Business Writing · Lesson Plan

Persuasive Writing

Advertisers, lawyers, and politicians all use it — persuasive writing makes a case and gets readers to agree. This lesson teaches that persuasion isn’t just opinion: a strong argument is backed by factual support. Students learn to choose a viewpoint, build a sound argument, avoid common errors, and assemble the components of an effective persuasive piece.

Grades 9–12 Lesson Plan 45–60 minutes Free Lesson Plan Lesson & Activity: Full Membership

For Teachers

Lesson at a glance

Topic: Business Writing
Grade Level: Grades 9–12
Resource Type: Lesson + Worksheet
Estimated Time: 45–60 minutes
Format: Lesson + activity
Materials: Printable lesson, worksheet, pencils

What Students Learn

Learning objectives

Define persuasive writing
Distinguish persuasion from pure opinion
Choose and commit to a viewpoint
Support an argument with factual evidence
Build the components of an effective argument

Materials

What you’ll need

Printed lesson and activity (one per student)
An issue to argue (assigned or chosen)
Pencils

Key Terms

Vocabulary

Persuasive writing: Writing that argues a viewpoint to win the reader’s agreement.
Argument: A claim supported by reasons and evidence.
Viewpoint: The position the writer takes on an issue.
Evidence: Factual support for a claim.
Credibility: How believable an argument is.
Counterargument: An opposing point the writer must address.

For Teachers

Lesson plan

Estimated time: one 45–60 minute class period.

Lesson sequence

What is persuasion? (10 min). Everyday examples — ads, debates, families.
Not just opinion (10 min). Why factual support makes an argument credible.
Build an argument (15 min). Choose a viewpoint; assemble claim, evidence, and reasoning.
Write (15 min). Students draft a short persuasive piece on an issue.

Assessment

Assess the persuasive piece for a clear viewpoint, factual support, and a convincing argument.

Discussion

Discussion questions

What is persuasive writing, and where do you see it?
Why isn’t persuasion just stating an opinion?
Why must you commit to a viewpoint?
What makes an argument credible?
How would you argue for or against a school issue?

Printable Lesson & Worksheet