1. Persuasive Strategies
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2. Claim State your argument.
Example: I am going to try to convince you that chocolate is a healthy snack.

3. Fact vs. Opinion Fact: A statement that can be proven
My car has been driven for 23,600 kilometers.
Michael Jordon was born on February 17, 1963.
Opinion: Someone’s view, belief, or way of thinking about something
Beethoven is the greatest composer that ever lived.
Les Miserables is the best book ever written.
Extraterrestrials exist.

4. Logos: Logic/Reason
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.

5. Research
Using reliable research can help your argument seem convincing.
Example: A recent study found that students who watch TV during the week don’t do as well in school.

6. Ethos: Credibility
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.

7. Big Names
Important people or experts can make your argument seem more convincing.
Example: Former U.S. president Bill Clinton thinks that junk food should be taken out of vending machines.

8. Pathos: Emotions
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.

9. Persuasive Techniques Vocabulary
Adjectives: Descriptive words Give emphasis and bring out emotions Alliteration: Repetition of initial consonant sounds Helps the audience remember certain key words Anecdote: A short personal story Helps the audience connect with the speaker Concession: Yielding to the other side The speaker shows his understanding of the other side of the argument.

10. Persuasive Techniques Vocabulary
Bias: One side of the issue is presented; the other side is ignored
Emphasizes one viewpoint very strongly
Connotation: The thought or feeling invoked by a word choice
Helps the audience connect emotionally with the speaker
Hyperbole: Exaggeration
Since it is dramatic, the audience is attentive; it gives emphasis to a point

11. Persuasive Techniques Vocabulary
Imagery: Descriptive words
Gives emphasis and brings out emotions
Metaphor: Direct comparison of two things
Gives emphasis, makes a point more memorable
Inclusive Language: Use of pronouns (e.g. I, he, they)
“We” is inclusive language; audience connects with the speaker
“Them” identifies the opposing side as a common enemy

12. Persuasive Techniques Vocabulary
Repetition: Using the same words or phrases again and again
Gives emphasis, makes a point more memorable
Rhetorical Question: A question for which no response is expected.
Helps the audience to think about the issue
Simile: Comparison using the words ‘like’ or ‘as’
Gives emphasis; helps the audience connect with the speaker

13. Propaganda Techniques: Sometimes… the Dark Side of Persuasion
Name-calling (put down the other side)
Band-wagon (you must join the popular side)
Glittering Generalities (positive words + an idea people like)
Card Stacking (don’t talk about the bad points)
Plain Folks (I’m an average person…just like you!)
Transfer technique (stand next to a symbol the audience likes)
Fear (If you smoke you will die)

14. Preparing to Write your Persuasive Letter
Do you think that your argument is valid?
Conduct some research work (use Opinion Interview document)
Outline the main things that you want to add in your letter. (use Persuasion Map)
It is not always necessary that you are completely right.
List out few pros and cons so that on the basis of it, you can draft your persuasive letter.

15. Required Elements for Persuasive Letter
Proper format (you may use the Letter Generator after completing the Persuasion Map)
Respectful, formal language
Clear statement of the issue & your proposed solution
Three reasons to support your proposal
Clear use of the appeals: Logic, Credibility, Emotion
End with a final appeal

16. Checklist for Review of Persuasive Letter
Is the language formal and respectful?
Has the purpose been stated? (i.e. I am a Grade 10 student…I would like to suggest a change that may…)
Is the need presented clearly?
Is the proposed solution presented clearly?
Are there at least 3 strong reasons why this proposal would benefit the school?
Is there are concession? (Demonstrate that you recognize the other side of the issue: “I understand that…”)
Have logic, credibility, emotion each been used?

17. Sources Education Oasis www.educationoasis.com
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