GCSE English Language: Writing to Argue and Persuade Guide

Planning your argument

Decide on your main viewpoint and three or four key points that support it, in a logical order. Consider including a brief counter-argument to show you've thought about the other side, then explain why your view is stronger.

Persuasive techniques

Common techniques include rhetorical questions, the rule of three (listing three related points or examples), direct address to the reader ("you"), emotive language, and facts or statistics to add credibility.

Structuring your writing

Open with a strong, engaging point that establishes your viewpoint. Develop each paragraph around a single idea, using topic sentences, and close with a memorable final point that reinforces your argument.

Tone and register

Match your tone and level of formality to the purpose and audience specified in the question — a letter to a newspaper needs a different register from a speech to your school.

Common mistakes

• Piling in as many techniques as possible rather than using a few effectively.
• Losing focus on the specified audience and purpose.
• Running out of time to proofread, leaving avoidable spelling and punctuation errors.