The document outlines the structure and components of an effective persuasive discourse. It notes that a persuasive discourse is a formal speech intended to persuade listeners of the speaker's opinion on an issue. The structure mirrors a persuasive essay, with an introduction using a grabber and previewing three arguments, a body developing each argument with evidence, and a conclusion summarizing and leaving with a clincher. It provides tips to keep the speech short and simple, repeat key points, use transitions, ask questions, and engage the entire audience through eye contact and movement.

1. The persuasive
discourse (p.192-194)
Day 7

2. What is a persuasive
discourse?
• A formal speech
• Intends to persuade the listeners that the
speaker's opinion on an issue is the right
one.
• It is supported with arguments backed up by
statistics, examples and expert opinions.
The structure of a persuasive discourse is
The structure of a persuasive discourse is
similar to that of a persuasive essay.
similar to that of a persuasive essay.

3. Introduction
• Begins with a grabber (rhetorical
questions, provocative statements, short
anecdotes).
• At the end of the introduction provide a
preview statement (thesis statement + three
arguments).

4. Body
• The speaker's three arguments are
developed.
• Each argument is introduced with a
transition term.
• Back up your arguments with at least two of
the following types of evidence: statistics,
expert opinion, example.

5. Conclusion
• Begins with a transition term (To conclude,
in summary, to finish) followed by a
summary statement (a rephrased summary
statement).
• The speaker ends with a clincher
(connecting with the introduction,
demonstrating the importance of a thesis
statement, offering a solution).

6. Persuasive strategies
• Keep it short and simple.
• Repeat yourself.
• Use transition terms (see p.198)
• Ask questions (rhetorical and directed).

7. A few don'ts
• Don't read your speech.
• Don't stand in one place.
• Don't talk to just one or two people in the
audience.
• Don't avoid making eye contact.