Persuasive Writing: Deforestation Debate

Name:

Date:

🌿 Background Information

New Zealand has lost a significant amount of its native bush over the past 200 years. Before humans arrived, around 80% of New Zealand was covered in native forest. Today, only about 23% remains. Forests are cleared for farming, housing, and industry. While some argue this supports jobs and economic growth, others believe protecting our native bush is essential for wildlife, clean water, and future generations.

Key facts:

🌳 Native trees like kauri, tōtara, and rimu take hundreds of years to grow.

🦜 Many native birds such as kiwi and kōkako depend on forest habitats to survive.

💧 Forests help prevent flooding and keep rivers and streams clean.

🏗️ Land cleared for farming and development supports local jobs and food production.

✍️ Your Writing Prompt

Should New Zealand stop all deforestation of native forests to protect the environment?

Write a persuasive piece expressing your opinion. Use facts and reasons to support your argument and try to convince your reader to agree with you.

1. What is your opinion? Circle your position:

Yes — New Zealand should stop all deforestation of native forests.

No — Some deforestation should be allowed for development and farming.

In between — There should be strict limits and rules on deforestation.

📝 Planning Your Argument

2. Write your main argument (your overall opinion in one sentence):

3. List two reasons that support your opinion:

Reason 1: _____________________________________________________________

Reason 2: _____________________________________________________________

4. Which groups of people or animals are most affected by deforestation in New Zealand? Tick all that apply:

Native birds and wildlife

Farmers and rural communities

Māori communities with connections to the land

Future generations of New Zealanders

People who rely on clean rivers and water

5. What is one argument someone who disagrees with you might make? How would you respond to it?

Their argument: ___________________________________________________

My response: _____________________________________________________

6. Write a strong closing sentence that encourages your reader to take action or agree with your view:

🖊️ Write Your Persuasive Piece

Use your planning above to write your full persuasive piece below. Remember to include: an opening statement, at least two supporting arguments, and a strong conclusion.