Argumentative vs. Persuasive Writing: Key Differences

Writing is a skill that students acquire during their school years. Of all the forms of writing, argumentative and persuasive essays are two distinct forms that are often confused as one. While both attempt to convince readers, their forms are very different. For parents and grade 1 - 12 students, it is important to understand the differences to become essay writing masters and excel in school assignments. 

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This article explains the key differences between argumentative and persuasive writing, provides examples, and offers tips to become skilled in both forms.

What is Argumentative Writing

Argumentative writing emphasises the use of a balanced description of a problem based on evidence to support arguments and counterarguments. The aim is to persuade readers that the position of the author is correct using rational arguments and authentic evidence.

Key Elements of Argumentative Writing

• Evidence-Based: Derived from facts, data, and research to support claims.
• Acknowledges Counterarguments: Provides counterarguments and refutes them rationally.
• Objective Tone: Maintains a flat, logical tone free of appeals to emotion.

Example of an Argumentative Thesis

"Utilisation of renewable energy resources can reduce carbon emissions and efficiently mitigate climate change."

Here, the author would present evidence such as scientific facts and statistics to back up the argument and negate arguments based on cost or feasibility..

What is Persuasive Writing?

Persuasive writing tries to convince readers to do something or believe something by appealing to their values, beliefs, or emotions. Persuasive writing is not the same as argumentative writing because it usually takes one side of a topic and does not address the other.

Significant Characteristics of Persuasive Writing

• Emotion-Based: Uses words with emotion to engage readers.
• One-Sided: Presents solely the author's view without referencing contrary arguments.
• Call to Action: Encourages the audience to act quickly or change their way of thinking.

Example of a Persuasive Thesis

"Everyone must shift to renewable energy sources to save our world for future generations."

Here, the writer appeals to emotions via emphasis on caring for the world and the necessity of acting quickly.

Comparison Table: Argumentative vs. Persuasive Writing

Steps to Find the Difference Between Argumentative vs. Persuasive Essays

Ask These Questions:

• Is the essay on facts or emotion?

Facts are argumentative writing; emotions are persuasive writing.

• Are opposing views discussed?

If it is, then it's argumentative; otherwise, it's persuasive.

• Does it include a call to action?

A call to action is usually a sign of persuasive writing.

Tips for Mastering Both Styles

For Argumentative Writing:

• Conduct extensive research from sources like academic journals or government reports.
• Formulate a precise thesis statement reflecting your stand.
• Ensure logical transitions between arguments and counterarguments.
• Always support statements with evidence.

For Persuasive Writing:

• Understand your values and beliefs.
• Employ rhetorical devices such as repetition or anecdotes to reinforce your argument.
• Keep your passion, but be respectful.
• Summarise it well.
• Close with a powerful call to action.

How 98thPercentile Can Assist Your Child in Mastering Essay Writing

At 98thPercentile, we recognise that it may be difficult for students to learn how to write essays - argumentative or persuasive - without guidance.

Why Choose 98thPercentile

1. Interactive Lessons: Learners acquire skills through experiential activities such as role-playing, debates, and writing exercises.

2. Personalized Feedback: Our teachers provide detailed feedback tailored to meet the strengths and weaknesses of every student.

3. Real-Life Applications: Lessons connect essay-writing skills with real-life applications like speechwriting or opinion writing.

4. Small Class Sizes: With fewer students per class, every child receives individual attention.

5. Proven Results: Students exhibit quantifiable improvement in writing style, organisation, and clarity within weeks!

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To grasp the distinction between argumentative and persuasive essays is key to school and life communication. One uses reason and evidence, and the other uses emotion, both calling for certain abilities to be mastered through practice.

For parents looking for creative means to assist their child with their English studies, register them in 98thPercentile's English course, where learning is enjoyable with a guarantee of academic success! We can work together to assist your child in mastering language arts with ease.

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FAQs

Ans: Argumentative essays rely on evidence and reason to establish an argument, whereas persuasive essays utilise appeal to emotion to persuade readers.

Q2: Can an essay be argumentative as well as persuasive?

Ans: Although they share the same features, essays tend to be toward one style based on their purpose: logical reasoning (argumentative) or emotional appeal (persuasive).

Q3: How can I enhance my argumentative writing skills?

Ans: Practice good research, sound argumentation, and refutation of counterarguments.

Q4: Provide some examples of persuasive writing.

Ans: Advertisements, political orations, editorials, and book reviews are common examples of the persuasive writing style.

Q5: Why are both styles needed for students to learn?

Ans: By understanding both styles, students can communicate effectively in different situations, from term papers to actual situations such as debates or campaigns.

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