Writer's Choice Grade 8

Unit 6: Persuasive Writing

Overview

Examples of persuasive writing are all around us—in magazines, newspapers, books, posters, and radio and television programs. All forms of persuasive writing are designed to convince readers or listeners to think or act in certain ways.

Persuasive writing begins with selecting a topic. It is usually best to choose an issue about which you feel strongly. In your opening paragraph, tell your readers what your position on the issue is and what you want them to think or do. Find a way to make your message catch and hold your readers' attention.

The body of a persuasive piece consists mainly of evidence—facts, statistics, and examples—to support an argument. Often, making a list of "pros" (reasons to agree) and "cons" (reasons to disagree) can help you in your search, selection, and organization of evidence. Such a list will also enable you to anticipate and answer opposing arguments.

Persuasive writers carefully choose words that are meaningful to their readers. Knowing your readers' level of knowledge about and interest in your topic can help you choose words and information that will have the greatest impact and influence.