Please read “Where’s the Beef” by Alan Herscovici. (handout)

Elements of a Persuasive Essay

A persuasive essay only succeeds if it convinces its readers to share its writer’s views. A good persuasive essay has at least some of the following elements:

•  A clearly stated thesis that expresses the writer’s opinion. Words such as should, ought, and must help make thesis statements strong. 
• An emotional appeal. Most writers of persuasive essays use emotion to get the readers to feel strongly about their argument. Often persuasive essays begin with an emotional appeal.
• Well-chosen examples that support the main points. Without examples, a persuasive essay can be flat and unconvincing.
• Firm evidence to support the main points. The evidence should consist of facts, expert opinions, and examples.
• A line of argument that answers critics in advance. Writers who anticipate, confront, and refute opposing arguments show their readers that they are knowledgeable about the other side of the issue. By answering objections in advance, these writers strengthen their own position.
• An argument that depends on logic. Although persuasive essays often do appeal to their reader’s emotions, the argument should be based on logic.
• Arguments are presented in a logical or climactic order. Persuasive essays can be organized in a number of different ways, but many writers present their arguments in a logical progression, often in the order of importance, saving their most important point for last.
• Conclusions that predict. Some writers use their conclusions to predict what will happen if their argument is not believed or acted upon. Others point out what will happen if their arguments are taken seriously.

Organization

Introduction

• should grab the reader’s attention
• should include a thesis statement that states a clear argumentative position and informs the reader of the key points in the composition

Body

• should include at least three key points
• the three reason paragraphs should each start with a topic sentence
• each reason should be supported with facts, expert opinions, quotations, and/or specific examples
• should address the reader’s concerns, counterclaims, and/or biases
• ideas should be organized to flow logically
• transitions should be used to connect all paragraphs and help ideas flow smoothly

Conclusion

• should remind the reader of the main idea and key points
• essay should end with a call to action

Remember…

• grammar and spelling count
• a variety of sentence patterns should be used.

You can continue to work on your own piece.