2. What is a persuasive
discourse?
• A formal speech
• Intends to persuade the listeners that the speaker's opinion on
an issue is the right one.
• It is supported with arguments backed up by statistics,
examples and expert opinions.
The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a persuasive
The structure of a persuasive discourse is similar to that of a persuasive
essay.
essay.
3. Introduction
• Begins with a grabber (rhetorical questions, provocative
statements, short anecdotes).
• At the end of the introduction provide a preview statement
(thesis statement + three arguments).
4. Body
• The speaker's three arguments are developed.
• Each argument is introduced with a transition term.
• Back up your arguments with at least two of the following types
of evidence: statistics, expert opinion, example.
5. Conclusion
• Begins with a transition term (To conclude, in summary, to
finish) followed by a summary statement (a rephrased
summary statement).
• The speaker ends with a clincher (connecting with the
introduction, demonstrating the importance of a thesis
statement, offering a solution).
6. Persuasive strategies
• Keep it short and simple.
• Repeat yourself.
• Use transition terms (see p.198)
• Ask questions (rhetorical and directed).
7. A few don'ts
• Don't read your speech.
• Don't stand in one place.
• Don't talk to just one or two people in the audience.
• Don't avoid making eye contact.
