Texts that Argue or Persuade

Identifying Texts that Argue or Persuade

  • Texts that argue or persuade aim to convince the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action.
  • These texts utilise a variety of rhetorical and persuasive techniques to achieve their goal.
  • Always consider the stance the writer is taking and what they wish the reader to believe or do.

Setting the Stage for Argument or Persuasion

  • The premise or argument is often introduced early, and then elaborated upon throughout the text.
  • The issue that’s being argued about should be made clear, as well as the writer’s position on that issue.
  • The writer might anticipate counter-arguments and address them within the text to strengthen their argument.

Persuasive Techniques

  • Texts that aim to argue or persuade often use emotive language to stir up emotion and sympathy in the reader.
  • Rhetorical questions are often used to make the reader reflect on their own views.
  • The writer may use anecdotes or personal experiences to create a relatable narrative that supports their argument.
  • Facts, statistics and examples are often deployed to provide evidence and enhance the credibility of the argument.

Argumentative Techniques

  • The writer may use logical reasoning and coherent arguments to convince the reader.
  • They may compare and contrast different views or options, pointing out the superiority of their preference.
  • They might present an argument as inevitable or common sense, implying that any opposing view is unreasonable or irrational.

Language and Tone in Argumentative or Persuasive Texts

  • The tone could be informative, passionate, assertive, or even confrontational, depending on the writer’s approach.
  • The writer might use figurative language such as metaphors and similes to illustrate their point.
  • Active verbs and strong adjectives can serve to make the argument more compelling.

Understanding these elements of argumentative and persuasive texts helps in critically evaluating the effectiveness of a writer’s argument and the techniques they have used to persuade their readers.