Mini-Lesson

Persuasive Writing

Mini-Lesson: Grades 2-3

Objective: Students will write a persuasive speech.

1. Ask students to share what they know about Hurricane Ike. Have them read the timeforkids.com story, Surviving the Storm.

2. Focus on the section "Preparing for Ike's Arrival." Point out that four out of five people did not plan to leave even though they were advised to do so. Ask: Why do you think so many people refused to leave? If you were in their place, what would you have done?

3. Challenge students to imagine that it is their job to speak at a televised press conference as a dangerous hurricane is approaching. Have them write a speech to persuade as many people as possible to leave town before the storm arrives.

Extend Learning: Use the worksheet What's in a Name? to teach students how hurricanes are named.