How can I identify facts and statistics?
1. Specific numbers related to the topic
2. references to research, study, survey, expert, or other source
Why is facts and statistics persuasive
Shows the author isn't just making up reasons for why their argument could be true
How can I identify anecdotes?
A short story about a real person or event
Why are anecdotes persuasive?
1. It's more relatable and interesting to read an anecdote than facts
2. people put more faith in the experiences if they can personally connect with them
How can I identify counter arguments and counter claims?
Another view that contradicts the authors argument
Why are counter arguments persuasive?
Showing a counter arguments makes the discussion seem more "fair
How can I identify explanation of evidence
Author explains claim or evidence
Why is explanation of evidence persuasive
Allows reader to understand the authors argument bettter
How can I identify vivid language
Similes, metaphors, adjectives, or words that don't seem to have purely functional purposes
Why is vivid language persuasive
Makes topic more interesting for the reader to read and engages the reader more
How can I identify appeals to the reader (pathos)
Stylistic devices specifically designed to provoke a response ( often emotional) in the reader
Why appeals to the reader (pathos) persuasive
1. Causes reader to emotionally agree with the author rather than logically