Major Types of Paragraphs

Descriptive Descriptive
Narrative Narrative
Expository Expository
Persuasive Argumentative

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PERSUASIVE TEXT
What is a persuasive text?
A persuasive text is any text where the main purpose is to present a point of
view and seeks to persuade a reader. A persuasive text can be an argument,
exposition, discussion, review or even an advertisement.

How is a persuasive text structured?

A persuasive text is organised to include a ‘statement of position’, ‘arguments’
and a ‘reinforcement of position statement’
The statement of position gives an overview of the argument and reveals the
position to be argued.
Next is the arguments section which is a series of points with supporting
evidence. Here is where you try to convince the reader into believing your point
of view on a particular issue. As a basis, you should have at least three main
argument points and can include more if necessary.
After you have put forth your arguments you then need to sum up. In this
section you will strongly repeat what you believe in with a summary of your
argument points.

Grammar and language conventions used

 Words with high modality, that is, words that show a high degree of
certainty. For example – must, ought to, shall, has to. In comparison to
words such as may, might, could and would that have low modality and
show less certainty.
 Emotive, descriptive words that appeal to the emotions. For example –
wonderful, horrible, cruel, amazing, frightening, perfect.
 A formal voice that is more authoritative and has more power of
persuasion.
 Repetition of words or phrases and concepts to push your point of view.
 Connectives that help sequence your argument. For example – Firstly,
Secondly..
 Present tense
 Persuasive Paragraph

The school fair is right around the corner, and tickets have just gone on sale. We are selling a limited
number of tickets at a discount, so move fast and get yours while they are still available. This is going
to be an event you will not want to miss! First off, the school fair is a great value when compared with
other forms of entertainment. Also, your ticket purchase will help our school, and when you help the
school, it helps the entire community. But that’s not all! Every ticket you purchase enters you in a
drawing to win fabulous prizes. And don’t forget, you will have mountains of fun because there are
acres and acres of great rides, fun games, and entertaining attractions! Spend time with your family
and friends at our school fair. Buy your tickets now!

Argumentative Paragraph

The school fair is right around the corner, and tickets have just gone on sale. Even though you may be
busy, you will still want to reserve just one day out of an entire year to relax and have fun with us.
Even if you don’t have much money, you don’t have to worry. The school fair is a community event,
and therefore prices are kept low. Perhaps, you are still not convinced. Maybe you feel you are too old
for fairs, or you just don’t like them. Well, that’s what my grandfather thought, but he came to last
year’s school fair and had this to say about it: “I had the best time of my life!” While it’s true you may
be able to think of a reason not to come, I’m also sure you can think of several reasons why you must
come. We look forward to seeing you at the school fair!

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your
point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in
Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because
there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its
peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re
trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with
the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays
show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive
essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also
often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which
tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

 Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends
with the thesis.

 Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what
your stance on the issue is.

 Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support
the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body
paragraph.

 Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your

main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays
more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a
stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.

 Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap

of why the issue is important.