© Boardworks Ltd 2003 1 of 24 Argue and Persuade For more detailed instructions, see the Getting...

© Boardworks Ltd 20031 of 24

Argue and Persuade

For more detailed instructions, see the Getting Started presentation.

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Express your opinion?

Argue and persuade

Persuade someonethat you are right?

How many sorts of persuasive texts can you think of?

Ever need toargue your

point?


Persuasive texts


We are surrounded by persuasive texts much of the time.

and lots more...

Are you aware of the techniques they use – the tricks of the trade?

You can use them in your own persuasive writing and arguments.

Persuasive texts

advertisements

posters

magazines


Violence is an issue that affects all of us. We want to feel safe on our streets at night not looking over our shoulders.

Do you really want to be in the kitchen all evening? Well now you don’t have to. With new Quick Meals you can have home cooked food on the table in minutes.

Personal pronouns

A writer may use personal pronouns such as ‘you’ and ‘we’ in the text.

Why do you think that writers do this?

to make the reader feel important

to build up a relationship with the reader

to make it more difficult for the reader to ignore the text.

For example


Personal pronouns


Rhetorical questions

These are questions that don’t demand an answer. They are intended to grab the reader’s attention and make them think about something.

Do you know what a rhetorical question is?

Would you be able to survive without fresh water? Millions of people around the world …

For example


Rhetorical questions


Repeating the same idea, and even words and phrases, can be an effective technique when you are trying to persuade your reader. It helps to reinforce your point.

Repetition

Millions of people around the world struggle to survive without fresh water. Millions of people struggle to survive without basic healthcare. Millions of people struggle to survive without enough to eat. Millions of people around the world die from starvation and disease every year.

For example


Repetition


Emotive language


Now create your own emotive sentences.

EXTENSION: Find other examples of emotive language, perhaps in newspapers or on the Internet. Explain how they are emotive.

Emotive language

Imagine you have been asked to write a leaflet for a charity supporting the developing world.

Write three sentences:

one which makes people feel worried

another which makes the reader feel guilty

a final one which makes the reader feel encouraged.


Using command sentences can be a very powerful tool when persuading readers.

Command sentences are those which tell the reader to do something. They begin with the verb. (They are also known as imperatives.)

Commands

Which of the following sentences involve commands?

1. Give a little of your time to help others.2. Have you ever wanted a more exciting life?3. This car is the best in its class.4. Try this shampoo and see how it works.5. Exercise more and get fit.

1. Give a little of your time to help others.

4. Try this shampoo and see how it works.5. Exercise more and get fit.


Commands

Commands are powerful because they tell your reader what they need to do.

Change these sentences into commands.

1. You might like to change your life and buy a new car.2. If you use Glossy Shampoo, your hair will shine.3. A Midways Holiday will help you relax.

1. Change your life and buy a new car.2. Use Glossy Shampoo, and your hair will shine.3. Relax on a Midways Holiday.


Persuasive words and phrases

Certain words and phrases can be used to make your reader think it would be silly not to agree with you.

Obviously we’d be happier if we had less homework.

No one could deny that he tried hard.

Without a doubt that was one of the best book I’ve ever read.

For example


Persuasive words and phrases


The way you present your writing can be persuasive too.

Here are some of the things you may consider, depending on the type of writing, of course.

Presentational devices

Headings

bullet points

bold type

diagrams

paragraphs

photographs


Presentational devices


When writing out an argument, you can use many of the techniques we’ve examined so far. After all, you want to persuade your reader that your point of view is right.

First of all, though, you will need to gather and organize your information and points.

You will also need to decide what side of the argument you are on. A firm decision is needed. If you can’t make up your mind, your essay will be rather ‘wishy-washy’ and unconvincing.

Writing an argument

When planning an argument, you need to be aware of both sides of the argument. The easiest method is to fill in two columns: for and against.


Writing an argument


Writing an argument

1. Number the order in which you deal with your arguments on mobile phone use. (You will want to start and finish on strong points).

2. Now add notes on any evidence, anecdotes or examples that you can add to support your argument. For example, if you are arguing against mobile phone use by children, you might be able to include examples of how they disrupt situations.

Your next task is to put your point in the order in which you wish to deal with them. (The points you disagree with also need to be included, as you will argue against these.)


You are nearly ready to begin your argument.

You have your points organized, but you need to move smoothly from one point to another in an essay.

Connectives can be a great help with this.

Here are some useful words and phrases:

however

on the other hand

nevertheless

alternatively as for

although

These sorts of connectives help you move from one idea to the next. How many others can you think of?

Writing an argument


You will be writing your argument in quite a formal way. You may feel strongly but keep your writing controlled.

Which of the following is the most satisfactory essay style?

Good grief! Why can’t kids have them? I think that mobiles are great and I’m always chatting on mine. No probs.

Mobile phones may be seen asa nuisance by some people, but they have real value.For example, if you are held upand late returning home, then you can immediately contact home to let them know why.

The first example is too chatty in style. It uses slang and doesn’t explain points fully. The second example is more confident and controlled.

Writing an argument


Writing an argument

© Boardworks Ltd 2003 1 of 24 Argue and Persuade For more detailed instructions, see the Getting...

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