The Art of Persuasion: Finding and Using Arguments in Writing

The Art of Persuasion: Finding and Using Arguments in Writing

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to find arguments in texts and write a persuasive text using those arguments.

Introduce the learning objective to the students and explain what they will be able to do by the end of the lesson.

What do you already know about writing persuasive texts?

What is Persuasion?

Persuasion is the act of convincing someone to do or believe something. It can be done through writing, speaking, or other means of communication.

Introduce the concept of persuasion and why it is important. Ask the students if they have ever tried to persuade someone before.

Finding Arguments

An argument is a reason or set of reasons given in support of an idea, action, or theory. When looking for arguments in a text, it is important to identify the main points and supporting evidence.

Explain the importance of finding arguments in persuasive writing. Show examples of texts with clear arguments.

Identifying Counterarguments

A counterargument is an opposing view to the argument being presented. It is important to identify counterarguments in order to address them in the writing and make a stronger case.

Explain why counterarguments are important in persuasive writing. Show examples of texts with clear counterarguments.

Using Emotion

Emotion can be a powerful tool in persuasion. Using emotional language and appealing to the reader's feelings can help to make a stronger case.

Explain how emotion can be used effectively in persuasive writing. Show examples of texts that use emotional language.

Writing a Persuasive Text

When writing a persuasive text, it is important to have a clear thesis statement, strong arguments with supporting evidence, and a clear structure. The structure should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Explain the key components of a persuasive text and give examples of how to structure it.

Structuring Paragraphs

Each paragraph in a persuasive text should have a clear topic sentence, supporting evidence, and a concluding sentence. The paragraphs should be organized in a logical order.

Explain how to structure paragraphs in a persuasive text. Show examples of well-structured paragraphs.

Using Transition Words

Transition words are words or phrases that help to connect ideas and make the writing flow smoothly. They can also help to make the writing more persuasive.

Explain the importance of transition words in persuasive writing. Show examples of transition words and how they can be used.

Addressing Counterarguments

When addressing counterarguments, it is important to acknowledge the opposing view and provide evidence to refute it. This can make the argument stronger and more persuasive.

Explain how to address counterarguments in persuasive writing. Show examples of texts that effectively address counterarguments.

Using Emotion Effectively

When using emotion in persuasive writing, it is important to use it in a way that supports the argument and does not come across as manipulative or insincere. The emotion should be genuine and relevant to the topic.

Explain how to use emotion effectively in persuasive writing. Show examples of texts that use emotion in a genuine and effective way.

Editing and Revising

Editing and revising are important steps in the writing process. When editing a persuasive text, it is important to check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as making sure the argument is clear and well-supported.

Explain the importance of editing and revising in the writing process. Give tips on how to effectively edit and revise a persuasive text.

Peer Review

Peer review is a helpful way to get feedback on your writing. When reviewing a peer's persuasive text, it is important to provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Explain the importance of peer review and how to effectively provide feedback to a peer's writing.

Final Draft

After editing, revising, and receiving feedback, it is time to write the final draft of the persuasive text. This should be a polished and well-organized piece of writing that effectively persuades the reader.

Explain the importance of writing a final draft and give tips on how to make it polished and effective.

Practice Exercise

Read the following text and identify the argument and counterargument. Write a short paragraph explaining how the writer addresses the counterargument. (Text: Dogs make great pets. They are loyal, friendly, and make great companions. Some people argue that dogs are too much work and require too much attention. However, with proper training and care, dogs can be a wonderful addition to any family.)

Give instructions for the practice exercise and allow time for the students to complete it.

Interactive Activity: Brainstorming Arguments

In pairs or small groups, brainstorm arguments for the following topics: 1) The benefits of exercise, 2) The importance of recycling, 3) The value of education. Write your arguments on the whiteboard or a piece of paper.

Explain the instructions for the interactive activity and allow time for the students to complete it. Encourage discussion and collaboration.

Interactive Activity: Writing a Persuasive Text

Using the arguments you brainstormed in the previous activity, write a persuasive text on one of the following topics: 1) The benefits of exercise, 2) The importance of recycling, 3) The value of education.

Explain the instructions for the interactive activity and allow time for the students to complete it. Encourage the students to use the skills they have learned in the lesson.

Peer Review

Exchange your persuasive text with a peer and provide constructive feedback using the peer review checklist.

Explain the instructions for the peer review and provide the peer review checklist.

Final Draft

Using the feedback you received from your peer, write a final draft of your persuasive text. Make sure it is well-organized, persuasive, and free of errors.

Give instructions for the students to write a final draft of their persuasive text using the feedback they received from their peer.

Presentation

Present your persuasive text to the class. Use the skills you have learned in the lesson to effectively persuade your audience.

Explain the instructions for the presentation and give tips on how to effectively present a persuasive text.

Reflection

Reflect on the skills you have learned in this lesson. What did you find most helpful? What will you take away from this lesson?

Encourage the students to reflect on what they have learned and how it can be applied in the future.

Assessment

Assess the students' final drafts and presentations using the rubric provided. Provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Explain the assessment process and provide the rubric for the students' final drafts and presentations.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing the lesson on finding and using arguments in persuasive writing! You now have the skills to effectively persuade your audience. Keep practicing and refining your skills.

Wrap up the lesson and encourage the students to continue practicing their persuasive writing skills.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.