Return to Modes of Writing Descriptive | Narrative | Expository | Persuasive Teaching Tips: (adapted from Oregon State Department of Education publication and McDougal Littell's The Language of Literature and Writer's Craft)

The Persuasive Mode

Definition:	Persuasive writing attempts to convince the reader that a point of view is valid or persuade the reader to take a specific action. Successful persuasive writing is based on a topic that is limited in scope (readily definable), debatable, and meaningful or important to both the writer and intended audience. Persuasive writing is characterized by the following: topic or issue stated; position of writer clearly stated; argument supported by reasons, examples and/or facts.
Forms:	Persuasive writing appears in letters to the editor, editorials, advertisements, advice columns, award nominations, pamphlets, petitions, and opinion writing, to name just a few. Whatever the form, its purpose is to persuade
Guidelines:	No matter how persuasive writing is used, the following guidelines for good persuasive writing will help. Students should state a position; present ideas logically; support ideas using reasons, examples, and/or facts; end with a strong argument, summary, or call for action.

Vancouver School District - Spring 1999