Grades 3–5
Stronger Words for Opinions
Eight opinion sentences: kids pick the confident word (must, definitely, best) over the weak one.
Writing worksheet · Opinion writing
Reasons and Evidence: Back It Up
A reason-and-evidence chart for any opinion, then a body paragraph that uses the best one.
- Grade level
- Grades 3–5
- Time
- About 30 minutes
- Topic
- Opinion writing
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Opinion writing, Giving reasons, Supporting with examples, Persuasive language
What kids do
“A reason tells why. Evidence proves it with a fact, an example or a story. Plan three reasons with evidence.”
Printed on the sheet:
- Reason (why I think this)
- Evidence (a fact, an example or a story that proves it)
- Write a paragraph about your strongest reason and its evidence.
Teacher tip
Model the difference between a reason (it is fun) and evidence (kids in our class voted for it).
How to use it
- Have kids say their opinion and reasons to a partner first.
- Post linking words (because, also, for example) where kids can see them.
- Model the first answer on the board, thinking out loud as you write.
Watch for
Kids who pick a side they cannot support. It is fine to switch sides while planning.
Talk about it
- What is your strongest reason? Why?
- Which sentence on your sheet are you proudest of? Why?
Take it further
Have kids write a real letter about a real school issue.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More opinion writing worksheets
Grades 4–5
Answer the Other Side
Three counterarguments to answer with Some people think… However…, then a counterargument paragraph.
Grades 4–5
Persuasive Speech Planner
Plan a speech that persuades: an opening, three reasons, a call to action and tips for speaking.
Grades 4–5
Five-Paragraph Opinion Essay Planner
A planner for a full opinion essay: an introduction, three body paragraphs and a conclusion.
Free for teachers
Get the free Classroom Drawing Kit
12 printable pages: six step-by-step lessons, a grid activity, draw-and-write sheets and teacher notes, sent with your welcome email. After that, new classroom printables by email.