This is a step-by-step persuasive essay lesson plan. If you are interested in a comprehensive guide for this type of essay, check out our guide on argumentative essays.
Table of Contents
Introduction
This lesson plan is designed to teach students how to write a persuasive essay, a crucial skill in academic writing. Throughout 2-3 class periods, students will engage in activities that help them understand the art of persuasion and apply it effectively in their writing.
Before exploring the persuasive essay lesson plan, lets have a look at the lesson details!
Lesson Details
Persuasive Essay Lesson Plan
- Level: Intermediate to advanced
- Duration: 2-3 class periods
- Objectives:
- To understand the elements of persuasive writing.
- To develop skills in constructing and defending an argument.
- To practice formal writing style and essay structure.
Materials Needed:
- Pens or pencils
- Paper
- List of debatable topics
- Example commercials or advertisements (optional)
Persuasive Essay Lesson Plan: The Activity
1. Reading a Model Essay:
- Ask students to read an example of a persuasive essay and answer some quick comprehension questions.
Here is an example of a persuasive essay:
The Case for School Uniforms: Promoting Equality and Focus in Education
In recent years, the debate over whether public school students should wear uniforms has intensified. While some argue that uniforms suppress individuality and creativity, I believe that the benefits far outweigh these concerns. Mandatory school uniforms should be implemented in public schools because they promote equality, reduce distractions, and create a sense of community among students.
First and foremost, school uniforms help level the playing field for all students, regardless of their socioeconomic status. In a school setting, clothing often becomes a symbol of wealth or status, leading to divisions among students. When everyone is dressed similarly, it reduces the pressure on students to compete with their peers based on appearance. This fosters a more inclusive environment where students are judged based on their character and achievements, not their clothing.
Furthermore, school uniforms minimize distractions in the classroom. Without the daily concern of choosing an outfit, students can focus more on their studies. The consistency of wearing uniforms removes the potential for inappropriate or distracting clothing choices, allowing teachers and students to concentrate on the learning process. In addition, uniforms instill a sense of discipline, as students adhere to a dress code that reflects the seriousness of their education.
Finally, school uniforms contribute to a stronger sense of community and school spirit. When students wear uniforms, they feel a sense of belonging and pride in their school. This unity can lead to increased cooperation among students and a more positive school culture. Uniforms also make it easier to identify students during school events or field trips, enhancing safety and security.
In conclusion, the implementation of school uniforms in public schools offers numerous advantages. By promoting equality, reducing distractions, and fostering a sense of community, uniforms create a more focused and cohesive educational environment. While it is important to acknowledge the concerns about individuality, the benefits of uniforms in enhancing the overall school experience are undeniable. Therefore, public schools should adopt mandatory uniform policies to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in a supportive and distraction-free setting.
- The essay argues that school uniforms should be implemented because they suppress individuality and creativity. Answer: False
- The essay claims that school uniforms help reduce distractions in the classroom by minimizing concerns over choosing outfits. Answer: True
- The essay suggests that school uniforms contribute to a stronger sense of community and school spirit among students. Answer: True
2. Analyzing the Structure of the Essay
- Identify the Introduction:
- Locate the introduction paragraph. What topic does it introduce?
- Does it clearly state the writer’s position or thesis on the issue?
- Analyze how the introduction sets the tone for the rest of the essay.
- Examine the Body Paragraphs:
- Identify the main points presented in each body paragraph. How many supporting arguments are provided?
- Look at how each paragraph begins. Does it start with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point?
- Analyze the evidence and examples used to support each point. Are they relevant and convincing?
- Check the flow between paragraphs. Are transitions used effectively to connect ideas?
- Evaluate the Counterarguments:
- Determine if the essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints.
- Analyze how the writer refutes these counterarguments. Are the rebuttals strong and logical?
- Analyze the Conclusion:
- Identify the conclusion paragraph. Does it restate the main argument or thesis?
- Analyze how the conclusion summarizes the key points made in the essay.
- Consider whether the conclusion provides a strong final statement or call to action that reinforces the writer’s position.
- Assess the Overall Structure:
- Consider the overall organization of the essay. Does it follow a logical sequence?
- Evaluate whether the essay stays focused on the topic and supports the thesis throughout.
- Reflect on how effectively the structure of the essay contributes to its persuasiveness.
3. Introduction to Persuasion
- Begin by asking students to choose an item of clothing, food, or drink to advertise to the class.
- Instruct students to write a short commercial promoting their chosen product.
- After presenting their commercials, the class votes on the most convincing one.
- Discuss how persuasion was used in these commercials, focusing on the techniques that made some more effective than others.
4. Debating Complex Topics:
- Introduce more complex, debatable topics (e.g., capital punishment, abortion, corporal punishment).
- Facilitate an oral debate, allowing students to develop opinions, share ideas, and practice defending their viewpoints.
- This discussion will help provoke thought and trigger reactions, setting the stage for persuasive writing.
5. First Essay Attempt:
- Without providing specific guidelines, ask students to write a brief essay on one of the debated topics.
- This initial draft will serve as a benchmark for understanding their current writing skills.
6. Reviewing Persuasive Writing Techniques:
- Explain that opinion words (e.g., “I think,” “I feel,” “in my opinion”) can weaken the impact of a persuasive essay and should be avoided.
- Briefly review the formal writing style, essay structure, and other key factors for persuasive essays:
- Avoid contractions.
- Use formal language.
- Write in either the first or third person, depending on the assignment.
- Maintain a strong introduction that clearly states your position.
- Conclude with a compelling, well-rounded summary of your argument.
7. Writing the Persuasive Essay:
- Now that students have a clearer understanding of persuasive writing techniques, instruct them to write a 250-300-word persuasive essay on one of the provided topics.
- Encourage them to incorporate the guidelines discussed to enhance the strength and clarity of their arguments.
Examples of Topics for Persuasive Writing
Here are some engaging topics for persuasive essays that can spark discussion and inspire strong arguments:
- We spend billions of dollars on space exploration while millions of people suffer from hunger. Is this justifiable?
- There is ongoing debate about raising the legal driving age. What are your thoughts?
- Should professional athletes earn more than teachers?
- Should public school students be required to wear uniforms?
- Should prayer be permitted in public schools?
- Should capital punishment be abolished?
More on Persuasive Essays
Conclusion
This lesson plan guides students through the process of writing a persuasive essay by starting with simple exercises and gradually increasing the complexity of the tasks.
By the end of the lesson, students will have gained confidence in constructing logical, well-supported arguments and presenting them in a formal, persuasive manner.
