Persuasive Language how to make someone do what you want them to do Back up every opinion you give with evidence – even if the evidence is shabby. Mostly use the present tense Use generalisations, which are extreme statements like ‘all Swans are white’ or ‘all girls chew bubble gum’. Everyone knows that ... We all agree that... Obviously, surely, of course! Use flattery (compliment the reader) and tell them what they want to hear. Use technical words and jargon to make it seem like your opinion is backed up with research and science. Shorter sentences have more persuasive punch. Dare your reader to disagree! Use connective words which show logical connections of cause and effect: however because so therefore this shows in effect (this) on the other hand Use statistics, science or facts to back you up (and twist the interpretation of those statistics or findings to suit yourself). Use language with a negative or positive connotation: depending on what you want to do: e.g. Asylum seeker (+) vs. Illegal Immigrant or Boat People (-) “I know what you said, but what did you mean?” Use rhetorical questions – that is, questions where you don’t expect an answer. Use language with a lot of emotion and verbs/adjectives with a lot of power. Exaggerate! Under-exaggerate! Disgusting! Miserable! Fantastic! If it deserves an exclamation mark, it’s a powerful word! Try to make opinions sound like facts. Groups of three are more convincing than groups of one or two – of anything! Appeal to things with a high emotional impact like animals and children. WORDS WITH POWER captivating unmissable irresistible incredible gorgeous abundant essential marvellous generous tantalizing exuberant memorable spectacular worthwhile stunning first class exceptional breathtaking quintessential unquestionable outrageous brilliant tranquil quaint appealing dazzling splendid lively magnificent petite ample fascinating eccentric glorious amazing gigantic comfortable superb vivid tremendous tempting phenomenal
PERSUASIVE documents STEP BY STEP BRAINSTORM TACKLE (address) the arguments which PROVE you RIGHT and PROVE them WRONG Topic: FOR AGAINST Arguments Evidence / Examples Arguments Evidence / Examples PLAN REVIEW What’s the point?- Persuasive texts are designed to persuade people or to convince people of a point of view. Good persuasive texts tantalise the reader Does yours do this? Where to start? Is your introduction boring, do you think the reader/ listener will continue to be interested… Draw the audience in by making a bold statement. Address the main issue and state your position. This is called an opening statement. Connect with the reader Use connectives that explain your view like: however, therefore, because, although, yet, in addition to. Bet you didn’t know that! Connotation / Denotation So what are you suggesting by using that word? Ask Rhetorical questions A question where you know the answer but say it to prove a point. Example: Did you know… It’s a known fact Try to make opinions sound like facts. Example: We all know that it’s the best thing on TV. It is also very important to use facts and elaborate on the key details. Other great tips- Persuasive writing is mainly in present tense. Use powerful verbs, strong adjective by using emotive language. Try to dare the reader to disagree with you and then prove them wrong. End with a summary of your key points. PUBLISH Make sure it has your name, a title, is neatly written and typed and looks good.