Opinion Writing Guide

Opinion Writing Guide

Paragraph #1: Introduction

  • Provide context from the prompt to hook your reader.

  • Reveal your opinion with an assertion:

    • Phrases to use:

    • "I strongly believe …"

    • "I firmly believe …"

    • "I wholeheartedly believe …"

  • Share your thesis statement in one long sentence that includes your three reasons:

    • Structure: "I believe this because __________, __________, and __________."

Paragraph #2: Reason #1

  1. Start with a transition word or phrase and restate your first reason:

    • Example transition words:

      • "First of all …"

  2. Provide an example from the article to support your reason.

  3. Use a sentence starter to introduce your text evidence from the article for support.

  4. Add a real-world connection or use figurative language.

  5. Elaborate further on the topic to enhance your argument.

  6. Include an expert statement using evidence from the article:

    • Phrase to use: "Many experts agree…"

  7. Add a concluding statement that restates your first reason and wraps it up.

Paragraph #3: Reason #2

  1. Start with a transition word or phrase and restate your second reason:

    • Example transition word:

      • "Next …"

  2. Provide an example from the infographic to support your reason.

  3. Use a sentence starter to introduce your text evidence from the infographic for support.

  4. Add a real-world connection or use figurative language.

  5. Elaborate further on the topic to develop your argument.

  6. Include an expert statement using evidence from the infographic:

    • Phrase to use: "The data demonstrates…"

  7. Add a concluding statement that restates your second reason and wraps it up.

Paragraph #4: Reason #3

  1. Start with a transition word or phrase and restate your third reason:

    • Example transition word:

      • "Finally …"

  2. Provide an example from either the article or infographic for support.

  3. Use a sentence starter to introduce your text evidence from the article for support.

  4. Add a real-world connection or figurative language.

  5. Say something more about the topic to clarify your point.

  6. Include an expert statement using evidence from the article or infographic:

    • Phrase to use: "Research shows…"

  7. Add a concluding statement that restates your third reason and wraps it up.

Paragraph #5: Conclusion

  1. In conclusion, restate your opinion and thesis statement from your introduction.

  2. Make a dramatic statement that emphasizes your conclusion.

  3. Add your gift to the reader, possibly something they can take away.

  4. End with a call to action, encouraging the reader to consider your opinion or take steps based on your argument.

Final Steps

  • When you’re finished, read over your response.

  • Look for places to add stronger words to enhance argumentation and clarity!