Fennewald

2007-2008

Organization Notes

We will begin our study of the six traits of writing (6 COWS) with an overview of organization that the elements necessary in a persuasive writing piece.

Elements I MUST see in your writing:

· At least FIVE paragraphs (at least three body paragraphs, introduction, and conclusion)

· Thesis statement

· Hook as the first sentence of the introduction

· Topic sentence for each paragraph

· At least two pieces of commentary for every detail/fact

· A mention of the opposing side’s point of view

Persuasive statements and techniques you MUST implement in your writings:

Statements:

· Factual statements (point out that something is true or false)

· Value statements (discuss whether something has worth or value)

· Consequence statements (point out the results of decisions, actions, etc.)

· Autobiographical statements (come from the writer’s personal experiences)

· Policy statements (claim that something should or should not happen)

· Thesis statement (addresses what you will try to prove or argue)

Techniques:

· Include statistics to provide accurate data that support your position

· Make comparisons between how things are now and how things were in the past as they relate to your topic, clearly showing how the comparison supports your opinion

· Quote an expert and share what he/she has to say about your topic—as long as it supports your position. You can do this by quoting exact words or by paraphrasing. In either case, name the expert and the source.

· Add a prediction to convince readers. Forecast your arguments into the future and predict what might happen.

· Bring in the opposition’s points because when you include an opposing position, you have the opportunity to show how the main argument on the other side sounds good, but is really baloney. You strengthen your position when you know—and show you know—all the opposing arguments, and can show, point by point, why your side is better.

· Avoid all or nothing words like always, never, every, all, or none.

· Open and end the body with your most convincing points.