The Persuasive Essay

Persuade comes from the Latin word “persuadere” which means “to urge intensely.”

Thesis statement= What you want your reader to agree to I strongly believe that we have too much homework!

In a persuasive essay you want to: Clearly make your thesis statement. “I strongly believe that seventh graders have too much homework.”

Tell your reader what the situation is at present: At present, seventh graders have seven hours of homework each night.!

Let the reader know you see the other side of the argument. Kids will not learn anything --ever! Kids will get into trouble with too much free time. Without homework … Kids will become bored and MORE annoying.

Offer suggestions to help the situation. Less homework. Only one subject per night. Offer homework passes. No homework on weekends. Have study hall. Only get homework if you do not understand the work.

Discuss at least three reasons why your idea is a good one. Kids need more exercise. Kids will not get sick of school. Kids will have a more positive attitude about school.

Be sure to include a conclusion! Summarize your main point. Make a call for action: What do we need to do? End with a conversation between two people. Wrap up your essay with a question. End with a famous quotation. Go back to the image in your introduction if you used a snapshot type intro. What could happen if things don’t change?

Essential Question: How do I make a convincing argument in a persuasive essay?

Key question: How do I use the prewriting process to develop and organize my ideas?

vocabulary Thesis statement

Key question Why is it important to include my opponent’s arguments in my essay?

Key question What are the kinds of statements I can use in the conclusion of my persuasive essay?

Key question How can I use background information on my topic to make my argument more convincing?