How to Write a Persuasive EssayOne Way on

Yes, you need to be taking notes!

Paragraph One: • Hook your readers’ attention• Provide some background• End the paragraph with a clear statement of your point of

view (thesis statement)

Paragraph Two: • Present one supporting detail • Give statistics, fact, examples, stories (anecdotes) - For example, on a thesis titled, “Why the Media Hurts Girls” This paragraph might be on depression.

Paragraph Three: • Present a second supporting detail Give statistics, fact,

examples, stories (anecdotes)• (Example: This one might be on eating disorders)

Paragraph Four: • What do people who don’t agree with you say?• Give their viewpoint and then indicate why it’s not as

accurate as yours

Paragraph Five: • Restate the problem• Sum up the main points in favor of your point of view• What do you want your readers to do—call a

congressperson, get involved, picket, write letters, stop buying meat? Give a call to action!