Persuasive Techniques

Question 1

Describe the effect an ‘anecdote’ has on the audience.

Answer 1

Adds weight to the argument.

Usually personal and evokes an emotive response.

Question 2

Describe the effect an ‘rebuttal’ has on the audience.

Answer 2

Makes the writer appear fair by acknowledging the other side of the argument.

Question 3

Describe the effect an ‘rhetorical question’ has on the audience.

Answer 3

Makes the answer seem obvious.

Question 4

Describe the effect an ‘evidence’ has on the audience.

Answer 4

Factual information which supports the contention and is difficult to refute. Adds to the writer’s credibility.

Question 5

Describe the effect an ‘inclusive language’ has on the audience.

Answer 5

To involve/include the reader into the issue.

Question 6

Describe the effect an ‘appeal to fear’ has on the audience.

Answer 6

Frightens the reader in agreeing with the writer’s contention.

Question 7

Describe the effect an ‘appeal to hip pocket nerve’ has on the audience.

Answer 7

Works to anger the reader that their money is being spent inappropriately.

Question 8

Describe the effect an ‘tradition/custom’ has on the audience.

Answer 8

Saddens/angers the reader that certain traditions are being forgotten.

Question 9

Describe the effect an ‘appeal to common sense/logic’ has on the audience.

Answer 9

Positions those who disagree to feel foolish.

Question 10

Describe the effect an ‘attack’ has on the audience.

Answer 10

Denigrate or humiliate the person rather than the idea. Positions the audience to want to distance themselves.