Persuasive essay

1. Persuasive essay

2. Definition/purpose • Influence the attitudes or actions of a specific audience on a specific issue • A persuasive essay should contain a clear thesis and position based on logical reasons supported by precise and relevant evidence

3. introduction • “Hook” the audience • Anecdote • Interesting fact

4. State your position • State your position • Your position should be an accurate and honest representation of the views stated in the text (do not take the author’s words out of context)

5. counterargument • Anticipate the audience’s disagreement • State their argument, then tell why it is wrong • Ex. “Although some people may thing that____, this is actually misguided because_______.”

6. Your argument • Give reasons why your position is correct • Back them up with relevant evidence • Use specific data, facts, and ideas • Analyze the facts

7. Use of appeals • Use a range of appropriate appeals to make your point • Descriptions • Anecdotes • Statistics • Case studies • Analogies

8. Conclusion/call to action • Sum up your position and the main points of your argument • Do not repeat things word for word • End with a call to action • Ask your audience to do what you want— • “Please take immediate action and vote to____”