Not every 11+ writing task is a story. Some schools ask for persuasive writing — a letter, speech or article arguing a point. It's a very learnable genre: a clear structure plus a handful of techniques will take your child a long way.
A simple structure
- Introduction — hook the reader and state your opinion clearly.
- Point 1 — your strongest reason, with evidence or an example.
- Point 2 — a second reason, with evidence.
- Point 3 — a third reason (the rule of three works for paragraphs too).
- Counter-argument — acknowledge the other side, then rebut it.
- Conclusion — sum up and end with a powerful call to action.
Useful paragraph openers: Firstly, Furthermore, In addition, Moreover, Admittedly, However, Ultimately, In conclusion.
Persuasive techniques
- Rhetorical question
- A question that makes the reader think, not answer. Wouldn't you want the same for your own children?
- Direct address
- Speaking to the reader as "you". You have the power to change this.
- Rule of three
- Three points or adjectives for rhythm. It is cheaper, healthier and kinder to the planet.
- Emotive language
- Words that stir feelings. Helpless animals are left abandoned and starving.
- Facts and statistics
- Evidence gives weight — keep invented ones realistic and general in an exam.
- Expert opinion
- Doctors agree that… / Many teachers believe…
- Inclusive language
- "We" and "us" to build togetherness. Together, we can make a difference.
- Counter-argument and rebuttal
- Some may say it's too expensive. However, the long-term savings would be enormous.
- Repetition
- Repeating a key phrase for emphasis. We need change. We need it now.
Model answer (abridged)
Task: Write a letter to your headteacher persuading them to create a school garden.
Dear Mrs Clarke,
Imagine stepping out of a stuffy classroom into a garden bursting with colour, buzzing with bees and full of vegetables we have grown ourselves. I am writing to ask you to make that dream a reality by creating a school garden.
Firstly, a garden would be a wonderful place to learn. Science lessons about plants, habitats and life cycles would come alive when we could see, touch and even taste the results. Surely learning is more memorable when we experience it rather than simply read about it?
Furthermore, gardening is good for our health. Being outdoors, keeping active and eating fresh food all help us feel happier and more focused in class.
Admittedly, some people may worry about the cost. However, many families have offered to donate seeds and tools, and the Year 6 classes would gladly raise money through a plant sale.
A school garden would help us learn, grow and look after our planet. Please give us the chance to show you what we can do.
Yours sincerely,
Aisha Patel, Year 6
What makes it work
- Hook: "Imagine…" plus a vivid, sensory picture.
- Clear opinion in the first paragraph.
- Rhetorical question in paragraph two.
- Rule of three: "see, touch and even taste"; "learn, grow and look after our planet".
- Counter-argument acknowledged with "Admittedly" and rebutted with "However".
- Correct letter format: "Dear Mrs Clarke" → "Yours sincerely" (named recipient).
- Polite, formal tone suited to the audience.
Common mistakes
- Sitting on the fence. Pick a side and argue it confidently.
- Wrong tone. A letter to a headteacher shouldn't sound like a chat with a friend.
- Overdoing techniques. Five rhetorical questions in a row sounds forced.
- No ending. Finish with a clear call to action.
Persuasive writing is the final genre in Elevenplus FC's Writing Coach curriculum, with a checklist of techniques, a score and specific feedback. See the Writing Coach.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of persuasive tasks appear in the 11+?
Typically a letter, speech or article arguing for or against something — for example 'Write a letter to your headteacher persuading them to extend lunchtime' or 'Should children have homework?'
What persuasive techniques should my child use?
Rhetorical questions, direct address ('you'), the rule of three, emotive language, facts and statistics (realistic ones), expert opinion, and addressing the counter-argument. A strong piece uses several naturally rather than ticking every box.
Should a persuasive piece include the other side of the argument?
Yes — briefly acknowledging and then rebutting the opposing view ('Some people argue… however…') makes the argument more convincing and is a sign of mature writing.