Blue Diamond Focus Lesson Notes

Persuasion Notes Name:______

Main Idea Details Author’s Purpose • Why an author is writing or speaking (inform, entertain, persuade) • A whole selection may have a purpose, but individual words or phrases can have a purpose, too (help the reader visualize, show strong emotion)

Author’s Stance • This is the author’s opinion on a subject • Sometimes, an author may explain both sides, but show one side more favorably than the other (one-sided argument)

Fact/Opinion • Author’s may include facts in a speech, but don’t be misled—ask yourself if the author is using only facts that support his or her side of the story • Opinions often include loaded words (best, worst, least, most)

Bias • Hidden messages are points the author is trying to make without coming out and telling the -hidden messages reader. Examples:

• Words that have strong emotions behind them are called loaded words. They are usually -loaded words negative. Examples:

-stereotypes • Stereotypes label all members of a group as being the same and does not take individual differences into account. This often results in prejudice. Examples: -one-sided arguments • One-sided arguments happen when writers present only one side of the situation. Speeches • Argumentative (persuasive) writing • Often includes bias (shows the author’s opinions, not just facts) • Includes techniques such as rhetorical questions, strong adjectives, repetition, imagery, figurative language, anecdotes, personal appeal and allusion • Five major parts: 1) Attract the attention of the audience (question, story, quote, allusion) 2) Providing evidence for purpose/need 3) Providing a workable solution 4) Outlining benefits of the solution 5) Call to action

Historical Context • The moods, attitudes, and conditions that existed at the time a text was written • Context is the "setting" for an event that occurs, and it will have an impact on the text Allusion • A purposeful or accidental reference to a person, event, or text from history • Allows the listener or reader to better understand the author’s point by connecting it to prior knowledge • Understanding depends on the background knowledge of the listener or reader

Imagery, Metaphors, • Words that appeal to your 5 senses (hearing, smelling, feeling, seeing, tasting) and that create Similes a picture in your head • Comparisons without using “like” or “as” • Comparisons using “like” or “as” • These techniques are used to help the audience envision by making connections to things that are familiar Rhetorical question • A question asked for effect, not for an expected response • Meant to illicit thought in the reader Repetition • Repeating words, phrases or sentences • Used to emphasize a point Personal Appeal • Used by the speaker to make a connection between the speaker and the audience • Using words like “us”, “together”, “we” Anecdote • A short personal story about a real incident or person • Used to illustrate a point or make a connection with the audience