Persuasive Language: Weak vs. Strong Arguments

Persuasive Language: Weak vs. Strong Arguments

Strong Persuasive Writing

Opinions are support by facts

Example: It is important for people to adopt pets, as there are thousands of animals kept in animal shelters across the country.

Evidence can be proven

Example: It is important for kids to get an allowance. Experts say that kids’ money habits are formed by age 7.

Weak Persuasive Writing

Opinions are not supported by facts

Example: It is important for people to adopt pets because they are so cute and always make good companions.

Evidence can be proven to be false

Example: It is important for kids to get an allowance. My friends get an allowance and they can buy whatever they want.

Multiple Choice

Which of the following would be the strongest argument to persuade you to buy a new video game:

• The video game is expensive.

• The video game is almost as fun as the ones you have.

• The video game has OK graphics

• The video game won an award for Game of the Year.

Multiple Choice

Ishmael wants to go on vacation with his friend's family. What's the best way he can persuade his parents to say yes?

• He can tell them that he will be sad and stay in bed if he can't go.

• He can explain that the vacation will be educational and safe.

• He can say that he'll hate his parents if they don't let him go.

• He can ask them for the money that he needs for the trip.

Multiple Choice

Which of these statements would be the weakest argument to persuade your parents to let you see a movie:

• You saved up your allowance so you could buy the ticket for yourself.

• You have a ride to and from the movie theater with a friend's parent.

• The movie is only a little violent.

• It's not a school night.