a structure or device used in writing to try to change someone’s mind or behaviour

language structures that develop text cohesion

a piece of punctuation placed after a complete sentence that can introduce an explanation

information or facts to show something is true

Writing the first paragraph of a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes

English

In this unit, pupils learn to use persuasive devices for letter writing with increasing nuance.

In 'Persuasive Letter Writing: School Uniform', pupils learnt to use persuasive devices in letter writing to persuade the reader of the writer's position. In this unit, pupils will learn to use persuasive devices for letter writing with increasing nuance.

'Sherlock Holmes': descriptive and letter writing

a reason why we think Holmes should investigate

Which of the following will we include in a persuasive paragraph of our letter to Sherlock Holmes? 

Which of the following is **not** a persuasive technique? 

If you refuse to help, they will continue to suffer. 

Some people are threatening to leave the village. 

Surely you must want to prevent this happening?

Which sentences include a persuasive technique? 

After which word should the colon be placed in the following sentence? 'I urgently need your help the community is feeling very unsafe.'

I am in danger if the Hound: is real it is said to kill members of my family.

I am in danger if the Hound is real it is said to kill: members of my family.

I am in danger if the Hound is real it is said: to kill members of my family.

I am in danger if the Hound is real: it is said to kill members of my family.

Which sentence has a colon for explanation in the correct position?

Which persuasive technique is used in the following sentence? 'Without your help, I am concerned that the village itself will soon be deserted.'

introductory sentence saying why you are writing

detailed reasons and evidence for why the reader should help

Which of the following features is **not** included in an introduction to a persuasive letter? 

It includes a semi-colon to improve text cohesion. 

It includes a summary of the events that have occurred. 

What makes the following a good introductory sentence? 'I know you are a very busy and important man; however, I need your assistance with a very serious problem.'

What is the purpose of using cohesive devices? 

Which cohesive device is shown in the following sentence? 'Although there were no signs of injury on the body, large dog prints were found nearby.'

Which cohesive devices are seen in the following sentence? 'The police have thoroughly investigated; despite this, they have not found anything.'

It makes the reader feel valued and respected. 

It makes the reader feel guilty for not helping. 

It makes the reader feel scared of the writer.

Why is a veiled threat an effective persuasive technique?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Writing the first paragraph of a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.