Giving Reasons
Learn
When you share your opinion, people want to know WHY you think that way. Giving reasons makes your opinion stronger!
What Is a Reason?
A reason tells WHY you have your opinion. It explains your thinking and helps others understand.
Good reasons support your opinion and make it more convincing!
The Word "Because"
The word "because" is your best friend when giving reasons!
Opinion + because + reason
Example: "I like pizza because it is cheesy and delicious."
How Many Reasons?
Good opinion writing has at least 2-3 reasons. More reasons make your opinion stronger!
You can use these words to organize your reasons:
- First, ... (your first reason)
- Second, ... (your second reason)
- Also, ... (another reason)
- Finally, ... (your last reason)
What Makes a Good Reason?
A good reason:
- Supports your opinion
- Makes sense
- Helps others understand your thinking
- Is specific, not vague
Worked Examples
Example 1: Opinion with One Reason
Opinion: "I think dogs make great pets."
Add a reason with "because":
"I think dogs make great pets because they are loyal and love to play."
Example 2: Multiple Reasons
Opinion: "Summer is the best season."
Adding several reasons:
"Summer is the best season. First, there is no school and I can sleep late. Second, I can go swimming at the pool. Also, I get to visit my grandparents. Finally, the days are long so I have more time to play!"
Example 3: Weak Reason vs. Strong Reason
Opinion: "Cats are wonderful pets."
Weak reason: "Cats are wonderful pets because they just are."
Strong reason: "Cats are wonderful pets because they are soft, cuddly, and easy to take care of."
The strong reason explains WHY with specific details!
Example 4: Organizing with Transition Words
Opinion: "I believe recess should be longer."
"I believe recess should be longer. First, kids need time to run and play. Second, exercise helps us think better in class. Finally, we can make more friends when we have time to play together."
Example 5: Writing a Complete Opinion Paragraph
Topic: Your favorite food
Complete paragraph:
"Pizza is my favorite food. First, I love the melted cheese on top. Second, you can add your favorite toppings like pepperoni. Also, pizza is fun to eat with friends and family. That is why I think pizza is the best food ever!"
(Opinion + 3 reasons + closing!)
Practice Problems
Practice giving reasons for opinions!
Problem 1: Add a reason: "I like to read because _______________."
Show Answer
Examples: "...books take me on adventures" or "...I learn new things" or "...it is fun and relaxing"
Problem 2: Give 2 reasons for: "Birthdays are special."
Show Answer
Examples: "First, you get presents. Second, you eat cake and celebrate with friends and family."
Problem 3: Which is a stronger reason for "Dogs are great"? A) "because they are nice" B) "because they are loyal, playful, and love their owners"
Show Answer
B is stronger because it gives specific details!
Problem 4: Add a reason: "I think homework is important because _______________."
Show Answer
Examples: "...it helps me practice what I learned" or "...it helps me get better at reading and math"
Problem 5: Give 2 reasons for: "Playing outside is fun."
Show Answer
Examples: "First, I can run and play games with friends. Second, I get fresh air and sunshine."
Problem 6: What word helps connect an opinion to a reason?
Show Answer
"because"
Problem 7: Give a reason: "I think everyone should try new foods because _______________."
Show Answer
Examples: "...you might find something you love" or "...it is fun to taste different flavors"
Problem 8: Use "First" and "Second" to give two reasons for: "I love my school."
Show Answer
Example: "First, my teacher is kind and helps me learn. Second, I have great friends to play with at recess."
Problem 9: How many reasons should good opinion writing have?
Show Answer
At least 2-3 reasons. More reasons make your opinion stronger!
Problem 10: Write an opinion about your favorite game with 2 reasons.
Show Answer
Example: "I think [game name] is the best game. First, it is exciting and keeps me entertained. Second, I can play it with my friends."
Check Your Understanding
Question 1: What is a reason?
Show Answer
A reason tells WHY you have your opinion. It explains your thinking and supports what you believe.
Question 2: What word connects an opinion to a reason?
Show Answer
The word "because" connects an opinion to a reason.
Question 3: What words help organize multiple reasons?
Show Answer
"First," "Second," "Also," "Finally," "Next," "Another reason"
Question 4: Why is "because it is good" a weak reason?
Show Answer
It is weak because it does not explain anything specific. A strong reason gives details about WHY something is good.
Next Steps
- Practice: Always give reasons when you share opinions
- Write: Create opinion paragraphs with 3 reasons
- Discuss: Ask others for their reasons when they share opinions
- Challenge: Can you think of 4 reasons for your favorite opinion?