'Sell It' Challenge
What is the purpose of a slogan in a sales pitch?
To make the product memorable and catchy so people remember it.
What does “pace” mean when we talk about voice in presentations?
How fast or slow you speak.
Why is it important to change your facial expressions when you are speaking
It shows emotion
It builds connection
It reinforces meaning
It keeps the audience engaged
What does the “P” in PEE(L) stand for, and why is it important in persuasive writing?
Point - It introduces the main idea of your argument and sets the direction for your paragraph.
Identify one argument for NOT changing the date of Australia Day?
January 26 is seen as a key part of Australia’s history and identity.
Many people value the tradition and feel changing it could divide the country.
Some worry it could lead to more changes to national symbols and holidays.
Give one example of a strong attention-grabbing hook for selling a spoon.
E.g., “Tired of struggling to eat soup without a mess? The spoon is here to save the day!”
Name two ways to use your voice to keep the audience’s attention.
Vary your volume, pause for emphasis, change your pitch, use a tone that matches your arguments and speak at a good pace...there could be more.
If you slouch or look at the floor while presenting, what message might the audience get?
That you are nervous, unsure, or not confident.
How can quoting a doctor or psychologist help your argument to encourage people to eat healthier?
It adds authority and credibility, showing that experts support your claim.
Name one country that has successfully implemented a four-day work week and what were the outcomes?
Iceland, Belgium and Japan
Rewrite this weak line into a strong call to action: “You could maybe buy this pen if you want.”
“Don’t miss out—grab this amazing pen today before it’s gone!”
Someone in your group needs to read this out in an urgent - “We cannot wait. The planet is not a distant concept—it is our home, our breath, our future. Every tree cut, every reef bleached, every species lost is a thread pulled from the fabric of life we depend on. We are not powerless. We are not voiceless. We are the generation that must rise—not with whispers, but with thunder. Let our choices echo. Let our actions roar. Because if not us, then who? If not now, then when?”
Your teacher will decide if this was done well enough
What does eye contact help you do when persuading an audience?
Connect with them and build trust
Which part of the "PEEL" structure would this quote fit under: "A recent survey found that 65% of students want more fresh fruit and vegetables in their meals."
Why do people that support the changing the date of Australia day call January 26th 'Invasion Day' rather than 'Australia Day'?
January 26 marks the start of British colonisation, which led to loss of land, culture, and lives for Indigenous Australians.
Calling it "Invasion Day" highlights the pain and injustice felt by First Nations people.
The term is used to raise awareness and push for a more inclusive national day.
E.g., Have you been losing all your papers in your VM Literacy class? This paperclip can hold everything together.
Someone in your group needs to say this phrase with good control of voice including a frustrated tone, good pace, volume, pauses and changes in your pitch: “It is unacceptable. In a world overflowing with resources, how is it that some children sit in classrooms without books, without heat, without hope? How dare we call this equality? How dare we pretend this is fair? The system is broken—and silence is complicity. We must speak, we must act, and we must demand better. Not tomorrow. Not someday. Now.”
Your teacher will decide if this has been done well enough.
What does “open posture” communicate to an audience?
Open posture shows confidence, honesty and approachability.
What is the purpose of the “Link” in a structured "PEEL" argument?
It connects your explanation back to the main point or topic, reinforcing your argument.
🧠 1. Boosts Productivity
Workers often achieve more in less time when they’re well-rested and focused. Global trials show output stays the same—or even improves—with fewer days.
❤️ 2. Improves Mental Health
Extra time off reduces stress, anxiety, and burnout. Employees return to work more refreshed and motivated.
👨👩👧 3. Strengthens Work-Life Balance
Australians value lifestyle. A shorter week gives people more time for family, hobbies, and personal wellbeing.
🌱 4. Cuts Carbon Emissions
Fewer commutes mean less traffic and lower pollution—great for cities and the planet.
💼 5. Attracts and Retains Talent
Companies offering a four-day week stand out in competitive job markets. It’s a magnet for skilled workers seeking flexibility.
Create a slogan that uses alliteration for selling a ball to the peers in your class. You have 30 seconds.
E.g., 'Bounce big, blast boredom!'
What is the purpose of pausing during a persuasive speech?
Pausing gives the audience time to absorb key points and adds emphasis or drama.
Someone in your group needs to read this phrase with appropriate body language including posture, gestures and eye contact: “Voting is not just a right—it’s a responsibility. It is the way we shape our communities, our laws, our futures. When we choose not to vote, we choose silence. And silence allows injustice to grow. Every vote matters. Every voice counts. Democracy is not a spectator sport. It demands participation. It demands attention. And it demands that we show up.”
Your teacher will decide whether this was done well enough.
Give an example of repetition used to persuade someone that reading should be part of every school day.
E.g., “Read to grow. Read to learn. Read to succeed.”
🇦🇺 1. January 26 Marks Colonisation, Not Unity
This date commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, which began the colonisation of Aboriginal lands. For many First Nations people, it’s a day of mourning—not celebration.
❤️ 2. It Causes Pain for Indigenous Australians
Celebrating on January 26 ignores the trauma and loss experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Changing the date shows respect and empathy.
👫 3. We Need a Day That Includes Everyone
Australia Day should unite the country. A new date could celebrate shared values like diversity, resilience, and mateship—without excluding or hurting anyone.
📅 4. The Date Has Changed Before
Australia Day wasn’t always held on January 26. It only became a national public holiday in 1994. So, changing it again isn’t unprecedented—it’s just adapting to modern values.
🌏 5. Other Countries Celebrate Independence, Not Invasion
Many nations celebrate their founding or independence. Australia could choose a date that reflects progress, reconciliation, or a milestone that brings pride to all Australians.