Persuasive Writing

English · Writing Composition · ages 11-14

Name ______________________ Date ____________

What is a counterclaim?
- A second reason that supports your own claim
- The opposing argument
- A fact that nobody disagrees with
Which sentence makes a clear recommendation for a persuasive essay?
- Offer more vegetarian lunches.
- I'm not sure if school lunch is good enough.
- Lunch break starts at noon.
True or false: words like 'however' and 'furthermore' help readers follow how your reasons connect to your claim.
Circle one: True False
Which sentence acknowledges a counterclaim before responding to it?
- Some say screens help learning, but overuse may harm sleep and focus.
- Screen time is always bad for kids, no exceptions.
- I really don't like screens very much.
Which sentence fits the formal style of a persuasive essay?
- Honestly, school lunch is just gross, lol.
- idk, lunch is whatever I guess.
- School lunches should include more vegetarian options because current choices lack variety.
An essay needs at least three pieces of evidence. So far it has two. How many more does it need?
Answer: ______________
An essay states a claim, then gives three reasons with evidence, then stops. A teacher says it's missing something important. What is it most likely missing?
- More adjectives to sound exciting
- A title in bigger letters
- A response to the other side's view and a concluding statement
'Homework helps students practice new skills. ______, too much homework can cause stress.' Which word fits best?
- For example
- However
- Similarly

Answer key

For grown-ups. Fold this page away before handing over the rest.

The opposing argument · A counterclaim is the other side's view. Naming it shows you understand the whole issue before you argue against it.
Offer more vegetarian lunches. · Offering more vegetarian lunches is a recommendation readers can argue for or against. The other sentences express uncertainty or give a timetable detail.
True · Linking words show the reader how one idea leads to the next, like a contrast or an added point.
Some say screens help learning, but overuse may harm sleep and focus. · This sentence names the other side ('some say...') and then answers it, instead of ignoring it.
School lunches should include more vegetarian options because current choices lack variety. · Formal style skips slang and keeps a steady, reasoned tone, even when you feel strongly.
1 · Three total minus the two already written leaves one more piece of evidence to add.
A response to the other side's view and a concluding statement · A strong argument essay also answers the other side and wraps up with a concluding statement, not just stacks reasons.
However · The second sentence contrasts with the first, so a contrast word like 'however' fits, not an example or similarity word.