Grades 4–5
Answer the Other Side
Three counterarguments to answer with Some people think… However…, then a counterargument paragraph.
Writing worksheet · Opinion writing
Stronger Words for Opinions
Eight opinion sentences: kids pick the confident word (must, definitely, best) over the weak one.
- Grade level
- Grades 3–5
- Time
- About 20 minutes
- Topic
- Opinion writing
- Answer key
- Yes, page 2 of the PDF
- Kids practice
- Opinion writing, Giving reasons, Supporting with examples, Persuasive language
What kids do
“Opinion writers sound sure of themselves. Circle the word that makes each opinion sound stronger.”
Printed on the sheet:
- Reading every day is wear helmets when they ride bikes.
- Write your own opinion with a strong word.
Words on this sheet
KidscouldmustokaybestDogsOur townmightkind ofsort ofshouldmaybecould maybetrulyneeds toa bitvery
Teacher tip
Read a weak sentence and a strong one in a confident voice to hear the difference.
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 might someone on the other side say?
- Where else do writers use this skill?
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.
More opinion writing worksheets
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.
Grades 2–3
I Think… Because…
A first opinion piece with a silly choice: a corgi or a T. rex for a class pet, with two reasons.
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