Using facts and opinions to persuade

The Power of Persuasion

Have you ever tried to convince someone to feel the way you do about something?
To write a convincing persuasive paragraph state your opinion clearly., give reasons, and
support your opinion with facts. Remember that facts can be checked or proven. Here is
an example from a letter to the editor of a newspaper.
Our town should consider building a skateboard park. According to a recent
community survey, there are more kids skateboarding than ever before but fewer places
to skateboard. Certain townspeople and merchants have complained to authorities that
skateboarders make too much noise, create a nuisance for pedestrians and drivers, and
are causing property damage. As a result, we skateboarders are continually “asked” to
move on. We are always looking for new places to practice. Specially designated areas
and parks for skateboarders have worked in other communities with similar problems. If
everyone would work together, it could work here.
Jason Anderson
Green Hills

Answer each question about the letter to the editor above.

1. What opinion does Jason state in his letter? The opinion does Jason state in this
letter is that they’re more skateboarding than ever before but fewer places to
skateboard.

2. What reasons does Jason give? Certain townspeople and merchants have
complained to authorities that skateboarders make too much noise
3. What facts does Jason present to support his opinion? Our town should consider
building a skateboard park.
Think about some problems and issues that affect your school, neighborhood, community,
or country. Choose one that you feel deeply about. What is your opinion? Write what you
think should be done to resolve the problem or issue.

List reasons for your opinion.

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List facts to support your opinion.

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