SAS 15 PERSUASIVE ESSAY

Persuasive essay

• an argument essay

• aim to make people believe with a viewpoint or do something specific

• use reasons to show why one idea is better than another

• use evidence like facts, numbers of statistics, examples, quotes from experts 

pick a side or suggest a solution

• decide what you believe in 

understand who you are writing for and why 

• know your audience 

use logic and feelings 

• explain, clearly, connect emotionally

do research

• use trustworthy sources and take notes for support

consider both sides of the argument

• what people who disagree might say and explain why your side is better

persuasive devices 

• techniques used to appeal to the audience’s emotions, logic, trust in the speaker, and to create urgency 

pathos

• Using emotional language to make people feel for you.

• “If I have a curfew, I won’t be able to go out with my friends and do everything they do.”

• Makes your audience feel what you feel.

ethos

• Using language that shows you are trustworthy and believable.

• “In all my years as a student, I have always…”

• Makes people trust your experience or authority.

logos 

• Using studies, data, charts, illustrations, and logic to prove your point.

• “This chart shows that the amount of time spent at …”

• Appeals to reason and facts, not just feelings.

kairos

• Using a sense of urgency to persuade people to act now.

• “If you don’t let me make my own decisions today, I will miss out on the chance to…”

• Makes your audience feel that action must happen immediately

big names

• Using the names of experts or famous people who agree with your idea.

• “Psychologists agree that giving teens more independence will …”

• Makes your argument more believable.