Writing A Persuasive Speech

Distribute copies of Before Agincourt (St Crispin's Day Speech). Identify persuasive techniques and devices (see activity 2 - Language of Persuasion).

Alternatively if students have already worked on activity 2, review and remind the students of the range of persuasive techniques and devices that can be used.

Illustrative list of some persuasive features:

Rhetorical questions

Hyperbole

Alliteration

Emotive language

Logical argument

Logical connectives (therefore,,,, because,,,)

Use of second person

Repetition and patterning used to build a climax

Imperative verbs

Impassioned statements

Taking the audience into your confidence

Use of first person plural (assuming familiarity)

Use of second person (direct appeal to the audience)

Flattery

Reference to the past

Emphatic statements

Impressive syntax

Short dramatic sentences

Pattern of three (three points)

Imagery (simile and metaphor)

Humour

Threats of violence

Explain that the students are going to write speeches about issues they feel strongly about using what they have learned about the art of persuasion.

Discuss list of possible topics for persuasive speeches. Students should be encouraged to write about issues of current interest to them (e.g. Should the school leaving age be lowered/extended? Is school uniform a good thing?).

Having identified a topic for their speech. Students should research and make notes to:

Identify different sides of the argument

List any relevant facts

Anticipate objections

Make a list of statements to support their position

Points to note

While you may have noted both sides of the argument it should be clear which side you are on

Structure - write a strong opening statement

Link your points in a logical way

Use list of persuasive devices and use judiciously

Share work in progress and evaluate.

More able pupils could write a speech in blank verse

Children requiring extra support may need a writing framework[?] to assist with the structure of the speech.