PERSUASIVE/ARGUMENT BASED WRITINGBeing sure your topic is persuasiveBy Darlene Schaefer

Essential Elements

Strong topic Has two distinct “sides” to the argument behind the

topic Thesis statement takes a side Uses research to defend an argument and

persuade Uses research to discredit the opposition

Topic Ideas

Should schools have a technology project requirement for high school seniors?

Should colleges strengthen their admission standards?

Should a teen curfew be enforced? Should students choose virtual courses to cover their

core credits? Should athletes be subject to drug testing?

Thesis

You start with an implied research question Ex:Should students choose virtual courses to cover their

core credits? The answer you will provide to this question is your

thesis Because virtual education allows for students to work at

their own pace, enroll in courses that may not be available in a face to face school, and enhances the educational experience with technology, students should choose virtual courses as a means to achieve core credit.

There should be a plausible antithesis

Someone can argue “against” you• Thesis: Because virtual education allows for students to

work at their own pace, enroll in courses that may not be available in a face to face school, and enhances the educational experience with technology, students should choose virtual courses as a means to achieve core credit.

- Antithesis: Because high school students struggle with self-motivation, may not have consistent access to technology, and lose the bond between a face to face student and teacher, students should not choose virtual courses as a means to achieve core credits.

There are two sides

YOU CHOOSE ONE!

Begin research

Internet Local library Local archives Personal interviews

Seek out “the experts” What are each sources credentials?