Writing worksheet · Opinion writing

Strong Reason or Weak Reason?

Eight reasons for a school garden to sort into strong and weak, then one more strong reason to write.

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Grade level
Grades 3–5
Time
About 20 minutes
Answer key
Yes, page 2 of the PDF
Kids practice
Opinion writing, Giving reasons, Supporting with examples, Persuasive language

What kids do

“Opinion: Every school should have a garden. A strong reason explains why and could change someone’s mind. A weak one does not. Circle Strong or Weak.”

Printed on the sheet:

  1. Students can learn how plants grow.
  2. Gardens are green.
  3. Kids can grow fresh vegetables for lunch.
  4. My friend likes gardens.
  5. Working outside gives kids fresh air and exercise.
  6. I just think it is cool.
  7. A garden brings bees and butterflies that help plants grow.
  8. Some people have gardens at home.

Teacher tip

Ask kids if each reason would convince the principal. If not, it is probably weak.

How to use it

  • Take a quick class vote on the topic, then talk about why people chose each side.
  • Model a reason that is strong and one that is weak, and compare them.
  • Keep a word wall or a word bank in reach so spelling does not stop the ideas.

Watch for

Reasons that repeat the opinion. Ask “why?” one more time.

Talk about it

  • What is your strongest reason? Why?
  • Which sentence on your sheet are you proudest of? Why?

Take it further

Hold a friendly class debate using the reasons kids wrote.

US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.

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