Writing a Persuasive Essay

Argue a clear position using reasons, evidence and a strong conclusion.

~20 min English

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A persuasive essay convinces a reader to accept your point of view.

In this lesson you will:

State a clear thesis.
Support a position with reasons and evidence.
Address the opposing view fairly.

Take a Position

Your thesis is the one sentence that states what you believe. It should be clear and debatable: "Secondary schools should teach financial literacy as a compulsory subject."

Build the Argument

Use the PEEL pattern for each body paragraph: Point, Explanation, Evidence, Link. Then answer the strongest objection so your argument does not look one-sided.

The Structure

Introduction — hook, background, thesis.
Body 1 — strongest reason with evidence.
Body 2 — second reason with evidence.
Counter-argument — acknowledge and reply.
Conclusion — restate the thesis and call to action.

Sample thesis and conclusion

Thesis: "Schools should teach financial literacy because it prepares students for real-life decisions."

Conclusion: "Financial literacy is not an extra subject; it is a life skill. Schools that teach it give students a lasting advantage."

Tip Use confident but fair language: "This suggests..." rather than "This proves everything..."

Practice

Write a thesis statement for: "Should mobile phones be allowed in secondary schools?"
Write one PEEL paragraph supporting your position.
Write a counter-argument and a one-sentence reply to it.

Recap

A persuasive essay argues one clear position with reasons, evidence and a fair response to the other side.

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Course contents

Essay Writing

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