🎯 WALT and Success Criteria

WALT: Draft a structured persuasive letter including an introduction, arguments, and conclusion using persuasive language.

I can:

📖 Part 1: Read the Example Persuasive Letter

Read the letter below carefully. Look for the persuasive language features highlighted in the notes on the right.

23 Haupapa Street
Rotorua 3010
14/06/2025

The Principal
Glenholme Primary School
Rotorua

Dear Principal,

I am writing to strongly urge you to consider adjusting school start times at Glenholme Primary School. I firmly believe that starting school at 9:30 am instead of 9:00 am would make a tremendous difference to the wellbeing and learning of every single student in our school. 📝 Note: This is the introduction — it states the writer's opinion clearly right away. "Strongly urge" and "firmly believe" are emotive words.

First of all, research shows that children aged 10–12 need between 9 and 11 hours of sleep each night. Sadly, many students arrive at school exhausted, making it almost impossible to concentrate or learn effectively. For example, a study found that students who slept longer performed significantly better in reading and maths. Surely we all want our tamariki to reach their full potential? 📝 Note: "First of all" is a linking phrase. "Surely we all want…" is a rhetorical question — it makes the reader agree without answering!

In addition, a later start time would benefit whānau across Rotorua. Many parents work early morning shifts and struggle to get their children to school on time. A small adjustment of just 30 minutes could reduce stress for hundreds of families. Every child deserves a calm, unhurried start to their school day. Every child deserves the chance to succeed. 📝 Note: "In addition" links this new reason to the last. "Every child deserves… Every child deserves…" is repetition — used to make the point feel powerful and important.

Furthermore, schools in other parts of New Zealand have already trialled later start times with outstanding results. Students reported feeling happier, more focused, and more motivated. If it works there, imagine what it could do for our amazing school community here in Rotorua! 📝 Note: "Furthermore" adds another reason. "Imagine what it could do…" is another rhetorical device — it invites the reader to picture a positive future.

In conclusion, adjusting school start times is a simple, sensible, and caring decision that would improve the health, happiness, and achievement of our students. I sincerely hope you will give this important matter your full consideration. Together, we can make Glenholme Primary School an even better place to learn. 📝 Note: "In conclusion" signals the end. The conclusion summarises the main points and ends with a positive, hopeful message to persuade the reader.

Yours sincerely,
A Concerned Student

✏️ Part 2: Analyse the Letter

I am writing to _______________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

⭐ Extension Challenge — For Advanced Learners

Kia whakaaro ki… (Think about…) the persuasive techniques used more carefully.