English Example Persuasive Essay Example

self-directed time.

The author highlights the concept of freedom of time in childhood, which is often associated with children having sufficient playtime and carefree moments while adults handle adult responsibilities. The author uses repetition to emphasize that modern-day children are not experiencing these enjoyable moments as previous generations did when outdoor activities were prioritized over studying. By employing traditional paternalism and repetition, the author strengthens their argument that today's children are deprived of a genuine childhood experience.

The text The Hurried Child predominantly employs appeal to authority to manipulate the audience's belief in the author's statements. This persuasive technique relies on the audience's respect or intimidation towards the authority's knowledge or expertise. The author reinforces their argument on the absence of a genuine childhood for children by including the viewpoint of Psychologist David Elkind. As someone aspiring to become a Psychologist, the author's inclusion of a Psychologist's opinion automatically garners my respect and strengthens their viewpoint in my perspective.

The author's effective appeal to authority aims to convince the audience, a viewpoint that I share. The article, published in March 2002 when I was five years old, likely discusses my generation's childhood experiences. Consequently, I am not fond of the author's use of both inclusive and exclusive language. By using inclusive language, the author strengthens their argument by including certain segments of the audience while devaluing children's opinions.

Inclusive language acknowledges and incorporates everyone, but it can inadvertently exclude certain groups to highlight a particular viewpoint. An example of both inclusive and exclusive language is found in the following statement: "We should avoid thinking that children are simply brainwashed puppets." This

statement appeals to the intended audience (parents and adults) by involving them in the argument, yet excludes children through the use of the word "kids".

In “The Hurried Child,” Kathleen McDonnell argues that children no longer experience a traditional childhood. She employs various language techniques, including invoking authority and paternalistic values, repetition, and exclusive language, to emphasize her main point. McDonnell asserts that a conventional childhood would result in nurturing and helpful adults who actively contribute to their communities. This is the goal we should all aim for.