Chapter Blog 3

Chapter 12. Persuasive writing

People use persuasive writing to argue logically with reasons. Tomkins (2008) says people can be persuaded in three ways. The first appeal a writer can make is based on reason. A second way to persuade is through an appeal to character. Other people are important to us, and we an be persuaded by what another person recommends if we trust that person. The third way people can be persuaded is by an emotional appeal. Emotional appeals can be as strong as intellectual appeals because people have a deep concern for their well-being and for the rights of others (Tomkins, 2008, p. 268). We are living in the complicated society so there are many chances to persuade somebody. In persuasive writing, a writer takes a position FOR or AGAINST an issue and writes to convince the reader to believe or do something.
Rubenstein (2010) explained persuasive writing steps briefly as below:
1. Give yourself time.
2. Brainstorm.
3. First Paragraph This has to be your paragraph that draws attention to your essay.
4. Start off your essay by stating your views.
5. Make body paragraphs.
6. Finish off with a conclusion (last sentence). Proofread.
Also he provided useful tips for persasive writing as below:
Make sure you know your audience. Stick to a certain tone, whether it's formal, informal, funny, pleading, etc.
Be aware of the possible counter-arguments that would go against what you are trying to say. You need to plan ahead for oppositions. Therefore, list some common oppositions and have counters for them.
Avoid the use of personal pronouns such as "I" or "you". This takes away from your writing's professional touch.
Use synonyms. Having the same word over and over will place a toll on the reader's nerves. Mix it up a bit. Also, do not use boring words, such as big or nice. Try and put them as enormous or compassionate.

References:
Rubenstein, L. B. (2010, March 19). How to Write a Persuasive Essay. Retrieved March 31, 2010 from http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Persuasive-Essay
Tomkins, G. E. (2008). Teaching Writing: Balancing Process and Product. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.