How to Write a
Persuasive Essay
There are different
ways in which essays are written and persuasive writing is that type that
presents logical and ethical arguments. The writer usually commences with a
question that is either in favor of or opposing to the claim or topic so
therefore appeals to the readers of a particular point of view, walking them
through by the writer’s convincing opinions.
Hence, two main forms
of persuasive writing are used to write persuasive essays which are the
structural format and the modes of writing. The structural formats include the
introduction, the body and the conclusion whereas the modes clarify the validity
of the persuasive essay, based on three elements and are: Ethos, Pathos and
logos.
Ethos is a writing
element of argument and persuasion through which knowledge, good moral
character and credibility are established, Readers are likely to trust this
type of persuasive writing. Pathos is an emotional appeal made by the writer to
the audience to evoke feelings. It provides interest to the readers, make the
writing more compelling and aids in connection with the narrator. Logos is a
rhetorical and persuasive element of writing that appeals to the audience. The
readers believe the logics and rational out lined by the writer.
In addition, a good
persuasive essay consists of a claim, reasons and evidence which is done after
the writing process of prewriting, drafting, revising, editing and
proofreading. Revising is a process of improving the first draft of persuasive
writing. It is done by either adding to the content or removing errors. Ideas
are reviewed and reorganized.
Finally, the editing
process is reviewing and making changes to the writing so that it’s error-free.
It also includes checking the structure, the transitions should be smooth and
the structure of evidence are well supported by the argument. There are several
ways of teaching editing and revising but my main ways includes, reminding
students to focus on strengths and clarity of their writing, comparing texts
and asking questions about the introduction, body and conclusion for example,
Does the body of the writing has an argument?
I do appreciate learning about ethos, pathos and logos. Ethical considerations are indeed appropriate focus points for persuasive essay writing as a piece may be too emotional for some readers.
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting that elements such as Ethos, Pathos and Logos are hardly acknowledged in persuasive pieces. They are indeed present in all persuasive texts and their aim is to relay the viewpoint of the author to the reader. Fundamentally, these elements hope to sell the intentions of the author to the readers as they appeal to their emotions.
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