Spotting Persuasive Language in Non-Fiction

• New lesson editor

Spotting Persuasive Language in Non-Fiction

What do you already know about how language can be used to persuade or convince readers?

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will be able to read a short non-fiction text and identify persuasive language techniques used by the author, forming your answers in a P.E.E paragraph.

What is Persuasion?

Persuasion is when someone tries to change your mind or convince you to do something using words and reasoning.

Common Persuasive Techniques

Look for emotive words, rhetorical questions, statistics, and direct address (using 'you'). These tools make writing more convincing.

Example: Persuasive Text

Read this short extract: "Don't let your town fall behind – join the recycling revolution today! Every bottle counts, and together we make a difference."

Spot the Techniques

These techniques make the reader feel involved and responsible, adding urgency and motivating action.

Technique

Effect

Rhetorical question: "Don't let your town fall behind?" Direct address with 'your' and 'we'. Emotive language: 'revolution', 'make a difference'.

Why Use Persuasive Language?

Writers use persuasive language to influence opinions and encourage readers to think, feel, or act in a certain way.

Quick Check

Can you spot a persuasive technique in this sentence? "Only you can help save the environment. Act now!"

Reflect and Share

Think about where you see persuasive language in everyday life. Share one example with the class.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.