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Persuasive Writing

Hey Mr. G! What is persuasion anyway?


Persuasion is a way of convincing people:
  • to agree with a point of view
  • to believe something or to act a certain way
  • to buy a certain product



Take a look at the following example from the book I Wanna Iguana by Karen Kaufman Orloff. The story is about a boy named Alex who wants to adopt his friend's iguana. He decides to use the friendly letter form, and give it to his mother. The story is told from both his and his mother's perspective. as they write friendly letters to each other.  
Notice how Alex doesn't simply beg, he formulates convincing arguments supported with facts, evidence, and examples of  why he and the iguana belong together. Also notice that his mother always replies in a polite manner, addressing his concerns while listing some of her own (also supported with facts, evidence and examples). 


What are some of the points Alex uses to persuade his mother? 


What are some of the counterpoints Alex's mother uses to dissuade him?



What does Persuasive Writing Look Like?

Looking at good examples of persuasive writing will help us to recognize some of the features of persuasive texts. 


Good persuasive writers say "I can" to the following statements:

·       I can write my opinion as a bold thesis statement.

·       I can support my opinion with at least 3 supporting reasons.

·       I can support each reason with 3 examples or supporting details.

·      
I can conclude my argument by restating my opinion in a different way.




Organizing My Ideas for Persuasive Writing (download the graphic organizer to help you plan your writing)
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