Persuasive writing aims to convince readers to adopt a certain viewpoint using sound reasoning and evidence. It presents a claim supported by multiple reasons backed by facts, expert opinions, statistics, or personal observations. Strong arguments also address potential counterarguments in a fair manner before rebutting them to demonstrate that the writer has considered alternative perspectives. Effective persuasive essays follow a standard format that introduces the claim, discusses each supporting reason and evidence, addresses counterarguments, and concludes by restating the central claim.

1. ARGUMENT AND
PERSUASION
How can I convince my reader?

2. WHAT IS PERSUASIVE WRITING?
 Persuasive writing, also known as the argument
essay, utilizes logic and reason to show that
one idea is more legitimate than another idea.
It attempts to persuade a reader to adopt a
certain point of view or to take a particular
action. The argument must always use sound
reasoning and solid evidence by stating
facts, giving logical reasons, using
examples, and quoting experts.

3. WHAT IS AN ARGUMENT?
In writing, an argument is a claim
supported by reasons and evidence.
A claim is a writer’s position on a
problem or issue.
Example: Crunchy Puffs are an
important part of a nutritious
breakfast.

4. WHAT IS AN ARGUMENT?
An argument or claim is an opinion
rather than a fact.
For Example:
Crunchy Puffs is a breakfast cereal.
(Fact that cannot be argued)
Crunchy Puffs are an important part
of a nutritious breakfast. (Opinion
that can be argued)

5. PROVIDING REASONS
The strength of an argument depends not
on the claim but on the reasons that are
used to support the claim.
Support is what persuades the reader to
accept the writer’s claim.

6. FOR EXAMPLE
CLAIM
All students in the United States should
learn a foreign language.
Reason 2 Reason 3
Reason 1
Studying a Knowing other
Students in other
language helps languages is
countries learn
students excel in important in the
foreign language.
other subjects. business world.

7. EVIDENCE
 Each of your reasons need evidence to help prove
your claim and support the reason(s).
 Statistics- Facts, numbers, and information can be
very convincing.
 Expert opinions- Important people or experts can
make your argument seem more convincing.
 Personal Observations (anecdote)- Personally
observing evidence or situations that would support
your argument.
 Charged language and striking images- Getting
people to feel happy, sad, or angry can help your
argument.

8. EVIDENCE
 Statistics- In a study of 20 countries, 17 countries
required all students to learn at least one foreign language.
 Expert opinions- Dr. Seuss found that students who took
foreign languages had higher grade point averages than
those who didn’t.
 Personal Observations (anecdote)- Companies are often
International; employees must be able to communicate
with customers and with each other.
 Charged language and striking images- If students don’t
learn a foreign language, they will increase America’s
poverty rate. Do you want your children to struggle to put
food on the table?

9. WHAT IS A COUNTER ARGUMENT?
A counter-argument is an argument
opposed to your claim, or part of your
claim. It expresses the view of a person
who disagrees with your position.

10. WHY SHOULD I ADDRESS A
COUNTERARGUMENT?
 Why would you include a counter-argument in
your essay? Doesn’t that weaken your argument?
 Actually, no. Done well, it makes the argument
stronger.
 This is because it gives you the chance to respond to your
reader’s objections before they have finished reading. It also
shows that you are a reasonable person who has considered
both sides of the debate. Both of these make an essay more
persuasive.

11. HOW SHOULD I ADDRESS THE
COUNTER ARGUMENT?
 A counter-argument should be expressed
thoroughly, fairly and objectively.
 Do not just write a quick sentence and then
immediately rebut it.
 Give reasons why someone might actually hold that
view. A few sentences or even a whole paragraph is
not an unreasonable amount of space to give to the
counter-argument.
 Again, the point is to show your reader that you have
considered all sides of the question, and to make it
easier to answer the counter-argument. It’s easier to
respond to a point you have already spelled out—and
it’s easier for your reader to follow you.

12. EXAMPLE OF ADDRESSING A
COUNTER ARGUMENT
People should think carefully before buying unusual
pets.
 (1) Some people would say that owning an
exotic pet is a wonderful experience. (2) They
might say that exotic pets make the owner
stand out in a crowd. (3) They also might
say that owning an exotic pet is a unique and
rewarding experience. (4) However, these
unique animals also come with unique
challenges especially when they mature.

13. HOW DO I FORMAT A PERSUASIVE
ESSAY?
Introduction: Introduce your topic
along with stating your claim
Reason 1 Reason 2 Reason 3
Discuss the 1st reason Discuss the 2nd reason Discuss the 3rd reason
you have that supports you have that supports you have that supports
your claim- along with at your claim- along with at your claim- along with at
least one piece of least one piece of least one piece of
evidence. evidence. evidence.
Paragraph addressing the counterargument.
Conclusion: Restate your claim and remind your
reader of your evidence. NO new information should
be introduced!

14. CLOSING STATEMENTS
In five sentences or less, summarize the
most important details about today’s
notes.
Turn to your shoulder partner and read
your summary.
Compare and contrast the information
you both included in your summary.