Developmental indicators

English Unit 3A | Language and Identity | Generational differences | Language techniques | Feature articles: Persuasive language techniques

Feature articles: Persuasive language techniquesNameDate

Writers of feature articles use a range of language techniques to encourage us to agree or be persuaded to believe their argument and opinion.

Name of techniqueExplanationWhy the technique is effectiveExamples from articleSpecific effect on the reader

Anecdotea short account or story; usually a personal story relayed by the writer; sometimes entertaining; gives a human angle It seems true (as if it happened to someone) so positions readers to accept information.

It positions readers to connect with the writer and share in common experiences or thoughts.

Emotional appealthis includes appeals to common sense; love; family bonds; fear of crime, violence, rejection; patriotism and moralsThere are a variety of different appeals that can be employed by the writer.

Persuades the reader to agree by inferring shared experiences, values, attitudes and beliefs.

Generalisationa broad and sweeping statement that lacks specific evidence; asserts that something is true in all or most occasions or for many or all people The generalisations are often presented as truths and facts.

Generalisations often appeal to the readers pre-existing prejudices about certain people or groups.

Rhetorical questiona question with an implied but unstated answer; usually only one answer is appropriate The answer appears obvious and logical therefore the reader must agree with it or risk feeling alienated.

Some rhetorical questions also invite the reader to question their own thoughts and feelings towards the topic or issue.

Evidenceuse of facts and figures (statistics) to provide rational, scientific proof as the basis for a point of view; can also take the form of expert advice or an expert opinion It positions the reader to view the writers argument as more convincing because it appears to be supported by objective and reliable sources. Culturally we are conditioned to not question people in authority and therefore are likely to accept the point of view of someone who is an authority on the topic.

Inclusive languageuse of pronouns and other words that place the writer and the reader within the same group The reader feels included within the article; their beliefs, values, ideas etc are being recognised by the writer.

It appeals to the readers herd mentality, ie the desire to be part of a group.

Figurative languagewords that have meaning beyond the literal meaning, for example similes, metaphors, personification and metonyms It adds interest to an article as it creates images for the reader.

Figurative language is a useful tool when constructing representations of people, places and events.

Tricolondividing or presenting an idea or argument in three equal parts The repetition reinforces the general point being made.

Hyperbole (exaggeration)deliberate exaggeration to reinforce a point or idea; can be used for serious or comic effect It makes the statement seem more powerful or important than it might actually be. Hyperbole can be engaging when its used in a humorous way.

Tonereveals the writers attitudes; similar to using different tones when speaking to reveal feelings and attitudes The tone guides how the reader should respond to a particular point, idea or topic. For example, if the writer uses a sarcastic tone when describing an event, the reader is being positioned to reject or question that event.

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