​Persuasive Writing
W5.1 Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
W.5.1.A Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which ideas are logically grouped 
W.5.1.B Provide logically ordered reasons that are supported by facts and details.
W.5.1.C Link opinion and reasons using words, phrases, and clauses (e.g., consequently, specifically).
W.5.1.D Provide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.
W.5.7 Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
W.5.8 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 persuasive writing?

THE CHALLENGE  
The Best Pet

           There are many reasons why people own pets. A pet can entertain you, keep you company, or even protect you! Dogs and cats are the most popular pets in America today. Some people prefer an energetic dog and others, a cuddly kitten. Which pet do you think is best?

Step 1:  Research and Brainstorm

​For the essay, your focusing question will be: 

Which kind of pet is best, a cat or a dog? You will explain your thinking with facts and reasons from the articles. Your teacher will give you a page of “Pet Statistics” which you can use to support your opinion if you would like. 
You are going to read two articles. One is about the benefits of owning a cat and the other is about the benefits of choosing a dog as a pet. As you read these texts, think about the advantages of each kind of pet. Which kind of pet is best, a cat or a dog? After you have had a chance to read the articles a second time, you will write an essay that states your opinion and explains your thinking.



​STEP 2: Make a Plan

Directions:
  • Now that you have chosen either a dog or a cat as the best pet, it's time to plan out your paper.
  • Use this persuasion map to plan out your paper.
  •  Fill in your topic (dog or cat choice) and the main reasons  you have for choosing this type of pet.


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

Now, think about the counter-argument. The counter-argument is the reasons someone might have against what you want. The reasons someone might have against the type of pet you chose. 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




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 6: Color Code Your Essay 



​STEP 7: 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 argument 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

STEP: 8 Write Your Final Draft   

After all of your revising and editing is complete and your paper looks perfect, type it with all the changes you made into your final perfect draft. ​