1. Persuasion Basics
Persuasion is the use of words or images to influence the actions and opinions of others. It is trying to convince others that your opinions have merit. You must focus on your target audience, or the audience you want to persuade, and attempt to influence their actions or opinions.

2. You must choose a side. It is not possible to argue and be neutral.
Suitable Topics
Serious
Debatable (Meaning good arguments can be made both for and against the argument).
You must choose a side. It is not possible to argue and be neutral.

3. Vocabulary
Argument- Reasons that support your position (It does not mean “fighting”).
Thesis or claim- (What you are arguing)
Topic + Your opinion
Ex: Students should not have homework.
Target Audience –Who are you trying to persuade? Tailor your arguments to what is important to them, not to you!

4. Vocabulary Pro – argument in favor of the topic
Con – argument against the topic
Transitions- Words or phrases that tie ideas together such as:
In addition… While…
First… Therefore…
Lastly… (Click here for more transitions…)
In conclusion…

5. Vocabulary Counter Argument-The opposing view.
Concession - It is important to consider the other side’s point of view. (Agree with the other side on one point, but be ready to “refute” it!)
Refute the argument – Tell why the other side’s point is not valid
Rhetorical Pattern: An effective way to refute the counter argument. (More Rhetorical Patterns)
Ex: Admittedly…however…therefore…

6. Let’s Practice! Thesis: Who is your target audience?
Develop a thesis statement and arguments for the topic of “homework.”
(Remember, a thesis statement is the topic + your opinion on the topic.)
Thesis:
Who is your target audience?
IMPORTANT: Choose arguments that will be effective with your target audience!
My Arguments
Concession
How I Will Refute it

7. Practicing Concessions
The counter arguments you choose to address in your paper are called your “concessions.” Be ready to “refute” the counter arguments with strong reasons why their argument is not strong enough. Let’s say that you are arguing that students at Dickerson Middle School have too much homework on a nightly basis. You have provided reasons for your claim, but now you need a concession. Opposing Viewpoint would be ________________ One point they would make against you is ________. Your reason that this is not a valid concern is _________.
Use this to make a concession
Refutation

8. Practicing Concessions
The counter arguments you choose to address in your paper are called your “concessions.” Be ready to “refute” the counter arguments with strong reasons why their argument is not strong enough.
For example,
While it is true that homework gives a student extra practice on the day’s concepts, however, long hours of homework take away from physical activity, and in our obese society, this is a real concern. So therefore, it is imperative that homework be limited to only 30 minutes per night.
(Note the rhetorical pattern in yellow)
Additional sentences will be needed in the concession paragraph. This example demonstrates two of the five – eight sentences required.