Unit 10: Persuasive Writing

Our ability to make judgments makes us vulnerable to persuasion by those who wish us to accept ideas, opinions, or positions to which we may be initially either neutral or hostile.

Instructional Materials
I have provided three items for your reading: "A Shocking Start for a Freshman," "A List of Persuasive Techniques," and "Observations about 'A Shocking Start for a Freshman."

Readings in The Longman Writer
Read "Part 3: Argument and Persuasion" pages 461 - 552.

Assignment
Read and analyze the editorial, "A Shocking Start for a Freshman."  Ask yourself how the editorial makes you feel after reading it--jot down the name of the feeling and, on a scale of 1 - 10 (10 being the most intense), ask yourself how strongly the editorial makes you feel.

Then, identify examples of persuasive techniques in the list provided.  Afterwards, read my "Observations" on the editorial.

What You Will Submit
Nothing.

Due Dates for Submission
Not applicable.

Student Learning Outcomes
The following Student Learning Outcomes are addressed in this exercise:

1. Students will demonstrate an ability to select and restrict a topic
2. Students will identify the purpose of writing while considering an appropriate tone, language and audience
3. Students will compose a thesis that states the topic and expresses the writers attitude toward that topic
4. Students will organize materials for writing from personal experience observation, interviews, and/or reading using an appropriate pattern of organization
5. Students will apply the rules of standard English grammar

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