Macmillan Lesson Essentials: Persuasive Writing

MACMILLAN L e s s o n E s s e n t i a l sMACMILLAN L e s s o n E s s e n t i a l s

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PersuasiveWriting

Katy Collis

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www.macmillan.com.au

Implementing the Australian Curriculum

HHere are all the essentials you need for your persuasive writing lessons. Annotated text models, mini-posters, worksheets, writing tasks and assessment tools focus on the different forms of persuasive writing and the importance of purpose and audience. There are also essential tools to help students grasp persuasive structure and language, such as introductions that hook in the reader, powerful paragraphs with a point, and knockout conclusions.

The bonus CD contains all the text models, annotations, mini-posters, worksheets, assessment tools and writing task pages from the book as PDFs for viewing on an IWB or similar device. The worksheets can be filled in by typing on a keyboard and are perfect for modelling. The assessment rubric may also be filled in by typing on a keyboard.

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For review purposes only

Persuasive Writing PDFs

DO NOT BREAK THE SEAL OR REMOVE THE CD-ROM UNLESS YOU HAVE PURCHASED THIS BOOK.

This CD-ROM contains all the text models, annotations, mini-posters, worksheets, assessment tools and writing task pages from the book as PDFs for viewing on an IWB or other device. The worksheets can be filled in by typing on a keyboard and are perfect for modelling. The assessment rubric may also be filled in by typing on a keyboard.

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MacMillan L e s s o n E s s e n t i a l s

Katy Collis

PersuasiveWriting

PersuasiveWriting

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First published in 2011 by

MACMILLAN EDUCATION AUSTRALIA PTY LTD

15–19 Claremont Street, South Yarra 3141

Visit our website at www.macmillan.com.au

Associated companies and representatives throughout the world.

Copyright © Katy Collis/Macmillan Education Australia 2011 Macmillan Lesson Essentials: Persuasive Writing

ISBN 978 1 4202 9166 7Publisher: Sharon DalgleishManaging editor: Bonnie WilsonEditor: Laura JordanProofreader: Haylie PretoriusDesign and Illustrations: Jobi MurphyPrinted in Australia

Copying of this work by educational institutions or teachersThe purchasing educational institution and its staff, or the purchasing individual teacher, may only reproduce pages within this book in accordance with the Australian Copyright Act 1968 (the Act) and provided the educational institution (or body that administers it) has given a remuneration notice to the Copyright Agency Limited (CAL) under the Act.

For details of the CAL licence for educational institutions, contact: Copyright Agency LimitedLevel 15, 233 Castlereagh StreetSydney NSW 2000Telephone (02) 9394 7600Facsimile (02) 9394 7601Email [email protected]

Reproduction and communication for other purposesExcept as permitted under the Act (for example, any fair dealing for the purposes of study, research, criticism or review), no part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, communicated or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission. All inquiries should be made to the publisher.

Acknowledgement* The acronym NAPLAN is a trademark owned by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority.

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C ontents How to Use These Lesson Essentials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Children’s Literature for Teaching Persuasive Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Text Models1 Persuasive Essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Dogs Are Better Than Cats2 Persuasive Letter: To the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ban Dogs Today!3 Persuasive Review: Book Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 How to Talk to Your Dog4 Persuasive Visual Text: Advertisement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Pawfect Translation Collar5 Persuasive Visual Text: Poster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Your Best Friend Needs You . . .6 Persuasive Essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 It’s Better to be a Meat Eater than a Leaf Eater7 Persuasive Letter: To the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Rockosaurus Must End8 Persuasive Review: Restaurant Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Tyrannomunch9 Persuasive Visual Text: Advertisement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Maiasaura Nestwalker10 Persuasive Visual Text: Poster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Vote 1 Brachiosaurus!

Mini-Posters1 Persuasive Essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262 Persuasive Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273 Persuasive Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284 Persuasive Visual Text . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295 Persuasive Structure—It’s in the Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306 Persuasive Introductions—Hook Them In . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317 Persuasive Paragraphs—Get to the Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328 Persuasive Counter Arguments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339 Persuasive Conclusions—Knock Them Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3410 Persuasive Sentence Starters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3511 Persuasive Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3612 Persuasive Distances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3713 Persuasive Angles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Worksheets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

AssessmentSelf-Assessment Checklists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Assessment Rubric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

Writing TasksPersuasive Essay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Persuasive Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Persuasive Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63Persuasive Visual Text . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

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4

This book contains all the essentials you need for your persuasive writing lessons .

Ten text models have been specially written to contain the main structural elements and language features students need to know about the different forms of persuasive writing . Included are five simpler texts (based on the theme ‘pet dogs’) and five more complex texts (based on the theme ‘dinosaurs’) . Choose the level of text appropriate for your students .

Collect, or have students look for, other real-world models to discuss . Try:■ letters to the editor and editorials from the

local newspaper■ pamphlets and junk mail■ posters or leaflets about important issues in

your local area .

Use the text models to discuss audience, purpose, structure and language . Copy or display the version with no annotations . Have students think about who the intended audience might be and then find and discuss the various features . Annotated versions of each text model are supplied to help with this . Mini-posters 1 to 4 can be used as a ready reference when analysing other collected models .

To highlight the structure, you could use the text models as a jigsaw cloze . Cut up the models and then have students put them back together in order .

Extend more able students by having them add to the models . They could:■ add extra paragraphs■ add more details to the arguments■ add a new paragraph with a different

appeal (for example a logical, ethical or emotional appeal, or an appeal to the senses)

■ revise the language features to add more emphasis, an expression of urgency and so on

■ add a counter argument paragraph .

How to Use These Lesson Essentials

Mini-posters are included for important teaching points . These could be copied and distributed to students to keep in their writing folders, or enlarged on A3 paper and coloured in for display in the classroom .

Use the worksheets during modelled, shared and guided writing lessons . Think aloud as you write to help students understand your thought processes and exactly what you are doing . Then have copies of the worksheets available for students to use when they draft their own writing .

Encourage students to assess their own writing using the self-assessment checklists . Blank lines have been left on each one so you can add any extra criteria you want your students to focus on . Have students check off each statement once they have drafted their writing . They can then see if they have met the criteria for persuasive writing and think about revision ideas . There are two checklists for each form of persuasive writing: one basic, and one more complex . Choose the checklist appropriate for your students .

Use the assessment rubric to score students’ individual pieces of persuasive writing . It is organised into ten criteria in line with the NAPLAN* marking criteria . It should make it easier to assess your students’ writing in a measurable, meaningful and objective way . Score each criterion from 1 to 5 . Add up all the scores to get a mark out of 50, then double this mark to get a percentage . There is also space for you to add specific comments, or notes about future learning goals . The observation pointers listed within each criterion are organised from basic to more difficult . Cross out any that do not apply for your particular students .

A series of set writing tasks is provided for students to consolidate their learning about persuasive writing . These writing tasks can also be used as practise exercises for the NAPLAN* writing tests .

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5

Alexander, Who’s Not (Do You Hear Me? I Mean It!) Going To Move by Judith Viorst

Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo (When Opal persuades her father to let her keep the stray dog she calls Winn-Dixie)

Can I Keep Him? by Steven Kellogg

Caps For Sale: A Tale Of A Peddler, Some Monkeys And Their Monkey Business by Esphyr Slobodkina

Charlotte’s Web by E B White (When Fern persuades her father to let her keep the runt of the litter)

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin

Dear Mrs LaRue: Letters from Obedience School by Mark Teague

Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus! by Mo Willems

Earrings! by Judith Viorst

Frog and Toad (series) by Arnold Lobel

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

The Great Kapok Tree: A Tale of the Amazon Rain Forest by Lynne Cherry

Green Eggs and Ham by Dr Seuss

Help Me, Mr Mutt!: Expert Answers for Dogs with People Problems by Janet Stevens and Susan Stevens Crummel

Hey, Little Ant by Phillip M Hoose

I Wanna Iguana by Karen Kaufman Orloff

I Will Never Not Ever Eat a Tomato by Lauren Child

Just a Dream by Chris Van Allsburg

Magic Beach by Alison Lester

Old Henry by Joan W Blos

The Perfect Pet by Margie Palatini

A Pet for Mrs Arbuckle by Gwenda Smyth

The Terrible Plop by Ursula Dubosarsky

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka

Where the Forest Meets the Sea by Jeannie Baker

Why I love Australia by Bronwyn Bancroft

Would You Rather? by John Burningham

The Wrong Book by Nick Bland

Zoo by Anthony Browne

■ _______________________________________

■ _______________________________________

■ _______________________________________

■ _______________________________________

■ _______________________________________

Children’s Literature for Teaching Persuasive WritingBelow is a list of children’s literature you could use to teach point of view and persuasive voice . Students could:■ put a character’s point of view into their own words■ write their own arguments from the opposite point of view to a character■ write their own arguments to continue a story■ write their own arguments in answer to questions raised in a story .

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6Macmillan Lesson Essentials: Persuasive Writing © Katy Collis/Macmillan Education Australia. ISBN 978 1 4202 9166 7

Text Model 1

Dogs Are Better Than CatsI’ve always liked dogs. They bounce around and are always happy to see you. Dogs are better than cats.

Dogs are good for your health. They need to be walked. So you get exercise too!Dogs are smart. They are trained to help people. They can help blind people or they can work with the police or army.

Above all, dogs are best to play with. They are loyal friends. They will even protect you in danger. They will love you until the day you die.So you can see that dogs are better than cats. A dog is good for your health, is smart and is your best friend. Cats don’t even like us! So why should we like them?

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Annotated Text Model 1

Dogs Are Better Than CatsI’ve always liked dogs. They bounce around and are always happy to see you. Dogs are better than cats.

Dogs are good for your health. They need to be walked. So you get exercise too!Dogs are smart. They are trained to help people. They can help blind people or they can work with the police or army.

Above all, dogs are best to play with. They are loyal friends. They will even protect you in danger. They will love you until the day you die.So you can see that dogs are better than cats. A dog is good for your health, is smart and is your best friend. Cats don’t even like us! So why should we like them?

Persuasive Essay

Structure Language

introductiondescription to grab attention

thesis

argumentslogical reason

ethical reason

emotional reason

conclusionthesis restated

arguments summarised

personal comment

question

emotional language

relating verbs

evaluative language

subject at beginning of

sentence

words to emphasise

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Text Model 2

2 Park Rd

Sun Valley

15 October 2015

The Editor

Sun Valley Times

Hill Top Road

Sun Valley

Dear Editor,

Dogs are taking over Sun Valley! I think the Town

Council should make a law to keep dogs out of our

peaceful town.

Dogs chase people. Yesterday a dog chased me and

nearly bit me.

Dogs leave a mess behind. We can’t even play in the park

in case we step in something smelly.

Dogs are noisy. They bark all night. They chase my cat.

As you can see it is a smart idea to keep dogs out of Sun

Valley. They are vicious, smelly and noisy. Ban dogs today!

Sincerely,

Alice Brown

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Persuasive Letter: To the Editor

subject at beginning of

sentence

begins with an exaggeration

thesis

reason

reason

reason

details

details

details

thesis restated

arguments summarised

call to action

emotional language

thinking verb

Structure Language2 Park Rd

Sun Valley

15 October 2015

The Editor

Sun Valley Times

Hill Top Rd

Sun Valley

Dear Editor,

Dogs are taking over Sun Valley! I think that the

Town Council should make a law to keep dogs out

of our peaceful town.

Dogs chase people. Yesterday a dog chased me and

nearly bit me.

Dogs leave a mess behind. We can’t even play in the

park in case we step in something smelly.

Dogs are noisy. They bark all night. They chase my cat.

As you can see it is a smart idea to keep dogs out of Sun

Valley. They are vicious, smelly and noisy. Ban dogs today!

Sincerely,

Alice Brown

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Text Model 3

How to Talk to Your Dog is a

practical handbook for dog owners.

R U Barking has worked with

dogs all her life. She also hosts the

popular television show, ‘Get Your

Dog off the Couch’.

How to Talk to Your Dog is a big

book packed with helpful tips. There

are chapters on reading faces and

tails, as well as understanding barks,

growls, howls and whimpers.

Each section has clear drawings so

you can use the book as a quick and

easy guide to dog-speak. The CD

included is an even better bonus.

You can actually hear the growls and

howls that are described in the book.

Just don’t play it in the same room as

your dog like I did!

How to Talkto Your Dogby R U Barking,

published by PetsPress

Telling TailsDog-speak Human-speak

I’m happy!

I’m sad!

How to Talk to Your Dog is highly

recommended for all dog owners.

It would also make the perfect gift

for anyone afraid of dogs. With this

guide in hand, they’ll be able to

understand when a dog is feeling

threatened or feeling friendly. They’ll

know when it is safe to approach or

best to keep away.

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How to Talk to Your Dog is a

practical handbook for dog owners.

R U Barking has worked with

dogs all her life. She also hosts the

popular television show, ‘Get Your

Dog off the Couch’.

How to Talk to Your Dog is a big

book packed with helpful tips. There

are chapters on reading faces and

tails, as well as understanding barks,

growls, howls and whimpers.

Each section has clear drawings so

you can use the book as a quick and

easy guide to dog-speak. The CD

included is an even better bonus.

You can actually hear the growls and

howls that are described in the book.

Just don’t play it in the same room as

your dog like I did!

How to Talkto Your Dogby R U Barking,

published by PetsPress

Telling TailsDog-speak Human-speak

I’m happy!

I’m sad!

How to Talk to Your Dog is highly

recommended for all dog owners.

It would also make the perfect gift

for anyone afraid of dogs. With this

guide in hand, they’ll be able to

understand when a dog is feeling

threatened or feeling friendly. They’ll

know when it is safe to approach or

best to keep away.

Persuasive Review: Book Review

Structure Language

background information

description

judgement

writer’s feelings or experiences

recommendation

photo of thing being reviewed

subject in theme position

adjectives

words to emphasise

evaluative words

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Text Model 4

Available in a range of colours

and sizes.

Translation Collar

Then this is the Pawfect solution you have been waiting for!

Do you want to be able to

talk to your dog so it really

understands you? Are you tired of not knowing what your dog is trying to tell you?

Pawfect

Pawfect . . . when only the best will do!

Get yours today before they

sell out!

Please

love me!

Woof! Woof!©

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Available in a range of colours

and sizes.

Translation Collar

Then this is the Pawfect solution you have been waiting for!

Do you want to be able to

talk to your dog so it really

understands you? Are you tired of not knowing what your dog is trying to tell you?

Pawfect

Pawfect . . . when only the best will do!

Get yours today before they

sell out!

Please

love me!

Woof! Woof!

Persuasive Visual Text: Advertisement

Structure Language

logo

questions to catch attention

brief description of features

call to action

slogan

words to emphasise

emotional language

expression of urgency

high modality

evaluative language

command

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Text Model 5

Your best friend needs

You . . .

Call 1800 Doggie Rescue now!

Sponsor a dog today.

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Persuasive Visual Text: Poster

Your best friend needs

You . . .

Call 1800 Doggie Rescue now!

Sponsor a dog today.

Structure Language

very brief text

catchphrase to grab attention

bias of illustration

layout to focus attention

font size

call to action

emotional language

speaks directly to

reader

high modality

commands

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Text Model 6

It’s Better to be a Meat Eater Than a Leaf Eater

A herd of duck-billed, plant-eating Maiasaura is feeding at the edge of the forest. One wanders silently down to the river to drink. Suddenly there is a crashing sound in the trees. A hungry Tyrannosaurus Rex has been watching the herd for hours, waiting for this chance.

I know which dinosaur I would rather be. It is better to be a meat eater than a leaf eater. Here are three reasons why.

First, eating meat is the right thing to do. Meat eaters clean up all the carcases lying around. On the other hand, plant eaters move in and strip the whole area bare. Soon there will be no shade left at all.

Of course, this means that meat eaters will outlive plant eaters. When all the plants are finally gone, the leaf eaters will die out. Meat eaters will be able to eat all those greedy dead leaf eaters.

The fact is that meat eaters, with glinting, razor-sharp teeth and claws, are awe-inspiring, powerful machines. ‘Rex’ even means king. Who can argue with that?

This clearly shows that it is better to be a meat eater than a leaf eater. It is better to clean up carcases. It is better to live longer. It is better to be king. The famous expert Herman E Raptor says there are 30 times as many plant eaters as meat eaters. So come join our exclusive club!

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Persuasive Essay

It’s Better to be a Meat Eater Than a Leaf Eater

A herd of duck-billed, plant-eating Maiasaura is feeding at the edge of the forest. One wanders silently down to the river to drink. Suddenly there is a crashing sound in the trees. A hungry Tyrannosaurus Rex has been watching the herd for hours, waiting for this chance.

I know which dinosaur I would rather be. It is better to be a meat eater than a leaf eater. Here are three reasons why.

First, eating meat is the right thing to do. Meat eaters clean up all the carcases lying around. On the other hand, plant eaters move in and strip the whole area bare. Soon there will be no shade left at all.

Of course, this means that meat eaters will outlive plant eaters. When all the plants are finally gone, the leaf eaters will die out. Meat eaters will be able to eat all those greedy dead leaf eaters.

The fact is that meat eaters, with glinting, razor-sharp teeth and claws, are awe inspiring, powerful machines. ‘Rex’ even means king. Who can argue with that?

This clearly shows that it is better to be a meat eater than a leaf eater. It is better to clean up carcases. It is better to live longer. It is better to be king. The famous expert Herman E Raptor says there are 30 times as many plant eaters as meat eaters. So come join our exclusive club!

Structure Language

introduction begins with short anecdote to grab attention

thesis

quote from expert

argumentssummarised

evaluative language

repetition for emphasis

words to order arguments

argumentsethical appeal

conclusionthesis restated

logical appeal

emotional appeal

call to action

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Text Model 7

Boulder RockNear Fern Frond Gully

2 Stegober 202020 The EditorThe Daily DinosaurPebble CreekFern Frond Gully

Dear Editor,

Since the time of the first fish, my family has lived near Fern Frond Gully . In all that time we have never had a reason to complain . However, today we do . Last night we were woken from a deep and peaceful sleep by the loud and tuneless noise of the Rockosaurus . For the sake of our pack, this so-called music event must stop .First, the loud rock drumming is causing our eggs to crack . Helpless babies are hatching too soon .Secondly, the adults have busy days of hunting . We cannot get to work on time with no sleep . Finally, all the dinosaurs are cranky and turning on each other . If this keeps up we will become extinct .So I say again, the Rockosaurus must end . For the sake of our babies, our workers and all great dinosaurs it must stop . I demand that the Dino Council take immediate action to ban the Rockosaurus .

Yours faithfully,

Al Losaurus

STOPthe

rOck

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Persuasive Letter: To the Editor

StructureBoulder RockNear Fern Frond Gully

2 Stegober 202020 The EditorThe Daily DinosaurPebble CreekFern Frond Gully

Dear Editor,

Since the time of the first fish, my family has lived near Fern Frond Gully . In all that time we have never had a reason to complain . However, today we do . Last night we were woken from a deep and peaceful sleep by the loud and tuneless noise of the Rockosaurus . For the sake of our pack, this so-called music event must stop .First, the loud rock drumming is causing our eggs to crack . Helpless babies are hatching too soon .Secondly, the adults have busy days of hunting . We cannot get to work on time with no sleep . Finally, all the dinosaurs are cranky and turning on each other . If this keeps up we will become extinct .So I say again, the Rockosaurus must end . For the sake of our babies, our workers and all great dinosaurs it must stop . I demand that the Dino Council take immediate action to ban the Rockosaurus .

Yours faithfully,

Al Losaurus

STOPthe

rOck

Language

introduction tells who the writer is

thesis

arguments

no opposing point of view

thesis restated

arguments restated

call to action

exaggeration

high modality

emotional language

adjectives

command


words to link arguments logically

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Text Model 8

Tyrannomunch

Tyrannomunch is the new restaurant opened by chef Albert Osaurus. You might remember that his last fondue bar at Volcano Peak ended in disaster. (The diners as well as the dinners ended up in the crater hot pot.) So this time the master chef has chosen a forest setting.

This casual spot feels cool and fresh. We can’t wait to get inside and escape the red skies, ash and dust. It is noisy and exciting. Tables are pushed together to make one long bench. Even those dining alone feel part of the pack.

This unique dining experience includes a guided tour of the old forest. Chef Albert himself leads us through the fronds to his favourite hunting grounds. We are lucky enough to pick up a pre-dinner snack along the way.

The Tyrannomunch menu changes daily, depending on what is fresh and available locally. I can heartily recommend the stone soup followed by steakosaurus, barbeque ribs and a side of bone fries. Don’t be put off by the events at Volcano Peak. This new eatery works a treat.

Where: Cretaceous ForestWhen: All day grazing

Rating:

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Persuasive Review: Restaurant Review

Structure LanguageTyrannomunch

Tyrannomunch is the new restaurant opened by chef Albert Osaurus. You might remember that his last fondue bar at Volcano Peak ended in disaster. (The diners as well as the dinners ended up in the crater hot pot.) So this time the master chef has chosen a forest setting.

This casual spot feels cool and fresh. We can’t wait to get inside and escape the red skies, ash and dust. It is noisy and exciting. Tables are pushed together to make one long bench. Even those dining alone feel part of the pack.

This unique dining experience includes a guided tour of the old forest. Chef Albert himself leads us through the fronds to his favourite hunting grounds. We are lucky enough to pick up a pre-dinner snack along the way.

The Tyrannomunch menu changes daily, depending on what is fresh and available locally. I can heartily recommend the stone soup followed by steakosaurus, barbeque ribs and a side of bone fries. Don’t be put off by the events at Volcano Peak. This new eatery works a treat.

Where: Cretaceous ForestWhen: All day grazing

Rating:

background information

description

writer’s feelings

recommendation

judgement

subject in theme position

adjectives

saying and thinking

verbs©

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Text Model 9

Maiasaura Nestwalker

nesting mat with only the best straw bedding for

your precious babies

hidden rack keeps eggs safe and warm–

eggs won’t ever fall over

tough protective sides and hood–prevent accidentally crushing your babies

convenient basket–store food as you forage

. . . when safety on the move matters

Don’t leave your precious babies for vicious meat eaters to find!

Take them with you!

You need a Maiasaura Nestwalker

Get yours today at the Maiasaura Mall

Where all good parents shop

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Persuasive Visual Text: Advertisement

Maiasaura Nestwalker

nesting mat with only the best straw bedding for

your precious babies

hidden rack keeps eggs safe and warm–

eggs won’t ever fall over

tough protective sides and hood–prevent accidentally crushing your babies

convenient basket–store food as you forage

. . . when safety on the move matters

Don’t leave your precious babies for vicious meat eaters to find!

Take them with you!

You need a Maiasaura Nestwalker

Get yours today at the Maiasaura Mall

Where all good parents shop

Structure Language

slogan

statement to catch attention

brief description of features

call to action

emotional language

high modality

evaluative language

adjectives


repetition for reinforcement

of message

commands

logo

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Text Model 10

1

WHICH WOULD YOU RATHER SEE?

Don’t let the biting machine shake you!

Vote 1 Brachiosaurus!

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Persuasive Visual Text: Poster

1

WHICH WOULD YOU RATHER SEE?

Don’t let the biting machine shake you!

Vote 1 Brachiosaurus!

Structure Language

font size

question to catch attention

bias of illustration

layout to focus attention

very brief text

catchphrase or slogan

call to action

commands

emotional language

speaks directly to

reader

high modality

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Mini-Poster 1

Ways to use itWritten■ Newspaper editorials■ Essays■ Blogs

Spoken■ Speeches■ Lectures■ Debates

May be part of a longer discussion text

Persuasive Essay(sometimes called Argument)

Purpose■ To analyse a topic from your own point of view■ To persuade the audience to think a certain way■ To persuade the audience to act a certain way

Structure1 Introduction (can include different

viewpoints on the topic)2 Thesis (writer’s opinion)3 Series of arguments or reasons

in logical order4 Conclusion (thesis restated,

summary of points made, recommendation)

Paragraph structureA paragraph for each argument or reason, with details or supporting evidence

Other elementsCan include quotes from so-called experts or famous peopleArguments may or may not be accurate

GrammarGeneral nounsAbstract nounsTechnical languageEmotional language (cruel, panic)Evaluative language (nonsense, unfair)

Action verbs (run)Thinking and feeling verbs (think, believe)Relating verbs (is, are)

High modality (of course, must)Commands

Connectives to order arguments (first, secondly, finally)Connectives of contrast (however, although, similarly)Connectives to show logic (because, therefore, if . . . then)

WhySharksRule!

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Mini-Poster 2

Persuasive Letter (sometimes called Argument)

Purpose■ To argue a case or your own point of view■ To persuade the audience to think a certain way■ To persuade the audience to do something or act a certain way

General Structure1 Introduction 2 Thesis (writer’s opinion or what

writer wants others to do)3 Series of arguments (in logical

order and with supporting reasons)4 Conclusion (opinion or requested

action restated, with summary of the reasons why)

Complaint Structure1 Introduction (tells who the writer is)2 Description of problem

or situation (paragraphs in logical order)

3 Proposed solution (with arguments for why this solution makes sense)

4 Conclusion with deadline for action

Other elementsCan repeat strong words or phrases for effectDoes not include opposing point of view (unless to disprove it)

GrammarNounsVerbsAdjectives

Connectives to order arguments (first, secondly, finally)Connectives of contrast (however, although, similarly)Connectives to show logic (because, therefore, if . . . then)

Emotional or evaluative language (cruel, terrifying)Expression of urgencyExaggerationCan use poetic techniques (metaphor, simile)

High modality (must)Commands

Ways to use itWritten■ Letters to the editor■ Letters of complaint■ Letters requesting action■ Letters to sell something■ Emails

Spoken■ Talk-back radio

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Mini-Poster 3

Ways to use it■ Movie reviews■ Book reviews■ Restaurant reviews■ Theatre reviews■ Art reviews

May be spoken (television, radio, podcasts, conversations) or written (magazines, newspapers, blogs)

Persuasive Review (sometimes called Response)

Purpose■ To analyse something■ To tell your thoughts, feelings or opinion about something■ To persuade the audience to your opinion

Structure1 Context (background information

about the subject)2 Exploration or analysis

(can include description and the writer’s feelings)

3 Judgement (opinion and recommendation)

Visual elementsCan include photos of the subject of review

GrammarNounsAdjectivesSaying and thinking verbsAction verbs

Subject of review in theme position

BRAVO!

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Mini-Poster 4

Ways to use itStill images■ Billboards■ Magazine advertisements ■ Campaigns to promote a cause

or service■ Political posters■ Internet pop-up ads■ Advertising catalogues

Moving images■ Television commercials■ Political websites■ Sports club websites■ Social issues websites

Persuasive Visual Text (sometimes called Persuasion)

Purpose■ To promote something■ To persuade the audience to buy something■ To persuade the audience to think a certain way■ To persuade the audience to act in a certain way

Structure1 Statement or question to catch

attention2 Brief text (to give information or

appeal to emotions)3 Call to action

Visual elementsLayout to focus attentionDeliberate use of fonts and colours to create moodBias of illustrations or photosPhotos may be manipulatedLogosSymbolism

Other elementsRepetition of images and words to reinforce the message

GrammarNounsVerbsAdjectives (can be used excessively)

Second person pronoun (you) speaks directly to audience

Slogans and catchphrasesUse of questions to get attention

Emotional languageEvaluative languageExaggerationHigh modalityCommandsExpression of urgency

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Mini-Poster 5

t ip!

You can experiment with the three middle argument fingers: leave one out, or add extras. But you always need a thumb and a little finger!

■ main point■ details



Adebatable

issue

Intro

duct

ion

and

thes

is

Arg

umen

t

Arg

umen

t

Arg

umen

t

Conclusion

1

2

3

Your position statement:■ what you believe ■ what you think should be done

■ restate your thesis

■ summarise your arguments

■ call to action

Persuasive Structure— It’s in the Hand!Every finger needs its own paragraph .

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Mini-Poster 6

Persuasive Introductions—Hook Them In!Your introduction needs a hook to grab the audience’s attention .

Try one of these .

All little fish should stay still.

Begin with a question .

Begin with a quote .

Begin with a fact or statistic .

Begin with a short anecdote .(A personal story or description .)

Begin with an unexpected detail .

Begin with a description .

Begin with an exaggeration .

Don’t forget to also include a thesis

sentence that tells your opinion.

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Mini-Poster 7

t ip!

Remember to include a

main point and details

in each paragraph.

Persuasive Paragraphs—Get to the Point!To think of arguments, add the word because to your thesis .

Argument 1

Argument 2

Argument 3

Logicalappeal

Ethical appeal

Emotional appeal

Why your thesis makes sense

Why your thesis is the right thing to do

Why your thesis will make

the audience feel better

Main pointDetails

Main pointDetails

Main pointDetails

All little fish should stay still

because . . .

Try to have at least three argument paragraphs .Try to think of a different way to appeal to your audience in each one .

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Mini-Poster 8

Describe a different point of view .Say why it is interesting .

Another place you could put this counter

argument is in the introduction.

Persuasive Counter ArgumentsDo you want to show your audience that you have considered other points of view?

Then add an extra paragraph before your conclusion .

✏ Some people might believe that . . .

✏ However this is wrong because . . .

Then say why it is not a good argument, and return to your thesis .

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Mini-Poster 9

Your purpose is to persuade your audience or make them

take action, so end with a convincing knockout .

1 Restate your thesis .

2 Summarise your main points .

3 Then knock them out with one of these!

Persuasive Conclusions—Knock Them Out!

personal com

ment

predic

tionque

stion

quote

recommendation

call to action

powerful image

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Mini-Poster 10

Persuasive Sentence Starters■ In my opinion . . . ■ I believe this because . . .

■ For these reasons I believe that . . .■ I feel that . . .

■ I am sure that . . .■ Most people would agree that . . .

■ A sensible idea would be . . . ■ It would be crazy to . . .

■ It is certain . . . ■ First . . .

■ Secondly . . . ■ Moreover . . .

■ However . . .■ Similarly . . .

■ Another reason I believe that . . .■ The fact is that . . .■ Here are three reasons why . . . ■ There are . . .■ If you choose . . .■ If . . . then . . .■ How does it feel to . . .?■ I know you care about . . . ■ This clearly shows that . . .■ Therefore . . .■ Of course . . . ■ We must . . .

I feel that you should not

eat me because …

There are three reasons why I think I

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Mini-Poster 11

Persuasive Words

High modalityabove alldefinitelyessential

mustnecessary

undeniably

Adverbs to intensify or emphasise

absolutelycompletelyespeciallyextremelyobviously

emotional language

abandoncruel

destroyfrightened

panicslaughterstruggleterrifying

evaluative language

appallingbest

more sensiblenonsense

outrageousreliablesimplestthrillingunfairvitalworst

nominalisationbelief

destructionenjoyment

solution

Definitely …

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Mini-Poster 12

The closer the distance between the audience and your visual image, the more emotionally involved you can make them feel .

Persuasive Distances

Less emotional appeal

More emotional appeal

Long shot

Medium shot

Close-up

Extremeclose-up

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Mini-Poster 13

Persuasive AnglesYou control the point of view of your audience! It all depends on the angle of your visual image .

High angle

■ As if camera is above the subject, looking down on it

Audience feels powerful

Subject could be in danger

Low angle

■ As if the camera is below the subject, looking up at it

Audience feels overpowered

Subject could be threatening

Crooke

d angle

■ As if the camera is

looking at an angle

Audience doesn’t know

what to expect

Eye level

■ As if camera is looking straight ahead at the subject

Audience is involved

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■ Ideas and details Worksheet 1

What’s the Evidence?Consider all the evidence before choosing your position on a topic for a persuasive piece of writing .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Points to agree

Points to disagree

Topic

?

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Worksheet 2 ■ Ideas and details ■ Voice

Hook Them In!Plan an introduction for a persuasive piece of writing . The introduction needs to grab the audience’s attention . Brainstorm ideas you could use to hook them in .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Thesis ___________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Hook them in with . . .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Now choose your favourite idea and draft an introduction using it . Don’t forget to also include a thesis .

an exaggerationa description

a personal storya fact or statistic

a quotea question

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■ Ideas and details ■ Word choice Worksheet 3

Find the ReasonsBrainstorm arguments for a persuasive piece of writing . Think of arguments that will appeal to your audience in different ways .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Thesis ___________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________because . . .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Logical appealWhy your thesis

makes sense .

Emotional appeal

Why your thesis will make the audience feel

better .

Ethical appealWhy your thesis

is the right thing to do .

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Worksheet 4 ■ Ideas and details ■ Organisation ■ Fluency

Build ParagraphsDraft three paragraphs to argue your point of view in a persuasive piece of writing . Include a main point and details in each one .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Thesis I think ____________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________because . . .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Reason or main point Example or detail



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■ Ideas and details ■ Organisation ■ Word choice Worksheet 5

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Find a Counter ArgumentTopic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Thesis ___________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Brainstorm arguments that are counter (opposite) to your thesis . Then brainstorm ideas for why each is interesting . Finally, think of a reason why each is not a good argument .

Counter argument Why it is not a good argument

Why it is interesting

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Worksheet 6 ■ Ideas and details ■ Word choice ■ Fluency

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Draft a Counter ArgumentIf you want to show the audience that you have considered other viewpoints, add a counter argument .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Thesis ___________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Some people might believe that (describe a different point of view to your own)

This is an interesting argument because

I like cheese!

However these people are wrong because (say why it is not a good argument)

So you can clearly see that (return to your own thesis)

Some people like cheese, however

mice are my preference...

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■ Ideas and details ■ Word choice ■ Fluency ■ Voice Worksheet 7

It’s a Knockout!Draft a strong finish to convince your audience to think or act the way you want them to .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Restate your thesis in a new way

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Summarise your main points

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

The final knockout This can be one sentence or a few sentences to end your writing with a bang . Brainstorm ideas for each of these techniques .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Powerful description

Personal comment

Question

Call to action

Now choose one of these ideas and draft your final knockout.

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

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Worksheet 8 ■ Organisation ■ Conventions

Persuasive DraftDraft a persuasive piece of writing .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

What I think _____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

My reasons

Reason 1

Details

Reason 2

Details

Reason 3

Details

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Strong finish

Why cheese

is the best.

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■ Organisation ■ Conventions Worksheet 9

Strong finish

Persuasive DraftDraft a persuasive piece of writing .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

My thesis or opinion ______________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

My reasons

Reason 1

Evidence or details

Reason 2

Evidence or details

Reason 3

Evidence or details

Counter argument

Someone else might say . . .

However here is the weakness in that argument .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Why mice are

delicious...

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Worksheet 10 ■ Organisation ■ Presentation

Persuasive Palm CardsOn each card, write the key words to help you remember your speech . Then cut out the cards and put them in order .

Topic _______________________________ Audience __________________________

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

Introduction and thesis Argument 1

Argument 2 Argument 3

Counter argument Conclusion

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■ Ideas and details ■ Organisation ■ Voice Worksheet 11

Persuasive Review❏ book ❏ movie ❏ theatre

❏ art ❏ restaurant ❏ place

Subject (title, name or place) _________________________________________________

Context (background information about the subject)

Exploration or analysis

Details

My feelings

Details

My feelings

Details

My feelings

Final judgement (What is your final opinion? Would you recommend the subject? Who to?)

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

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Worksheet 12 ■ Ideas and details ■ Word choice ■ Voice

Advertising PlanPurpose __________________________________________________________________

Audience _________________________________________________________________

❏ poster ❏ billboard ❏ magazine ad ❏ TV commercial

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

How can I catch the audience’s attention?

Words I could use

Layout ideas (such as font type and size, colours, symbols, camera angles)

Ideas for slogans or catchphrases

BUYIT

NOW!

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■ Ideas and details ■ Word choice ■ Voice ■ Fluency Worksheet 13

Plan a TV CommercialPurpose __________________________________________________________________

Audience _________________________________________________________________

Draw a picture of each shot . Show the angle of the shot (from the front, high, low or at an angle) and the distance (close-up or long shot) . On the lines, write key words or ideas for the script or voiceover .

Name ___________________________________________Date ______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

_______________________

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Assessment 1 ■ Self-Assessment

Persuasive Essay Checklist

Name ___________________________

Topic ___________________________

Audience _______________________

My purpose was to:

❏ look at a topic from my own point of view

❏ persuade people to think a certain way

❏ persuade people to act a certain way

I included:

❏ introduction

❏ thesis

❏ arguments

❏ conclusion

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional words

❏ commands

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

Persuasive Essay Checklist

Name ___________________________________

Topic ____________________________________

Audience ________________________________

My purpose was to:

❏ analyse a topic from my own point of view

❏ persuade the audience to think a certain way

❏ persuade the audience to act a certain way

I included:

❏ introduction

❏ thesis

❏ series of arguments

❏ a separate paragraph for each argument

❏ a counter argument

❏ conclusion

❏ strong ending

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional language

❏ evaluative language

❏ high modality

❏ commands

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

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■ Self-Assessment Assessment 2

Persuasive Letter Checklist

Name ___________________________

Topic ___________________________

Audience _______________________

My purpose was to:

❏ argue my own point of view


❏ persuade people to do something

I included:

❏ introduction telling who I am

❏ thesis

❏ arguments

❏ conclusion or solution

❏ call to action

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional words

❏ commands

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

Persuasive Letter Checklist

Name ___________________________________

Topic ____________________________________

Audience ________________________________

My purpose was to:

❏ argue a case or my own point of view

❏ persuade the audience to think a certain way

❏ persuade the audience to do something or act a certain way

I included:

❏ introduction

❏ thesis

❏ series of arguments

❏ a separate paragraph for each argument

❏ conclusion

❏ call to action

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional language

❏ evaluative language

❏ high modality

❏ commands

❏ exaggeration

❏ expression of urgency

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

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Assessment 3 ■ Self-Assessment

Persuasive Review Checklist

Name ___________________________

Topic ___________________________

Audience _______________________

My purpose was to:

❏ tell my thoughts, feelings or opinion about something

❏ persuade people to read, see or do something (or not)

I included:

❏ background information about subject

❏ description

❏ my feelings

❏ judgement

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ subject at beginning of sentences

❏ adjectives

❏ nouns

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

Persuasive Review Checklist

Name ___________________________________

Topic ____________________________________

Audience ________________________________

My purpose was to:

❏ analyse something

❏ tell my thoughts, feelings or opinion about something

❏ persuade the audience to my opinion

I included:

❏ context (background information)

❏ exploration of the subject

❏ description

❏ my feelings

❏ judgement

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ subject in theme position

❏ thinking and feeling verbs

❏ high modality

❏ adjectives

❏ nouns

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

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■ Self-Assessment Assessment 4

Persuasive Visual Text Checklist

Name ___________________________

Topic ___________________________

Audience _______________________

My purpose was to:

❏ persuade people to buy something



I included:

❏ catchy slogan

❏ brief text

❏ call to action

❏ repetition

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional words

❏ adjectives

❏ commands

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

Persuasive Visual Text Checklist

Name ___________________________________

Topic ____________________________________

Audience ________________________________

My purpose was to:

❏ promote something

❏ persuade people to buy something



I included:

❏ catchy slogan

❏ brief text

❏ call to action

❏ repetition

❏ logo

❏ symbolism

❏ bias

❏ _____________________________

I used:

❏ emotional words

❏ adjectives

❏ commands

❏ exaggeration

❏ expression of urgency

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

❏ _____________________________

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Assessment 5 ■ Assessment Rubric

Persuasive Writing RubricStudent name Class Date

Title Persuasive writing form

Audience and voice Is the writer aware of the audience?Does the writing engage and persuade the audience?Does the writer use a voice appropriate to the audience?

Text structure and organisationDoes the persuasive structure include an introduction, series of arguments and conclusion? Is there a hook to get the audience’s attention?Is the thesis clearly stated?Does the conclusion include the thesis restated, summary of points made, and recommendation?Has the writer included a counter argument?

IdeasAre relevant and persuasive ideas generated and selected?Are ideas elaborated?Does the writer appeal to the audience in different ways? (For example, logical, ethical, emotional or appeal to the senses.)

Persuasive devicesAre persuasive devices used to enhance the writer’s position or persuade the audience? (For example, expression of urgency, exaggeration, commands, repetition, symbolism, statistics, expert quote, or poetic techniques such as metaphor or simile.)

Vocabulary and word choiceDoes the writer use a range of persuasive language choices? (For example, emotional language, evaluative language, high modality, thinking and feeling verbs, relating verbs.)

Cohesion and fluencyIs the writing cohesive and fluent?Does it use suitable connectives to order arguments (‘first’, ‘secondly’), to contrast arguments (‘however’) or to show logic (‘because’)?

ParagraphingIs the writing segmented into paragraphs that assist the reader to follow the arguments?Is there a paragraph for each argument, with supporting evidence?

Sentence structure conventionsAre sentences meaningful and persuasive?Are sentences grammatically correct?

Punctuation conventions Is correct and appropriate punctuation used to aid meaning and reading?

Spelling conventionsIs accurate conventional spelling used? How difficult are the words used?

Total score _____ /50 = ______ %

Score

1 2 3 4 5

Criteria Comments

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Macmillan Lesson Essentials: Persuasive Writing © Katy Collis/Macmillan Education Australia. ISBN 978 1 4202 9166 7


Writing Task 2 ■ Persuasive Essay


Eating in Class?Students should be allowed to eat in class.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .

Think about:■ if you agree or disagree or see

both sides■ an introduction which clearly says what

you think about the topic■ your reasons and how you can use

words to make them appeal to a reader■ a conclusion .

MP3 Players in Class?Students should be allowed to listen to their MP3 players in class.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .

Think about:■ if you agree or disagree or see both sides■ an introduction which clearly says what you think about

the topic■ your reasons and how you can use words to make

them appeal to a reader■ a conclusion .

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This is heavy…

Paper Books or E-Books?Paper books are better than e-books.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .


both sides■ an introduction which clearly says

what you think about the topic■ your reasons and how you can use


Cyber Pets or Real Pets?Cyber pets are better than real pets.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .


both sides■ an introduction which clearly says

what you think about the topic■ your reasons and how you can use


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BAN THE

BURGER

SAVEOUR

CHIPS!

TelevisionTelevision is good for you.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .


both sides■ an introduction which clearly says what

you think about the topic■ your reasons and how you can use


Fast FoodFast food should be banned.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .

Think about:■ if you agree or disagree or see both sides■ an introduction which clearly says what

you think about the topic■ your reasons and how you can use words

to make them appeal to a reader■ a conclusion .

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Eat What You Want?Children should be allowed to eat anything they want to.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .




Stay Up or Go to Bed?Children should be allowed to stay up late.What do you think about this idea? Write to persuade a reader to think the same way you do .




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Writing Task 10 ■ Persuasive Letter: To the Editor

Writing Task 9 ■ Persuasive Letter: To the Editor

Please DonateWrite a letter to the editor to persuade readers to donate to charity . The letter might be to the editor of the school newsletter or the local newspaper .

Decide:■ if you want readers to

donate to a particular charity or special cause

■ what you want them to donate, for example, money, clothes, food or toys .

Think about:■ an introduction which

clearly says what you want people to do

■ your reasons and how you can use words to make them appeal to a reader

■ a conclusion with a call to action .

Clean It UpWrite a letter to the editor to persuade readers to clean up an area . The letter might be to the editor of the school newsletter or the local newspaper .

Decide:■ what area you want cleaned

up, for example it might be litter in the playground or a local park

■ how and when you want it cleaned up .

Think about:■ an introduction which

clearly says what you want people to do

■ your reasons and how you can use words to make them appeal to a reader

■ a conclusion with a call to action .

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Writing Task 12 ■ Persuasive Letter: Request

Writing Task 11 ■ Persuasive Letter: Request

Convince the TeacherChoose one topic from the list . Then write a persuasive letter to your teacher or school principal .

– Ask for an end of year school trip– Ask to hold a school carnival– Ask for more play time– Nominate your teacher for an award

Think about your audience: ■ what arguments would

appeal to them?■ what tone or voice should

you use?

Include:■ a greeting and introduction■ a description of the problem

or situation■ your proposed solution with

reasons■ a closing and signature .

Convince the FamilyChoose one topic from the list . Then write a persuasive letter to a family member .

– Ask to choose where to go for a holiday– Ask for a pet– Ask to go shopping for a new item of clothing– Ask to be allowed to go to a party

Think about your audience: ■ what arguments would

appeal to them?■ what tone or voice should

you use?

Include:■ a greeting and introduction■ a description of the problem

or situation■ your proposed solution with

reasons■ a closing and signature .

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Writing Task 14 ■ Persuasive Review

Writing Task 13 ■ Persuasive Review

Review a PlaceChoose a place from the list . Then write a review to persuade readers to believe your opinion about that place .

Review ItChoose something from the list . Then write a review to persuade readers to believe your opinion about it .

– Favourite restaurant or place to eat (it might be your own kitchen)– Favourite place to go on the weekend– Anywhere in your local area– Venue for a school excursion

Think about: ■ if your judgement will be

favourable, or not■ your reasons and how you

can use words to make them appeal to a reader .

Include:■ an introduction with

background information■ a description of the place

and your feelings about it■ your final opinion and

recommendation .

Think about: ■ if your judgement will be

favourable, or not■ your reasons and how you

can use words to make them appeal to a reader .

Include:■ an introduction with

background information■ an analysis of the subject,

with descriptions and your feelings

■ your final opinion and recommendation .

– fairytale– book– movie

– game– song– painting

– music group– TV show– sport team

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Writing Task 16 ■ Persuasive Visual Text

Writing Task 15 ■ Persuasive Visual Text

Promote ItChoose one topic from the list . Then create a persuasive visual text to promote it . You could use a still (poster or magazine ad) or moving (website or commercial) visual text .

Think about: ■ who will be your audience

and how you can make the topic appeal to them

■ how you can use words, symbols, font, layout, angles, distance and colour to persuade .

Include:■ a question or slogan to catch

attention■ brief text■ a call to action .

Sell ItChoose one item from your school bag or desk . Then create a persuasive visual text to persuade an audience to buy it . You could use a still (poster or magazine ad) or moving (website or commercial) visual text .

Think about: ■ the item’s interesting features■ your audience and reasons

why they should own the item■ how you can use words,

symbols, font, layout, angles, distance and colour to persuade .

Include:■ a question or slogan to catch

attention■ brief text■ a call to action .

– School gardening club – Recycling program – Be kind to animals – Get more exercise

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MACMILLAN L e s s o n E s s e n t i a l sMACMILLAN L e s s o n E s s e n t i a l s

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PersuasiveWriting

Katy Collis

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WritingPersuasive

WritingIWB-friendlyPDFs included!

Per

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www.macmillan.com.au

Implementing the Australian Curriculum

HHere are all the essentials you need for your persuasive writing lessons. Annotated text models, mini-posters, worksheets, writing tasks and assessment tools focus on the different forms of persuasive writing and the importance of purpose and audience. There are also essential tools to help students grasp persuasive structure and language, such as introductions that hook in the reader, powerful paragraphs with a point, and knockout conclusions.

The bonus CD contains all the text models, annotations, mini-posters, worksheets, assessment tools and writing task pages from the book as PDFs for viewing on an IWB or similar device. The worksheets can be filled in by typing on a keyboard and are perfect for modelling. The assessment rubric may also be filled in by typing on a keyboard.

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Documents

Macmillan Lesson Essentials: Persuasive Writing