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Writing to argue and persuade

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Persuasive writing tries to make the reader agree or act. Argument writing builds a reasoned case and deals with the other side. Both need a clear viewpoint and a strong structure.

A clear structure

Introduction: hook the reader and state your view.
Main paragraphs: one point each, backed by evidence or an example.
Counter-argument: show you know the other side, then answer it ('Some people claim... However...').
Conclusion: sum up and end with a powerful call to action or final thought.

Paragraph power

Use topic sentences to open each paragraph with its main point.
Use discourse markers to guide the reader: firstly, furthermore, moreover, however, therefore, in conclusion.
Mix in persuasive techniques: rhetorical questions, the rule of three, statistics, direct address.

Persuade or argue?

Persuasive writing is often more emotional and one-sided (an advert, a campaign speech).
Argument writing is more reasoned, uses evidence and admits other views before rejecting them.
Many tasks need a mix of both.
Worked example

Write a counter-argument sentence for 'Homework should be banned.'

  1. State the other side fairly.
  2. Turn it with 'However'.
  3. Give your answer.

Answer: Some people argue that homework helps pupils practise what they have learned. However, a short quiz in class could do the same job without stealing family time.

Key idea

Plan an introduction, one point per paragraph, a counter-argument and a strong conclusion. Use topic sentences, discourse markers and persuasive techniques to guide and convince the reader.

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