 There are several types of writing you may 
      be asked to do in the Keystone Exams.
      ◦Descriptive writing uses specific details to create 
       pictures for the reader to “see.”
      ◦Expository or informational (non-fiction) writing is 
       used to explain or inform.  This includes “how-to” 
       information, facts, ideas and statistics.  The 
       Keystones will place emphasis on reading and 
       evaluation of this type of writing.
        Paragraphs MUST be in a logical order!
        This is the kind of writing that is included on essay 
        tests.
     ◦Narrative writing tells a story and is usually 
      written in a chronological order of events.
     ◦Persuasive writing expresses the writer’s opinion 
      or issues a call to action – reader is expected to 
      do something!
     PERSUASION OR ARGUMENTATION:
     ◦Three types of appeals may be used to gain 
      results
       Appeal to the mind – logical arguments
         Reasons are supported by evidence!
         Use data that can be proven or statements by 
         authorities
       Appeal to the heart – emotional arguments
         Be careful of the words you use! A leader with bold 
         vision? OR a leader with reckless unproved ideas? 
      Appeal to ethics – ethical arguments
        Targets the readers sense of right and wrong
        Objective is to use argument to gain reader’s trust.
        Uses words like truth, fairness, liberty …
        Often “demonizes” the opposition or is used for the 
        unusual viewpoint such as a tobacco exec who speaks 
        out against smoking.
    ◦How a persuasion essay is constructed
      Opening paragraph or introduction
        SUBJECT AND PURPOSE MUST BE STATED BRIEFLY, 
        CLEARLY AND STRONGLY.
        Grabs the attention of the reader – WOW factor
        Used as transition into the remainder of the essay (the 
        bridge)
     WOW + SUBJECT + PURPOSE
       Middle paragraphs are support paragraphs
        ONLY THREE ARGUMENTS NECESSARY IN A FIVE-PARAGRAPH 
        PAPER!
        Arguments are arranged in a logical order – only essential ideas 
        are presented!  Counterargument essential!!
        The strongest argument is presented in the fourth paragraph!!
        Develop the arguments with memorable details
        Transition words (furthermore, therefore, in addition …) are used 
        as bridges between arguments.
     ◦ TRANSITION + REASON (weakest, then stronger, then strongest) + 
      PERSONAL OR ILLUSTRATION + COUNTERARGUMENT
       Concluding Paragraph
        Ties together all of the arguments
        RESTATE THE POSITION OF THE WRITER AND REITERATE REASONS 
        FOR IT!
        Make a strong impression
        Be sure that the reader knows what he/she is to do with the 
        arguments presented – issue a call to action!
     ◦ TRANSITION + RESTATED POSITION AND REASONS + CALL TO ACTION.
     Tips for Persuasive Writers
     ◦BRAINSTORMING IS VITAL!!!!
        Brainstorm both your arguments and those of your 
        opponent.
        Do your research – the more you know of the 
        opposing view, the more effective will be your 
        arguments against it.
     ◦BE SPECIFIC!!!
        “We should tear down the house because it is good 
        idea.”
               OR
           “We should tear down the house because it is an 
        eyesore and a fire hazard.”