The document provides guidance on persuasive writing that takes a "for and against" stance on an issue. It instructs writers to list positive and negative points before beginning. The first paragraph should argue one side, the second the other side, and the conclusion should summarize both sides and state the writer's opinion. Transition words are provided to structure the argument and show contrasting perspectives. The document also provides examples of topics that could be argued and reminds writers to use their notes and the suggested language.

1. Persuasive Writing - For and Against
Intermediate Level Writing
By Kenneth Beare, About.com Guide

2.  Before you begin, write down at least five positive points, and five
negative points for your argument.

Begin your writing by making a statement about the general
statement about outcome of an action, or the overall situation.

Dedicate the first paragraph to one side of the argument. This can
be either positive or negative. Generally, it is the side with which
you agree.

The second paragraph should contain the other side of the
argument.

The final paragraph should shortly summarize both
paragraphs, and provide your own general opinion on the matter.

3.  Expressing Both Sides
 pros and cons
advantages and disadvantages
plus and minus
 Providing Additional Arguments
 What is more,
In addition to ..., the ...
Further,
Not only will ..., but ... will also ...

4.  Showing Contrast
 However,
On the other hand,
Although .....,
Unfortunately,
 Ordering
 First of all,
Then,
Next,
Finally,

5.  Summarizing
 To sum up,
In conclusion,
In summary,
All things considered,
 Expressing Your Opinion
 In my opinion,
I feel / think that ...
Personally,

6.  Choose one of the following and write a for and
against argument:
 Attending College / University
 Getting Married
 Having Children
 Changing Jobs
 Moving

7.  Choose one of the following and write a for and
against argument:
 Attending College / University
 Getting Married
 Having Children
 Changing Jobs
 Moving

8.  REMEMBER
 Write down five positive points and five negative
points
 Write down an overall statement of the situation
(for introduction and first sentence)
 Write down your own personal opinion (for final
paragraph)
 Summarize both sides in one sentence if
possible
 Use your notes to write a For and Against
Argument using the helpful language provided

9.  Read the sample text. Notice that it presents
the pros and cons of a shorter work week.
 http://esl.about.com/od/intermediatewritin1/
a/persuasive_writing.htm