Persuasive Strategies

Claims and Counterclaims Claim: a statement that can be argued. Counterclaim: a claim made by someone with an opposing opinion on an issue. »Example Claim: The Bengals are the best NFL team. »Example Counterclaim: I disagree…The Cowboys are the best NFL team.

Researching Evidence Using reliable research can help your argument seem convincing. Remember that not every source is a good source. The information should be accurate and credible.

Persuasive Strategies Logos: identifies arguments or appeals to logic or reason for or against an issue. Ethos: identifies arguments or appeals using the moral or ethical qualifications of the speaker for or against an issue. Pathos: identifies arguments or appeals to emotions or feelings for or against an issue.

Logos Facts, numbers, and information can be very convincing. Example: A Snickers bar has 280 calories and 30 grams of sugar. That’s not very healthy. Example: “You have not purchased new clothes for me in over a year and I have outgrown my clothes, so you should take me shopping.”

Ethos If people believe and trust in you, you’re more likely to persuade them. Example: Believe me! I’ve been there before. I’m just like you. Example: “I do my assigned chores without complaining and I always do extra chores without prompting, so you should raise my allowance to $15 a week.”

Pathos Getting people to feel happy, sad, or angry can help your argument. Example: Your donation might just get this puppy off the street and into a good home. Example: “You should buy me new clothes because my clothes are so worn out that kids are making fun of me at school.”

Logos, Ethos, Pathos Clip

What are your Issues? Each group of two is going to get three post- its. On the first post-it, list an issue you experience at home. On the second post-it, list an issue you experience at school. On the third post-it, list a political issue that effects you and/or your family. Examples: Issues at home- curfew, chores, allowance Issues at school- technology, dress code Issues in politics- gas prices, war, healthcare

Post your Issues Stick each of the post-its in the appropriate column on the board, and we will discuss as a class. HomeSchoolPolitical

Convince Them! Write a letter to your parent/guardian trying to convince them to change a rule or restriction. Make sure your letter includes a claim and reasons. Be sure to include all three persuasive strategies (logos, pathos, ethos) in your letter. Example: You might ask them to extend your curfew by one hour or increase your allowance.