AQA GCSE English - Writing to Argue, Persuade, Advise.

Opening Paragraph

• Begin your argument with a statement of fact that cannot be disputed.
• Clearly state the view that you have taken and the direction that your argument will follow.

Developing your Ideas

• Include ideas both for and against the view you have taken, then outline why people may hold these views. Counter the opposing view by by putting forward the argument that you support and why your view is more logical.
• Add weight to your argument by including an anecdote or a reference to your own experience.
• Use rhetorical questions to involve the reader and appeal to their emotions.
• Include facts and statistics or quotations from 'experts' to validate your viewpoint.

Ending the Argument

• Emphasise the key point being made and summarise your argument.
• Recognise the validity of some opposing views to show a reasonable tone, then overcome these concerns by convincing the reader of the reasonable position taken in you argument.

Opening Paragraph

• Capture the reader's attention with an effective opening.
• Use a rhetorical question to involve the reader and appeal to their emotions.
• Challenge any possible assumptions that the reader may have.

Developing your Ideas

• Your response should be biased and single minded.
• Use emotive language to influence the reader's feelings.
• Repeat certain words and phrases to give greater impact, especially in patterns of three.
• Exaggerate a point to make it seem more persuasive.
• Present your opinions as fact to validate your viewpoint.
• Involve the reader using inclusive pronouns (we, us).
• Use imperative verbs and logical connectives.

Ending the Argument

• Summarise the points you have made.
• Find a final, particularly persuasive note on which to end.

Opening Paragraph

• Discuss the problem.
• Convince the reader that you have a solution.
• Offer sound advice.

Developing your Ideas

• Understand the audience your advice is aimed at.
• Use an imperative tone "Make a decision and stick with it... Get on with your life!"
• Or use more subtle persuasion "It might be worth considering... I'm sure most people in this situation would..."
• Have an organised and effective structure, with ideas linked logically to present advice step by step.

Ending the Argument

• Provide the reader with a summary of your thoughts and a clear and appropriate solution.
• Convince the reader that your solution will benefit them directly.