Persuasive Writing Review

Melissa Hyatt

FormatHOW MANY PARAGRAPHS?• Beginning=1 paragraph• Middle=4 paragraphs• End=1 paragraph

HOW MANY SENTENCES?5- 8 sentences per paragraph

30-48 total sentences

HOW MUCH TIME?11/2- 2 Minutes per sentence in a 60 minute test.

Beginning

• Begin with a dramatic opening sentence.

Example: A recent survey was administered to students at EAJ and the results may astound you. Mrs. Hyatt was named the smartest teacher in room 102!

• Provide important background information.• Build powerfully toward your position

statement.

Middle Paragraphs

Should consist of 4 paragraphs.

Each Paragraph has:• Topic Sentence= your

points• Support Details (plan

on 3 sentences for this)• Concluding sentence

with TRANSITION!!

YOUR WEAKEST POINT

YOUR SECOND STRONGEST POINT

YOUR STRONGEST POINT

COUNTER ARGUMENT

End

• Powerfully restate your positionExample: It is obvious to everyone at

EAJ, that Mrs. Hyatt is the smartest teacher in room 102.

• Sum up your 3 reasons• End with a final insight.Example: As a future teacher, I hope

that I will someday be as smart as her.

Prewriting: RULES OF THREE

Prewriting: WHY CHART

Your Turn to Try

Draw the “Why Chart” on your paper.

Your Turn to Try

Draw the “Rules of Threes” Chart on your paper.

Tips• Use your outline as a writing guide.• To allow room for changes, write on

every other line.• First Paragraph should introduce

controversy and state your opinion.• Don’t forget the counterargument!

Mnemonic Device???