aidemia--modules-lessonanyideas_request	Give a creative idea how to organize and what to do at a part of the lesson
What part of a lesson	Practice
Which subject	English
What age group	College
What topic	Persuasive writing
Quantity	1
Any other preferences

Lesson Part: Practice - Persuasive Writing

Objective

The aim of this practice session is to help students develop their persuasive writing skills through engaging activities that encourage critical thinking and creativity. By the end of this lesson part, students should be able to craft a persuasive piece that is coherent, impactful, and effectively addresses their intended audience.

Activities Overview

1. Debate in Groups

Purpose:

This activity introduces students to the art of persuasion by having them argue different sides of a controversial topic. It encourages them to think quickly, organise their arguments, and understand opposing viewpoints.

Execution:

• Divide the Class: Split the students into small groups of 4-5.

• Assign Topics: Provide each group with a different, relevant issue to debate. For example:

  • Should university tuition fees be abolished?
  • Is technology in the classroom distracting or beneficial?
  • Should single-use plastics be banned?

• Research & Preparation (15 minutes): Give each group time to brainstorm arguments for their assigned stance. Encourage them to consider:

  • Facts and statistics
  • Emotional appeals
  • Real-world examples
  • Counterarguments

• Debate (20 minutes): Each group will present their arguments for 5 minutes, followed by a rebuttal session. Allow groups to challenge each other's points, fostering a dynamic exchange.

Outcome:

By actively engaging in a debate, students will experience the persuasive writing process in real-time, preparing their thoughts and honing their techniques for structuring arguments.

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2. Persuasive Letter Writing

Purpose:

Writing a letter is a traditional yet effective method for practising persuasive writing. This activity allows students to consider their audience and tailor their message accordingly.

Execution:

• Prompt Selection: Have students choose one of the following prompts or create their own:

  • Write a letter to the university administration requesting improved mental health services.
  • Compose a letter to the local council advocating for more green spaces in the community.
  • Draft a letter to a friend persuading them to join a particular club or activity.

• Guiding Framework (10 minutes): Provide students with a framework to help them structure their letters, which should include:

  • Introduction: State the purpose of the letter.
  • Body: Present arguments (three key points are often effective) with supporting evidence.
  • Conclusion: Summarise key arguments and include a call to action.

• Writing (20 minutes): Allow students time to write their letters individually, emphasising the importance of tone, clarity, and style in persuasive writing.

Outcome:

Students will produce a well-structured persuasive letter, allowing them to practice their writing skills while considering their audience's perspective.

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3. Peer Review Session

Purpose:

Peer review is a crucial component of the writing process. This activity encourages collaboration and critical assessment of one another’s work.

Execution:

• Pair Up: Have students swap their letters with a partner for review.

• Review Guidelines (10 minutes): Provide students with a checklist to guide their feedback, such as:

  • Does the letter have a clear purpose?
  • Are the arguments supportive and convincing?
  • Is the tone appropriate for the audience?
  • Are there any grammar or spelling issues?

• Feedback (15 minutes): Allow time for students to read and provide constructive feedback on their partner's letter.

Outcome:

Students learn to critique and improve writing, developing their editing skills and gaining new perspectives on their persuasive techniques.

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Conclusion

Wrap up the practice session with a group discussion reflecting on what they learned about persuasive writing through these activities. Encourage them to share their experiences, focusing on what techniques they found most effective and how they can apply these skills in their future assignments.

This interactive lesson part ensures that students not only grasp the theory behind persuasive writing but also actively practise and refine their skills in a supportive learning environment.