Persuasive Techniques

Question 1

Repetition of a sound, particularly at the beginning of words; often used in headlines

Answer 1

Alliteration

Question 2

Alliteration Effects (repetition)

Answer 2

• captures attention
• adds emphasis to the writer’s point
• draws attention to key words

Question 3

Used to denigrate an opponent and, by implication, their point of view

Answer 3

Attacking Language

Question 4

Attacking Language Effects

Answer 4

• draws attention away from reasoned argument

- positions readers to agree that if an individual is flawed, their message must be too

Question 5

Association or implied meaning of a word

Answer 5

Connotation

Question 6

Connotation Effects (implied meaning of a word)

Answer 6

• arouses feelings and attitudes that position readers to like/dislike or accept/reject a group, an idea or viewpoint
• the word ‘sheep’ has connotations of low intelligence and inability to think independently
• cumulative impact is one of contempt for such unbelievable behaviour

Question 7

deliberately strong words used to provoke emotion in the reader.

Answer 7

Emotive Language

Question 8

Emotive Language Effects

Answer 8

• positions readers to react emotionally, rather than rationally
• leads the reader to share the writer’s feelings on the subject

Question 9

involves the reader directly in the issue by using words such as ‘we’ or ‘us’

Answer 9

Inclusive Language

Question 10

Inclusive Language Effects

Answer 10

• makes the reader feel included and that their view counts

- encourages readers to agree, since this view is apparently shared by the group as a whole

Question 11

comparisons that describe one thing in terms of another

Answer 11

Metaphors and Similes

Question 12

Metaphor and Simile Effects

Answer 12

• capitalises on associations with a vivid image

- evokes emotion in the reader that matches the emotion of the writer

Question 13

using dramatic, forceful language to exaggerate the real situation

Answer 13

Hyperbole

Question 14

Hyperbole Effects

Answer 14

• arouses emotion in the reader
• can be humorous
• ‘worst-case scenario’ plays on the reader’s fears

Question 15

repeating words, phrases or ideas for emphasis

Answer 15

Repetition

Question 16

Repetition Effects

Answer 16

• emphasises the writer’s viewpoint and captures attention

- makes the point more memorable

Question 17

a question that requires no answer, usually because the answer is implied.

Answer 17

Rhetorical Question

Question 18

Rhetorical Question Effects

Answer 18

• positions readers to agree by assuming their answer will be the same as the writer’s
• engages readers by addressing them directly

Question 19

painting a word picture of a scene or action using similes, metaphors and analogies

Answer 19

Figurative Language

Question 19

Figurative Language Effects

Answer 19

• if readers can visualise problem, they may be more likely to support their argument
• we are more likely to believe something we see (in our minds) more than something we are simply told
• evokes emotion

Question 19

using evidence from history, shared beliefs and customs to support an argument

Answer 19

Reference to History

Question 20

Reference to History Effects

Answer 20

• people are not very willing to change something that has existed and worked for a long time
• we are supposed to learn from history