Sunday, May 05, 2013

Bite Size Writing Assignment: Persuade Me

Persuasive writing is a great way to get kids to think about why they believe something is good or correct. Persuasive writing is somewhat like an argument. The writer is arguing a point and trying to get the reader to see things his way. What is great about this type of writing for kids is it gets them to think through a belief. It will sometimes result in a change of mind. On the other hand, it can result in a stronger conviction of what it is the writer is arguing in favor of.

Either way, try this for a writing assignment this week: Have your student(s) choose a topic, something they believe in, that they can write about in a persuasive manner. The topic could be anything from why it is a good idea to get a family dog to a political or spiritual belief. Young kids may want to stick with something simple, like why jelly is better than honey with peanut butter. There are loads of topics to select from.

If your student(s) need help getting started, have a short brainstorming session to come up with possible topics. After the assignment is completed, have your student(s) read the persuasive piece to friends or family members. You may wish to have each student invite listeners to give feedback as to whether or not they were persuaded to agree with the writer or not.


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