Persuasive writing attempts to convince the reader that the point of view or course of action recommended by the writer is valid. To accomplish this, the writer must develop a limited topic which is well defined and debatable, that is has more than one side. It is important that the author understand other sides of the position so that the strongest information to counter the others can be presented. In the essay, only one side of the issue is presented.

     Like all kinds of five paragraph essays, there is a specific format to be followed.

• The topic sentence cannot be a fact as facts cannot be debated. It should be a statement of position. That position must be clear and direct. This statement directs the readers to follow along with your logic towards the specific stated conclusion that you want them to support. Do not make it personal so do not use personal pronouns. Make it definitive.
• Then, in the same introductory paragraph, state the three best reasons that you have to support your position as the remainder of the opening paragraph. These reasons become the topics of each of the three supporting paragraphs. Again, be sure they are able to be supported with additional separate facts.
• In the body of the essay, the writer uses specific evidence, examples, and statistics and not broad generalizations or personal opinions to persuade the reader that the stated position is a valid one. Each topic sentence for the support paragraphs have been introduced in the beginning paragraph. Each additional sentence must closely relate to the topic and the sentence that came before it. This way, the logic of the argument is easy to follow.
• Be sure to use adequate transitions between paragraphs as they make it easy for the reader to follow the logic of the presentation.
• As one closes the essay, it is most important to to clearly redefine the topic and restate the most compelling evidence cited in original form. Remember, this is the last chance to remind the reader and convince him/her to accept the writer's position.
• Do not introduce new material in the conclusion.

Here are some persuasive prompt choices that have some guidance provided for development:

• Someone in My Family Deserves an Award
• Media Violence has a Negative Effect
• School Uniforms
• Lengthening the School Day

• Additional Topics
• The Topic is Charity
• Persuasive Prompts
• http://www.daedalus.com/lists10_persuasive.aspersuasive Prompts
• Grassland Prompt
• Persuasive Prompts
• 1991 & 1992 Prompts
• 6th Persuasive Writing Topics
• Writing Prompts: Persuasive
• Sample Writing Pompts
• Persuasive Writing - various general prompts
• 6th Grade Persuasive Prompts - age appropriate prompts which can be used by higher grades too

Below are some sample rubrics and samples that could be used:
Persuasive Writing Organizer - good visual to help you along
Transitional Words - these are really important in this type of writing
Ruberic straight forward explanations
Research Project Rubric
6 + 1 Trait Writing

     Here is are some samples:

Sample Essay