Persuasive Essay Writing Structure

Persuasive Essay Structure and Writing

• Persuasive essays aim to influence the reader's opinion or action through logical arguments and reasoning. They mirror the persuasive strategies used in commercials.
• Structure mirrors informative/expository essays:
  • Introduction: Includes a hook, background info, and a thesis statement (considering the audience is crucial).
  • Body: Presents 3-5 paragraphs of supporting arguments, each focused on a single argument. Each sentence supports the paragraph's main idea.
  • Conclusion: Restates arguments and includes a clear call to action. The call to action is vital and the last thing the reader sees.

Persuasive Essay Examples and Topics

• Common topics include:
  • Should girls play on boys' teams?
  • Government vaccine mandates?
  • Abortion as murder?
  • Death penalty's relevance?
  • Parental responsibility for a sick child's medical care?
  • Health care as a right or privilege?
  • Political falsehoods and accountability?
• Persuasive essays differ from expository essays because the author takes a position and aims to convince, rather than just present information.

How to Write a Persuasive Essay

• Choosing a topic: Select a topic with strong arguments, consider if the topic has a clear two-sided conflict.
• Research: Find valid sources for strong arguments.
• Title: Crafting a title that intrigues without revealing too much.
• Hook: Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader's attention.
• Outline arguments: Decide which arguments are most effective, consider if you need to present a reader benefit in addition to your main argument.
• Body: Write the main arguments first; organization and clarity are vital.
• Introduction & conclusion: Write the intro and conclusion after the body.
• Devil's advocate: Ensure the arguments hold up against opposing viewpoints.
• Revision: Proofread for grammar, spelling, and clarity.

How to Choose a Topic

• Avoid topics with widespread agreement: Stick to those with opposing views.
• Consider the audience: Tailor the topic to the intended recipients.
• Passion: Select topics that excite or interest the writer.
• Familiarity: Research easier when you have prior knowledge of the arguments.

Research and Sources

• Reliable sources: Prioritize government (.gov) and educational (.edu) websites.
• Avoid: Blogs and businesses promoting products.
• Trusted sources: Reputable magazines and news sources (verify if news source is objective).
• Accuracy: Always verify information using multiple reliable sources. Do not use blogs, they are unverifiable.

Outlining Arguments

• Organization: Prioritize the strongest arguments to be last, use an outline structure.
• Sequencing: Arrange arguments logically for impact.

Incorporating Sources

• Citations: Use citations for direct quotes.
• References: No citation is necessary, unless supporting the argument.
• Validity: Use credible sources. For example, use a medical journal source vs a blogger to support an argument for vaccinations.

Writing the Introduction, Body, and Conclusion

• Introduction: Entice the reader; present the hook, background, thesis, and a preview of body arguments.
• Body: Use outlines and arguments to construct the body.
• Conclusion: Restate arguments and end with a call to action.

Editing and Revising

• Devil's advocate: Have a reader critique arguments for opposing viewpoints.
• Proofreading: Check grammar, spelling, and facts (especially supporting data that is presented).

This quiz focuses on the structure and writing techniques of persuasive essays. Learn how to effectively engage your audience through a well-crafted introduction, supportive body paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion. Test your knowledge on various persuasive topics and strategies.