CHARACTERISTICS
OF THE
PERSUASIVE ESSAY
Purpose
To get the reader to accept the writer’s point of view on
the issue posed by the writing prompt
To adopt the writer’s way of thinking about the issue
posed by the writing prompt
Organizational Pattern
Introduction
May have a hook or grabber to get the reader’s
attention
Clearly conveys the writer’s opinion/position on the
topic/thesis statement
Body
Provides evidence to support the writer’s
opinion/purpose
Evidence will be in the form of facts, reasons,
examples, details, etc.
Effective transitions show how ideas connect
May present pros and cons of an argument
Anticipates the reader’s questions
Conclusion
Restates the writer’s opinion/position, thesis
statement, or focus
May summarize the main point included in the
body
May include a personal comment or call for action
Nebraska Department of Education
Statewide Writing Assessment 2008