A note from Field Notes. This is a persuasive writing piece by Zanda, age 11, from Echuca. It was sent in to theINmag and we're publishing it here, in his words, as part of Real Kids Voices. We've left the writing as Zanda wrote it. The voice is his. Teachers and homeschoolers: this is a real Year 5/6 persuasive text written by an Australian kid, for the kind of audience persuasive writing is actually for - a parent he's trying to convince.
Dear Dad,
Mum, Ned, Gus and I really want a puppy. A puppy will come with many pros, such as entertaining Marshall while we are away, making us boys more happy by having double friends to pat, and there is much more.
She Will Entertain Marshall
When we go on holidays we always leave Marshall alone somewhere. If we had a new puppy Marshall will be more entertained while we are away. Plus, Marshall has been desperate to have a good friend that is a dog and that he can see more than once a day.
Two Friends to Pat
Sometimes me, Ned and Gus fight over Marshall, but if we get a new dog it will make for less fights. If we fight less it will mean that you don't have to yell as much. Ned would also love sitting on a comfy chair with a dog on both sides of him. Do you want us kids to be heartbroken if you decide that us boys aren't getting a new dog?
Double the Fun
We have been really worried about Marshall lately. He seems sad and lonely and we try our best to be happy but sometimes we are tired. If we had two dogs we would have more fun and also be able to have a break when we need it. Like, time on our iPads and stuff.
To wrap it up we really, really want a new dog.
From your loving child.
Got questions?
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A persuasive text is a piece of writing where the author tries to convince the reader of something. In Australian primary classrooms, persuasive writing is one of three main text types kids learn, alongside informative and entertaining texts. Zanda's piece is a good example - he has a clear position (the family should get a second dog), three reasons, and an audience he is actually trying to convince (his dad).
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Yes. The piece is freely available to read with kids as an example of real Year 5/6 persuasive writing by an Australian kid. The author has consented to publication via theINmag. If you use it in class, we'd love to hear from you - Zanda would too.
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Pick something you actually want. A pet. A later bedtime. A specific snack at the shops. Write down three reasons. Address it to the person who can give you the thing. Read it back to see if you've convinced yourself. There's no time limit - give it as long as it takes, and write more if you've got more to say.
