​Persuasive Writing

W1 Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
W..1.A Introduce a topic, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which ideas are logically grouped 
W..1.B Provide logically ordered reasons that are supported by facts and details.
W..1.C Link opinion and reasons using words, phrases, and clauses (e.g., consequently, specifically).
W..1.D Provide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.
W..7 Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation 
W..8 Recall relevant information from  gather relevant information from print and digital sources; summarize or paraphrase information in notes and finished work, and provide a list of sources.

 What is Bottle Flipping?

If you haven't been living under a rock, you have probably seen and even participated in bottle flipping.

The activity gained popularity when teen,  Michael Singtore's talent show video went viral. Watch his video to the right.

This trend has been popular among teens, but it has been causing a great deal of frustration for parents and classroom teachers. In fact, it has even been band in some schools.
How teens feel about
Bottle Flipping.
How adults feel about
Bottle Flipping.


​What is persuasive writing?


​Persuasive writing takes a position FOR or AGAINST a particular issue and attempts to convince the reader to change their opinion, believe something or take action.



Persuasive Lanuage

In order to convince your audience, you will need to use persuasive language. Here are some persuasive techniques you can use to strength your persuasive language.



​THE CHALLENGE ​

Choose one of the following:
​
 1. Persuade schools, teachers, and parents to accept and see the benefits of bottle flipping.
 
2. Convince your peers to STOP bottle flipping and see the challenges it causes for others.
Audience:

It is important to know your target audence so you can determine the content you will include and the style of writing that will be the most effective,

If your target audience is your teacher or principle, you will probably include different content and use a different writing style thn if your intended audience is you friends and classates.

Step 1:  Research and Brainstorm
To make your argument for or against bottle flipping credible, you need more than just your own opinion. Read the articles provided below to find facts, statistics, support and examples to back up what you are saying.
.



​As you read the articles, fill out a "Pro and Cons"  T-chart to organize your findings and determine if you are for or aginst Bottle Flipping.

​Although you might see both sides to this argument, pick one side and know your purpose. Clearly state your opinion and stick to it. Persuasive writing is not wishy-washy.



​

​STEP 2: Make a Plan

Directions:
  • Now that you have chosen to support bottle flipping or stop bottle flipping, it's time to plan out your paper.
  • Use this persuasion map to plan out your paper.
  •  Fill in your topic with your choice and the main reasons  you think bottle flipping is good or bad. 


​

​Step 3: Make your Reasons Better
It is very important to back up your reasons with examples, facts and quotes. Use your research to find evidence to support your reasons for your  choice.  Include facts and details that proove your choice is the best one.

Now, think about the counter argument. The counter argument are the reasons someone might have against what you want. The reasons someone might have against bottle flipping or for bottle flipping. Then think of ways to disprove these reasons. 
Add all these new details in your "Persuasive Map" in the "Fact or Example" boxes under your main reasons. Make sure your facts and examples match each main reason.



​​STEP 4: Write your introduction

Remember, a good opinion essay introduction:
  • Has an effective hook that grabs the readers attention
  • Clearly states your opinion/claim in a focus statement
  • Outlines the reasons you are going to use to prove your claim


​
​Here are some ways to HOOK your reader.



​Writing a Thesis Statement

Find your three main arguements and summarize them. 




STEP 5: Write your rough draft

Remember, a good opinion essay:
  • Has an introduction that clearly states your opinion/claim in a focus statement
  • Uses specific evidence from the text(s) to support your opinion and explains your thinking
  • Groups ideas in paragraphs
  • Has a conclusion
  • Uses precise language and linking words to connect ideas 
  • Has correct spelling, capitalization, and punctuation



​STEP 5: Color Code Your Essay 

Transition Word List



​STEP 5: Review, Revise, Edit

Review the checklist below and make sure your essay includes all the of following.  Read your essay to yourself and ensure each sentence is complete and makes sense.
CHECKLIST
  •  Make sure your story is at least 3 paragraphs long.
  • Created an effective introduction that states your opinion
  • Developed a good arguement with reasons and evidence
  • Quote facts that make your argument stronger
  • Use details  to make your ideas come alive
  • Used a variety of transitions​
  • Follow the rules of grammar usage, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling