Activity Title - Should We or Shouldn't We

Goal/Objective

Students will write an effective persuasive paragraph.

Lesson Outline/Introduction

Discuss the fact that we have the privilege of voting. Some people, however, feel that it isn't important to vote and doesn't really matter if they don't vote. Let the students identify some reasons they feel they should vote and also reasons why they feel it isn't important to vote.

Activity

Have the students choose a side. They should either choose that it is important to vote or it really isn't important that they vote. Have them write an effective paragraph convincing others that they are correct in their choice.

Debriefing/Evaluation Activity

Have the students read their paragraphs orally to the class. Talk about some of the really good thoughts that they come up with in their paragraphs.

Materials, Texts, Realia, Handouts

• Paper and Pencils

Extension Activity

Have the students bring in examples of good persuasive paragraphs they have found. Let them share the examples with the class.

ESE/ESOL Accommodations

Divide the class into groups of two. Have the group make a list of 10 topics that you could write a persuasive paragraph about.

Real-Life Connection

Find out how many are registered to vote. If students are not registered, give them the opportunity to register. Pass out voter registration cards that you have picked up to any who are interested in voting.

Activity Title - Should We or Shouldn't We

Introduction

Say: We have the privilege of voting. Some people think it is important to vote and some people feel that it is not all that important whether they vote or not.

Ask: What are some reasons it is important to vote? What are some reasons that make you feel that it is not important whether you vote or not?

Main Activity

Say: Choose one side to be on. Either choose that it is important to vote or choose that it is not important whether you vote or not. Write an effective persuasive paragraph that would make other people convinced that you are correct.

Closure/Conclusion

Say: We will now listen to the paragraphs that you have written.

Ask: What was a strong point in the paragraph that you just heard?

Follow-up lessons/Activities

Students will write a second persuasive paragraph on a topic of their choosing.