English worksheet - writing an opinion paragraph

We're just finishing up the reading comprehension unit in Shane's English class (thank goodness: no more Iqbal!), and we're moving onto the creative writing units. On the grade 10 English literacy test that high school students are required to pass to graduate, there will be several questions that require the student to write paragraphs or essays. Many of these require the student to form an opinion and support it. There are few types of opinion paragraphs. These include: comparing and contrasting 2 things; "my favourite ..."; ethical opinions or an opinion on whether certain events or rules should be upheld.

There are some basic rules to follow for every opinion paragraph. A minimum of 5 sentences are required: the opinion statement, 3 supporting reasons, and a conclusion that either re-states the opinion or (even better) tells us what the next step is (ie what you will do about it or a recommendation). If you can finish up with a recommendation, the marks will really go up! Coincidentally, the opinion paragraph later graduates into an essay, with a similar structure, except that each sentences turns into a paragraph. More on developing this later.

The easiest opinions to start with are the "my favourite ..." ones. These will hold some relevance to your child and will make it easier to think of the supporting reasons. Note that "because I like it" is not a proper support. Challenge your child to give specific details.

Here are some paragraph starters. Try to write at least one paragraph every week.