What makes a good persuasive essay

Here are a few points to consider in evaluating a persuasive essay (yours or someone else's):

1. Does the writer take a firm, clear stand on a debatable issue?
2. Does the writer employ adequate evidence to support that stand?
3. Does the writer consider his or her audience?
4. Are main arguments based on logic but employ emotion effectively?
5. Does the argument take into account and refute counter-arguments?

This post is one worth coming back to throughout the semester.