1. ARGUMENT & PERSUASIVE TECHNIQUES
From: Holt Literature
8th Grade

2. QuickWrite What does it mean to “state your case”?
When did you successfully “state your case” and get something you wanted? Explain how you succeeded; what did you do?

3. What is Argument? You argue effectively when you present a case
provide support for your case
anticipate objections and give counter-arguments
Read the article “French Fries” P. 983.
What claim is the author making?
What support does he provide for his case?

5. Argument Terms
Thesis- the position of the essay; the speaker states his/her point of view on the issue.
 Example: While facts are certainly a necessary part of learning, the opportunity for creative, individual thinking is an essential part of the academic process, and must not be overlooked.

6. Argument Terms
Assertion/Claim - an opinion which is stated as a fact. You can argue for or against the claim, but MUST always back it up with support.
 Example: Students should put their academic work above all other considerations.
 Example:: The Texas 10% college admission rule is unfair to students who attend the top academic colleges.

7. Argument Terms
Concession/counter-argument- to consider the opposite point of view.
 Example: Some students believe that grades are unfair. They argue that no grade can accurately reflect a student’s understanding. They believe that we should abolish the numerical grading system.
 Example: It is true that some teenagers abuse their privileges. A few teens drive recklessly. Some act without thinking.

8. Argument Terms
Rebuttal- to provide evidence that discredits the concession you’ve made to the other point of view. The speaker shows why, through evidence, his/her argument is stonger.
 Example: However, stronger examples exist that prove my claim.
 Example: Many teens contribute to volunteer organizations, demonstrating their responsibility. Many teens study hard to achieve good grades, demonstrating their motivation to succeed.

9. Rhetorical/Persuasive Styles
Ethos: based on the speaker’s character. An ethos-driven essay relies on the author’s reputation.
EX:

10. Rhetorical/Persuasive Styles
Pathos: based on emotion/feelings. Advertisements tend to be pathos-driven.
EX:

11. Rhetorical/Persuasive Styles
Logos: based on logic or reason. Documents distributed by companies or corporations are logos-driven. Scholarly documents are also often logos-driven.
EX:

12. Persuasive Techniques with Examples
How do people persuade us? What appeals do they use?
Bandwagon- appeals to our desire to belong
Ethical- appeals to our sense of right/wrong
Fear- appeals to our desire to be safe/healthy
Pity- appeals to our compassion/caring for others
Loaded Terms- Using strong emotional (positive or negative) language
EXAMPLE “from Against Competition”
Can you identify the appeal that is used?

14. Analyze Persuasive Text “Should the Driving Age be Raised to 18?”
Read the article p.986.
Fill in the chart with the claim made, the appeal used, and the support/evidence given.
Study the poster p. 987.
Answer the question at the bottom of the chart.

15. Analyze Persuasive Text “Should the Driving Age be Raised to 18?”
Claim Made
Type of
Appeal
Evidence Given
Editorial
Poster
Which text is most successful at persuading you? Explain why it works.

18. Timed Writing- 15 minutes
Write an Opinion Statement (a statement of what you feel or believe) and give 3 pieces of evidence to support your opinion. Avoid logical fallacies!
1 Paragraph: introduce your claim, body support your claim with 3 pieces of evidence or reasons, conclusion where you summarize your opinion.
Prompt: “Should students at TMS be allowed to use cell phones during the school day on campus?”