AVID’s mission is to close the achievement gap by preparing

all students for college readiness and success in a global society.

Persuasive Writing

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“The persuasion of a friend is a strong thing.” – Homer

Reflect on this quote.• Things to think about:

– What words stand out to you?– What connections can you make?– Do you think this quote is true? Explain why

or why not.

Persuasion

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• Set up paper for Cornell notes.

• Topic: Persuasive Essay

• Essential Question: What are the elements of a persuasive essay?

Persuasive Essays

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• A persuasive essay is a written work in which a writer presents a case for or against a particular position.

• Each logical argument, powerful image, or striking phrase leads to a final conclusion through which the reader sees things from the writer’s point of view.

Definition of a Persuasive Essay

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Persuasive Essays

• May make claims based on opinions

• May not take opposing ideas into account

• Persuades by appealing to the audience’s emotion or by relying on the character or credentials of the writer

Argumentative Essays

Persuasive Essays vs. Argumentative Essays

• Makes claims based strictly on factual evidence

• Makes counter-claims, taking into account opposing views

• Convinces audience through the merit and reasonableness of the claims and proofs

From: http://rpdp.net/files/ccss/ELA/ELA_9-10_Curr_Res/Writing%209-10/Writing%20Standard%201%20(9-10).pdf

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What are some types of persuasive writing?• Advertising• Letters• Political speeches• Position papers• Public service announcements• Editorials• Personal commentaries

Forms of Persuasive Writing

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What are some careers where persuasion is important?• Advertisers• Real estate agent• Salesperson• Marketing• Fundraiser• Grant writer• Lobbyist• Hostage negotiator• Lawyer

Careers Utilizing Persuasion

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• Includes an issue with more than one side• Clear statement of the writer’s position• Clear organization that leads to a

conclusion • Powerful conclusion that usually asks the

reader to either believe as the writer does or take some kind of action on the issue

Elements of Persuasive Essays

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• Logical arguments• Statistics• Expert opinions• Personal observations• A consideration of another side of the issue

with an argument against that side or an explanation of why that side is wrong

• Powerful words and images

Evidence that Supports the Writer’s Position

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Ethos: Author uses the character or personality of the speaker to persuade, such as celebrity endorsements. (If you believe in the celebrity, you will believe what they are selling.)

Example: “Mom, Deputy Peterson, the school resource officer, told us today that cell phones are needed to create a sense of security for students.”

Ways to Persuade

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Logos: Author uses logic or reason in order to persuade. When written, the information is meant to be fact or data.

Example: “Mom, 9 out of 10 students have cell phones and have used them in emergency situations.”

Ways to Persuade

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Pathos: Author uses emotions to draw in the reader. Advertisements typically use pathos. Many ads depict emotions, such as joyfulness, unhappiness, playfulness, excitement, fear, and more.

Example: “Mom, what if my soccer practice is over early, and I don’t have a cell phone? Do you really want me sitting on the side of the road waiting for someone to pick me up?”

Ways to Persuade