Persuasive Writing
Checklist
Student Name:_________________________ Academy:____________
I clearly state my position or argument in the introduction.
I begin with a lead/introduction that grabs the reader’s interest.
I give 3 reasons to support my position.
In each body paragraph, I support my position or argument with some of these:
Present interesting facts/statements, relevant information,
facts, expert opinions, statistics, quotes, examples and/or statistics
Tell a story related to my position or argument
Alarm the reader by presenting “what ifs” or questions
I tell the readers everything they need to know to convince them of my position.
I tell things in a logical order that makes sense—I place the most convincing evidence where it best supports my position.
I use words that persuade or convince the reader to think or act a certain way.
I end with a strong conclusion that is interesting, convincing, and suggests action.
I sound knowledgeable and authoritative.
Persuasive Writing
Checklist
Student Name: ______________________________________ Academy:____________
Introduction:
____ I followed the writing prompt directions for writing the persuasive essay.
____ I begin with a lead/introduction that grabs the reader’s interest such as
· Present interesting facts/statement
· Tell a story related to my position or argument
____ I clearly state my position (pro or con) with a thesis statement in the introduction.
____ I transition smoothly and effectively to the reasons.
Body Paragraphs (3):
____ I begin each body paragraph with a transition word and a topic sentence that states a reason that supports my position.
____ I support my reasons with some of these: facts, expert opinions, statistics, quotes, and examples in each body paragraph.
____ I connect each of my reasons with smooth and effective transitions.
____ I state, support and defend my position in the body of the writing.
____ I place the most convincing evidence where it best supports my argument.
Conclusion:
____ I end with a strong conclusion that restates the thesis and my arguments.
____ I appeal to the reader to agree with my stand and I suggest action.
To receive a "4", the paper must have:
1. A clear position statement (1-sentence) in the introduction
2. Three different reasons (each reason written as the topic sentence of each body paragraph (3), supporting examples ( at least 3) for each reason
3. A conclusion paragraph that calls for action.
If a student’s paper does not contain the requirements mentioned above, he/she should not receive a “4”.
To receive a “5”, the student should have all attributes of a “4” paper; in addition, to syntactical variety denoted by well written sentences that vary in structure.
Volume or length of paper does not constitute a score of a “4” or a “5” without the requirements stated above.
