Persuasive Paper

Who is the audience and what is the author’s purpose for the persuasive paper?
When writing persuasively, always remember the interaction between the writer and the reader. The writer is trying to
persuade a reader who may be enthusiastic or resistant or simply disinterested. Persuasive writing must be well organized, but
it must also hook the reader, and then keep him or her engaged with creative and authentic word choice.

How to write a persuasive paper?

 With your goal to persuade the reader, it is vital that you follow the steps in the “process of writing” in order to
explore, develop and formalize your topic. First, you follow through with the approved topic provided to you by me.
 Next, draw from your own experiences, your studies in school, and current events to brainstorm and build
information on your topic.
 The following step is to build an outline from this brainstorming that adheres to the template and format I have
provided to you. Then, you finalize a thesis statement that expresses the main argument of your paper with 3
supporting facts and ideas.
 Finally, you will write the first draft of your paper. The paper is not complete until I, a peer or if required, you have
edited and proofed it.

Persuasive Essay Outline explanation 

Structure of a five paragraph persuasive essay 
 Introduction (3-5 sentences) 
o Hook: Grab the reader’s attention with a quote, scenario, question, vivid description, etc. Must be related to
your topic. (1-2 sentences) 
o Background information on your argument (issue)
o Thesis statement: Simply and clearly state your position on the issue (1 sentence).
 (I believe) ____________________ because of argument 1, argument 2, and argument 3.
o *Reminder: Choose three arguments you can use to convince your reader of your position. Briefly include these
arguments in your thesis statement.
 Paragraph 2 – Argument 1 (5-8 sentences) 
o Go back to paragraph one and find your first argument. Then write a paragraph about it.
o Use 3 specific examples to support your argument
o Write a transition sentence. 
 Paragraph 3 – Argument 2 (5-8 sentences) 
o Go back to paragraph one and find your second argument. Write a paragraph about it.
o Use 3 specific examples to support your argument.
o Write a transition sentence. 
 Paragraph 4 – Argument 3 (5-8 sentences) 
o Go back to paragraph one and find your third argument. Write a paragraph about it.
o Use 3 specific examples to support your argument 
o Write a transition sentence. 
 Paragraph 5 – Opposing view (5-8 sentences)
o Acknowledge an opposing view
o Rebut this point of view (se examples at the bottom of p. 538 of the text)
o Write a transition sentence.
 Conclusion (3-5 sentences) 
o Summarize—restate your thesis statement (claim) and summarize your three supporting
o Make a closing statement (appeal to needs or values, or make a call to action).
o Tie your closing statement back to your opening hook.

Paper format
The paper must be a minimum of 500 words (2 pages) in length, typed/doubled space, using Times New Roman 12inch font and
using standard APA format for short papers as discussed in class. You will use a minimum of 2 sources to support your claim and
argument (refer to APA quick reference sheet on our website). Use the outline explanation above as your guide to ensure you
have included each of the features that I will look for.

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First Draft Due: ____________________ Final Draft Due: _______________________