The use of argument and language devices

When analysing language and argument in a persuasive text, you should

• do all of these things.

• clearly communicate the author’s intentions.

• analyse the macro (broad) elements, such as structure and arguments.

• analyse the micro (small) elements, such as specific language and persuasive strategies.

Which verbs should you try to avoid using too frequently in your analysis?

• demonstrates, says, shows, argues

• emphasises, motivates, confirms, asserts

• encourages, endorses, suggests, demands

• depicts, conveys, advises, urges

What does ‘hyperbole’ mean?

• comparing one event with another that is well known

• overstating or exaggerating a claim

• mocking an idea or person in a humorous way

• using powerful language to position readers to see something in a positive or negative light

In your analysis you should clearly explain whether the writer has successfully persuaded their target audience. True or false?

• True

• False

Understanding the writer’s contention/purpose is essential because:

• you will need to respond to their contention with your own opinion.

• knowing where and when a text was published helps you to understand its context.

• without understanding their contention, you will struggle to understand why they have made certain choices about arguments and language.

• it is the easiest element of a text to understand.

Which of these statements is true?

• The author will only have one intention when writing persuasively.

• Neither of these statements are true.

• The intended audience in a persuasive text may change slightly at particular points in the text.

• Both of these statements are true.

The author’s contention/purpose can be summarised as:

• the specific audience to whom the piece is targeted.

• what the author wants the specific audience to feel/think/say/do.

• the arguments used to convince the readers.

• the context that sparked the author to write the text.

Which of these sentences uses inclusive language?

• Our very way of life will be impacted if we don’t act now.

• My uncle used to be on the dole, and let me tell you it wasn’t an easy life by any means.

• The tragic accident scarred him for life.

• Before you know it there will be millionaires being given huge welfare payments by the government.

Why might a writer use anecdotal evidence as a persuasive strategy?

• in order to suggest that they have a special insight into the topic, experience or issue

• to connect an individual with a stereotypical view held by the reader

• for all of these reasons

• to emphasise a point strongly to the reader

Your analysis should:

• connect the persuasive text to a text you have studied in class.

• do all of these things.

• integrate how specific language choices (including visual language), layout and arguments work to support the author’s overall intention.

• outline how persuasive you personally found the piece.