Overview

Students "sell" the main idea of a text using a three-part "Gaddie pitch" structure: "You know how…" (identify the problem or issue the text addresses), "Well, [author] suggests…" (the argument or solution), and "In fact…" (summary of supporting evidence). This blends summarising with persuasive techniques and is particularly effective for analysing opinion pieces, speeches and texts with clear arguments.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Introduce the three-part pitch structure: "You know how…" / "Well, [author] suggests…" / "In fact…"
2. Model with an example text, showing how each section works.
3. Students draft their pitch in writing using the handout.
4. In pairs, students deliver their pitch verbally to a partner (aim for under 60 seconds).
5. Partners give feedback: Was the argument clear? Was the evidence convincing?
6. Refine and optionally present the best pitches to the class.

Tips

• This is especially effective with persuasive texts, opinion pieces, and speeches.
• The verbal delivery component adds energy — encourage students to actually "sell" the idea.
• The three-part structure maps directly onto essay paragraph structure (topic sentence, explanation, evidence).

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