Persuasive TextsSometimes an author will write to persuade an audience of his or her opinion.

Author’s argument – the author’s opinion in the writing that he or she is trying to communicate

Persuasion – a way to change how a reader thinks, acts, or feels about something

In science or social studies texts, authors must support their claims with reasons and evidence.

Notes: Add what is written in RED to your notes.

FACT or OPINION?In persuasive text, it is important to distinguish

(determine the difference) between these two types of statements.

Fact- Statement that can be proved to be true or false

Examples: There are fifty states in the United States of America.

The capital of America is Washington, D.C.

Opinion- Statement that cannot be

proved- Not everyone will agreeExamples: Hawaii is the best state in which to live.

Spring is the most beautfiul time to visit Washington, D.C.

Propaganda Techniques

- Bias – the writer is prejudiced toward one point of view and tries to sway the reader to accept it

- Propaganda techniques – ways that a writer can use bias to convince the reader of a certain point of view

Another type of propaganda: Inclusion or avoidance of particular facts – mentioning only facts that will help to persuade people to your opinion

Notes: Write what is written in RED on to your propaganda notes.

Read the following and distinguish fact from opinion:

Think about the great health benefits of fruit. Fruit is made of 80 percent water, and water is needed for healthy bodies. Fruit has no “bad cholesterol,” which is also very good news for our bodies. On the other hand, many other foods do contain “bad cholesterol.” Many people say that fruit is good brain food and that it helps people think more clearly. Fruit also contains fiber. Fiber is good for digestion. Fruit always makes people feel better, too.

Left out: fruit has sugars; some people have allergies

Facts about fruit Opinions about fruit

- 80% water- Bodies need water- No “bad” cholesterol- Contains fiber for digestion

- Good brain food- Think more clearly- Makes people feel better

Read the following and identify the author’s argument:

In 1967, a man named Steve Juneau came up with an idea to promote the city of Gonzales, Louisiana. He loved how area cooks prepared jambalaya. Jambalaya is a tasty Cajun-Creole dish with a delicious blend of meats and flavors. Why not use this dish to draw people to Gonzales? That’s how the annual Jambalaya Festival came to be. In 1968, the governor of Louisiana named Gonzales the “Jambalaya Capital of the World.” That same year, the first festival was held. Thirteen cooks competed for the title of “World Jambalaya Cooking Champion.” About 15,000 people attended the festival. There were pots of jambalaya, a carnival for the children, and live music. Everyone had a wonderful time. Over time, the festival grew in popularity and reputation. One recent festival drew more than 50,000 people.

Argument: The festival was a terrific idea and a great success.

Facts included Loaded Language

- Names of people & places- Dates- Numbers of people

- tasty- delicious- wonderful time

Guided PracticePage 154Read the paragraph with your small group. Then answer the questions that follow. You may talk about your answers, but each person should record his or her own response. We will review as a class.

Page 155On your own, read the paragraph and answer the questions that follow. When everyone is done, talk about your answers. We will review as a class.