Writing Persuasive Essays

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PurposeThe aim of a persuasive or argumentative essay is to:

Analyse a controversial topic

Persuade the reader to agree with the writer’s viewpoint

Argue that the writer’s point of view is correct

Influence others to agree with the viewpoint presented

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StrategiesThe argument must be supported by:

Facts - from research, observation, personal experience

Statistics - from reliable sources

Quotes - from experts that support the position taken

Examples - provide proof/evidence

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Structure

Parts of a Persuasive Essay:

Introduction - an overview of what the essay is about

Thesis statement - indicating the writer’s position or opinion

Body - explaining the arguments to support the writer’s position

Conclusion - summary of points, final statement

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INTRODUCTION

Background information Definitions Thesis

statement

BODY

Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4

CONCLUSION

Summary Final statement

Structure of aPersuasive Essay

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Getting Started1. Decide on your topic: usually a current or

controversial issue for discussion

2. Choose your position: which side of the issue are you going to take and what solutions will you provide?

3. Research your topic: read from a range of credible sources and collect evidence to support your argument

4. Structure your essay: decide on what evidence you will use and the order you will present it

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Topics

Examples:0 What are the causes and solutions to eating disorders?

0 How can we decrease youth violence?

0 Should smoking be banned in public spaces?

0 Should students be required to wear uniforms to school?

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Introduction

Gives an overview of what the essay is about

Captures the interest of the reader

Provides some background or context for the reader

Defines any technical terms

Indicates the point of view being taken in the thesis statement (last sentence)

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Body

The body paragraphs should have:

a topic sentence: this the first sentence and the main point or argument is presented here

support: facts, evidence and examples to reinforce the main point

transition: end each paragraph with a "transition" sentence that smoothly connects to the first sentence of the next paragraph

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Conclusion

Signals the end of the essay

Summarises the main points

Restates the thesis statement in different words

Leaves the reader with final thoughts on the subject

Must not contain any new information

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Editing Checklist

Is the argument clear and consistent?

Does each paragraph have one main idea that is expressed clearly in a topic sentence?

Are all sentences in the paragraph relevant to the main idea?

Does the conclusion summarise the main points?

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Finally…

Have you written the required number of words?

Have you checked the punctuation, spelling and grammar?

Have you referenced quotes and statistics in-text using the APA style?

Does your Reference List contain full details of all the

resources cited in-text in the APA style?

Acknowledgement: adapted from a learning guide written by Bev Fasolo