Persuasive Writing, Cause and Effect and Problem Solution Writing / Lesson Plan

Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and apply techniques in persuasive writing, understand the relationship between cause and effect, and develop problem-solution essays. The student will create engaging content that effectively communicates their viewpoint and proposes actionable solutions to real-world issues.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook or journal for writing
• Pens or pencils
• Timer (optional for timed activities)
• Access to a quiet space for writing and reflection
• Prior knowledge of basic essay structure (introduction, body, conclusion)

Activities

1. Persuasive Pitch:

   The student will choose a topic they are passionate about and create a short persuasive pitch. They will present this pitch to an imaginary audience, focusing on emotional appeal and logical reasoning.

2. Cause and Effect Mapping:

   The student will create a cause and effect chart on a topic of their choice. They will identify the main cause, list its effects, and discuss how these effects can lead to further consequences.

3. Problem-Solution Brainstorm:

   The student will identify a real-world problem they care about and brainstorm potential solutions. They will write a short paragraph outlining the problem, its causes, and one or two solutions they find feasible.

4. Debate Club:

   The student will choose a controversial topic and write a brief argument for both sides. This will help them understand different perspectives and strengthen their persuasive writing skills.

Talking Points

• "Persuasive writing is all about convincing your reader. Think about what makes you change your mind about something."
• "Understanding cause and effect helps you see how one event can lead to another. It's like a chain reaction!"
• "When writing about problems, it's essential to not only identify them but also propose realistic solutions. What can we do to make things better?"
• "Debating different sides of an issue can help you see the bigger picture. Why is it important to understand opposing views?"
• "Using emotional appeal in your writing can make your arguments more compelling. How can you connect with your audience's feelings?"
• "Always back up your claims with evidence. What facts or examples can you use to support your argument?"