Writing Application
Learn
Now it is time to write your own opinion pieces! You have learned how to state opinions and give reasons. In this lesson, you will put it all together.
The Parts of an Opinion Piece
A good opinion piece has three parts:
- Introduction: Tell your opinion clearly using opinion words (I think, I believe, The best...)
- Body: Give 2-3 reasons that support your opinion. Use words like "First," "Second," "Also," and "Because"
- Conclusion: Restate your opinion in a new way or tell the reader what to do
Planning Before Writing
Before you write, make a plan:
- Choose a topic you care about
- Decide on your opinion
- Think of 2-3 strong reasons
- Put your reasons in order (save the best for last!)
Examples
Example 1: Planning an Opinion Piece
Topic: Favorite school subject
My Opinion: I think art is the best subject.
Reason 1: You can be creative.
Reason 2: You can make gifts for family.
Reason 3: It is relaxing and fun.
Example 2: The Finished Opinion Piece
"I think art is the best subject in school. First, in art class you can be creative and use your imagination. Second, you can make special gifts for your family like paintings and cards. Art is also relaxing and fun. Everyone should try to enjoy art class because it makes school more exciting!"
Example 3: Another Opinion Piece
"I believe every classroom should have a class pet. One reason is that class pets teach us to be responsible. We learn to feed them and keep their home clean. Another reason is that pets make us feel calm and happy. When I feel sad, looking at a fish swim makes me feel better. Class pets also give us something fun to write about and draw. I think class pets make learning more fun for everyone!"
Practice
Complete each writing activity. Use the planning steps you learned.
Practice 1: Complete the Opinion Piece
Fill in the blanks to finish this opinion piece:
"I think _____________ is the best pet. First, _____________. Second, _____________. Also, _____________. That is why I believe _____________ is the best pet!"
Practice 2: Add Reasons
Here is an opinion. Add 3 reasons to support it:
Opinion: "I believe everyone should eat vegetables."
Reason 1: ___________________
Reason 2: ___________________
Reason 3: ___________________
Practice 3: Write a Conclusion
Read this opinion piece and write a good conclusion:
"The best time of day is morning. First, everything is fresh and new. Second, I have lots of energy to play. Third, I get to eat breakfast, which is my favorite meal."
Your conclusion: ___________________
Practice 4: Plan Your Own Opinion Piece
Topic: What is your favorite game to play?
My Opinion: ___________________
Reason 1: ___________________
Reason 2: ___________________
Reason 3: ___________________
Conclusion idea: ___________________
Practice 5: Write from Your Plan
Use your plan from Practice 4 to write a complete opinion piece about your favorite game. Remember to include:
- An introduction with your opinion
- A body with your reasons
- A conclusion
Practice 6: Choose Your Own Topic
Pick one topic and write a complete opinion piece:
- Should kids have more time for recess?
- What is the best holiday?
- Should everyone learn to swim?
Practice 7: Opinion About a Book
Think of a book you have read. Write an opinion piece telling why other kids should read it (or why they should not). Include at least 2 reasons.
Practice 8: Convince Your Teacher
Write an opinion piece to convince your teacher about something. You could write about:
- Having more free reading time
- Taking a field trip somewhere special
- Having a class party
Make sure your reasons are strong enough to convince an adult!
Practice 9: Fix the Order
These sentences are mixed up. Put them in the right order to make a good opinion piece:
- Second, you can share popcorn with friends.
- I think going to the movies is the best activity.
- That is why I love movie day!
- First, the big screen makes everything look amazing.
- Third, it is fun to talk about the movie after.
Practice 10: Make It Stronger
This opinion piece is too short. Add more details to make it better:
"I like pizza. It tastes good. You should eat pizza."
Your improved version: ___________________
Check Your Understanding
Answer these questions to see how well you understand writing opinion pieces.
- What are the three parts of an opinion piece?
- Why is it helpful to plan before you write?
- How many reasons should you include in an opinion piece?
- What makes a conclusion strong?
Next Steps
- Read your opinion pieces out loud to hear how they sound
- Share your writing with a family member and ask what they think
- Move on to the Editing Workshop to learn how to make your writing even better