How to Write a Persuasive Argument (AQA GCSE English Language Paper 2 – Question 5)
- Nigel Porter
- 1 minute ago
- 4 min read
If persuasive writing feels confusing or overwhelming, you are not alone.
This guide will show you:
Exactly what AQA want
A clear paragraph structure you can use every time
Top examiner tips
A model example with examiner-style annotations
By the end, you’ll have a repeatable method you can confidently apply in the exam.
What Is Paper 2 Question 5?
EXAMINER TIP: Paper 2 Question 5 is often the easiest place to gain marks because there is no reading comprehension involved — your success depends entirely on structure and technique.
In AQA GCSE English Language Paper 2, Question 5 asks you to write a piece of non-fiction persuasive writing.
You may be asked to write:
an article
a speech
a letter
or a text for a website or magazine
You will always be given:
a topic
a purpose (to argue, persuade, explain or advise)
an audience
Key skill: convincing the reader to agree with your viewpoint.
How Is Question 5 Marked?
The question is marked using two Assessment Objectives:
AO5 – Content & Organisation (24 marks)
You are rewarded for:
clear viewpoint
developed arguments
effective persuasive techniques
logical paragraphing
strong organisation
AO6 – Technical Accuracy (16 marks)
You are rewarded for:
accurate spelling
punctuation
sentence variety
ambitious vocabulary
More than half the marks come from what you say and how you structure it.
The Perfect Paragraph Structure
REMEMBER: Examiners do not reward creativity alone — they reward clear argument structure.
Examiners love writing that is clear, logical and purposeful.
Use this structure every time:
Introduction – hook the reader + state your viewpoint
Point 1 – strongest argument first
Point 2 – develop your reasoning
Concession – acknowledge the other side
Point 3 – emotional or social impact
Conclusion – summarise + call to action
Think of it as:
Opinion → Evidence → Explanation → Persuasion
5-Minute Exam Paragraph Plan
TIME MANAGEMENT TIP Spending 5 minutes planning can increase your mark by 10–15%.
You should spend 5 minutes planning before writing.
Example plan:
Viewpoint: Public transport should be free for under‑18s
Point 1: Fairness for families
Point 2: Education and independence
Concession: Cost to government
Rebuttal: Long‑term benefits
Point 3: Environmental impact
Conclusion: Call on leaders to act
A simple plan like this can add multiple grades to your answer by helping you structure your argument logically.
Top Persuasive Techniques to Use
⚠️ COMMON MISTAKE: Using too many techniques without explanation will not gain marks. Quality always beats quantity.
Aim to include several of these naturally:
Rhetorical questions Is this really fair?
Direct address You, we, our future
Rule of three fairer, safer and more effective
Emotive language pressure, inequality, opportunity
Facts or statistics (can be realistic but invented)
Concession and rebuttal Some people argue… however…
Examiners reward control, not quantity.
Model Example with Examiner Annotations
Question:
Write a letter to your local MP arguing your opinion on whether public transport should be free for under‑18s.
Model Response (Extract)
Dear Sir or Madam, Have we truly considered how difficult it has become for young people simply to travel to school, college or work? For many families, rising transport costs create unnecessary barriers that prevent teenagers from accessing education and opportunity. I strongly believe that public transport should be free for all under‑18s.
Examiner annotation:
Clear viewpoint established immediately ✅
Rhetorical question engages reader ✅
Formal tone appropriate for audience ✅
Firstly, free public transport would significantly reduce inequality. Many students rely on buses and trains daily, yet fares continue to rise. Recent surveys suggest that one in three young people have missed activities due to travel costs. Education should never depend on affordability.
Examiner annotation:
Strong topic sentence ✅
Evidence used effectively ✅
Emotive final sentence adds impact ✅
Some critics argue that making transport free would place too much strain on public funds. While this concern is understandable, it ignores the long‑term benefits. Increased attendance, improved employment access and reduced traffic would ultimately save money rather than waste it.
Examiner annotation:
Clear concession and rebuttal ✅
Mature, balanced tone ✅
Shows evaluative thinking (Grade 8–9 feature) ✅
In conclusion, free public transport for under‑18s is not an unrealistic dream but a necessary investment. It supports families, strengthens education and protects our environment. It is time for decision‑makers to act — our future depends on it.
Examiner annotation:
Summary of key arguments ✅
Strong call to action ✅
Memorable final line ✅
Examiner Top Tips
✔ Always make your viewpoint obvious
✔ Strongest argument first
✔ Use paragraphing clearly
✔ Include a concession point
✔ Write with confidence and authority
✔ Never turn it into a story
✔ Finish powerfully
Would You Like Step‑by‑Step Support?
If you want:
✔ full model answers
✔ examiner explanations in simple language
✔ sentence starters and planning templates
✔ guidance on how to reach Grades 7–9
Then my English Success Guide is designed specifically for GCSE students who want clear, practical support — without confusing terminology.
The guide includes:
persuasive writing frameworks
annotated grade 9 models
planning templates
exam checklists
confidence‑boosting strategies
You can find it via the link below on my website.
Final Thought
Persuasive writing is not about sounding clever — it’s about thinking clearly and guiding the reader step by step.
Once you master the structure, the marks follow.
Good luck — and remember: you can absolutely do this.
— Mr Porter Tutoring
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