After Reading >> Writing Practice

I. Introduction

Establish Authority

To be convinced by the persuasive essay, the reader must believe that the writer is a credible source. To do this, you can quote experts and/or show that you have read widely about the subject by referring to information gathered from scientific literature.

Making Concessions

If you are writing a persuasive piece, you need to consider making concessions. Remember that a concession is not a form of weakness. In fact a concession is a strength as it finds common ground with your opponent and establishes your ethical appeal: you are a reasonable person willing to listen to / acknowledge that there are more sides to an issue than yours.

II. A Sample

Establish Authority:

Global Warming

There is little doubt that the planet is warming. Over the last century, the planet’s temperature has risen by around 1 degree fahrenheit (0.6 of a degree celsius). The warmest since the mid 1800’s was the 1990s. The hottest years recorded were 1997, 1998, 2001, 2002, 2003.

Making Concessions:

Euthanasia: An Act of Compassion

Admittedly, deliverance from endless suffering is the greatest service that can be performed by a healer. It is true that the ability to enjoy life and live it to the fullest is cherished by all. Life is a journey, an education of sorts, a blend of joy and sorrow but not a eulogy of pain.