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Year 4 English

Persuasive Writing

Learn how to write persuasively by sharing your opinion, giving strong reasons, and using emotive language.

What Is Persuasive Writing?

Persuasive writing tries to convince the reader to agree with your point of view. You share your opinion and then give reasons and evidence to support it. The goal is to make the reader think, "Yes, I agree!"

"I believe that every school should have a vegetable garden. It teaches students about healthy eating, responsibility, and where food comes from."

Opinion vs Fact

A fact can be proven true. An opinion is what someone thinks or believes.

Fact: Dogs have four legs.
Opinion: Dogs are the best pets.

Structure of a Persuasive Text

A well-organised persuasive text follows a clear structure. This makes your argument easy to follow and more convincing.

1

Introduction

State your opinion clearly. Tell the reader what you believe.

2

Reason 1 (with evidence)

Give your first reason and explain it with facts or examples.

3

Reason 2 (with evidence)

Give another reason. The more reasons you have, the stronger your argument.

4

Conclusion

Restate your opinion and finish with a strong closing sentence.

Emotive Language and Persuasive Techniques

Emotive language uses words that make the reader feel a certain way — happy, sad, angry, or excited. Persuasive writers choose their words carefully to stir emotions.

PLAIN

"Some animals do not have homes."

EMOTIVE

"Thousands of innocent animals are suffering on our streets without shelter or food."

Handy Persuasive Phrases

I strongly believe It is clear that Surely everyone agrees Without a doubt Furthermore In addition Most importantly

Knowledge Check

Test your knowledge of persuasive writing. Choose the best answer.

Question 1

What is the purpose of persuasive writing?

Question 2

Which of these is an opinion?

Question 3

What should you include in the introduction of a persuasive text?

Question 4

Which sentence uses emotive language?

Question 5

Which linking word helps you add another reason?

Question 6

What makes a persuasive argument stronger?

Question 7

Which is the best opening sentence for a persuasive text about school uniforms?

Question 8

What should a conclusion do in persuasive writing?

Question 9

Read: "Surely no one wants to see our beautiful park turned into a car park." What technique is the writer using?

Question 10

Put these in the correct order for a persuasive text: Conclusion, Reason 2, Introduction, Reason 1

Key Concepts Summary