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Area of Study 3: Using Language to Persuade Constructing a point of view

English Unit 3 Outcome 3 Task 1: Construct, orally, a sustained and reasoned point of view on the selected issue.

EAL Unit 3 Outcome 3:

Construct, orally, a sustained and reasoned point of view on the selected issue that demonstrates the persuasive use of language.

On Friday 5 February you will submit an Evidence File that demonstrates the construction of a sustained and reasoned point of view on an issue currently being debated in the Australian media (since September 2015).

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Source five articles to demonstrate that your selected media issue is being debated in the Australian media (since September 2015). Validate selected articles with your teacher (JDO/MWI).

☐ Annotate and summarise each article in your own words.

☐ Construct a bibliography of sources. TIP: You need a variety of sources to inform and give authority to your speech.

☐ Identify the event that sparked or reignited debate of the issue.

☐ Summarise the context/background in your own words (300 words).

☐ Outline the stakeholders and the implications of possible problems and solutions for stakeholders.

☐ Outline the arguments FOR and AGAINST in a table.

☐ Construct a specific question: Should...

☐ Write a one-sentence contention that encapsulates your underlying point of view.

☐ Establish the key points that will support your contention. Establish the best order to present them.

☐ Establish supporting explanations and evidence for each of your key points.

☐ Select a persona.

☐ Identify your target audience.

☐ Select a range of persuasive language techniques.

☐ Draft copy of speech.

☐ Edit, proofread and revise draft.

☐ Final submission of speech. Highlight and identify persuasive language techniques.

☐ Create cue cards with key words.

☐ Study record.

You will present your speech, the week beginning Monday 8 February. You must select one of the following issues:

The rights of the worker Drugs in sport

Domestic violence Sustainability

Climate change Terrorism

Marriage equality Bodily integrity

You must commit to your selected issue by Friday 4 December. Once you have had your media issue validated by your teacher (JDO/MWI) you must present on that issue. No exceptions.

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The rights of the worker

In the next two decades it is predicted that a large number of existing jobs will be completed by robots and computers. Moreover, as technology improves, jobs and services within areas such as healthcare, economics and news media will be completed by machines. Not only affecting non-skilled labour jobs (such as factory work), automation is expected to replace jobs requiring low levels of creativity, social interaction and mobility. The loss of jobs as a result of technology is a complex problem that questions the rights of the worker in an age of increasing automation.

Domestic violence

According to a recent study one in four Australian women have experienced violence from an 'intimate partner'. Furthermore, in a recent editorial the journalist and feminist Annabel Crabb described the violent behaviour of men towards women as constituting 'a milewide, ugly and deadeningly unoriginal streak down the middle of a big country'. Crabb is suggesting that the entire country is tarnished by instances of domestic violence, implying that all Australians have a responsibility in asserting the unacceptable issue of domestic violence.

Climate Change

Representatives from 195 countries convened in Paris at the Climate Summit to discuss climate change and create new policies regarding emissions targets. Of all the countries attending, the United States of America, China and India produce the highest amounts of emissions in the world and contribute, alongside other countries, to the rising global temperature. The world leaders have agreed to stop the global temperature from rising no more than two degrees Celsius and additionally, countries representing 97 percent of the world's emissions have contributed climate change pledges to the Untied Nations. As the Climate Summit demonstrates, global warming is a complex problem that requires co-operation from a large number of countries in order to address it adequately.

Marriage equality

Marriage between same-sex partners is legal in countries such as the US, UK, Canada and Ireland but remains illegal in Australia. The Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is addressing the issue of same-sex marriage in Australia, deciding that the government will conduct a plebiscite to determine the position of the Australian public regarding the issue. A plebiscite is similar to a large opinion poll and is conducted to inform the

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government in their decision to amend a law (in this case, restrictions upon same-sex marriages). Considering the legalisation of same-sex marriage in more openly religious cultures such as the US and Ireland, it is difficult to determine the reasons as to why Australia is taking time to address this contentious situation.

Drugs in Sport

The use of performance enhancing drugs is a common issue in various sporting professions. A few years ago members of the Essendon football club were penalised for taking performance-enhancing drugs, while Lance Armstrong was infamously stripped of his Tour de France victories following an investigation into doping practices. Recently, Russia have been threatened with a prospective exclusion from the Olympic Games due to accusations of having sub-standard drug commissions that allowed Olympic athletes to compete and qualify under the influence of drugs. There are many factors which contribute to moral concerns over the use of drugs in sport, including values placed on winning, competitiveness and fairness.

Sustainability

With a burgeoning population making ever-increasing demands on natural resources, we must consider the equitable distribution of resources and the ways we use resources. Research and development of technologies that will facilitate and promote environmental sustainability in the use of resources is expensive. The implementation of these technologies, while necessary, requires a significant investment into infrastructure and will increase the cost of water, energy and materials, to consumers.

Terrorism

Since 9/11, governments have implemented counter-terrorism laws and significantly increased surveillance of their citizens. In the wake of the release of the CIA torture report, we need to question the effectiveness of the practice, military tactics, techniques, and strategy that governments use to combat or prevent terrorism. The recent attacks in Paris have highlighted that terrorism remains a threat to public safety. Consider how governments can counter terrorism while protecting civil liberties.

Bodily integrity

Consider the importance of personal autonomy and the rights an individual has with respect to his or her physical body. As a society, we have made significant progress in women’s reproductive and sexual rights but abortion remains a contentious issue. In general, most governments defend personal liberty and the right not to be interfered with. However, in some circumstances government may have the right to temporarily override the right to physical integrity in order to preserve the life of the person. As an advocate for voluntary euthanasia, Philip Nitschke has assisted people in ending their lives.

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1. Subject

background circumstances leading up to an event; details of a picture represented in the distance

context circumstances that form the setting for the event

event thing that takes place; specific news story or incident

issue important topic for debate or resolution

point of view opinion; particular attitude or way of considering a matter

stakeholders people, groups of people, or institutions affected by a proposition

What is the issue?

What is the event that sparked or reignited debate of the issue?

What is the context/background?

Who are the stakeholders?

What are the problems? Possible solutions?

What are the different angles and opinions? What are the points of view, for and against?

What are your beliefs and arguments?

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Source five articles to demonstrate that your selected media issue has been debated in the Australian media since September 2015. Validate selected articles with your teacher (JDO/MWI).

☐ Annotate each article and summarise each article in your own words.

☐ Construct a bibliography of sources. TIP: You need a variety of sources to inform and give authority to your speech.

☐ Identify the event that sparked or reignited debate of the issue.

☐ Summarise the context/background in your own words (300 words).

☐ Outline the stakeholders and the implications of possible problems and solutions for stakeholders.

☐ Outline the arguments for and against in a table.

☐ Construct a specific question: Should...

Develop a reasoned point of view

Solid research is the key to developing a reasoned point of view, as it ensures a sound working knowledge of the various viewpoints and the complexities of the issue. Consult a wide range of resources and carefully read the various perspectives offered before attempting to construct your own case. Plan and develop a logical case that unfolds coherently. Each argument should flow naturally from the one preceding it. Effective language can make a point of view sound compelling, but there must also be sound underlying arguments and evidence if you want to convince the smartest people in the room! If one of your aims is to challenge people who disagree with you, the development of a water-tight, logical case is crucial.

Finding reliable evidence online

http://www.echoeducation.com.au Australian education site on contemporary issues. Username: gleneira Password: sunrose

http://en.wikipedia.org Free encyclopedia. Can be edited by the public. The site monitors new uploads in terms of accuracy.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/thedrum/ Opinion page of the ABC News website. Offers opinions from experts as well as everyday Australians.

http://www.abs.gov.au Government website. Useful for retrieving reliable statistics, figures and research findings.

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2. Structure

audience people for whom a text is intended (listeners, viewers or readers)

contention assertion; central or underlying argument

point a single argument; good ones have reasons and examples and give the audience a

reason to believe your point of view

rebuttal a response to an opposing argument that says why it’s wrong

What is your contention? Is it clear and consistent throughout?

What are your key points?

What are potential counter-arguments? How can you rebut counter-arguments?

Is it appropriate to put forward solutions?

What is the best way to order your arguments?

Can your audience identify and differentiate between the different arguments? TIP: Each argument and rebuttal should have a topic sentence.

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Write a one-sentence contention that encapsulates your underlying point of view.

☐ Establish the main points that will support your contention. Establish the best order.

Create a strong contention

A contention is a central, underlying argument; it is the foundation, or the primary focus, of your argument. Sometimes it is also called a thesis. The contention is usually supported by a series of logically connected and developed arguments and evidence.

An example of a contention might be that Melbourne must significantly expand its public transport network and bike paths in order to address the population boom. The supporting arguments might outline the positive impacts on the environment and health, as well as on social cohesion.

A strong contention should be brief and direct; you should be able to state it in one sentence. It should also be logical, factually-based and specific.

Methods of Argument

There are two well-established methods of argument familiar to many people accustomed to arguing a point of view: the Aristotelian and the Rogerian models.

ARISTOTELIAN ROGERIAN

Introduction – capture audience attention, introduce issue

Introduction – state problem to be resolved, raise possibility of positive change

Statement of background – supply context, give audience necessary backstory

Summarise opposing views – neutrally state opposition’s perspective; show non-judgmental fairness

Proposition – state contention (thesis), outline major points to follow

Statement of understanding – accept that, at times, opposing views are valid; show when, why

Proof – present reasons, supporting claims and evidence; explain and justify assumptions

Statement of position – state your personal position after consideration has been shown for opposing views

Conclusion – summarise most important points; make final appeal to audience’s values, emotions

Statement of benefits – appeal to self-interest of opponents by showing how they might benefit from your position

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Include rebuttal

Consider addressing or attacking an opposing or counter argument by either proving it wrong with the use of evidence or accepting it, with some adjustment or qualification. This second option requires you to accept the validity of an argument and work it into your overall point of view effectively, without undermining your own position. This might mean making certain exceptions. Rebuttal can be very effective, as it suggests that you have undertaken research, and can make you appear reasonable or broadminded.

3. Substance

evidence information indicating whether a belief or argument is true or valid (e.g.

facts and statistics, expert testimony, research findings, anecdotal evidence)

examples real-world things that provide evidence for or against a point

Flesh out each of your points:

explanation of your ideas

provide evidence and information

give examples that illustrate your point.

Make links between arguments; use signposting (first, finally, as a result, etc).

What I’m going to do today is cover three aspects of this very important subject.

So, let’s look at what we have covered so far.

The most important point of all is…

If you remember one thing, make sure it is this…

In appropriate places, reiterate your point, summarise what you have said so far or remind the audience of your overall contention.

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Establish supporting explanations and evidence for each of your main arguments.

Use evidence and supporting material

Provide appropriate evidence for every argument you use to support your contention. Vary the types of evidence you use: facts, statistics and survey results, expert testimony, anecdotal evidence or case studies and research. All of these options are powerful in the right context. Ask these questions:

Do I know where my evidence has come from? Are my sources reliable?

Does my ‘expert testimony’ really come from an expert? What are their credentials?

Does any of my evidence rely on generalisation? Can it be trusted, or is it unsupported?

Is there a provable link between any cause and effect statements made? For example, if an expert claims that children are getting fatter every year and that as a result junk food must not be advertised during children’s television programs, they have created a direct link between childhood obesity and advertising that may or may not be true.

Is any data or information being skewed, omitted or taken out of context?

Have I mistaken opinion for fact at any point? Always consider how any supporting material you have been given or that you have uncovered during your research (such as expert opinion or other evidence, famous quotations or graphs) might be employed in your piece, as either arguments or supporting evidence. Do not plagiarise this material; rather, use it as you would any other piece of information, and then cite your sources appropriately. For example:

‘According to Dr Smith’s analysis, each student should have an “individually tailored exercise program”.’

‘As Aristotle once noted, “a true friend is one soul in two bodies”.’

Good writing requires appropriate, effective synthesis; the drawing together of materials in a coherent way in support of a point of view. Showing that you can synthesise relevant materials will impress your audience.

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4. Style

anecdotal evidence evidence based on the oral reports of others

appeal serious or heartfelt request that targets an audience’s emotions

fact undeniable or indisputable truth; something that can be proven and supported

formal language writing or speech characterised by adherence to grammar and widely accepted

structure

imagery form of figurative language that provides visual symbolism; a word picture

images visual representations of an object, idea etc.

inclusive language language that involves its entire audience and does not alienate or leave out

(characterised by the use of the pronouns us, we, our)

informal language writing or speech characterised by less formal grammar and vocabulary; language

for relaxed, unofficial settings

register type of language used (degree of formality, choice of vocabulary, punctuation

etc.); can be formal or informal

repetition act of repeating or restating a word or phrase

statistics facts or data obtained from a study of a large quantity of numerical data, used

as a form of evidence

tone way a text would ‘sound’ if spoken aloud

Ensure your speech has a voice appropriate to the task and audience – consider formality and register, tone and vocabulary choice. Consider using rhetorical or structural devices to make your speech more engaging and interesting:

involve the audience through inclusive language, and emotional appeals

use strong empathetic language such as ‘I’m sure you’ll agree’, ‘we should/must ...’

give anecdotal evidence or hypothetical scenarios

include a shocking fact or statistic

use simple, powerful images (PowerPoint)

provide imagery (with words)

include bookending – start and end with the same concept/device/image/anecdote

use repetition.

Start with a bang – engage the audience’s interest in the first 20 seconds. Convince the audience of your personal passion for the topic.

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Select a persona.

☐ Identify your target audience.

☐ Select a range of persuasive language techniques.

Show off your vocabulary

Always ensure that you sound intelligent, articulate and informed. Show off your best English skills, regardless of your role and the context. But remember to sound fair and reasonable – extreme responses can alienate a wide audience. You are not likely to persuade many people by sounding arrogant, insensitive or ill informed!

Resources

Use all resources to support your speech, not detract from it. If you use PowerPoint/Prezi, remember that the focus should still be you. Slides should contain a minimal amount of verbal language—main ideas only. Visual language on slides to illustrate or enhance points can help. Practise using the technology to ensure it runs smoothly.

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5. Speaking

emphasis special importance given to an idea, or stress laid on a word or words in

speech

gesture movement of part of the body to express an idea

pause gap in a speech for the purpose of providing emphasis or variation in delivery

Plan how you will present your speech, taking into account effective use of these features:

pace

pause

pitch

modulation

volume

tone

body language – stance, gestures for emphasis

eye contact – regular, look around, don’t read

cue cards

variation, appropriateness

emphasis.

Make cue cards that contain only key words to guide you (you may also want to include statistics, names, etc. if they are difficult to recall). Don’t refer to them too often.

Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse – to friends, family, the mirror or record yourself.

EVIDENCE FILE

☐ Create cue cards with key words.

Pause The ‘gaps’ in your speech add meaning and emphasis. Be sure to wait before and after important

points to ensure your message is received.

Pace Be aware of your speed of delivery: too fast and you will risk losing emphasis and the audience’s

attention, too slow and you’ll sound dull. Vary your pace to be interesting.

Pitch Vary your volume, register and intonation to maintain interest and add emphasis. A speech delivered

in a monotone (one tone of voice) will put your audience to sleep.

Cue cards

These are essential, unless you plan to memorise your whole speech (an impressive option!) They must be small and hidden in your palm, so as not to be distracting. Use key words, not full sentences, otherwise you will ‘read’ your speech and seem disengaged. Do not write too much on each card, but use as many cards as you need. This may help you pause appropriately and avoid getting lost.

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Sample structure

Introduction (1 minute)

Write a powerful opening statement. Introduce yourself and thank the audience (so they are clearly identified).

Brief overview of issue (inform audience of background).

Outline implications (economic, environmental, political, ethical, legal, etc.).

Who does this issue/topic involve (local, national, global)?

Are there multiple sides? What are they?

State your position – offer a clear contention and outline your key points. TIP: Don’t forget to use appropriate signposting, such as ‘first of all’, ‘second’, and linking words.

First key argument (1.5 minutes)

Initiate and outline your first key point (i.e. a verbal topic sentence). TIP: Construct your case by creating strong topic sentences that outline your main arguments.

Develop the argument carefully and logically – what are the implications?

Provide evidence to reinforce your viewpoint.

Make sure you engage with what you have identified as the key elements of the topic.

Second key argument (1.5 minutes)

Outline and articulate your second key point. Link it to the first.

Develop the argument carefully and logically – what are the implications?

Provide evidence to reinforce and back up your viewpoint.

Rebut counter argument/s (1.5 minutes)

What are the key arguments against your stance? Pinpoint one to two key arguments.

Identify flaws in these arguments or reasons why they are not as problematic as implied.

Conclusion (30 seconds)

Restate your main contention and summarise your key points. TIP: Do the introduction and conclusion complement one another? Is there any unnecessary repetition of ideas?

Are there any alternatives or compromises to appease all parties?

What are your recommendations? Finish off strongly by making a final assertion of what is needed or required and why it is relevant.

Other considerations when crafting your speech:

If using images, have you planned when you will use them and how?

Have you collected evidence to support your opinion?

Have you ignored any major opposing arguments?

What tone (e.g. serious, sarcastic, disbelieving, etc.) do you plan to adopt at various points in your speech? Does your choice of words and tone and your intended speaking style (pace, volume, pitch) suit the points you are making?

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Persuasive language techniques

metalanguage possible purposes and effects

active and passive voice: provides

subjective or objective tone active: direct, clear

passive: indirect, detached

adjectives: describing words or

phrases adds detail to make text more interesting – provides description

can imply something positive/negative

alliteration: repetition of initial

consonant sounds adds emphasis, reinforces meaning

draws attention to key words or ideas

can create an emotive image

memorable

assonance: repetition of initial

vowel sounds adds emphasis, reinforces meaning

draws attention to key words or ideas

can create an emotive image

memorable

appeals: attempt to persuade

through emotional manipulation;

targeting of particular interests

or concerns

triggers an emotional response

evokes feelings of guilt, shame, concern, fear; or conversely of

pride, honour, satisfaction, etc.

attack: means of criticizing or

opposing an individual or idea belittles opponent’s arguments, may lend weight to those of the

author

can help author argue from position of authority

can offend or alienate audience if overdone

bias: overt preference or sympathy

for a particular point of view can strengthen argument if bias seems relevant and within

context; and if author has some authority

can undermine argument if disproportionate to context

cliché: overused or ‘hackneyed’

phrase or opinion that shows a lack

of original thought

can sway audience by appealing to something with which they are

familiar

may make audience feel informed

may alienate sophisticated audience

colourful language: vulgar or rude

language; particularly unusual or

distinctive expressions

can provide humour

may offend conservative audience

establishes informal register (friendly, one of us, on the

level)

connotation: positive/negative

implications, pejorative phrases;

‘loaded’ language that evokes an

idea or feeling, either positive or

negative

encourages audience (either subtly or overtly) to accept an

implication

seeks to persuade audience to share particular view of person or

event

design structure: the appearance

and layout of a text, including

colour, font selection and page

presentation

persuades through association

establishes genre and content

can manipulate audience emotions

evidence: material used in support

of an argument:

facts and statistics

expert testimony

research findings

anecdotal evidence

can lend argument weight and author credibility if employed

responsibly

can undermine argument if used inappropriately or if overused

formal language: more elaborate,

sophisticated; adhering to Standard

Australian English

creates sophisticated, often authoritative style, can lend

weight to argument and command respect; can sound pretentious if

out of context

informal language: colloquial,

everyday or slang terms conversational, establishes a rapport with audience, humorous,

appeals to sense of identity; can alienate if used out of

context

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generalisation: broad statements

inferred from specific cases seeks to validate a theory or contention, sometimes dubiously

can be inferred to be evidence by a naïve audience

can detract from or undermine an argument if unrealistic or

illogical

gesture: use of the body and face

to communicate meaning and positive

or negative sentiments

helps to convey arguments and moods

can influence a subject by making them feel either welcome or

intimidated

humour: the quality of being

amusing, through the use of puns,

irony, sarcasm, satire, wit

often denigrates the subject

can provide a more engaging and friendly tone

can sway an audience by having them enter into the joke

hyperbole, exaggeration:

exaggeration or overstatement used

to imply something is better,

worse, more/less important, etc.

creates dramatic effect, often through imagery

argues through employment of ‘shock tactics’; appeals to fear

can undermine argument if taken too far

imagery, figurative language: uses

of images and metaphorical (non-

literal) language to illustrate

points and make comparisons:

similes, metaphors

paints ‘word picture’ for audience; helps to illustrate point

visually and by comparison

author may appear sophisticated, well-spoken

can have an emotional impact

inclusive and exclusive language:

use of personal pronouns (I, you,

we, they, their, our, etc.) to

either involve (inclusive) or

distinguish/alienate (exclusive)

targets or accuses particular groups

can create a sense of solidarity

can create an ‘us and them’ mentality

can encourage a sense of responsibility

irony: humour found in

contradictory situations, often

highlighted through the use of

sarcasm

can engender support through the use of humour

can evoke emotional response

encourages audience to see flimsy logic in situation or

statement

logic: reason; the use of

justifiable and valid arguments to

sway an audience

appeals to reason rather than emotions; therefore lends

credibility

sound logic is hard to refute

often offers proof and solutions

nouns: naming words or phrases adds detail to make text more specific – provides a label/name

can imply something positive/negative

repetition: reuse of words or

phrases for effect memorable; enables a word or phrase to be held and recalled

highlights main ideas

creates hypnotic rhythm

rhetorical question: question that

does not require an answer encourages audience to consider issue and accept author’s answer

can imply that answer is obvious and that anyone who disagrees

is foolish

can evoke emotional response

sarcasm: use of irony to mock or to

show contempt, by implying the

opposite of what is actually said

can provide humour

serves to mock or question the logic of a situation; undermines

its validity

can backfire if used excessively or in the wrong context

satire: use of either exaggeration

or caricature to expose, criticise

or ridicule

makes a point in a humorous fashion

serves to mock or question a situation

can engender hostility in a sensitive audience

sensationalism: use of provocative

language and images, and

exaggeration

appeals to audience’s curiosity and prejudices

reinforces stereotypes

can offend or alienate critical audiences

sound and sound effects: use of

music, effects and other audio to

enhance a multimodal text

manipulates audience’s emotions

persuades through association

sound effects can make a text seem either more ‘realistic’ or

more exciting

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verbs: ‘doing’ words or phrases adds detail to make text more specific – provides the action

can imply something positive/negative

vocabulary choice: careful

selection of particular words –

nouns, verbs and adjectives – with

a positive or negative connotation

paints a subject in a flattering or unflattering light

subtly or overtly supports a particular point of view

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Study record

Class work Homework Due date Completed

Source five articles to demonstrate that your selected media issue is being debated in the Australian media (since September 2015). Validate selected articles with your teacher (JDO/MWI).

Annotate and summarise each article in your own words.

Construct a bibliography of sources. TIP: You need a variety of sources to inform and give authority to your speech.

Identify the event that sparked or reignited debate of the issue.

Summarise the context/background in your own words (300 words).

Outline the stakeholders and the implications of possible problems and solutions for stakeholders.

Outline the arguments FOR and AGAINST in a table.

Construct a specific question: Should...

Write a one-sentence contention that encapsulates your underlying point of view.

Establish the key points that will support your contention. Establish the best order to present them.

Establish supporting explanations and evidence for each of your key points.

Select a persona.

Identify your target audience.

Select a range of persuasive language techniques.

Draft copy of speech.

Edit, proofread and revise draft.

Final submission of speech. Highlight and identify persuasive language techniques.

Create cue cards with key words.

Sources:

Duffy, C. (2015) The Australian Schoolkids’ Guide to Debating and Public Speaking, NewSouth Publishing, Sydney, Australia.

Johnstone, R. (2013) Using Language to Persuade, Oxford University Press, Melbourne, Australia.

Johnstone, R. (2015) Analysing and Presenting Argument, Oxford University Press, Melbourne, Australia.