📝 Part 1: Understanding Persuasive Writing

1. What is the main purpose of persuasive writing? Circle the best answer:

To tell a story

To convince someone to agree with your opinion

To describe something in detail

To give instructions

2. Which of these are features of persuasive writing? Check all that apply:

Clear opinion statement

Supporting reasons and evidence

Emotive language

Linking words and phrases

Rhyming words

Strong conclusion

3. Write your opinion on this topic: "Should students be allowed to use mobile phones at school?" Include at least two reasons to support your view.

🔗 Part 2: Linking Words and Structure

4. Fill in the blanks with appropriate linking words from the box below:

Word Bank: because, for example, in addition, consequently, however, therefore

Students should wear school uniforms _____________ it creates equality among all pupils. _____________, uniforms help students focus on learning rather than fashion. _____________, some students argue that uniforms limit self-expression. _____________, the benefits of school uniforms outweigh the disadvantages.

5. Match each part of a persuasive text with its purpose:

1. Introduction

2. Body paragraphs

3. Conclusion

A. Reinforce your opinion and summarise key points

B. Present reasons and evidence to support your opinion

C. State your topic and clearly express your opinion

🎯 Part 3: Fact vs Opinion

6. Read each statement and decide if it's a FACT or an OPINION. Circle your answer:

a) New Zealand has a population of approximately 5 million people.

FACT or OPINION

b) Rugby is the best sport in the world.

FACT or OPINION

c) Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand.

FACT or OPINION

d) Everyone should learn te reo Māori at school.

FACT or OPINION

7. Explain why it's important to include both facts and opinions in persuasive writing:

🗣️ Part 4: Debate Preparation

8. Choose one of these debate topics and write a strong opening statement for your chosen side:

"Homework should be banned in primary schools" - FOR

"Homework should be banned in primary schools" - AGAINST

"All schools should have a four-day week" - FOR

"All schools should have a four-day week" - AGAINST

Your opening statement:

9. List three important rules for respectful debating:

1. _________________________________________________

2. _________________________________________________

3. _________________________________________________

✏️ Part 5: Writing Practice

10. Plan a persuasive paragraph about this topic: "Should New Zealand ban single-use plastic bags?" Use the planning frame below:

My opinion: ________________________________

Reason 1: ________________________________

Evidence/Example: ________________________________

Reason 2: ________________________________

Evidence/Example: ________________________________

Conclusion sentence: ________________________________

11. Now write your full persuasive paragraph using your plan above:

Persuasive Writing and Debate

Persuasive Writing and Debate

📝 Part 1: Understanding Persuasive Writing

🔗 Part 2: Linking Words and Structure

🎯 Part 3: Fact vs Opinion

🗣️ Part 4: Debate Preparation

✏️ Part 5: Writing Practice

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