How to Write a Persuasion Paper for Speech Class
A persuasion essay is an opportunity to take a side on an issue, defend it and convince its opponents to see things from your point of view. It can seem daunting, but what a lot of students don't realize is that there is a simple formula to arguing effectively. By conducting a little legwork, taking thorough notes and providing strong evidence, the paper will essentially write itself.
Instructions
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Choose a topic that interests you and form a well-defined opinion on the subject matter. Be specific enough to allow for a clear and defendable argument. For example, if the topic is "guns," then your well-defined opinion could be, "Gun control laws should be stricter in urban areas."
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Introduce your topic in the first paragraph with a little bit of background information. Briefly address the contrasting views on the topic. Towards the end of the paragraph, write a one-sentence thesis (your opinion on the topic stated as fact) including at least three brief reasons why you believe this.
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Begin the second paragraph of your essay by stating just the facts of the topic. This portion of your essay should be clear, concise and striking. Cite hard data, details and quotes from reliable sources to give authority to your forthcoming argument. Cite your sources both internally and at the end in the bibliography. Reliable sources include experts on the matter, firsthand witnesses or participants, newspapers, scholastic journals, news organization websites, magazines and books on the matter.
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Begin the third paragraph by discussing the first reason you gave in your thesis, along with strong evidence to support your claim. Use examples that appeal to your audience's emotions and throw in as many statistics as possible. Address the opposing viewpoint and counter with expert quotes and striking proof to support your side of the issue. Discuss your second supporting detail in the fourth paragraph and your final supporting reason in the fifth paragraph. Use the same techniques to garner support for your stance.
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Write the concluding paragraph by summarizing the problem, its varying viewpoints, and by calling for your audience to make a change, either in thinking or action.
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Tips & Warnings
Begin your paper with a striking statistic or anecdote, or with a famous quote.
Don't use first person (I, me, my...) because it hinders your credibility.
Do plenty of research and accurately quote reliable sources.
When possible, use local examples.
Adhere to your original argument -- don't stray from your thesis.
Don't introduce any new information in your conclusion.
References
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