Language Arts 7

Persuasive Techniques

Use a variety of persuasive techniques to convince your audience to agree with you.

This technique argues that because everyone else is doing something, it must be a good idea and you should do it too.

Example: More and more teenagers have cell phones. That is why I need one too.

Bandwagon

This technique gives an example of a person who agrees. The message is that if this person endorses the product or idea, then it must be good. In advertisements, celebrities are often used.

Testimonial

This technique uses quotes or statements from a person who is considered an expert on the topic.

Expert Opinion

Example: Local family pediatrician, Dr. J Payne, stated, “Proper hand washing technique is the best way to stop the spread of illness.”

This technique uses research to support the writer’s view.

Statistics and Facts

Example: A Snickers bar has 280 calories and 30 grams of sugar. That’s not very healthy.

This technique encourages the reader to do something about the issue being addressed.

Call to Action

Example: Your donation might just get this puppy off the street and into a good home. The SPCA needs your financial support.

This technique uses carefully selected vocabulary to create an emotional response from the reader. The author may want you to feel pity, disgust, fear, or anger.

Emotional Appeal

Example: Everyday, thousands of starving children live in wretched conditions.

A rhetorical question is one where a question is posed for effect, but no answer is expected. The purpose of the question is to gain the reader’s attention.

Example: Do you want to live in a world where people turn a blind eye to the plight of others?

Rhetorical Question

This technique involves intentionally repeating a word or phrase throughout the writing. This draws attention to the word/phrase and accentuates your point.

Repetition

In this technique, the author acknowledges arguments for the other side but then dismisses those points.

Counter Argument

Example: Some people claim it’s their right to smoke. What about the rights of others though? Second hand smoke takes away the right of all of us to clean air.

Try to incorporate some of these persuasive techniques in your writing. They will go a long way in helping you convince your audience!

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