3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing

 

3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing


Opinion writing is naturally a high-engagement unit. Students LOVE to share their opinions, verbally and in written form. I love harnessing all of their excitement into meaningful lessons that truly teach students each step of writing opinion pieces.


When it comes to writing instruction we focus on three major units: narrative writing, procedural writing, and opinion and persuasive writing in the same unit. We group opinion and persuasive writing together since persuasive writing is focused on the writer's opinion. Once students have mastered opinion writing, we dive into persuasive writing. Persuasive writing goes one step further than opinion writing, as it not only shares the author's opinion but also focuses on convincing the reader that the author's opinion is correct with additional writing techniques. Come spring, we take a break from writing in these genres to get our writing feet wet with poetry writing.


Here is how I break down the opinion writing genre for my upper elementary students to help them understand all of the different elements found in the writing genre. These tips are perfect for any opinion writing lesson at any time during the year or to tie together opinion writing and the seasons.


Whether you are just beginning an opinion writing unit or reviewing this important writing skill these tips will help your students be successful in writing opinion pieces.  Be sure to grab the FREE opinion writing starter kit mentioned in this post.



3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing


What is Opinion Writing?

Opinion writing is a form of writing where the author shares their opinion about something using examples and evidence. Ultimately, the writer wants the reader to agree with their opinion. By defining opinion writing as the very first step of teaching this writing genre, students know exactly what to look for when as we begin to explore our opinion writing mentor texts. 


What does Opinion Writing sound like?


Before we explore opinion writing mentor texts to truly see what opinion writing sounds like, we create two opinion writing anchor charts: one that includes a class agreed-upon definition and the second that includes opinion writing keywords.  Our list of keywords include:

  • I think
  • I believe
  • I feel
  • In my opinion
  • It seems to me
  • I prefer
  • My favorite
  • First, next, then, finally
  • In conclusion 


We refer back to these two anchor charts as we read our mentor texts to help us gather evidence of opinion writing. 

One of my favorite mentor texts to read that shows opinion writing in action is A Fine, Fine School written by Sharon Creech. (see all my favorite opinion writing mentor texts HERE.) 



3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing



Another way to show your students opinion writing in action is to use modeled writing. You can write your own, use student writing from previous years (be sure to take off the name and ask student permission first) or grab the monthly modeled writing that I use HERE or the modeled opinion writing for each season HERE

Be sure to grab the FREE opinion writing starter kit mentioned in this post.



opinion writing activities using modeled writing examples





3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing


How is Opinion Writing Organized?

Teaching students the structure found in opinion writing pieces helps to scaffold instruction for all levels of learners.  By explicitly teaching the structure of opinion writing right from the start, students will understand the key components of this writing genre. When introducing this form of writing, these are the three components that I teach and expect from students:

  1. Introduction: Hook the reader, introduce the topic, clearly state your opinion with a thesis statement.
  2. Body: Be sure to include at least 3 specific examples to support your opinion, using keywords throughout the body.
  3. Conclusion: Wrap up with a strong conclusion statement that clearly states your opinion again.

Once we have gone over and reviewed the structure of the opinion writing we go back to our opinion writing mentor texts and work together to identify the three components. If you have read several of opinion writing mentor texts, give groups of students one mentor text to reread, find the elements and share their findings with the class. You can create a chart that keeps track of each component of each picture book you read.

Grab this FREE opinion writing student reference page to accompany your opinion writing lessons!




opinion writing student reference page for interactive writing notebooks


Be sure to grab the FREE opinion writing starter kit right here!



3 Easy to Implement Tips to Teach Opinion Writing

Students love sharing their opinion about things that they value and know a lot about! By using broad topics for opinion writing like, what is your favorite after-school activity, students can use their strengths and knowledge that they already have to successfully write an opinion writing essay. By doing this, you will keep students motivated and engagement high!


TEACHER TIP: Not sure of an interest that will engage your students? Ask them! Brainstorm different topics with your students that they want to write about. From that list you can allow choice or assign a topic you want them to write.


What Opinion Writing tips will help students shine?

Build on student interest and motivation by teaching your kids some opinion writing tips that will make their essays top-notch.

Try these tips:

  • Start off strong to engage your readers
  • Know who your audience is that is reading your writing
  • Use a mix of keywords, supporting details, and interesting word choice to keep readers engaged
  • Wrap up with a strong conclusion that restates your opinion



Opinion writing is a genre of writing that engages all levels of writers! By introducing opinion writing lessons with a broad topic or something else that students are interested in, like seasonal activities or relevant topics, students become invested in writing their best pieces. 


If you want to practice opinion writing all year long, introduce the genre in the fall and practice writing these pieces all year long! Follow these tips and you will see high success in your class!




Looking for Opinion Writing Activities

Try these print and digital opinion writing tasks your students will love!


high interest topics for opinion writing upper elementary








LOVE this post? Pin to save these ideas!


opinion writing activities for upper elementary students





*affiliate links: “Think Grow Giggle is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.” (source: Section 5)



signature

39 comments

  1. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  2. It’s interesting, thanks! I faced difficulties in my studies, especially with my essay. My friend recommended me thesite https://www.nursingpaper.com/ so that I could submit my work on time. I'm glad I didn't have to write my thesis by myself. I would not have been able to finish it so far with my loaded mode.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Discovering this site's college paper writer https://essayshark.com has been a game-changer for my academic pursuits. The writer I collaborated with demonstrated a remarkable understanding of my subject, delivering a thoroughly researched and exceptionally well-crafted paper. Their commitment to meeting deadlines and maintaining open communication throughout the process exceeded my expectations. The user-friendly interface of the site added to the overall positive experience. If you're searching for a reliable and skilled paper writer, look no further. This site not only met but surpassed my expectations, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking top-tier academic assistance.

      Delete
  3. Yes, I always love to read a teach-related post and some short writing tips as well. Most people follow the actual writing format like cheap paper writers and they confirmed their true writing method.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
  4. One other crucial factor you must take into account is whether the online service is licensed or not. If it is not, withdrawing money from that online business will be challenging, and you won't be able to make a claim either, so choose good winning chances site.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Yes, I enjoy reading posts on teaching as well as brief writing advice. Most people, such as cheap paper writers, adhere to the actual writing format, and their true Buy Phd Thesis method has been confirmed.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Dry filtration with spray hoods are an important consideration when planning a new spray booth. These systems help prevent toxic vapors and gases from entering the air. They are also essential in cleaning the air inside the booth. In addition, these systems ensure an even coating of the part and eliminate defects.

    Intake plenum
    The spray boom's intake plenum is the area where spray can be sprayed. The spray application rate is dependent on the flow rate per unit width and the number of nozzles on the spray boom. The more nozzles that are Spray booth and spaced closer together, the more spray the boom can apply. However, the flow rate of each nozzle is limited.

    ReplyDelete
  7. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I read this post your post so nice and very informative post thanks for sharing this post

    shopware

    ReplyDelete
  9. Your Blog is very nice. Wish to see much more like this. Thanks for sharing your information
    Red Flag Scammers

    ReplyDelete
  10. I appreciate you taking the time to discuss it since I have strong opinions regarding it and I want to find out more information about it.
    Fraudsters News

    ReplyDelete
  11. I read this post your post so nice and very informative post thanks for sharing this post
    Finance Reports 24/7

    ReplyDelete
  12. An amazing article and very attractive thanks for share it.
    News For Finance

    ReplyDelete
  13. it was good to read this post which is a great guide
    Scammer News

    ReplyDelete
  14. Thanks a lot for these wonderful tips. I really learned a lot from it
    Asset Management Udemy

    ReplyDelete
  15. This is a well informative and interesting post. Wish to find some more again on your blog.
    Asset Management Magazine

    ReplyDelete
  16. Your Blog is very nice. Wish to see much more like this. Thanks for sharing your information

    Investors Diurnal Finance Magazine

    ReplyDelete
  17. You shared a very good article; please continue to share like this blog.
    You have shared very genuine information in this blog. Please continue to share blogs like this.
    We value your input.

    Nursing Case Study Help

    ReplyDelete
  18. Great job. I will definitely dig it and personally recommend it to my friends. I am confident they will be benefited from this site. lean six sigma ohio

    ReplyDelete
  19. Your post got my attention and shows me different perception for how we should boost our site. texas lean six sigma curriculum high school students

    ReplyDelete
  20. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  21. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  22. This is great, should have seen this sooner.

    about our company

    ReplyDelete
  23. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned writer, writing prompts can be a valuable tool. Midjourney Prompt Generator

    ReplyDelete
  24. Are you searching for Accounting Case Study Assignment Help in USA for better grades? Don’t hesitate contact us now! At Case Study Help we all time offer 100% plagiarism free and error free work at students pocket friendly price. For more information visit us now! https://casestudyhelp.com/usa/

    ReplyDelete
  25. NMIMS solved assignment

    Buy NMIMS solved assignment Sep 2023. Get 100% plagiarism free NMIMS solved assignments sep 2023 with high quality content from us at cheap price

    Nmims Solved Assignment

    ReplyDelete
  26. "AI artists can process vast amounts of data to create unique visuals." ai image generator

    ReplyDelete
  27. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods as the foundation of your diet. Indy

    ReplyDelete
  28. This is the type of information I’ve long been trying to find. Thank you for writing this information. I also wanna talk about juju hat wall decor.

    ReplyDelete
  29. to share my experience with essayfactory.com for anyone considering using their custom writing and editing services. I recently had them complete a 2000 word essay for one of my university courses. The quality of writing I received from essayfactory was top notch. They completed the essay before the deadline and it was clear they understood the assignment requirements. I would highly recommend https://essayfactory.uk/ if you need help with an essay, research paper, or other academic project. They deliver excellent work at a fair price.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Great teaching tips! You've shared some very helpful teaching tips, and the article is incredibly useful for teachers.
    NMIMS Project

    ReplyDelete
  31. The inclusion of supplementary materials adds depth to the understanding of the research. free pdf magazine

    ReplyDelete
  32. These tips for teaching opinion writing are a game-changer! The simplicity and practicality make it easy for educators to incorporate into their lessons. I can already imagine my students becoming more confident in expressing their opinions. Thanks for sharing these valuable insights!
    formularios de divorcio no disputado en virginia

    ReplyDelete
  33. Thank you for sharing these practical tips! Teaching can sometimes be challenging, but your suggestions make it seem more manageable. Looking forward to incorporating them into my lessons.

    Thanks for sharing this informative blog! chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer near me

    ReplyDelete
  34. I'm glad to see the great detail here!. And also wanna talk about campbell football.

    ReplyDelete

Back to Top