Writing to argue, persuade and explain — AQA GCSE English Language revision

Structure your argument

• Open with a bold hook: an anecdote, a statistic or a direct question.
• One clear point per paragraph, developed with evidence and consequence.
• Acknowledge the counter-argument, then dismantle it — this shows control.

Persuasive toolkit

• Direct address, rhetorical questions, rule of three, anecdote, statistics, emotive language.
• Match register to audience and form (letter, speech, article) — include the right conventions.
• End with a call to action that echoes the opening.

Key terms

Register

How formal or informal your language is for a given audience.

Counter-argument

The opposing view, which you address and challenge.

Rule of three

Three linked items in a list for rhythm and emphasis.

Rhetorical question

A question asked for effect rather than to get an answer, guiding the reader to a conclusion.

Direct address

Speaking straight to the reader using 'you' to create connection or challenge them.

Anecdote

A short personal or invented story used to make an argument feel relatable.

Common exam traps

• Forgetting the form's conventions (no heading on an article, no sign-off on a speech).
• Listing techniques rather than building a genuine argument.
• Being so informal that the register slips for the stated audience.

Practice questions with answers

1. 1. Why include a counter-argument?

   • • To fill space
   • • To show awareness of other views and then challenge them
   • • To agree with the other side
   • • Because it is required by word count

   Answer: To show awareness of other views and then challenge them

   Handling the opposition demonstrates a controlled argument.

2. 2. Name three persuasive techniques.

   Answer: Direct address, rhetorical question and the rule of three.

   Statistics, anecdote and emotive language also work.

3. 3. What should the final paragraph of a persuasive piece do?

   Answer: Give a clear call to action and echo the opening idea.

   A circular finish feels deliberate and controlled.

4. 4. Which is the most appropriate opening for a formal letter?

   • • Hiya!
   • • Dear Sir or Madam,
   • • Yo,
   • • To whoever reads this

   Answer: Dear Sir or Madam,

   Match the register to the audience and form.

5. 5. What do the initials 'APF' remind you to check before writing a viewpoint response?

   • • Adjectives, Punctuation, Fluency
   • • Audience, Purpose, Form
   • • Analysis, Plan, Finish
   • • Argument, Paragraph, Fact

   Answer: Audience, Purpose, Form

   Checking who you're writing for, why, and in what format shapes tone, structure and technique choice.

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