body paragraphs build upon the claims made in the introductory paragraph(s).
Organize with the use of topic sentences that illustrate the main idea of each paragraph.

3. Body paragraphs
NO personal opinions.
Facts
Statistics
Quotes
Examples

4. Body paragraphs
Paragraphs may be ordered in several ways, depending upon the topic and purpose of your argument:
General to specific information
Most important point to least important point
Weakest claim to strongest claim

5. Format of Body Paragraphs
Topic Sentence
Supporting Details
Connection to thesis

6. Topic Sentences
Topic sentences clearly state the purpose of the paragraph. Each body paragraph should begin with a topic sentence.
A topic sentence may or may not restate your thesis or position but always should state the paragraph’s central argument.

7. Topic Sentences
Students should not have to wear school uniforms because they limit students’ ability to express their individuality.

8. Supporting Details
Supporting details are arguments, examples, or descriptions that justify, explain, and develop main points.

9. Making Connections
Making the connection is when the last sentence in a body paragraph connects the support back to the main point. 

10. Offering a counter-argument
Addressing the claims of the opposition is an important component in building a convincing argument.
It demonstrates your credibility as a writer – you have researched multiple sides of the argument and have come to an informed decision.
It shows you have considered other points of view – that other points of view are valid and reasonable.

11. Counterargument
Counterarguments may be located at various locations within your body paragraphs.
You may choose to:
build each of your main points as a contrast to oppositional claims.
offer a counterargument after you have articulated your main claims.

12. Example
Many supporters of school uniforms argue that uniforms save families money. However, uniforms actually cost parents more money because parents must buy their children uniforms for the school week and regular clothing for the weekends.

13. Conclusion
Your conclusion should reemphasize the main points made in your paper.
You may choose to reiterate a call to action or speculate on the future of your topic, when appropriate.
Avoid raising new claims in your conclusion.

14. Clinching Statement
The clinching statement is the last sentence in the persuasive essay.
Ways to write a clinching statement:
The Better World:
 If students aren’t forced to wear uniforms, our school will have a much more pleasant and productive environment in which everyone will learn and grow.

15. The Worst Case Scenario:The writer again attempts to describe a scenario, this time imagining how bad the world might become if their proposal is rejected.
Example: If students are required to wear uniforms, the environment of our school will become drab and colorless, and the structure of our hallowed institution will be further from a college and closer to a prison.

16. The Call to Action: Another good way to end your essay is to ask or demand that your reader take some action in support of your proposal. Perhaps you ask them to write a letter or to their congressman or relevant authority. Perhaps you ask them to recycle their trash instead.
Example: If you understand how important it is for students to have the right to dress themselves, it is your civic duty to attend your local school counsel meeting and demand that this proposal be rejected.