Unit 7: Writing
1. Writing a paragraph for giving advice and reasons to persuade others to take your advice.
Step #1
Start with an opening question to introduce the subject of the writing.
Step #2
An explanation of the reason for writing this paragraph.
The reason for writing this paragraph is to……………………….
Step #3
Initial advice
- The best way to………….is to…………
- Another piece of advice is…………….
Step #4
Final message to the reader.
Remember some of these tips, in the end you’ll be more…………….
Step #5
Check spelling, grammar and punctuation.
2. How to write a persuasive letter
Stage one
Greeting: use an appropriate greeting depending on whether it is a formal or an informal letter.
Dear Mr.………………
Stage two:
Introduction :
State why you are writing.
I am writing in view of the recent news that instruction in all modern languages at our school will be cancelled as of next year.
Stage three:
Body:
In two or more paragraphs, build up your persuasive argument using appropriate linking words.
Stage four:
Request:
Ask for what you want. Show that you are flexible.
Stage five :
Sign–off:
Add a sentence of good wishes before you sign off, matching your greeting.
Stage six :
End the letter with yours sincerely, and your name
Stage seven:
Check spelling, grammar and punctuation.
The content and the devices used in persuasive letters:
Persuasive letters include:
- a statement of the letter's purpose (explicit purpose)
- specific language geared towards a specific reader.
- a brief and concise statement of the problem/ reason for writing at the beginning.
- a detailed description of the problem
- a proposed solution
- a polite manner and formal language
- a restatement of the problem at the end
- a plea such as I look forward to hearing from you regarding a solution to this issue.
- a formal sign-off
3. Writing an informal persuasive letter
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Writing skills: Writing informally |
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We always begin a letter with Dear [name], whether it is formal or informal. • In emails, we are less formal and tend to use Hello [name], or Hi! • In open letters, we use a group noun to address all the people that we want to include, such as Dear fellow students. • In all of the above, it is fine to use abbreviations such as I’m, and don’t. • We can end emails and letters (not open letters) with Best wishes/See you soon/Looking forward to hearing from you. • We end an open letter repeating what we want to say. |
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Writing strategies |
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Persuading In order to persuade someone to do something, you need to know your audience. • Be polite. This does not mean using formal language in every case; rather it means understanding who your audience is and addressing them appropriately. • Be direct about what you need from your audience. State the problem in the first sentence. •Suggest a solution or two. Agree to compromise and do not demand too much. |