Introduction to Persuasive Writing
Welcome to a 10-week journey into the world of persuasive writing! This course is designed to help middle school students develop the skills needed to craft compelling arguments and communicate their ideas effectively. Throughout the session, we will explore the essential elements of persuasive writing, including how to select strong topics, structure essays, and use evidence and rhetorical techniques to persuade various audiences.
Course Details
Instructor
Darcy Christianson
Level
Middle School
Duration
10 Lessons / 10 Live 1-hour Sessions
Type
Self Guided / Live Online
Course Content
Introduction to Persuasive Writing
Objective: Understand the purpose and elements of persuasive writing.
Activities:
- Discussion on what persuasion is and where it’s used (e.g., advertisements, speeches).
- Identify the elements of persuasive writing: main argument, thesis, evidence, arguments, and counterarguments.
- Read and analyze persuasive articles.
Homework: Find an example of persuasive writing from a magazine, website, or advertisement and write a summary on why it is persuasive.
Persuasive Writing Topics
Objective: Identify and understand what makes a good persuasive writing topic
Activities:
- Review effective and persuasive writing topics
- Practice writing thesis statements for selected persuasive topics.
- Choose a persuasive topic to develop during the course.
Homework: Select an effective persuasive topic and write a thesis statement on a selected topic.
Building Strong Arguments
Objective: Learn how to construct and support strong arguments.
Activities:
- Discuss the importance of evidence and examples.
- Analyze sample essays focusing on argument strength.
- Practice writing arguments with supporting evidence.
Homework: Write a paragraph with a clear argument and at least two pieces of evidence to a previously assigned topic.
Counterarguments and Rebuttals
Objective: Understand how to address and refute counterarguments.
Activities:
- Review the role of counterarguments in persuasive writing.
- Practice writing rebuttals to sample counterarguments.
Homework: Write a rebuttal to a counterargument related to a previously assigned topic.
Using Persuasive Techniques
Objective: Identify and use techniques such as ethos, pathos, and logos.
Activities:
- Explanation of rhetorical appeals (ethos, pathos, logos).
- Analyze examples where these techniques are used.
- Group activity: Create a persuasive advertisement using one or more techniques.
Homework: Write a persuasive paragraph utilizing at least one rhetorical appeal for a previously assigned topic.
Persuasive Language and Style
Objective: Learn how to use persuasive language and style effectively.
Activities:
- Explore persuasive language features (e.g., powerful adjectives, rhetorical questions).
- Review and edit sample texts to improve persuasive language.
Homework: Revise a persuasive paragraph from a previously assigned topic focusing on language and style.
Structuring a Persuasive Essay
Objective: Learn how to organize a persuasive essay.
Activities:
- Outline the structure of a persuasive essay: introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Practice creating an outline for a persuasive essay.
Homework: Draft an outline for a persuasive essay on a previously assigned topic.
Sharing the First Draft
Objective: Learn about peer reviewing. Share a complete first draft of a persuasive essay with a classmate.
Activities:
- Practice developing constructive and focused feedback for a peer review..
- Peer review: Exchange drafts and provide feedback.
Homework: Revise the draft based on peer feedback.
Revising and Editing
Objective: Improve the clarity and impact of persuasive writing through revising and editing.
Activities:
- Discuss strategies for revising content (e.g., improving arguments, refining language).
- Grammar and style mini lessons.
- Editing practice on sample essays.
Homework: Finalize the essay by editing for grammar and style.
Presenting a Persuasive Essay
Objective: Analyze presentation skills and styles to effectively communicate arguments.
Activities:
- Discuss the purpose of persuasion and skills for effective communication.
- Review presentation styles such as speech, blog, advertisements.
Homework: Prepare a final presentation of the persuasive essay. Reflect on what was learned throughout the course.
What’s Included
10 Weekly Lessons and Live Video Instruction
1 Final Persuasive Essay and 1 Final Persuasive Presentation
10 Quizzes and 10 Analysis Activities
Requirements
This course is designed for middle school students in grades 6-8 who are interested in learning the art of persuasive writing. To succeed in this class, students should be comfortable with basic essay writing skills, including structuring an essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A willingness to express opinions, think critically, and engage in class discussions is also important.
Requirements:
- Grade Level: Open to students in grades 6-8.
- Writing Skills: Students should be able to write complete essays with clear arguments, supporting details, and proper organization.
- Participation: Active participation in class activities, discussions, and peer reviews is expected.
- Assignments: Students will complete weekly writing assignments, including essays, paragraphs, and revisions, as well as homework tasks related to each lesson.
No prior experience with persuasive writing is needed, but a positive attitude and readiness to improve writing skills will help you make the most of this course. We look forward to a fun and engaging learning experience together!
Launch Yourself Into The Future.
