Title – PERSUASIVE ARGUMENT

By – Sharon Hargis

Subject – Language Arts

Grade Level – 7-12

MATERIALS: Index cards with arguments *see examples below

pens

paper

PROCEDURES: Groups of four

Each group member is given an argument and presents it to group members to discuss and generate ideas for persuasion. Students then independently write argument, defending their position.

PUBLISHING: Each person reads their argument to the class.

*Examples of arguments I have used:

1. Aids Anguish – Your parents have told you that you are not allowed to associate with your best friend, Alice, anymore because her father has tested positive of the AIDS virus. Compose a logical argument, persuading your parents to let you keep your friend. Give reasons to support your argument.

2. Dropout Dora – Your friend Dora has lost interest in school and her grades are suffering. As a result, she will be repeating ninth grade. Dora has decided to quit and work more hours as a waitress to support herself. She says she’ll eventually get her diploma on her own. Compose a logical argument convincing Dora to stay in school, with reasons why its to her benefit.

NOTE: Upper elementary like to argue such things as, new policy at school is to do away with canteen. Write argument to persuade the principal to change his mind. OR you are against wearing uniforms to school. Write an argument listing why you think it would be better not to wear uniforms. (You can also turn this around, arguing for uniforms).

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