http://www.dg58.org
by
Marina Kasicki and Kate Morgan
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Introduction:
Do you believe smoking should be banned in Chicago restaurants? Should we try to stop rain forest destruction? Are new driving restrictions too strict? Should animals be kept in captivity? These topics often cause heated debates not only in the media, but also in classrooms across the country. Although you may form strong opinions about these topics, it is important to research and support your views to make a difference. Sometimes, the most powerful way for us to make a difference in this world is through effective persuasion.
Your
Job:
1. Preview each of the persuasive possibilities to find the one that is the most interesting to you. The more passionate you are about a topic, the more persuasive you will be.
2. After you have chosen a topic, research it using the links provided and additional resources if available. Choose three or four ideas that will become the subtopics to support your position.
3. Take accurate notes on note cards to support your beliefs. The notes must be written in your own words.
4. Create an outline in "power note" form using the support you have gathered.
5. Write a persuasive letter!
6. Carefully edit your letter.
Your letter will be evaluated based on several different elements. We will use the persuasive writing rubric you have been given to arrive at a letter grade. Specific areas of evaluation will be:
1. Is there a strong introduction and conclusion to your letter?2. Have you provided enough support to express your opinion?
3. Have you organized your thoughts in an appropriate manner?
4. Have you used effective transitions to make your letter flow?
5. Is the style and tone of your letter appropriate?
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Based on a template from The Webquest Page.