DIY Homeschooler

Here is another great tool at ReadWriteThink.org: A free persuasion map interactive that walks a student through the process of creating a persuasive essay.

The interactive is easy and intuitive to use. Begin by entering your name and a title for your essay. Then press the “get started” button.

Next you are prompted to form your thesis: what is the point you are trying to make? Now you follow the arrows through the process of providing up to three reasons that your point is valid along with up to three facts or examples of why each point is valid.

Finally, you will enter a conclusion that summarizes the takeaways you want your reader to have after reading your essay.

If you decide not to use the interactive, you can still print a blank persuasion map form from the main page.

This free persuasion map interactive is a non-intimidating way for a student to approach his or her first persuasive essay. We have added this resource to our 14 Forms of Writing for the Older Student: Persuasive Essay post. Great tool for the DIY educator — and free!

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Additional Resources

14 Forms of Writing for the Older Student: Persuasive Essay
More help, information, and resources for writing persuasive essays.

Write Something Every Day: 366 Pencil Sharpeners for Students of Writing
Our book will get you started. This huge 554-pg. resource provides carefully crafted writing prompts and challenges for each day. We use nearly 20 different forms of writing to keep the student engaged. Also included are writing instruction, tips for modifying assignments for “younger writers,” and other resources. Learn more.