Writing a Persuasive Essay

Title: Writing a Persuasive Essay

Subject: Writing

Summary: In this lesson, fourth-grade students will learn the basics of writing a persuasive essay. They will understand the purpose of persuasive writing, learn how to structure their essays, and practice using persuasive language and evidence to support their arguments.

Learning Outcomes:

• Know the purpose of persuasive writing
• Understand the structure of a persuasive essay
• Can use persuasive language and evidence to support arguments

Methodology:

This lesson will be taught using a combination of direct instruction, class discussions, and hands-on activities. Students will have the opportunity to work individually and in small groups to practice their persuasive writing skills.

Resources/Materials:

• Whiteboard or blackboard
• Markers or chalk
• Chart paper
• Writing paper
• Pencils
• Sample persuasive essays

Instructions:

Engagement Activities:

1. Begin the lesson by asking students if they have ever tried to convince someone to do something or change their mind about something. Discuss their experiences and reasons for wanting to persuade others.
2. Introduce the concept of persuasive writing. Explain that persuasive writing is a type of writing where the author tries to convince the reader to agree with their opinion or take a specific action.
3. Discuss the structure of a persuasive essay. Use the whiteboard or blackboard to create a graphic organizer with the following sections: introduction, body paragraphs (with supporting arguments), and conclusion.
4. Provide students with sample persuasive essays and ask them to identify the different parts of the essay. Discuss the importance of each section and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of the essay.
5. Model the process of writing a persuasive essay by choosing a topic and brainstorming arguments and evidence to support the opinion. Write the introduction and one body paragraph together as a class.

Assessment Activities:

1. Have students work in small groups to choose a topic and brainstorm arguments and evidence to support their opinion. They should write an introduction and one body paragraph for their persuasive essay.
2. Provide feedback and guidance to each group as they work on their essays.
3. Ask each group to present their persuasive essays to the class. Encourage the class to provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
4. Collect the final essays and assess them based on the structure, use of persuasive language, and supporting evidence.

Compliance: Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts - Writing Standards for Grade 4

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1 - Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1.A - Introduce a topic or text clearly, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure in which related ideas are grouped to support the writer's purpose.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1.B - Provide reasons that are supported by facts and details.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1.C - Link opinion and reasons using words and phrases (e.g., for instance, in order to, in addition).
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.4.1.D - Provide a concluding statement or section related to the opinion presented.