LEARN ENGLISH
GRAMMAR
WHAT IS PERSUASIVE
WRITING?
Persuasive writing is when you use your language
skill to convince someone to agree with your
opinion or take a specific action.
We can appeal to other people in
different ways to convince them to agree
with our opinion.
The three persuasive appeals are:
LOGOS PATHOS ETHOS
LOGOS
APPEALS TO LOGIC AND REASONING
How does it work?
It encourages people to think rationally and use their logic.
It strengthens an argument by using factual information.
LOGOS
APPEALS TO LOGIC AND REASONING
Writing strategies:
Use quotes from experts on the topic.
Mention well-known theories or facts.
Include reliable sources for data and statistics.
Use real-life examples to make the topic relatable.
PATHOS
APPEALS TO EMOTIONS AND IDEALS
How does it work?
It makes the audience feel specific emotions, typically fear,
sadness, sympathy, happiness and anger.
It supports an ideal the audience feels strongly about.
PATHOS
APPEALS TO EMOTIONS AND IDEALS
Writing strategies:
Use emotionally charged language and tone.
Mention anecdotes and stories.
Use vivid descriptions to paint a picture for your audience.
Use figurative language eg. simile, metaphor, hyperbole etc.
ETHOS
APPEALS TO CREDIBILITY
How does it work?
It builds trust and respect between the writer and audience.
It strengthens the argument by building credibility.
ETHOS
APPEALS TO CREDIBILITY
Writing strategies:
Be careful to use appropriate language, spelling, punctuation
and grammar and build your personal credibility.
Mention references to credible sources of information,
awards and achievements.
LET’S LOOK AT
SOME EXAMPLES
Facts and Statistics
"Did you know recycling a single aluminium can saves enough energy to run a
TV for 3 hours?"
LOGOS
Reliable data
A 2023 report by the National Geographic Society found that over 2 million
plastic bottles are sold globally every minute.
Awards and achievements
Our school's recycling program won a national award for reducing waste!
Emotionally charged language
Imagine walking past lonely animals every day at the shelter, their eyes filled
PATHOS
with hope and longing for a loving home.
Appeals to Ideals (Animal Conservation)
"Wouldn't it be amazing to save a group of adorable panda cubs by supporting
conservation efforts?"
Figurative Language (Hyperbole)
This new fruit juice isn't just good; it's like a party for your taste buds!
Building personal credibility
"As the student council president, I understand the importance of listening to
everyone's voice."
ETHOS
Referencing credible sources
According to marine biologists at Monash University, using reusable water
bottles keeps harmful plastic out of our oceans.
Awards and achievements
Our school's recycling program won a national award for reducing waste!
The most effective persuasive writing
uses a mix of these appeals, depending
on your audience and goal. So,
experiment and have fun!
CAN YOU SPOT THE PERSUASIVE LANGUAGE?
Having spent two years nurturing my passion in the school's gardening club, I can
confidently say it's more than just growing food. It's fostering friendships,
contributing to our school community, and even improving my wellbeing by
connecting with nature. And the benefits extend beyond personal growth.
Think about it: the World Health Organization recommends upping our fruit and
veggie intake for optimal health. Studies show gardening reduces stress and
promotes mindfulness, something we all crave in our busy lives. So, join me in the
gardening club, and let's cultivate not just delicious food, but a healthier, happier
school community together!
