Tips from my teacher....
For TONE
don't say...calm...say reasoned, measured, logical, rational, considered, moderate, respectful, earnest.
...excited or angry, rather say aggressive, antagonistic, mocking, disrespectful, emotional, fervent.
...complaining, say embittered, resentful, appalled, pessimistic, despondent, anxious, disgusted.
...for positive say positive, hopeful, enthusiastic, humorous, optimistic,confident, passionate.
for firm again say firm or assertive, certain, convincing, effective, commanding, authoritative, uncompromising.
or it may be ironic, cynical, bitter, sarcastic, sardonic, scornful,
or controlled, neutral, cautious, guarded, detached, impartial.
or critical, arrogant, insensitive, demanding.
Many students write "calm" & "excited" & "angry" so avoid those and try to use similes that I've suggested.
For VOCAB:
the writer compels readers to accept his argument....
the argument prompts people to think of their responsibility in regard to.
the explanation positions readers to feel sympathy for...(I know that they love this one!)
this anecdote evokes feelings of frustration in readers when...
no doubt this would encourage others to also feel...
likely to convince readers
this positive approach generates approval
And the beginnings of paragraphs or new points could be to get the flow going:
Initially
Furthermore
In addition
Nevertheless
In contrast
Moreover
In conclusion
Finally