Supporting Details in Persuasive Writing

This lesson teaches how to support arguments in persuasive essays by turning topic sentences into questions. It explains the structure of persuasive writing, focusing on the thesis statement and supporting details. An example using a uniform policy argument demonstrates how to develop supporting details by asking the right questions. The lesson also covers identifying and correcting mistakes when the wrong questions are asked, ensuring the argument is effectively supported.

What is the main goal of persuasive writing?

• To describe a process

• To persuade the reader to agree with the author's opinion

• To inform the reader

• To entertain the reader

In a persuasive essay, what is the purpose of the thesis statement?

• To summarize the essay

• To provide background information

• To state the author's opinion and outline how it will be proven

• To introduce the topic

What is the first step in creating supporting details for a persuasive essay?

• Provide a counterargument

• Turn the topic sentence into a question

• Summarize the main points

• Write a conclusion

Why is it important to ask the right question when creating supporting details?

• To ensure the essay is entertaining

• To confuse the reader

• To make the essay longer

• To ensure the answer proves the topic statement true

In the example about uniform policy, what is one reason students can't stand out?

• They can't wear any colors besides gray and black

• They are not allowed to speak in class

• They have to follow a strict schedule

• They have too much homework

What should you do if your answer does not prove the topic statement true?

• Change the thesis statement

• Ignore the issue

• Ask a different question

• Add more details

What is a sign that you have asked the wrong question?

• The answer is too long

• The answer repeats the topic sentence without proving it

• The answer is too short

• The answer is unrelated to the topic

What should you do after giving one answer to your question?

• Check if the answer proves the topic statement true

• Write the conclusion

• Move on to the next topic

• Add a counterargument

If your answer is on topic, what is the next step?

• End the essay

• Change the topic

• Provide one to two more answers

• Write a summary

What is the final step in ensuring strong supporting details?

• Write a new thesis statement

• Ask a different question

• Ensure the answer is on topic and provide additional answers if needed

• Conclude the essay