Persuasive Paragraph 7th Grade Language Arts

A Three Part Assignment Part 1: Topic selection, argument and three reasons Part 2: Gathering resources Part 3: Writing the paper

What is persuasion? Persuasive writing attempts to convince the reader that the point of view or course of action recommended by the writer is valid.

What is a persuasive paragraph? The paragraph follows a defined format. First sentence: Introduction Second sentence: First supporting argument and examples Third sentence: Second supporting argument and examples Fourth sentence: Third supporting argument and examples Fifth sentence: Conclusion

Let’s break down each sentence

Sentence 1 - Introduction The topic sentence states an opinion. Your opinion. This is your argument that you will support with the next sentences.

Topic Sentence Sample You should do your own homework and copying someone else is wrong.

Supporting Arguments The following sentences use facts, examples, and reasons to back up your opinion. Provide examples that support your reasoning

Sentence 2 Sample If you cheat you can get a failing grade or even be kicked out of school.

Sentence 3 Sample If you cheat on your job, you can be fired or arrested and put into jail; the government will certainly find you if you cheat on your taxes.

Sentence 4 Sample Copying someone else’s homework also means that you never learn how to do that work for yourself, so when you need the information later (let’s say the teacher gives you a test on it where you can’t copy) then you don’t know how to do it and you get a bad grade.

Sentence 5 Sample Also, if you don’t do your homework, you never learn to discipline yourself to do unpleasant things, and when you grow up you will always have trouble making yourself do difficult jobs like paying bills, saving money, or even going to work.

Sentence 6 – Conclusion The concluding sentence make a final appeal to the readers.

In short, doing your own homework is the best way to go! Sample Concluding Sentence

You should do your own homework and copying someone else is wrong. If you cheat you can get a failing grade or even be kicked out of school. If you cheat on your job, you can be fired or arrested and put into jail; the government will certainly find you if you cheat on your taxes. Copying someone else’s homework also means that you never learn how to do that work for yourself, so when you need the information later (let’s say the teacher gives you a test on it where you can’t copy) then you don’t know how to do it and you get a bad grade. Also, if you don’t do your homework, you never learn to discipline yourself to do unpleasant things, and when you grow up you will always have trouble making yourself do difficult jobs like paying bills, saving money, or even going to work. In short, doing your own homework is the best way to go! The Paragraph

Goal Students at West Milwaukee Middle School should be allowed to use their Ipods at lunch. Reason 2 The use of ipods would allow students to be more relaxed. Students at West Milwaukee Middle School should be allowed to use their ipods at lunch. Reason 1 Reason 2 Reason 3 Goal Students would be more focused for their afternoon classes. Students would be less confrontational. Facts/examples

Goal Students at West Milwaukee Middle School should be allowed to use their Ipods at lunch. Reason 2 The use of ipods would let students stay more in touch with the world around them. The use of ipods would allow students to be more relaxed. Students at West Milwaukee Middle School should be allowed to use their ipods at lunch. Reason 1 Reason 2 Reason 3 Goal Students would be more focused for their afternoon classes. Students would be less confrontational. Young people today rely more on their electronics for information than any other group in history. Being connected allows students to be better learners. Facts/examples