Claim & Thesis
What is a claim?
A statement that expresses the writer's opinion or position
What is evidence?
Facts, examples, or information that support a claim
What is persuasion?
Trying to convince someone to agree with you
What is the first part of a persuasive essay?
Introduction
Which sentence is more persuasive?
A. "Too much homework can cause stress and reduce sleep.
B. "Homework is bad"
Answer: A
Identify the claim
"To make sure things are aligned properly with schools, school uniforms should be required in all schools."
school uniforms should be required in all schools.
Is this a fact or opinion? "Exercise improves heart health"
Fact
What is pathos?
An appeal to emotions
What comes after the introduction?
Body paragraphs
Revise: "Kids need less homework cuz it's too much."
Example: Students should have less homework because it can be overwhelming
Fix the weak claim "School lunches are okay"
Example: School lunches should be healthier for all students
Which is stronger evidence?
A. "I think homework is bad"
B. "Studies show too much homework increases stress"
Answer is B
Identify the technique: "Imagine how sad you would feel if..."
Pathos
To restate the claim and wrap up the argument
What is missing?
"Students should have longer lunch. It gives them time."
Strong evidence and detailed explanation
Provide a strong claim for "Longer school days"
Example: School days should not be longer because students need time to rest and recharge
Example: Research shows teens perform better with more sleep
Give an example of logos
Example: Using facts, statistics, or logical reasoning
Put in order: Conclusion, introduction, Body
Introduction, Body, Conclusion
Write a quick persuasive sentence about phones in class
Example: Phones should be allowed in class because they can be used as learning tools
Which is the strongest claim and why?
A. School lunches are bad
B. School lunches should include healthier options because they impact student health and focus
C. I don't like school lunch, because it is nasty
Answer: B, it is specific, clear, and includes reasoning
Identify the BEST evidence for this claim:
A. Exercise is fun
B. My friend likes sports
C. Studies show daily exercises improves physical and mental health
C. It uses research based, credible evidence
Identify the techniques AND explain why:
"According to doctors, drinking water daily improves overall health."
Ethos- It uses a credible source (doctors) to build trust
What is wrong with this structure?
Conclusion, Introduction, Body
The order is incorrect.
It should be Introduction, Body, Conclusion
Read and improve this response:
"Students should not have homework because it is bad and nobody likes it."
Students should have less homework because excessive assignments can increase stress and reduce time for rest and extracurricular activities.