1. Writing Persuasive Essays

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Purpose
The aim of a persuasive or argumentative essay is to:
Analyse a controversial topic
Persuade the reader to agree with the writer’s viewpoint
Argue that the writer’s point of view is correct
Influence others to agree with the viewpoint presented
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Strategies
The argument must be supported by:
Facts - from research, observation, personal experience
Statistics - from reliable sources
Quotes - from experts that support the position taken
Examples - provide proof/evidence
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Structure
Parts of a Persuasive Essay:
Introduction - an overview of what the essay is about
Thesis statement - indicating the writer’s position or opinion
Body - explaining the arguments to support the writer’s position
Conclusion - summary of points, final statement
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5. Background information
Structure of a Persuasive Essay
INTRODUCTION
Background information
Definitions
Thesis statement
BODY
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 4
CONCLUSION
Summary
Final statement

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Getting Started
Decide on your topic: usually a current or controversial issue for discussion
Choose your position: which side of the issue are you going to take and what solutions will you provide?
Research your topic: read from a range of credible sources and collect evidence to support your argument
Structure your essay: decide on what evidence you will use and the order you will present it
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Topics
Examples:
What are the causes and solutions to eating disorders?
How can we decrease youth violence?
Should smoking be banned in public spaces?
Should students be required to wear uniforms to school?
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Introduction
Gives an overview of what the essay is about
Captures the interest of the reader
Provides some background or context for the reader
Defines any technical terms
Indicates the point of view being taken in the thesis statement (last sentence)
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Body
The body paragraphs should have:
a topic sentence: this the first sentence and the main point or argument is presented here
support: facts, evidence and examples to reinforce the main point
transition: end each paragraph with a "transition" sentence that smoothly connects to the first sentence of the next paragraph
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Conclusion
Signals the end of the essay
Summarises the main points
Restates the thesis statement in different words
Leaves the reader with final thoughts on the subject
Must not contain any new information
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Editing Checklist
Is the argument clear and consistent?
Does each paragraph have one main idea that is expressed clearly in a topic sentence?
Are all sentences in the paragraph relevant to the main idea?
Does the conclusion summarise the main points?
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12. Finally… Have you written the required number of words?
Have you checked the punctuation, spelling and grammar?
Have you referenced quotes and statistics in-text using the APA style?
Does your Reference List contain full details of all the resources cited in-text in the APA style?
Acknowledgement: adapted from a learning guide written by Bev Fasolo
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