Persuasive Essay Writing Flashcards

What is ethos in persuasive writing?

Answer: An appeal to the writer's credibility and trustworthiness

Ethos is one of Aristotle's three rhetorical appeals; it refers to establishing the writer's credibility and authority to make the argument.

Which of the following sentences contains a clear topic sentence for a body paragraph arguing in favour of mandatory recycling?

Answer: Making recycling mandatory would significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to Canadian landfills.

A topic sentence states the main argument of the paragraph clearly and relates directly to the essay's thesis.

What does it mean to 'revise' an essay during the writing process?

Answer: To reconsider and improve the content, organization, and clarity of ideas

Revision involves improving the substance and structure of the writing — the argument's logic, organization, clarity, and effectiveness.

Which type of evidence is generally considered MOST credible in a persuasive essay about environmental policy?

Answer: Statistics from a peer-reviewed government environmental report

Peer-reviewed government reports provide verifiable, scientifically sound data, making them the most credible source for policy arguments.

What is the purpose of the conclusion in a persuasive essay?

Answer: To restate the thesis, summarize key arguments, and leave the reader with a final persuasive thought

The conclusion wraps up the argument by restating the thesis in new words, briefly summarizing the supporting points, and closing with a compelling final statement.

What is the effect of using short, declarative sentences in a persuasive essay?

Answer: They emphasize key points and create a sense of confidence and authority

Short, declarative sentences are direct and assertive; they can be used strategically to emphasize the writer's most important claims.