Writing Opinion Pieces with Supporting Reasons
Writing Opinion Pieces with Supporting Reasons Objective: Students will learn to write a clear opinion paragraph on a topic, supported by reasons and examples, addressing Common Core standard 5.W.1a.
Learning Objectives
- Understand how to state an opinion clearly in writing.
- Learn to give reasons that support the opinion.
- Practice organizing ideas to write a focused opinion paragraph.
Materials Needed
- Paper or notebook
- Pencil
- Eraser
- Sample opinion paragraph
- Opinion graphic organizer (optional)
Key Vocabulary
- Opinion
- A statement that expresses what someone thinks or feels about a topic.
- Reason
- An explanation that supports or explains an opinion.
- Supporting Detail
- Information that explains or proves a reason.
Detailed Activities
Explore and Identify Opinions
- Read a short example of an opinion paragraph aloud together.
- Discuss what the opinion is and what reasons support it.
- Ask the student to share an opinion about something they like or dislike.
Plan Your Opinion Paragraph
- Help the student choose a simple topic they have an opinion about.
- Use a graphic organizer or list to write the opinion in one sentence.
- Brainstorm two or three reasons that support the opinion with examples.
Write the Opinion Paragraph
- Guide the student to write a paragraph starting with their opinion sentence.
- Help them add sentences explaining each reason with examples.
- Encourage them to use linking words like ‘because’ or ‘for example.’
- Review the paragraph together and make simple corrections.
Parent & Instructor Notes
- This lesson focuses on helping your child express their thoughts clearly in writing.
- Encourage your child to talk about their opinions before writing to build confidence.
- Keep the writing task short and fun to maintain your child’s interest.
Assessment Questions
- What is an opinion in writing?
- Can you tell me one reason that supports your opinion?
- How did you organize your paragraph to show your opinion and reasons?
Extension Ideas
- Have your child write a second opinion paragraph on a different topic.
- Encourage them to share their opinion paragraphs with family members and discuss.
- Create a simple opinion book by compiling several short opinion pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Try asking guiding questions like ‘Why do you like this?’ or ‘Can you give an example?’ to help them think of reasons.
Focus on listening and encouraging your child’s ideas. Use the steps provided to guide them gently through the writing process.
Teacher’s Guide
Common Misconceptions:
- Students may confuse opinions with facts; remind them opinions are personal thoughts.
- Some students might write reasons that are unrelated; encourage clear connections.
- Students might write too many reasons or stray off topic; help them stay focused.
Scaffolding Ideas:
For Struggling Students:
- Provide sentence starters such as ‘I think…’ or ‘I like… because…’.
- Work together to brainstorm reasons before writing.
- Use drawings or oral explanations before writing.
For Advanced Students:
- Encourage adding more detailed examples or explanations.
- Introduce contrasting opinions and how to acknowledge them.
- Have them write a multi-paragraph opinion piece.
Pacing Recommendations:
- Spend 10 minutes on exploring and identifying opinions.
- Allocate 10-15 minutes to planning the paragraph.
- Use the remaining 20-25 minutes for writing and reviewing.
Standards
- 5.W.1a — Write opinion pieces on topics or texts, supporting a point of view with reasons and information.
Printable Worksheet
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