1. Persuasive Techniques that good writers use
to convince their readers…
Appealing to Logic/Reason –
statistics, facts, examples that
come from credible sources
Appeal to Emotion – word
choice or strong language;
precise words or phrases that are
full of emotion; make a
connection with the reader
through personal experiences or
anecdotes (short stories).
Appeal to Character – quotes
and opinions from well-known,
trustworthy experts from the field
Opposing Viewpoint – When
you acknowledge another point of
view, then you must immediately
counter it, making your argument
even stronger!
Counter-Argument – anticipate
what the opposing viewpoint will
be then argue back!
Hypothetical Situations – draw
your reader into the situation
using phrases such as, “Imagine
if…” and “What if…”
Meaningful Language – Don’t
be lazy, too vague, or too general
with your words and phrases.
Avoid writing general statements
like: This is wrong. Avoid jargon
and clichés. Jargon is words and
phrases only known to people
with specialized knowledge.
Clichés are expressions or idioms
that are overused: The writing’s
on the wall.
Tone – Your word choice
determines the tone or mood of
your writing. Sarcasm might push
your reader away. Being too
aggressive might make your
reader feel too defensive. Being
too logical may intimidate or
confuse your reader. If you are
friendly and sincere, your reader
will feel relaxed.
Repetition – repeating key
words or phrases will definitely
help get the point across to your
reader.
Rhetorical Question – Make
sure you ask a question that can
only be answered in a way that
will support your argument:
Wouldn’t you want the students to
benefit from new computers in the
library? The obvious answer here
could only be “YES!”