Your students may be adept at arguing and proficient in persuading others out in the playground, but do they know the difference between argument and persuasion in writing?
To differentiate between the two, students need to consider purpose and audience, perspective and tone, and supporting evidence. Here we examine how to adjust these elements to argue or persuade effectively, and how Kialo Edu (a completely free tool for engaging classroom discussions) can support argumentative writing in your classroom!
1. Consider purpose and audience
Whether persuading or arguing, focusing on purpose and audience throughout the task helps to keep writing on track.
How is this used in persuasive writing?
The purpose of persuasive writing is to convince the reader to agree with the author’s personal perspective. Thus, the author requires a comprehensive knowledge of the target audience to tailor content to them. Moreover, the author will often address the reader personally in the first or second person.
How does this differ in argumentative writing?
In argumentative writing, the author aims to convince the reader to accept the validity of an idea, rather than a personal perspective. Thus, the author will present an objective viewpoint to a general audience, using third-person pronouns to emphasize impartiality.
2. Choose a perspective
A set of balance scales is the perfect representation of perspective in persuasive and argumentative writing. The scales allow students to visualize whether they have chosen a perspective that favors one side or is equally balanced.
How is this used in persuasive writing?
In persuasive writing, imagine the scales weighted to one side. In practice, this means the writing focuses heavily on the writer’s viewpoint. The author may present some limited opposing views but will quickly discredit them.
How does this differ in argumentative writing?
In argumentative writing, although the author may favor one side, the scales are more balanced. The author introduces the issue and debates related pros and cons, acknowledging multiple perspectives.
3. Select the correct tone
Selecting the correct tone is key to achieving the purpose of the writing, as it supports the writer in conveying their attitude. Using the correct tone can enhance the writer’s message.
How is this used in persuasive writing?
In persuasive writing, authors consider ethos, or how they present themselves. They often use a conversational tone to build a relationship with the audience. Within this, authors may also employ pathos, aiming to evoke emotion through manipulating, motivating, or inspiring the reader.
How does this differ in argumentative writing?
In argumentative writing, emotion is put aside as the author employs a neutral, reasonable tone to present multiple viewpoints. Combining this with an expert voice and formal style means the writer can build credibility, increasing their chances of achieving their purpose.
4. Use evidence
Authors of both persuasive and argumentative writing employ logos, or the appeal to logic, through the use of well-structured reasoning and supporting evidence. This helps authors build solid arguments and avoid logical fallacies.
How is this used in persuasive writing?
In persuasive writing, the writer recognizes the power of logos in making clear, logical connections between ideas. They are often selective in their choice of supporting evidence, referring only to facts, statistics, and expert views that match their viewpoint and could evoke emotion in the reader.
How does this differ in argumentative writing?
In argumentative writing, authors support all reasoning with robust evidence, often referencing multiple sources for one claim. To create stronger arguments, they explain, analyze, or interpret evidence. And to avoid accusations of bias, authors actively address conflicting evidence, demonstrating that it does not detract from the original argument.
Using Kialo Edu to support argumentative writing
Now that the difference between argument and persuasion is clear, let us persuade you of the benefits of using Kialo Edu to teach argumentative writing in your classroom!
Our library is bursting with curriculum-linked discussion topics that provide the ideal context for students of all ages to perfect their argumentation skills. Students are able to consider multiple perspectives by writing claims in support and rebuttal of a thesis. These are presented in the form of a visual argument mapping tree, giving participants a clear overview of the discussion.
Students can support every claim by adding a link or text as supporting evidence. These supporting sources are then collated in a handy sidebar, which can be viewed by all participants in the discussion.
Furthermore, Kialo Edu discussions can be individual or collaborative. In a collaborative discussion, students can use voting or comments to critique claims and sources. Of course, teachers can offer feedback in all discussions to support students as they develop arguments.
The combination of these features also makes Kialo Edu a great planning tool for argumentative essays. Even better, students can meet many curriculum standards by participating in a Kialo Edu discussion!
So, not only can you teach your students the difference between argument and persuasion in writing, but you can give them a comprehensive tool to apply their new knowledge.
We’d love to hear how you are helping your students become powerful in persuasion or accomplished in arguing! Contact us at feedback@kialo-edu.com or any of our social media platforms.
Want even more ideas on teaching debate and argumentation to students? Explore our collection of expertly-crafted resources!
