opinion essays for students

49 Opinion Writing Prompts for Students

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One of the most common essay types is the opinion, or persuasive, essay. In an opinion essay , the writer states a point of view, then provides facts and reasoned arguments to support that viewpoint. The goal of the essay is to convince the reader to share the writer’s opinion.

Students aren't always aware of how many strong opinions they already hold. Use the following opinion writing prompts to inspire them to start thinking and writing persuasively.

Prompts About School and Sports

School- and sports-related topics often elicit strong opinions in students. Use these writing prompts to kick off the brainstorming process.

• Ch-ch-ch-changes . What is one thing about your school that needs to change? Is bullying an issue? Do students need longer breaks or a dress code? Choose one vital issue that needs to change and convince school leaders to make it happen.
• Special guest. Your school is trying to decide on a famous person to give a speech or presentation to students. Who do you think they should choose? Write an essay to convince your principal.
• Oxford or bust. Is the Oxford comma essential or obsolete?
• Scribble scrabble. Do students still need to learn cursive handwriting?
• Co-ed conflict. Would students perform better if more schools were single-gender rather than co-ed? Why or why not?
• Participation awards. Should there be winners and losers in sports, or is participation the ultimate goal?
• Homework overload. Write an essay to convince your teacher to assign less homework.
• Sports. Which sport (or team) is the best? What makes it better than the others?
• No slacking . Write an essay persuading a fellow student to do their homework.
• Class trip. This year, students get to vote on where to go for a class trip. Write an essay convincing your fellow students to vote for the place you’d like to go.
• Superlatives. Which would you rather be: a top student, a talented athlete, or an accomplished artist?
• Virtual athletes . Video games competitions are often aired on TV and treated like sports competitions. Should video games be considered sports?
• Class debate. Should classes that students may not use or that don’t interest them (such as physical education or foreign language) be required?

Prompts About Relationships

Friendships, dating, and other relationships can be both rewarding and exasperating. These writing prompts about relationships will help students explore their feelings about both the positive and the negative moments.

• Snitch. Your best friend tells you about his plan to cheat on a test. Should you tell an adult? Why or why not?
• Give it a chance. Your best friend is convinced that she would hate your favorite book, even though she's never read it. Convince her to read it.
• Friendships vs. relationships. Are friendships or romantic relationships more important in life? Why?
• Driving age. What age do kids start driving in your state? Is that age too old, too young, or just right? Why?
• Truth or consequences. Your best friend asks your opinion about something, but you know that a truthful answer will hurt her feelings. What do you do?
• Who chooses? Your best friend is visiting, and you want to watch TV together, but his favorite show is at the same time as your favorite show. Convince him that your show is a better choice.
• Fun times. What is the most fun thing you and your best friend have ever experienced together? Why does it deserve the top spot?
• Dating. Are long-term dating relationships good or bad for teens?
• New friends. You want to spend time with a new student at school, but your best friend is jealous. Convince your friend of the importance of including the newcomer.
• Be mine. Is Valentine’s Day worthwhile or just a scheme for the greeting card and chocolate industry to make more money?
• Debbie Downer. Should you cut ties with friends or relatives who are always negative?
• He loves me not. Is it really better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?
• Elders. Should you respect your elders merely because they are older, or is respect something that must be earned?

Prompts About Family, Pets, and Leisure Time

The following writing prompts related to family, furry friends, and free time will help students reflect on preferences, ethics, and integrity.

• Self-reflection. This time, you're the one who needs convincing! Write an essay to persuade yourself to start a healthy habit (or kick a bad habit).
• Paper wars. Should toilet paper hang with the loose end resting on the top of the roll or hanging from the bottom?
• Movie vs. book. Choose a book that has been made into a movie. Which version is better, and why?
• Weekend wanderings . Do you prefer to stay home on the weekends or get out and do things around town? Write an essay to convince your parents to let you do what you prefer this weekend.
• Sweepstakes. A travel agency is hosting an essay contest to give away an all-expenses-paid trip to the one place in the world you’d most love to visit. Craft a winning essay that convinces them they need to choose you.
• Zoo debate. Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos? Why or why not?
• Presence of pets. Should there be limits on the types of places pets can go (e.g. airplanes or restaurants)? Why or why not?
• Inspiring stories. What is the most inspiring book you’ve ever read? Why is it so inspiring?
• Dollar discovery. You find a $20 bill in the parking lot of a crowded store. Is it okay to keep it, or should you turn it in to customer service?
• Vacation day. What is the very best way to spend an unexpected day off from school and why is it the best?
• Digital or print? Is it better to read books in print or digitally? Why?

Prompts About Society and Technology

The people and technology around us have a significant impact on our lives. These writing prompts encourage students to consider the effect that society and technological advances have on our day-to-day lives.

• Reverse technology. Pick one technological advancement that you think the world would be better off without. Explain your reasoning and persuade the reader.
• Out of this world . Do aliens exist? Why or why not?
• Social media. Is social media good or bad for society? Why?
• Emoji. Has the use of emoji stunted our ability to express ourselves in writing, or does it help us identify our emotions more precisely?
• Auto safety. Have advancements like self-driving cars, blind spot indicators, and lane departure warning systems made driving safer, or have they just made drivers less attentive?
• Exploration Mars. Write a letter to Elon Musk convincing him that you should be part of a colony to Mars.
• Fundraisers. Is it okay for kids to stand outside stores and ask shoppers for money for their sports teams, clubs, or band? Why or why not?
• Inventions. What is the greatest invention ever made? Why is it the best?
• Important cause. In your opinion, what global problem or issue deserves more attention than it currently receives? Why should more time and money be invested in this cause?
• Minimalism. Does living a minimalist lifestyle make for a happier life? Why or why not?
• Gaming gains. Are video games generally a positive or a negative influence? Why?
• Rose-colored glasses. Is the current decade the best era in history? Why or why not?
• Paper or plastic. Should plastic bags be outlawed?
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Lori Ballen

Digital Marketing Strategies

65 Opinion Writing Prompts that Get Results

Writing / September 15, 2023 by Lori Ballen / Leave a Comment

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Opinion writing is a powerful tool that equips students with critical thinking, communication skills, and the confidence to express their ideas and opinions on a wide range of topics. Can you imagine the intellectual growth and vibrant discussions that would follow if every student could effectively communicate their perspective on subjects such as climate change or their favorite sports team?

Table of Contents

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of opinion writing, exploring its importance, the difference between opinion writing and persuasive writing, and providing a treasure trove of stimulating opinion writing prompts covering current events, personal interests, and school life. So buckle up and let’s embark on a journey that will ignite your passion for opinion writing!

Key Takeaways

• Opinion writing has the power to sharpen students’ skills, stimulate critical thinking and provide an outlet for self-expression.
• Explore diverse perspectives & build reasoned arguments to strengthen opinion writing skills & craft persuasive essays.
• Stimulating prompts cover current events, social issues, hobbies and personal interests – encouraging open dialogue & respectful debates!

The Power of Opinion Writing

Opinion writing is invaluable for students because it sharpens their writing abilities, encourages critical thinking, and provides a platform for self-expression. Imagine a classroom where every student feels confident discussing controversial topics, such as the question “should video games be allowed in schools?” The result would be an environment that cultivates intellectual curiosity and fosters a love for learning.

Persuasive writing aims to sway the reader towards the writer’s viewpoint, while opinion writing focuses on students expressing their individual beliefs and substantiating them with solid arguments. The ability to articulate strong opinions and back them up with evidence is an essential skill that will serve students well throughout their academic and professional lives.

Embracing Diverse Perspectives

To embrace diverse perspectives, you should be open to various ideas and consider them thoughtfully while forming your opinions. This process can lead to a deeper understanding of the issue at hand and a more informed and open-minded perspective, which is especially important for high school students as they prepare for their future.

Reading articles from various sources and listening to alternate viewpoints is an effective method to consider different perspectives. For example, when forming an opinion on school sports and their impact on students, it’s important to consider the perspectives of:

• student athletes

By exploring diverse perspectives, students can develop more well-rounded opinions and engage in richer classroom discussions.

Building Reasoned Arguments

The aim of providing evidence and reasoning in opinion writing is to bolster the writer’s opinion and persuade the reader to agree with it. For instance, when discussing the pros and cons of being an only child, a well-supported argument can be far more convincing than a simple statement of personal preference.

Opinion writing can help students develop their personal opinions, provide supportive reasons, think critically, and use evidence. It also hones their skills in presenting logical reasoning and persuasive arguments. Engaging in opinion writing allows students to:

• Construct stronger, well-reasoned arguments on a variety of topics, like the effectiveness of e-learning
• Strengthen their opinion writing skills
• Improve their overall academic performance

Opinion Writing vs Persuasive Writing

Upon initial observation, opinion writing and persuasive writing might appear similar; yet, a significant difference exists between them. Opinion writing is about expressing your viewpoint and elucidating why you feel or think that way, whereas persuasive writing is focused on persuading others that your opinion is accurate.

For example, in an opinion essay about your favorite song, you would share your thoughts and feelings about the song and explain why it resonates with you. In a persuasive piece, on the other hand, you would strive to convince your readers that your favorite song is the best one out there. Both styles of writing require strong opinions, but opinion writing places a greater emphasis on personal beliefs and experiences.

Stimulating Opinion Writing Prompts

One of the most effective ways to engage students in opinion writing is to provide them with thought-provoking prompts that span a wide range of topics and interests. From current events to personal passions, these prompts will ignite students’ creativity and encourage them to express their thoughts and ideas.

The subsequent sections will delve into three categories of prompts, namely current events and social issues, hobbies and personal interests, and school life and extracurricular activities. Each category offers a variety of prompts that will challenge students to think critically, develop their own opinions, and hone their writing skills.

Current Events and Social Issues

Current events and social issues offer a treasure trove of fascinating topics for opinion writing. By engaging with these subjects, students can develop their understanding of the world, form well-informed opinions, and participate in meaningful conversations about important matters.

Thought-provoking opinion writing prompts related to current events and social issues can be found in a well-written blog post. These prompts include topics such as climate change, gun control, and immigration, encouraging students to explore new perspectives, engage with complex issues, and develop empathy for others.

Expressing their viewpoints on current events and social issues, students express their potential to impact the world and influence their future as students perform in various activities.

Hobbies and Personal Interests

Opinion writing prompts about hobbies, personal interests, and favorite pastimes allow students to explore their preferences and passions. These prompts encourage students to reflect on their own experiences and share what makes them unique.

Examples of engaging prompts related to hobbies and personal interests include:

• Writing about the ultimate vacation spot
• The all-time greatest movie
• The most thrilling sport to play
• Your favorite board game
• The best T.V. show right now

Connecting with their personal interests can make students feel more invested in their writing, thereby enhancing their enjoyment of crafting opinion essays and allowing their creative juices to flow. By expressing their own opinion, students can develop a deeper connection to the topic at hand.

School Life and Extracurricular Activities

Prompts related to school experiences, extracurricular activities, and educational policies provide students with an opportunity to engage with topics that directly impact their lives. These prompts can inspire passionate discussions and encourage students to think critically about their educational experiences.

Examples of school life and extracurricular activities prompts include debating the merits of homework, discussing the pros and cons of school uniforms, and exploring the effectiveness of online learning. Engaging with these topics can provide students with a deeper understanding of their educational environment and help them form well-reasoned opinions on the issues that are most significant to them.

Tools and Resources for Opinion Writing

In addition to engaging prompts, there are a variety of tools and resources available that can assist students in improving their opinion writing skills. These resources can provide guidance, inspiration, and feedback to help students take their writing to the next level.

In the following subsections, we’ll explore some of these helpful tools and resources, including mentor texts and examples, as well as assessment and feedback tools. Utilizing these resources can bolster students’ confidence in their opinion writing abilities and equip them better for meaningful classroom discussions.

Mentor Texts and Examples

Mentor texts and examples can serve as valuable references for students when writing their opinion essays. These texts demonstrate how to craft an opinion piece effectively and provide an understanding of the elements of opinion writing. They can inspire students and guide them in their own writing endeavors.

Some excellent mentor texts for teaching opinion writing include:

• “The Case for and Against Homework” by Etta Kralovec and John Buell
• “The Benefits of Year-Round School” by Jennifer Brozak
• “The Pros and Cons of Social Media” by Sarah Miller

Studying these examples can provide students with insight into the structure, style, and substance of effective opinion essays, which they can then apply to their own writing.

Assessment and Feedback Tools

Assessment and feedback tools, such as WriQ, can help students enhance their writing abilities by pinpointing areas where they can refine their writing, such as grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure. These tools can also provide feedback on the overall structure and content of their writing, enabling them to take their writing to the next level.

Some other great assessment tools to consider include Teachers Pay Teachers, Thoughtful Learning, and ELLii. These resources can empower students to become more confident in their opinion writing skills and better equipped to tackle various aspects of their education.

Encouraging Open Dialogue and Respectful Debates

Creating an environment where students feel comfortable expressing their opinions and engaging in respectful debates with their peers is essential for encouraging critical thinking, promoting understanding of different perspectives, and helping students develop empathy. An open and respectful classroom atmosphere can foster meaningful conversations and inspire students to explore new ideas.

Teachers can foster open dialogue and respectful debates by creating a safe and supportive environment, modeling respectful behaviour, and encouraging students to actively listen to each other. By promoting a culture of open discussion, students can develop their critical thinking skills, broaden their perspectives, and become more empathetic individuals.

Tips for Effective Opinion Writing

Providing students with practical tips and strategies is crucial in helping them improve their opinion writing skills. Some key points to consider include conducting thorough research, organizing ideas effectively, and editing for clarity and conciseness. Incorporating these tips into their writing process can enable students to compose more engaging and persuasive opinion essays.

In addition to these tips, students should also strive to:

• Express their opinions early in their writing
• Connect their opinions to the subject
• Uncover unique facts to support their arguments
• Avoid stating the obvious
• Tailor their writing to their audience

Following these guidelines can boost students’ confidence in their opinion writing abilities and aid them in excelling in their academic pursuits.

Opinion Writing Prompts

The main purpose of opinion writing is to effectively communicate and persuade the reader to share the writer’s opinion.

(1) In today’s world, many people feel that technology is moving too quickly. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

2) As reading on screens becomes more common, many people are concerned that our society will become less literate and knowledgeable. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

3) When it comes to watching television, most viewers enjoy using their DVRs to skip commercials. What are some benefits of watching television with the use of DVRs?

4) An increasing number of people now believe that obesity is a public health crisis in America. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

5) Some teachers say using technology for long periods during class time is distracting to students and inhibits their learning. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

6) In today’s world, many people feel that technology is moving too quickly. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

7) As reading on screens becomes more common, many people are concerned that our society will become less literate and knowledgeable. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

8) When it comes to watching television, most viewers enjoy using their DVRs to skip commercials. What are some benefits of watching television with the use of DVRs?

9) An increasing number of people now believe that obesity is a public health crisis in America. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

10) Some teachers say using technology for long periods during class time is distracting to students and inhibits their learning. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

11) There are plenty of people who believe that violent video games are just as bad for children as smoking cigarettes. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

12) Many parents think that too many educational toys can be detrimental to their child’s learning. Others say these toys help children develop important skills. Which do you think is true?

14) When children are young, most parents believe that they should be spanked for misbehaving. Do you think that children should ever be spanked?

15) Some people claim that popular music is no longer about talent and has lost its value as an art form. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

16) Miley Cyrus is an extremely popular celebrity. Many people think that Miley’s behavior has become increasingly inappropriate over the years. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

17) Children are often told not to play with their food, but children who do usually have more fun eating it. Does playing with your food make it taste better?

18) Some people say that there is no longer any originality in Hollywood. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

19) Many people think that “talking” toys are a good idea, but children should never play alone with a stuffed animal. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

20) Teachers who take their students on field trips say they are very helpful. Do you think that field trips are essential to a good education?

21) Some people believe that children should never be left at home alone before the age of 14. Other parents say it is fine for kids as young as 10 to stay home alone after school until their parents get home from work. Do you agree or disagree that 10-year olds can be left alone after school until their parents get home? Why or why not?

22) Many people use social media websites regularly, but some feel these websites are detrimental to society. What are some negative aspects of using sites like Facebook regularly?

23) Although most people have become more health-conscious in recent years, many still drink soda regularly which is high in sugar and caffeine. Which do you think is worse for your health, soda or coffee?

24) Many people believe that talking on a cell phone while driving endangers the lives of drivers and their passengers. What are some ways to reduce this danger when possible?

25) Some say that having robots in nursing homes would be beneficial because they could help with difficult tasks. Do you agree or disagree with this view? Why or why not?

26) Many people think it’s harmful to eat at fast-food restaurants regularly because these establishments use poor quality ingredients, etc. On the other hand, others say that it’s fine to eat fast food occasionally because there are times when one just needs to grab a quick bite between activities/appointments and cooking would take too much time. Which do you agree with more? Why?

27) For some people, using their smartphones during family dinners is considered disrespectful of the time together. Do you think this attitude is warranted or not?

28) Many parents believe that playing sports in school is vital for social development. Others are concerned that children who spend too many hours on sports are missing out of important opportunities to develop other skills. What are your thoughts on these opposing views of extracurricular activities?

29) A new study says that high-fructose corn syrup can lead to an increase in obesity, but there’s no conclusive evidence that it’s harmful to one’s health. Do you agree with the study’s findings? Why or why not?

30) Some people say that students should never use Wikipedia as a source for research papers. Do you think it is acceptable to use Wikipedia for this purpose, or do you agree with those who oppose it? Why?

31) Watching TV shows and movies depicting violence can desensitize viewers to the real thing. What are some examples of shows or movies that can have this effect on people?

32) Many people think that drive-through windows at restaurants are convenient, but they increase the risk of contamination by allowing orders to be prepared ahead of time. Do you agree with these opposing views? Why or why not?

33) Spending time outdoors in nature is becoming less popular among people of the younger generations. What are some possible reasons for this trend?

34) Some people think that using a cell phone while driving is a dangerous habit, while others think that it’s not any more dangerous than eating or drinking in a car. Are you in agreement with either of these two opinions? Why or why not?

35) In general, do you agree with the idea that women should earn less money than men because they typically work fewer hours outside the home?

36) Many people agree that it’s not necessary to be in a committed relationship in order to have children. Given this attitude, do you think the number of single mothers will increase? Why or why not?

37) Some people believe that cell phones should be banned from all classrooms, while others say that phones can actually benefit learning environments. What are some ways that using cell phones can help students perform better academically and personally?

38) Most people agree that driving through city streets is more complicated than driving on freeways. However, some people argue that driving around town isn’t as difficult as it seems because slower speeds give drivers more time to react if need be. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

39) Should a woman be paid equally for doing the same job as a man who has more experience? Why or why not?

40) Some people say that students should study one hour for each grade level, while others argue that this rule isn’t necessary. What are your thoughts on these two opposing views?

41) Many people believe that it’s possible to be both fit and overweight at the same time. Do you agree with this idea, or do you think being fit requires maintaining a healthy weight?

42) It’s common for teenagers to spend less time reading than they did in previous generations because of technology. However, many experts claim that young adults need to read more often in order to become good writers. Do you agree with this statement or do you think technology is more important in developing writing skills?

43) Some people say that teens should never lie to their parents, while others argue that there are some situations when it’s acceptable. For example, the teen might not be in trouble for asking a question or may have uncovered something that makes them believe they need to lie for their own safety. Do you agree with one of these points of view over the other? Why or why not?

44) Some people say that men are better at reading maps because they are taught from an early age to read directions and street signs. However, others claim that women are actually better at both reading maps and finding their way around new cities because they typically pay attention to various landmarks along the way. Do you agree with one of these two opinions over the other? Why or whynot?

45) Many people are beginning to realize that violence in movies doesn’t lead to more violence in real life. However, some experts claim that there’s still a link between violent movies and aggression. Based on your own experience and knowledge about this issue, do you think movies can cause aggressive behavior in viewers?

46) Some teenagers believe that they will be able to afford anything they want as long as their parents pay for it. Other teens understand that even though their parents may help them out financially, they cannot expect money whenever they ask for it. Which opinion seems more accurate to you based on what you about parenting and teens today?

47) A growing number of people believe that elderly parents should be allowed to live on their own as long as they are healthy and feel comfortable doing so. In your opinion, do elderly parents have the right to disagree with their children about where they should live? Why or why not?

48) Some people think that online education provides an equal learning experience as traditional classroom experiences, while others argue that there’s something special about being able to interact with other students and a teacher face-to-face. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

49) Many employers understand that potential employees will more likely succeed if they have a work-life balance rather than working all hours of the day and night. Do you agree with one of these points of view over the other? Why or why not?

50) Many people believe that students should learn foreign languages in order to succeed in their careers, while others argue that knowing a second language isn’t as important as having skills like computer literacy. Which opinion do you think is more accurate?

51) Some people say that children will grow up to be productive members of society if they go through an organized sports program at an early age, while others claim that children who aren’t athletically inclined can still lead healthy lives without participating in team sports. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

52) A growing number of people believe that the use of marijuana should be legalized. However, many others claim that legalizing marijuana will lead to increased drug addiction in America. Which opinion do you agree with more? Why or why not?

53) Some experts believe that exercise is necessary for maintaining good health, while others argue that it’s possible to have a healthy diet without performing any kind of physical exertion. Based on your knowledge of this issue, which opinion do you think is most accurate about exercise?

54) Most people are aware of the dangers associated with smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products. However, some teens believe that it’s okay to smoke because they feel confident they can avoid developing a nicotine addiction. Why or why not?

55) Many experts claim that young children should be exposed to a variety of foods and flavors in their diets because it will help them develop healthier eating habits for life. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

56) Some people believe that adults should be required to learn English before they move to America, while others feel that it’s possible for immigrants to integrate into an English-speaking society even if they don’t know the language. Which opinion do you think is accurate based on what you’ve learned about immigration issues today?

57) A growing number of experts believe that standardized tests are unfair to students who don’t have access to private tutoring programs. Do you agree with one of these points of view over the other? Why or why not?

58) Most people understand that a variety of factors can influence a person’s weight, but some believe that it is possible to be overweight simply because someone eats too much and doesn’t exercise enough. Which opinion do you agree with more? Why or why not?

59) A growing number of parents think that there is such thing as teaching too early when it comes to learning complicated academic skills like reading and math before elementary school age. However, others feel that children aren’t given enough opportunities to learn new skills in overcrowded classrooms. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

60) Many experts believe that children will grow up to be productive members of society if they are exposed to a variety of activities outside of school, while others argue that parents should spend most of their time encouraging kids to excel only in the activities that provide academic credentials. Which opinion do you think is more accurate?

61) A new study claims that people get better results when they meditate for ten minutes before beginning an exercise program rather than waiting until after exercising. Do you agree with one of these points of view over the other? Why or why not?

62) Some experts suggest that students benefit from restorative practices like meditation in order to stay focused and emotionally balanced in stressful environments, while others feel that traditional methods like discipline, rewards, and punishments are the only effective ways to achieve educational goals. Which opinion do you agree with more? Why or why not?

63) A growing number of parents have begun homeschooling their families in order to protect them from the risks associated with peer pressure for activities like drugs, and violence in public schools. However, other parents feel that it’s important for children to learn how to manage potential dangers in social situations when they are supervised by adults. Do you agree with one of these opinions over the other? Why or why not?

64) Schools across America require students to provide proof of vaccinations before entering kindergarten; however, many people believe that this practice places an unfair burden on certain families who may not be able to afford the necessary vaccinations or live in an area where they are not accessible. Which opinion do you think is more accurate based on what you’ve learned about this controversial issue?

65) While most teachers encourage students to work hard at school so they can attend college later in life, some research has suggested that many young people might be happier and more successful if they chose to pursue a career that didn’t require a college degree. Which opinion do you think is most accurate based on the information that has been shared about school and future success?

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The Ultimate Guide to Opinion Writing for Students and Teachers

The Importance of Opinion Writing

Encouraging our students to express their personal opinions is an important part of the learning process; healthy even. To do this effectively, it is equally important that we help them acquire the necessary skills to express these opinions in a reasoned and coherent manner when teaching opinion writing.

Writing is one of the best possible vehicles for our students not only to express their opinions but to explore the strength and validity of those opinions.

CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE WRITING AN OPINION ESSAY

For our students to competently express their opinions in writing, they must first understand the specific requirements of the type of question they are answering. Of course, there are many types of questions and fun opinion writing prompts that are geared towards coaxing personal opinions from a student and each will require its own specific tailored response.

It’s clear that personal opinions permeate a wide range of genres and media. We find opinions everywhere from hotel reviews and infomercials to political commentary and newspaper editorials. But, despite the diversity of forms opinion writing can take, we can helpfully identify some general criteria that will assist our students in navigating the challenge of most opinion writing prompts and questions.

Let’s take a look at some of these criteria in more detail.

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OPINION WRITING CRITERIA TO ADDRESS

1. identify the audience: speak clearly.

Writing is about language and language is about communication; students should understand that we do not write in a vacuum. The purpose of an essay, letter, or any other form of writing we care to name, is ultimately to be read.

This means that it is essential that consideration be given to the character of the intended audience. Also, remind students that when they are writing, the reader is not privy to the inner workings of the writer’s mind. They must make their thoughts explicit in their writing and ensure that these thoughts are expressed in a coherent manner.

The student writer should always avoid making the assumption that the reader knows things that are not expressed explicitly in the writing.

2. Take a Stance: Stand Firm

From the very outset, the student should state their position boldly. More than that, they must stand firm in that opinion throughout the entirety of the piece.

Opinion writing is not about communicating a series of pros and cons or discussing at length the various related advantages and disadvantages, the place for that is not here. The opinion piece should open with a bold statement of opinion that is clearly expressed, and that opinion should be held unwaveringly and reinforced constantly throughout the text.

As with many other writing genres , employing a hook to grab the reader’s attention is good practice too. This hook can take the form of a quotation, an anecdote, a statistic, or even a joke. Whatever form the hook takes, it should reveal the writer’s take on things too.

To summarize, whatever the topic and however the student opens their opinion piece, they should ensure they express their opinion immediately and coherently. There should be no doubt in the reader’s mind as to where the student-writer stands on the issue.

3. Choose Appropriate Evidence: Back It Up

There is no doubt that subjectivity is an important aspect of opinion writing in general. That does not mean, however, that opinions do not need to be substantiated.

Your students will need to recognize that each and every statement of opinion will need to be supported by appropriate evidence. This will also help students to develop their critical reading skills as they will be able to better recognize when unsubstantiated claims are made by other writers. Opinions backed up with evidence help lead the reader along the writer’s pathways of thought; making the writing more convincing as a whole.

This evidence can take a wide variety of forms, ranging from personal anecdotes and quotations to statistics and references to scientific studies. Students should also always be encouraged to choose evidence that is broadly suited to the subject they are writing about.

4. Draw Conclusions: Wrap It Up

In the well-organized piece of opinion writing, as with many other types of extended writing, the writing should be structured in paragraphs. Paragraphs are essential elements of good writing organization.

Generally speaking, an opening paragraph gives way to body paragraphs. These body paragraphs, or development paragraphs, describe in more detail the ideas laid out in the initial opening paragraph by further exploring, explaining, and providing supporting evidence for each point.

The final concluding paragraph serves to close the circle by restating the central points in a closing endeavor to drive home the writer’s opinion.

5. A Word on Words

Writing is an art form. Attention to detail is important. But, it isn’t only important to look at the big picture things like structure, students should be encouraged to shift their focus from the text level down to the word and sentence levels too. In an opinion piece, strong, forceful verbs should be the order of the day. There is little space for passive forms when engaged in the construction of convincing arguments.

Things should be kept interesting too. Students should vary their sentence structures grammatically and in length. Variety is key.

 As always in writing, editing should be emphasized. The editing process polishes the well-wrought opinion piece by putting the final gloss on the student’s work.

The OREO Opinion Writing Process Explained

As with all genres, there’s a lot to remember here and acronyms are a helpful way to commit these important things to memory. Luckily, few things can be easier to commit to memory than the name of a delicious cookie:

O – Opinion

R – Reasons

E – Evidence or Examples

O – Opinion (restated)

This memorable acronym will help students remember some of the main elements of opinion writing as outlined above. But, sometimes the hardest thing for students to do is to get the writing ball rolling.

Opinionated Sentence Starters

Sentence starters provide students with great ways to kick-start their writing. Reminding students of simple ways of introducing opinion sentences can be helpful. Here are a few for ‘starters’ for starters:

●     In my opinion…

●     I think that…

●     It seems to me that…

●     It appears to me…

●     I feel that…

Once the student-writer has effectively expressed their opinion on a matter, they then will need to provide the reader with the reasons for why they think what they think. In an essay, these reasons will usually be found in the body paragraphs or development paragraphs. Normally, these paragraphs will explore a single reason each.

Some helpful sentence starters for introducing these reasons include:

●     One reason I feel this way is…

●     Evidence to support this can be found in…

●     I believe this to evident in…

Opinion Writing Activities for Students

Students will certainly need practice completing sustained pieces of opinion writing, but some of the most valuable activities to help students evolve their opinion writing abilities barely require a pen to be put to paper.

While the following two activities do not require students to engage in extended pieces of writing, the activities below will assist students in grasping some essential concepts. These activities demonstrate good practice through modelling and also encourage dialogue, discussion, and debate as a means to strengthen opinion writing.

Activity 1: Opinion Writing – What Is It?

This exercise is a good follow-up to introductory work outlining the criteria of opinion writing as described above.

●     Start by passing out copies of a piece of opinion writing you have selected to read with the class. Read the text aloud as the students follow along with their copy. The opinion text chosen can come from a wide range of genres, including advertisements, letters, editorials, essays, articles, or reviews.

●     Assign students a talking partner and instruct students to take five minutes to identify the various criteria employed in the text. Encourage students to mark and annotate their copies of the text accordingly. You may even wish to supply students with a checklist compiled from the criteria mentioned previously in this article.

●     As a whole class, discuss how successfully the text fulfills the criteria. What did the writer do well? What could they have done better? You can record their responses on the whiteboard.

The aim of this exercise is for students to hone their critical faculties while internalizing the criteria. This will reap rewards when the students later engage in their own extended opinion writing.

Activity 2: The Collaborative Case

This activity employs collaboration to help students build a stronger case for their opinion on a divisive issue.

●     First, define the parameters of the exercise by presenting an either/or conundrum to the class. This doesn’t have to be overly controversial in nature, just stated in such a way that it forces the students to take one side or another. This could be stated simply as a choice, e.g. Dogs or cats? City or countryside? Beach or Mountains? Sweet or savory?

●     Students then divide into two groups according to their stated preferences. In their groups, they then discuss and compile as many supporting reasons for their choice as they can come up with. As a group, they will discuss the relative merits of each reason, before agreeing on their top five.

●     The groups then share their reasons in a debate format, using arguments and counter-arguments, leading into an open, free-ranging discussion.

The value of this exercise lies in the collaborative and ‘combative’ natures of the exercises. Just as our physical muscles can grow through resistance, so too can the strength and resilience of our opinions and arguments.

This activity can also be used as a lead-in to opinion writing as it works well as a prewriting preparation exercise. The complexity of the issue to be discussed and debated can easily be modified to suit the abilities of the students too.

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OPINION WRITING VIDEO TUTORIALS

These videos from teaching without frills are an excellent starting point for opinion writing. You can view the entire collection here.

  The Wrap Up

Opinion writing is a higher-level skill that makes many demands on our students. It will challenge them to move beyond parroting the facts and figures they have acquired in their learning to formulate their own thoughts on topics they have learned about in class, or in the wider world beyond the school gates.

It will make demands on their skill as writers too. Our students must learn to mold and mechanically manipulate the language on the page to express their beliefs persuasively and effectively. To do this successfully, they will need ample opportunities to practice their writing craft. Once a firm understanding of the structures involved has been established, the student can become more fluid in their expression. They will add art and flair to their craft. But first, they must build on these firm foundations.

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Opinion Writing: a Guide to Writing a Successful Essay Easily

An opinion essay requires students to write their thoughts regarding a subject matter. Relevant examples and explanations back their point of view. Before starting an opinion paper, it is important to study the definition, topics, requirements, and structure. Referring to examples is also highly useful. Perhaps you need help with our admission essay writing service ? Take a look at this guide from our dissertation writing service to learn how to write an opinion essay like an expert.

What Is an Opinion Essay

A common question among students is: ‘What is an Opinion Essay?' It is an assignment that contains questions that allow students to share their point-of-view on a subject matter. Students should express their thoughts precisely while providing opinions on the issue related to the field within reasonable logic. Some opinion essays type require references to back the writer's claims.

Opinion writing involves using a student's personal point-of-view, which is segregated into a point. It is backed by examples and explanations. The paper addresses the audience directly by stating ‘Dear Readers' or the equivalent. The introduction involves a reference to a speech, book, or play. This is normally followed by a rhetorical question like ‘is the pope Catholic?' or something along those lines.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay

Non-native English-speaking students enrolled in the International English Language Testing System by the British Council & Cambridge Assessment English are tasked with learning how to write the opinion essays. This can be high-school or college students. It is designed to enhance the level of English among students. It enables them to express their thoughts and opinions while writing good opinion essay in English.

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What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

Avoid Going Off-Topic: Always write an opinion essay within relevance to answer the assigned question. This is also known as ‘beating around the bush' and should not be included in any opinion paragraph as it may lower your grade.

Indent the First Paragraph: With most academic papers, opinion writing is not different. Therefore, it contains the rule of indenting the first line of the introduction.

A Well-Thought Thesis: The full thesis statement is a brief description of the opinion essay. It determines the rest of the paper. Include all the information that you wish to include in the body paragraphs

The Use of Formal Languages: Although it is okay to write informally, keep a wide range of professional and formal words. This includes: ‘Furthermore,' ‘As Stated By,' ‘However', & ‘Thus'.

Avoid Internet Slang: In the opinion paper, avoid writing using slang words. Don'tDon't include words like ‘LOL', ‘OMG', ‘LMAO', etc.

The Use of First Person Language (Optional): For the reason of providing personal thought, it is acceptable to write your personal opinion essay in the first person.

Avoid Informal Punctuation: Although the requirements allow custom essay for the first-person language, they do not permit informal punctuation. This includes dashes, exclamation marks, and emojis.

Avoid Including Contradictions: Always make sure all spelling and grammar is correct.

We also recommend reading about types of sentences with examples .

Opinion Essay Topics

Before learning about the structure, choosing from a wide range of opinion essay topics is important. Picking an essay theme is something that can be done very simply. Choosing an excellent opinion essay topic that you are interested in or have a passion for is advisable. Otherwise, you may find the writing process boring. This also ensures that your paper will be both effective and well-written.

• Do sports differ from ordinary board games?
• Is using animals in circus performances immoral?
• Why should we be honest with our peers?
• Should all humans be entitled to a 4-day workweek?
• Should all humans become vegetarians?
• Does a CEO earn too much?
• Should teens be barred from having sleepovers?
• Should everyone vote for their leader?
• The Pros & Cons of Day-Light Saving Hours.
• What are the most energy-efficient and safest cars of X year?

Opinion Essay Structure

When it comes to opinion paragraphs, students may struggle with the opinion essay format. The standard five-paragraph-essay structure usually works well for opinion essays. Figuring out what one is supposed to include in each section may be difficult for beginners. This is why following the opinion essay structure is something all beginners should do, for their own revision before writing the entire essay.

You might also be interested in getting more information about: 5 PARAGRAPH ESSAY

Opinion essay introduction

• Address the audience directly, and state the subject matter.
• Reference a speech, poem, book, or play.
• Include the author's name and date of publication in brackets.
• 1 or 2 sentences to make up a short description.
• 1 or 2 summarizing sentences of the entire paper.
• 1 sentence that links to the first body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 1

• Supporting arguments
• Explanation
• A linking sentence to the second body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 2

• Supporting argument
• A linking sentence to the third body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 3

• A linking sentence to the conclusion.

Conclusion paragraph

• Summary of the entire paper
• A conclusive sentence (the bigger picture in conclusion)

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Opinion Essay Examples

Do you need something for reference? Reading opinion essay examples can expand your knowledge of this style of writing, as you get to see exactly how this form of an essay is written. Take a look at our samples to get an insight into this form of academic writing.

Over the past, American popular culture has been strong in creating racial stereotypes. Images displayed through television, music, and the internet have an impact on how individuals behave and what individuals believe. People find their identities and belief systems from popular culture. Evidently, I believe that American pop culture has created racial stereotypes that predominantly affect other ethnic minorities. Analyzing the history of America reveals that African Americans have always had a problem defining themselves as Americans ever since the era of slavery. AfricanAmericans have always had a hard time being integrated into American culture. The result is that African Americans have been subjected to ridicule and shame. American pop culture has compounded the problem by enhancing the negative stereotypes ofAfrican American. In theatre, film, and music, African Americans have been associated with vices such as murder, theft, and violence.

The family systems theory has a significant revelation on family relations. I firmly agree that to understand a particular family or a member, they should be around other family members. The emotional connection among different family members may create functional or dysfunctional coexistence, which is not easy to identify when an individual is further from the other members. Taking an example of the extended family, the relationship between the mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law may be tense, but once they are outside the family, they can pretend to have a good relationship. Therefore, I agree with the theory that the existing emotional attachment and developed culture in the family is distinctively understood when the family is together.

Opinion writing is a form of academic paper that asks students to include their thoughts on a particular topic. This is then backed by a logical explanation and examples. Becoming more knowledgeable is a practical way to successfully learn how to write an opinion paper. Before writing anything, it is essential to refer to important information. That includes the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements. This is what turns amateur writers into master writers.

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is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

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Opinion Essays – Step-by-Step Instructions

Home / Blog / Write An Opinion Essay

Introduction

What makes an opinion essay truly compelling? Why do some essays resonate while others fall flat? The art of opinion writing is not just about sharing your thoughts; it is about persuading, informing, and engaging your readers. Today, we will learn all about crafting an impactful opinion essay.

So, how do you transform your opinions into powerful words that leave a lasting impression? Let us dive in and discover the keys to success in opinion writing.

What Is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay is a written work where an author expresses their viewpoint on a particular topic or issue. Unlike other essays that primarily rely on factual information and objective analysis, an opinion essay is inherently subjective, emphasizing the writer's beliefs, feelings, and perspectives.

Opinion essays are prevalent in various contexts, from academic assignments and journalism to blogs and editorials. They serve as a platform for individuals to express themselves, share their unique perspectives, and contribute to meaningful discussions on various subjects.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay?

Let us explore the characteristics and educational contexts where opinion essays are commonly encountered:

1. High School Students:

High school students are frequently introduced to opinion essays as part of their English or language arts curriculum. These essay help students develop fundamental writing skills and the ability to express their viewpoints coherently. Opinion essays at this level often revolve around personal experiences, literary analysis, or current events, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.

2. College and University Students:

College and university students encounter opinion essays across various disciplines, from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and engineering. In college, opinion essays become more sophisticated, requiring students to delve into scholarly research, cite academic sources, and formulate well-supported arguments. These essays are instrumental in promoting research skills, academic writing proficiency, and the ability to synthesize complex information.

3. Graduates and Postgraduates:

Graduate and postgraduate students frequently engage in opinion essays as part of their coursework and research activities. At this level, opinion essays may take the form of thesis proposals, research position papers, or responses to academic debates. These essays serve as essential paraphrasing tool for contributing to the scholarly discourse within their fields.

4. Law Students:

Law students encounter opinion essays in the form of legal memoranda, case briefs, or persuasive arguments. These essays hone their legal writing and argumentative essay topics skills.

In the legal profession, constructing well-reasoned opinions is vital, as lawyers often need to advocate for their clients' positions.

5. Journalism and Communication Students:

Students pursuing journalism or communication degrees frequently write opinion pieces, such as editorials and op-eds. Opinion essays in this context train students to effectively convey their thoughts to a broader audience while adhering to ethical and journalistic standards.

6. Political Science and Philosophy Students:

Political science or philosophy students delve into opinion essays as they explore complex political ideologies, ethical dilemmas, and philosophical debates. Opinion essays in these disciplines require students to analyze and critically evaluate different perspectives, fostering a deep understanding of complex issues.

7. MBA and Business Students:

MBA and business students encounter opinion essays in business ethics, strategic management, and decision-making courses. These essays sharpen their ability to make informed, ethical business judgments and communicate their rationale effectively.

8. ESL and Non-Native English Speakers:

Students learning English as a second language (ESL) or non-native English speakers may face opinion essays to enhance their language proficiency. Opinion essays help ESL students develop language skills while expressing their thoughts on diverse essay topics .

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

Here are the key elements that should be present in an opinion essay:

1. Clear and Concise Thesis Statement:

Every opinion essay should start with a well-defined thesis statement. This statement is the heart of your essay, succinctly summarizing your main argument or viewpoint. It should be placed in the introduction, typically towards the end of that section.

 2. Introduction:

• The introduction serves as the opening of your essay, capturing the reader's attention and providing essential context for the topic.
• Begin with a compelling hook, which can be a thought-provoking question, an interesting fact, a relevant quote, or a brief anecdote.
• Clearly present your thesis statement, outlining your opinion on the issue.
• Provide a brief overview of the points you intend to discuss in the essay's body, setting the reader's expectations.

3. Well-Structured Body Paragraphs:

• The body of your opinion essay should consist of several well-organized paragraphs, each dedicated to a specific aspect or supporting point related to your thesis.
• Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence directly connecting to your thesis statement.
• Offer substantial evidence, examples, statistics, or personal experiences to support your viewpoint. Ensure the evidence is relevant and convincing.
• Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs, using transitional words and phrases to guide the reader seamlessly through your arguments.

4. Acknowledgment of Counterarguments:

• A robust opinion essay acknowledges opposing viewpoints or counterarguments. This demonstrates your ability to consider alternative perspectives and strengthens your own argument.
• Counterarguments can be addressed within the body paragraphs or in a dedicated paragraph where you present, discuss, and ultimately refute opposing views.

5. Conclusion:

• The conclusion should serve as the closing of your essay, summarizing your thesis statement and the main points presented in the body.
• However, avoid mere repetition of the introduction. Instead, offer a broader perspective, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as a thought-provoking idea, a call to action, or a suggestion for further exploration.
• Conclude your essay with a sense of closure, ensuring your final words leave a lasting impression.

6. Evidence and Examples:

Support your opinion with credible evidence, such as research findings, assignment expert opinions, or real-life examples. This lends credibility to your argument and makes it more persuasive.

7. Proper Citation:

If your essay includes external sources or references, ensure proper citation following the required citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Correct citation is essential to maintain academic integrity and prevent plagiarism.

8. Editing and Proofreading:

• Before finalizing your opinion essay, perform a thorough edit and proofread. Check for grammar and spelling errors, as well as clarity and coherence.
• Consider seeking peer, instructor, or professional editor feedback to ensure your essay is polished and error-free.

Opinion Essay Topics

Here are ten broad subject areas for opinion essay topics

1. Technology:

• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
• Is Social Media Beneficial or Harmful for Society?
• The Ethics of Data Privacy in the Digital Age
• Should Technology Be Used in Education More Extensively?
• Is Online Learning as Effective as Traditional Education?
• The Role of Technology in Solving Environmental Issues
• Are Smartphones a Necessity or a Distraction in Daily Life?
• The Pros and Cons of Video Games for Children
• Is Technology Making Us More or Less Connected to Each Other?
• The Future of Work in a World Dominated by Automation

2. Education:

• Standardized Testing: Does It Accurately Measure Student Abilities?
• The Impact of Homeschooling on Children's Development
• Should Schools Implement Uniform Dress Codes?
• The Role of Arts Education in Academic Curriculum
• Are College Degrees Still Worth the Investment?
• The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Education
• Should Schools Teach Financial Literacy as a Mandatory Subject?
• The Influence of Teachers on Students' Success
• Does Homework Enhance or Impede Learning?
• The Importance of Inclusive Education for Special Needs Students

3. Environment:

• The Responsibility of Individuals in Combating Climate Change
• Should Plastic Bags and Bottles Be Banned to Reduce Pollution?
• The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity
• Renewable Energy Sources vs. Fossil Fuels: Which is Better?
• Should Governments Implement Carbon Tax to Reduce Emissions?
• The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research
• Is Sustainable Living Achievable for Everyone?
• The Role of Urban Planning in Creating Eco-Friendly Cities
• Are Electric Vehicles the Future of Transportation?
• The Effectiveness of Recycling Programs in Reducing Waste

4. Politics and Government:

• The Importance of Voting in a Democracy
• Is Political Correctness Beneficial or Restrictive to Free Speech?
• Should Term Limits Be Imposed on Elected Officials?
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Opinions
• Universal Healthcare vs. Private Healthcare: Pros and Cons
• The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society
• Should Affirmative Action Still Be Implemented?
• Is Political Polarization a Threat to Democracy?
• The Influence of Lobbying and Special Interest Groups on Politics
• Should the Voting Age Be Lowered or Raised?

5. Health and Wellness:

• The Pros and Cons of a Vegetarian or Vegan Diet
• The Impact of Fast Food on Public Health
• Should Vaccination Be Mandatory for All Children?
• The Benefits and Risks of Legalizing Marijuana
• The Role of Mental Health Education in Schools
• Is Healthcare a Basic Human Right?
• The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies
• The Impact of Stress on Physical and Mental Health
• Is Alternative Medicine a Valid Alternative to Conventional Medicine?
• The Influence of Advertising on Unhealthy Eating Habits

6. Social Issues:

• The Role of Social Media in Promoting Body Image Issues
• The Impact of Income Inequality on Society
• Is Capital Punishment Ethical or Inhumane?
• The Importance of Gender Equality in the Workplace
• Should Animal Testing Be Banned for Cosmetic Products?
• The Ethics of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
• The Influence of Celebrity Culture on Young People
• Is Online Bullying a Serious Threat to Mental Health?
• The Role of Government in Combating Homelessness

7. Economics:

• The Effects of Inflation on Consumer Purchasing Power
• Is Globalization Beneficial or Harmful to Developing Countries?
• The Impact of Minimum Wage Laws on Employment
• The Role of Cryptocurrency in Modern Finance
• Should Governments Provide Universal Basic Income?
• The Ethics of Corporate Social Responsibility
• The Pros and Cons of Trade Tariffs
• Is Economic Growth Sustainable in the Long Term?
• The Influence of Consumerism on Environmental Degradation
• The Role of Government Regulation in Preventing Financial Crises

8. Science and Technology Ethics:

• The Ethical Implications of Human Gene Editing
• Should Artificial Intelligence Have Legal Rights?
• The Use of Facial Recognition Technology: Privacy vs. Security
• The Dangers and Benefits of Biotechnology Advancements
• The Ethics of Cloning Animals for Human Consumption
• Is Privacy Invasion Justified in the Name of National Security?
• The Impact of 3D Printing on Intellectual Property Rights
• Should Autonomous Weapons Be Banned?
• The Ethical Considerations of Using CRISPR for Genetic Enhancement
• Is Space Exploration Worth the Cost and Environmental Impact?

9. Culture and Society:

• The Influence of Pop Culture on Young People's Behavior
• Should Cultural Appropriation Be Condemned or Celebrated?
• The Importance of Preserving Indigenous Languages and Cultures
• The Role of Music in Shaping Social and Political Movements
• Should Museums Return Stolen Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin?
• The Impact of Reality TV Shows on Society's Perception of Reality
• Is Online Dating a Positive or Negative Trend in Modern Relationships?
• The Ethics of Cultural Tourism and Its Impact on Local Communities
• Should Schools Teach More Diverse History and Literature?
• The Role of Literature and Art in Promoting Social Change

10. Ethics and Morality:

• The Ethics of Physician-Assisted Suicide for Terminal Patients
• Is Lying Ever Justified in Moral Dilemmas?
• The Role of Religion in Shaping Personal Morality
• The Ethics of Animal Rights: Should Animals Have Legal Personhood?
• Is Forgiveness a Virtue or a Weakness?
• The Moral Implications of Cloning Humans
• The Ethics of Nuclear Weapons and Deterrence
• Should Government Surveillance Be Permitted for National Security?
• The Role of Free Will in Determining Moral Responsibility
• Is It Ethical to Experiment on Animals for Scientific Research?

Opinion Essay Structure

Here is a breakdown of the essential elements:

1. Introduction:

• Hook: Begin with an attention-grabbing hook, such as a question, fact, quote, or anecdote, to engage the reader's interest.
• Thesis Statement:  Present your clear and concise thesis statement. This statement is the foundation of your essay and encapsulates your main argument or opinion on the topic.
• Preview:  Offer a brief overview of the main points or arguments you will discuss in the body of the essay. This sets the reader's expectations.

2. Body Paragraphs:

• Topic Sentences: Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that relates directly to your thesis statement.
• Supporting Evidence: Provide evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions that support each argument. Ensure that the evidence is relevant and compelling.
• Transition Sentences: Use transitional words and phrases to guide the reader smoothly from one point to the next. This creates coherence and logical flow.
• Counterarguments:  Address opposing viewpoints within the body of your essay, demonstrating your ability to evaluate different perspectives critically. This adds depth and persuasiveness to your argument.

3. Conclusion:

• Restate Thesis: Restate your thesis statement and summarize your main argument.
• Summarize Main Points: Summarize the key points or arguments you've presented in the essay's body.
• Broaden Perspective: Move beyond mere repetition of the introduction. Offer a broader perspective on the topic, leaving the reader with something to contemplate, such as the significance of your opinion or a call to action.
• Closing Thoughts: End with a thought-provoking closing thought, question, or statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Opinion Essay Examples

Here is an example for you -

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

Social media has become an integral part of our lives in today's digital age. While it offers various benefits, like staying connected with friends and accessing information, its influence on mental health has been a growing concern. This essay explores the impact of social media on mental well-being, arguing that while it has some advantages, it can also have detrimental effects.

Introduction:

The introduction provides a clear thesis statement: "This essay argues that social media has both positive and negative impacts on mental health." It engages the reader's interest with a hook, such as a startling statistic about social media usage or a relevant quote.

Body Paragraphs:

The body of the essay is divided into several paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect of the argument:

Positive Aspects:  This paragraph discusses the positive impact of social media, such as fostering connections, providing support networks, and raising awareness of mental health issues. It includes examples and statistics to support these points.

Negative Aspects:  Here, the essay delves into the negative effects of social media, including cyberbullying, social comparison, and addiction. Real-life examples and studies are cited to illustrate these harmful consequences.

Counterarguments: To address opposing viewpoints, the essay checker acknowledges that some studies suggest a limited negative impact of social media. However, it refutes these arguments with counter-studies and expert opinions, emphasizing the overall negative trend.

Conclusion:

The conclusion restates the thesis and summarizes the main points from the body paragraphs. It provides a balanced perspective by acknowledging the positive and negative aspects of social media's impact on mental health. The essay ends with a thought-provoking statement, encouraging the reader to consider their own relationship with social media and its effects on their well-being.

Additional Considerations:

The essay's clear topic sentences, evidence, and transitions between paragraphs maintain coherence. The essay follows a formal tone, uses proper grammar and citations, and avoids jargon. It provides a comprehensive overview of the topic while presenting a well-structured argument that engages the reader and encourages critical thinking.

Crafting top-notch and perfect opinion essay writing is not just about expressing your viewpoint; it is about constructing a persuasive and well-structured argument. You can effectively communicate your opinions by adhering to the fundamental elements of a clear thesis statement, an engaging introduction, well-supported body paragraphs, and a thought-provoking conclusion.

Remember to acknowledge opposing viewpoints, use evidence judiciously, and maintain a formal tone. Opinion essays are a powerful platform for sharing your thoughts, contributing to meaningful discussions, and refining your writing and critical thinking skills. You can craft opinion essays that resonate and persuade effectively with the right structure and approach.

Frequently asked questions

Q1. what is the key to a successful opinion essay.

The key to a successful opinion essay is a clear and compelling thesis statement that presents your main argument. Support your viewpoint with relevant evidence, maintain a logical structure, and acknowledge opposing perspectives.

Q2. How can I make my introduction engaging?

Start with a captivating hook, like a thought-provoking question or a surprising fact. Clearly state your thesis statement, and briefly preview the main points you will discuss.

Q3. What role do counterarguments play in an opinion essay?

Counterarguments demonstrate your critical thinking skills and strengthen your argument by addressing opposing viewpoints. You can acknowledge counterarguments within your essay and then refute them.

Q4. How can I ensure my opinion essay is well-structured?

Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs focusing on specific points, and a conclusion summarizing your argument. Use transitional words for coherence.

Q5. Should I include personal experiences in my opinion essay?

Yes, personal experiences can enhance your essay's authenticity. However, ensure they are relevant to your argument and used as supporting evidence, not as the sole basis of your viewpoint.

Q6. How can I find credible evidence for my opinion essay?

Utilize reputable sources like academic journals, books, and expert opinions. Ensure your sources are recent and authoritative to bolster the credibility of your argument.

Q7. What is the difference between an opinion and a persuasive essay?

While both aim to persuade, an opinion essay primarily expresses your viewpoint. A persuasive essay focuses on convincing the reader to adopt your perspective through strong argumentation.

Q8. How can I maintain a formal tone in my opinion essay?

Avoid overly casual language and slang. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and follow the conventions of academic writing, such as citing sources correctly.

Q9. Can I use personal anecdotes in my conclusion?

Yes, personal anecdotes can be effective in the conclusion to leave a lasting impression. Relate your personal experience back to your thesis or the broader implications of your opinion.

Q10. What is the most important aspect of revising my opinion essay?

The most crucial revision aspect is ensuring your essay is clear and well-organized. Check for logical flow between paragraphs, and edit for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

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How to Write Opinion Essays: Reasons and Examples

Rarely do we speak with an educator who claims that teaching essay writing is a walk in the park.

In fact, most educators openly acknowledge the  unique challenges of guiding students through the intricate process of essay composition. 

When thinking about the different genres, some might assume opinion writing is easy compared to the rest since it’s about ourselves! But truly, it comes with its own specific challenges.

Unlike writing informational essays or doing literary analyses, writing opinion pieces means students are mainly pulling experiences from their own memory, which can be a nightmare for writers and teachers alike. 

They often find it hard to think of ideas and properly express them.

In this blog, we will dive into how to effectively teach students about the body paragraphs of an opinion essay to make the process simpler.

How do I Organize Opinion Writing Essays?

Before you teach students how to write opinion essays, you’ll want to cover  brainstorming  for opinion essay topics.

After you have gone through the topic selection process, you can move on to the organizational structure of opinion writing! You want to be sure that students know what the essay format or outline looks like. Typically, we use this format –

• The essay has 4-5 total paragraphs, an introduction, a conclusion, and 2-3 body paragraphs 
• Each body paragraph has a topic sentence, a reason to support the thesis, and 1-2 examples to support the reason
• Each body paragraph is a new reason

We highly suggest turning this organizational structure into a  graphic organizer . These help students…

• Figure out their ideas
• Have as an outline and reference when it comes time to draft

And help you provide scaffolding through the writing process!

As students begin to plan and craft their opinion essay, they will fill in the graphic organizer, so they don’t forget their ideas later.

How do I Help Students to Brainstorm Reason Ideas?

Once students understand the expectations for an opinion essay, and are ready with their final opinion sentence (aka their topic sentence…thesis…claim…), it’s time to move on to  brainstorming reasons  for their opinion essay.

It’s important to emphasize with students that reasons are the  backbone of their essays . Whip out your Vogue hands (who doesn’t love some old school Madonna) because you are going to start by modeling the process.

You can use this example when teaching how to brainstorm reasons –

• Opinion Topic Sentence : Disney is the best vacation destination for families.
• Reason 1:  It is easy to get to.
• Reason 2:  There are activities for adults and kids.
• Reason 3:  It will lead to lasting memories.

To model, just express your thought process out loud. 

As you work, continually check in with yourself by asking “does this reason support my opinion?” Then, begin to have students generate reasons for their own topics. They will write their reasons on that handy graphic organizer. During this time, you can  scaffold and differentiate this independent application.  

For example, some students may only need to provide  two reasons  for their opinion essay instead of three.

Some students may  meet with you at a teacher table   while others work independently.

You can also provide some students with a graphic organizer that has hints, question prompts, or examples to held guide them.  No matter what supports you put in place,  we highly recommend checking over everyones work .

Not only will this save you  tons  of time later when grading the essays – but you can make sure everyone is on track.

Walk around the room, quickly read over their reasons, and apply a check if it’s been “approved”.

What are Transition Words for Reasons?

Because there are multiple reasons for opinion essays, students will need to transition between these ideas. That’s where  transition words   come in!

We recommend providing students with these transition words. You can put them on an anchor chart or have students jot them down in their notebooks. Here are a few transition words you can provide to students –

• Another reason
• As well as 

It may help to also have example sentences on your anchor chart that model using transitions.  We never want to assume our students have it all figured out  – especially when it comes to writing!

How do I Help Students Brainstorm Examples?

Now that each student has reasons to support their thesis, they need examples for their opinion essay.

These examples will help support their reasons and make their opinions stronger. Just like with the reasons, we suggest starting with modeling and then having students work independently to fill in a graphic organizer. Here is an example you can use to model backing up reasons with examples for an opinion essay:

• Example 1:  Many of the rides and roller coasters can be enjoyed by children and adults.
• Example 2:  My mom and I both enjoyed the World Showcase at Epcot.

We recommend that students have at least one example to support each reason. 

When coming up with examples, students can  pull from their own life experiences or facts  they learned from books, articles, etc.

When teaching how to write opinion essays, we tend to challenge students to use their own knowledge and experiences, but they can also research information as well – just be careful that it doesn’t turn into an informational essay.

What are Transition Words for Examples?

Just like with the reasons, we highly recommend giving students transition words to move between examples. Not only does this help with fluidity, but we’ve found that it keeps students from saying, “I don’t know any transitions!” Sometimes, students just need a jumping-off point.

Here are a few transition words students can use for the examples they created for their opinion essay –

• For example
• Additionally
• For instance

Add these to an anchor chart or have students write them down inside their journals. Also, it never hurts to add example sentences in there! 

Done-For-You Opinion Essay Resource

If you’re ready to turn your students into confident opinion writers but feeling overwhelmed by all the planning and preparation, fear not!

Check out this  COMPREHENSIVE Opinion Writing Unit for 4th grade  –  your one-stop-shop for all your opinion writing needs.

We have created a complete standards-based Opinion Writing Unit for 4th grade that has EVERYTHING you need to teach a  comprehensive  and  differentiated   unit on opinion writing . With:

• Scripted lesson plans 
• Graphic organizers
• Anchor charts
• Mentor texts
• Comprehension activities 
• And more…

You will be equipped to guide your fourth-grade students through the entire writing process, starting from brainstorming, progressing to writing body paragraphs, and culminating with a published opinion essay! 

To enhance each lesson, we’ve included  teaching videos   to bring the learning to life , making the experience fun and engaging for your students.

With differentiated activities and materials, you can be confident that you’re meeting the needs of all your learners. And with a  grading rubric and checklists , assessing your students’ writing has never been easier.

After using this resource, your students will become experts at crafting coherent and compelling opinion writing essays.

Bid farewell to countless hours spent on lesson planning and searching for materials, and say hello to a worry-free teaching experience.

Need some time to brainstorm whether or not this unit is for you? No problem- check out this  Opinion Writing Unit for 4th grade freebie   for an inside look at parts of this unit. 

We know that teaching writing can be tough, but with the right resources and scaffolds in place  it can become manageable! And if things don’t go as planned, don’t worry. Writing is a process!

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72 Fun Opinion Writing Prompts that Students Will WANT to Write About!

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Kids love to tell you what they think and opinion writing is the perfect outlet for them to do it appropriately . These elementary opinion writing prompts will have your students wanting to write so they can tell you exactly what they think about topics that are relevant and interesting to them!

Opinion writing is the perfect way to introduce the more formal persuasive writing genre. It allows students to practise developing and justifying their own ideas before requiring a multi-paragraph essay with multiple pieces of evidence, proof or examples.

Want this list of prompts dropped straight into your inbox? Sign up below to get all these opinion writing topics in a hand PDF, ready to be printed and cut out for the perfect writing centre or writer’s workshop task!

72 FUN OPINION WRITING PROMPTS IN YOUR INBOX!

Get a FREE printable PDF version of all the opinion writing topic ideas in this post! Be sure to use a personal email address to make sure it gets to you!

FUN & GAMES OPINION WRITING IDEAS

From table games, to sports and TV & entertainment, your students will love to write an opinion paragraph on these interesting topics!

• What is the best game to play with friends? Why?
• Are card or dice games better? Why?
• Which are better – indoor or outdoor recesses? Why?
• If you could plan the ultimate weekend, what would it look like and why?
• What is your favourite TV show? Why?
• In your opinion, who is the best actor in the world? Why?
• What sport is your favourite to watch? Why?
• What is the best board game to play with friends? Why?
• Do you think that school sports are important? Why or why not?
• At what age do you feel children should be allowed social media? Why?
• Would you rather sing or dance in front of an audience? Why?
• How do you feel about video games? Explain.

FRIENDS & FAMILY OPINION WRITING TOPICS

Asking students to write about familiar topics is important for developing confidence and there is nothing students know better than their own family and friends. This category is full of opinion writing topics that your students are sure to already have strong thoughts about.

• What is your favourite activity to do with your family and why?
• If you could plan your next family vacation, where would you go and what would you do? Why?
• Would you rather have brothers or sisters? Explain your reasoning.
• Do you think children should receive an allowance? Justify your thinking.
• If you had to do one chore every day until you grow up, which one would you choose? Why?
• Would you rather your friends think of you as funny, kind or smart? Why?
• Should kids have to help around the house? Explain why or why not.
• How many siblings is the perfect number? Why?
• Where would you like to go with your friends: the zoo, the movies or the skatepark? Why?
• What qualities make a really great friend? Describe each quality and explain why it is important.
• What, in your opinion, makes you a good friend? Explain.
• What do you think is the best thing about your family? Why?

SCHOOL FUN OPINION WRITING PROMPTS

The key to a topic being interesting is that it is relevant to students. The school category gives students the chance to tell you how they feel about favourite subjects, homework and more with entertaining topics for opinion paragraphs.

• What is the best subject in school? Why?
• Which subject is the worst? Why?
• Should students receive grades? Why or why not?
• Should teachers give homework? Justify your opinion.
• Do you think college and university should be free? Why or why not?
• Which subject is the most important? Why?
• What is your opinion on school uniforms? Explain your thinking.
• What one book do you think all students should have to read? Why?
• What is one subject you would like to see added at school and why?
• What qualities make a great teacher? Describe each quality and explain why it is important.
• What is your opinion on watching movies at school? Explain your thoughts.
• Do you believe that school sports should be mandatory for all students? Why or why not?

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NATURE & ADVENTURE TOPICS FOR OPINION WRITING

This category will have students thinking about the world around them from serious topics such as environmental issues to fun outdoor activities. Choose from simple preferences between types of environments to really imaginative topics like the animal trait they would most like to have.

• Would you choose beach or mountains? Why?
• What is your favourite outdoor activity? Why?
• Which season is the best? Why?
• What unusual animal do you think would make the best pet and why?
• What is your opinion on global warming?
• Would you rather hike to a waterfall or ancient ruins? Explain your opinion.
• Which animal is the scariest? Why?
• How do you feel about camping and why?
• Would you rather go bungee jumping or swim with sharks? Why?
• What do you think is the most important thing we should do for the environment and why?
• What animal skill or trait would you most like to have and why?
• What is your opinion on zoos? Why?

72 ELEMENTARY OPINION WRITING PROMPTS

Get a FREE printable PDF version of all the opinion writing topics in this post – an instant writers’ workshop activity! Be sure to use a personal email address to make sure it gets to you!

FOOD & DRINK OPINION WRITING PROMPTS

Let students write opinion paragraphs about their favourite, and least favourite, foods and drinks. Some writing topics are fun and others are more philosophical. Many could make for a great verbal debate too!

• What is your favourite snack? Describe it and explain why it is your favourite.
• If you had the choice, what is one food you would never eat again? Why?
• If you could, what food would you happily eat for every meal?
• Do you prefer hot or cold drinks? Why?
• Would you choose vegetables or salad? Explain your decision.
• Invent the perfect dessert. Describe it and explain why it is so great.
• Should people be vegetarians? Why or why not?
• If you had to eat one vegetable every day for the rest of your life, which one would you choose and why?
• Describe your perfect meal and explain why.
• At what age should drinking alcohol be legal? Justify your opinion.
• Is a hot dog a sandwich? Why or why not?
• Does pineapple belong on pizza? Justify your opinion.

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MISCELLANEOUS TOPICS FOR OPINION WRITING

There really is no end to fun opinion writing prompts for elementary grades. Here I’ve created 12 bonus writing prompts that are full of writing ideas from aliens to cellphones.

• Do you think aliens exist? Why or why not?
• What is the hardest job in the world? Explain your thinking.
• At what age do you think people should be able to drive? Justify your opinion.
• Would you rather go to the moon or Mars? Why?
• If you were running the country for a day, what law would you change and why?
• Who would you most love to meet? Why?
• Should kids be allowed cell phones? Why or why not?
• Do you think video games should be considered a sport? Justify your opinion.
• What is your dream job? Why?
• Name a superhero power that you would love to have and explain why.
• If you were entered into a talent show, what would your performance be? Why?
• What day of the week do you feel is the worst? Why?

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33 Mentor Texts for Opinion Writing

Show kids how powerful sharing ideas in writing can be.

In today’s world, we want our teaching to inspire students to be forward thinkers and changemakers. Teaching them how to share their opinions in writing is a key ingredient. Let’s get kids making signs and writing letters, lists, reviews, essays, blog posts, and speeches! Check out some of our favorite opinion-writing mentor texts to bring this important genre to life for kids. We’ve got plenty of picture books for the younger set, and titles to help older kids make the leap to persuasive writing backed by researched facts.

(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)

1. We Disagree by Bethanie Deeney Murguia

A mouse and a squirrel think differently about, well, everything. Can they ever be friends? This is such a cute title for introducing kids to what it means to share an opinion, and it could lead to plenty of writing prompts to open an opinion-writing unit.

Buy it: We Disagree on Amazon

2. I Love Insects by Lizzy Rockwell

This early reader should definitely be in your primary classroom collection of opinion-writing mentor texts to help introduce the genre. Do you love insects? Two kids give competing reasons for why and why not. Read it aloud and head straight into shared writing of a list of pros and cons.

Buy it: I Love Insects on Amazon

3. Usha and the Big Digger by Amitha Jagannath Knight

To introduce kids to opinion writing, you need opinion-writing mentor texts to teach them what “opinions” are—and Usha, Aarti, and Gloria have them in this book! They each see something different when they look at the stars. This book could lead to a great introduction activity in which students try to convince each other that they see the Big Dipper, a “Big Digger,” a “Big Kite …” or something else. (Hint: It’s all in your perspective!)

Buy it: Usha and the Big Digger on Amazon

 4. Don’t Feed the Bear by Kathleen Doherty

When a park ranger puts up a “Don’t Feed the Bear” reminder, he has no idea about the persuasive sign-writing battle he’ll set in motion. (Strategic language includes “Please feed the ranger rotten eggs and slimy spinach.”) Share this hilarious title to introduce students to using signs to influence others’ thinking.

Buy it: Don’t Feed the Bear on Amazon

5. Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! by Mo Willems

Let a favorite character guide young students in the art of persuasion. The bus driver does not want Pigeon in the driver’s seat, but the well-known bird builds an emotional and unrelenting case.

Buy it: Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! on Amazon

6. Our Favorite Day of the Year by A.E. Ali

We adore sharing this book with young students to open inclusive conversations about favorite holidays and traditions. Each student in Musa’s class shares about their favorite day of the year, from Eid Al-Fitr to Pi Day. Use this book to prompt kids to write their own opinion pieces about their favorite days, and to model how reasoning, information, and anecdotes can support one’s opinion.

Buy it: Our Favorite Day of the Year on Amazon

7. Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea by Meena Harris

This true story from Kamala Harris’ childhood details how she and her sister wrote letters to their landlord until he agreed to let them build a playground in their apartment complex courtyard. Get kids excited about how their opinion writing could create real change!

Buy it: Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea on Amazon

8. If I Were President by Trygve Skaug

A young boy talks at length about what he’d do differently if he ran the country. Maybe cars could run on legs instead of gasoline, and “playing” should be a subject taught in school. Share this with kids who need more ideas for opinion-writing topics!

Buy it: If I Were President on Amazon

9. The Little Book of Little Activists by Penguin Young Readers

Introduce young students to the idea of activism and its connection to opinion writing. This inspiring photo essay includes examples of kids’ opinions about real-life causes and many written signs.

Buy it: The Little Book of Activists on Amazon

10. The Big Bed by Bunmi Laditan

This protagonist is a toddler on a mission—a mission to kick her dad out of her parents’ bed so she can sleep with her mom. Use this little girl’s precocious modeling to show students how to polish their own opinion writing by adding visual supports.

Buy it: The Big Bed on Amazon

11. The Perfect Pet by Margie Palatini

Elizabeth crafts a plan to convince her parents to let her have a pet, with unexpected—but pleasing—results. This is our favorite opinion-writing mentor text for introducing kids to win-win solutions and encouraging them to suggest them in their own opinion writing.

Buy it: The Perfect Pet on Amazon

12. & 13. Can I Be Your Dog? and I Found a Kitty! by Troy Cummings

First, read a collection of persuasive letters from a lonely dog seeking an owner that’s a twist on kids’ pet requests. Each letter is tailored to a specific audience, with Arfy promising to lick things clean, protect, and deliver endless affection.

In the sequel, Arfy uses his persuasive skills to help someone else, a lovable stray kitten. Notice with students how he once again shapes his reasoning for each recipient—and how he doesn’t give up until he’s successful!

Buy it: Can I Be Your Dog? on Amazon

Buy it: I Found a Kitty! on Amazon

14. True You: A Gender Journey by Gwen Agna and Shelley Rotner

This delightful and important title stars real kids with a full range of gender identities. Each child introduces themselves in a speech bubble that shares their opinion about gender identity. Use this title to model talking to the reader using strong, direct language.

Buy it: True You: A Gender Journey on Amazon

15. Stella Writes an Opinion by Janiel Wagstaff

Sometimes you want perfectly straightforward opinion-writing mentor texts that match right up with your teaching goals. Stella thinks second graders should be able to have a morning snack time. She sets out to write about her opinion, state her reasons, and ends with a compelling summation.

Buy it: Stella Writes an Opinion on Amazon

16. I Wanna New Room by Karen Kaufman Orloff

After his successful angling for a pet in I Wanna Iguana , Alex tries using note-writing to broach his next request: a room of his own, away from his pesky younger brother. The parent-child communication includes plenty of examples of making and responding to counterarguments.

Buy it: I Wanna New Room on Amazon

17. Be Glad Your Dad … Is Not an Octopus! by Matthew Logelin and Sara Jensen

This author’s opinion is that you should appreciate your dad for who he is. He makes his case with plenty of arguments grounded in facts—facts that show that if your dad were an animal, he could be even more gross, embarrassing, or annoying!

Buy it: Be Glad Your Dad … Is Not an Octopus! on Amazon

18. Earrings! by Judith Viorst

A young girl desperately wants her ears pierced, but her parents respond to her begging with a firm no. Ask students to evaluate the merits of her various arguments. Which are strong? Which are just whiny?

Buy it: Earrings! on Amazon

19. Pick a Picture, Write an Opinion! by Kristen McCurry

If you’re looking for opinion-writing mentor texts that lay it all out there explicitly, you’ll appreciate this resource. Engaging, diverse photos and topics, a kid-friendly tone, and explicit advice make this a helpful primer to accompany more conventional mentor texts.

Buy it: Pick a Picture, Write an Opinion! on Amazon

20. I Hate My Cats (A Love Story) by Davide Cali

This narrator has plenty of reasons to dislike his self-centered cats, which he outlines in specific detail. Use this title as an example of a multi-pronged argument. (Plus, show that sometimes, opinion writing actually leads us to change our own minds. By the end, the owner realizes he actually loves his pets, quirks and all.)

Buy it: I Hate My Cats (A Love Story) on Amazon

21. I Can Be Anything! Don’t Tell Me I Can’t by Diane Dillon

Zoe makes big plans for her future, from being an archaeologist to a veterinarian. She quiets self-doubt with confident arguments. Aside from sharing this title’s lovely, affirming message, use it to teach kids to anticipate tough questions and head them off convincingly in their opinion writing.

Buy it: I Can Be Anything! Don’t Tell Me I Can’t on Amazon

22. Rise Up and Write It by Nandini Ahuja

Farah Patel works to convince her local government to improve a vacant lot to benefit her community. Great realistic examples of using letters and signs to inspire change!

Buy it: Rise Up and Write It on Amazon

23. The Day the Crayons Quit by Drew Daywalt

These disgruntled but endearing crayons have opinions, and they aren’t shy about making them known in this read-aloud favorite. Check out this free downloadable educator guide from the publisher for persuasive letter-writing curriculum connections.

Buy it: The Day the Crayons Quit on Amazon

24. Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating

The best opinion writing springs from genuine conviction. Eugenie Clark believed sharks were fascinating and  that women could be accomplished scientists who study them. Use this title to help students generate their own passion-fueled topics about which to write.

Buy it: Shark Lady on Amazon

25. What Can a Citizen Do? by Dave Eggers

Share this title for its inspiring message about the power of one citizen to evoke positive change through spoken words, writing, and action. Also consider it as an example of how words and art interact in opinion writing; the illustrations and text work together here to advance the book’s message.

Buy it: What Can a Citizen Do? on Amazon?

26. Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest by Sarah Hampson

Dr. Archibald Coo believes that pigeons don’t deserve their reputation as avian pests. He outlines a plan to change the minds of his city neighbors. Part of his approach is to send a persuasive letter to the mayor, suggesting creative, mutually beneficial agreements—a great example for student writers aiming to change the minds of authority figures.

Buy it: Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest on Amazon

27. The Great Kapok Tree by Lynne Cherry

The animals in this classic read-aloud give a range of reasons their home shouldn’t be chopped down. Use them as examples of how to vary sentence structures and formats when listing arguments and how to use specific details to strengthen reasoning.

Buy it: The Great Kapok Tree on Amazon

28. Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson

This fictional account of the Birmingham Children’s Crusade, told from the point of view of a young participant, is a classroom must-read. It exemplifies how children’s actions can make a difference in an adult world and how powerful language strengthens a written message.

Buy it: Let the Children March on Amazon

29. No Voice Too Small: Fourteen Young Americans Making History edited by Lindsay H. Metcalf, Keila V. Dawson, and Jeanette Bradley

This powerful title introduces inspiring and diverse young activists’ causes using original poems by notable authors. Show kids that impactful opinion writing can take many forms.

Buy it: No Voice Too Small on Amazon

30. The Week Junior magazine “Big Debate” feature

The Week Junior is one of our absolute favorite magazines for the classroom , and its “Big Debate” section is a main reason for that. Each issue examines both sides of an interesting topic, from whether we should eat Maine lobster, to if space exploration is worth the huge cost, to whether or not kids’ screen time should be restricted. Have kids study examples to get tips for their own opinion writing, and maybe even create their own “Big Debate.”

Buy it: The Week Junior

31. Planet Ocean: Why We All Need a Healthy Ocean by Patricia Newman

This is a fantastic resource for upper elementary and middle school classrooms moving from opinion writing to research-based persuasive writing. This mind-boggling look at the impact of trash on our oceans gives kids so many models for sharing one’s opinions, experiences, and knowledge to spark change. Embedded QR codes take readers straight to awesome examples of persuasive speeches and other cool resources that support the author’s message.

Buy it: Planet Ocean: Why We All Need a Healthy Ocean on Amazon

32. We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know by Traci Sorell

A classroom prepares to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with research projects that convey a clear message: Native Nations are still here! Besides being critical content for kids, this is a great example of how to use researched facts to support one’s opinion.

Buy it: We Are Still Here! on Amazon

33. Marley Dias Gets It Done and So Can You! by Marley Dias

Every middle school student should meet Marley Dias through this powerful account of her #1000blackgirlbooks campaign. It boasts plenty of practical advice for young activists. Pull text excerpts for mini-lessons about tailoring opinion writing to your audience. Marley writes straight to her peers.

Buy it: Marley Dias Gets It Done and So Can You! on Amazon

Excited to share these opinion-writing mentor texts? Also check out our favorite mentor texts for procedural and narrative writing.

Want more book lists and classroom ideas be sure to  subscribe to our newsletters, you might also like.

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An opinion essay.

Look at the essay and do the exercises to improve your writing skills.

Instructions

Do the preparation exercise first. Then do the other exercises.

Preparation

Check your understanding: multiple selection

Check your writing: matching - useful words and phrases, worksheets and downloads.

Are video games really a good way to keep fit? What do you think?

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100 Best Opinion Writing Prompts for Elementary Students

Opinion writing prompts were always my favorite when the English teacher would ask us to write on a specific topic in school.

Not only opinion topics are great for finding out what your child or student likes when it comes to a certain topic but also get them to think outside of the box and get creative when writing.

Writing prompts logical, critical, and exploratory thinking .

These opinion writing prompts are also great for middle schoolers, high schoolers, and preschoolers .

Here’s a list of 100 opinion writing prompts suitable for elementary students:

• Dogs or cats: Which makes a better pet?
• Should zoos exist?
• Should animals be kept in captivity?
• Is it okay to keep exotic pets?
• Which animal is the best at camouflage?
• Should people keep fish as pets?
• Pizza or hamburgers: Which is the tastiest meal?
• Should students have a longer lunch break?
• Is breakfast the most important meal of the day?
• Should candy be banned from school?
• Do vegetables taste better when they’re fresh or cooked?

Technology:

• Is playing video games good for kids?
• Should kids have their smartphones?
• Is it better to read books or e-books?
• Should robots do chores for us?
• Is it important for kids to learn coding?
• Should homework be abolished?
• Is school uniform a good idea?
• Should schools have longer or shorter breaks?
• Is it important to have art and music classes in school?
• Should students have a say in what they learn?

Nature and Environment:

• Should we plant more trees to save the planet?
• Is recycling important?
• Should people use bicycles more often instead of cars?
• Is it important to protect endangered species?
• Should people use less plastic?

Sports and Activities:

• Which sport is the most fun to watch?
• Should kids be required to play a sport?
• Is it better to play outside or inside?
• Should everyone learn how to swim?
• Should schools have more field trips?

Family and Relationships:

• Should kids have a curfew?
• Is it important to spend time with family every day?
• Should kids be allowed to make their own decisions?
• Should siblings share a room?
• Should families have regular game nights?

Books and Stories:

• Which fairy tale character would you like to be?
• Should kids be allowed to read comic books in school?
• Should authors write more adventure stories?
• Is it better to read a book before watching its movie adaptation?
• Should kids write their own stories?

Health and Fitness:

• Is it important to exercise every day?
• Should kids be encouraged to try new sports?
• Is it better to cook at home or eat out?
• Should kids be allowed to have dessert every day?
• Should everyone learn how to cook?

Holidays and Celebrations:

• Is Halloween the best holiday?
• Should Valentine’s Day be for everyone, not just couples?
• Is it better to give or receive gifts?
• Should people celebrate their birthdays with big parties?
• Should there be more holidays during the school year?

Travel and Adventure:

• Should kids have more opportunities to travel?
• Is it better to go on a beach vacation or a mountain adventure?
• Should everyone learn how to speak another language?
• Should people explore outer space?
• Should kids have to earn a special trip through good behavior?

Movies and Entertainment:

• Which movie is the funniest of all time?
• Should kids be allowed to watch TV every day?
• Is it better to watch movies at home or in a theater?
• Should kids be allowed to watch scary movies?
• Should there be more movies about animals?

Community and Citizenship:

• Should kids volunteer in their community?
• Should everyone recycle and pick up litter?
• Is it important to vote when you’re old enough?
• Should kids learn about famous historical figures?
• Should kids be involved in making decisions in their neighborhoods?

Dreams and Imagination:

• If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
• Should kids be allowed to dream big?
• Is it important to have imaginary friends?
• Should kids be encouraged to write their own stories?
• Should there be more magical creatures in the world?

Art and Creativity:

• Is it important to take art classes?
• Should kids be allowed to create their own inventions?
• Is it better to paint or draw?
• Should kids have more opportunities to perform on stage?
• Should there be more public art in our city?
• Should kids learn how to play a musical instrument?
• Is it better to listen to music or make your own?
• Should schools have more music programs?
• Should kids have to practice their instrument every day?
• Should kids be allowed to sing in the classroom?
• Should kids be allowed to wear whatever they want to school?
• Is it important to follow fashion trends?
• Should everyone wear uniforms?
• Should kids be allowed to dye their hair any color?
• Should clothes be more comfortable or stylish?

Safety and Rules:

• Should kids always wear helmets when riding bikes?
• Is it important to follow rules even when no one is watching?
• Should kids be allowed to cross the street alone?
• Should there be stricter rules for using the internet?
• Should kids be allowed to walk to school by themselves?

Transportation:

• Is it better to travel by car or by plane?
• Should everyone use public transportation more often?
• Should there be more bike lanes in the city?
• Is it important to walk or bike to school instead of taking the bus?
• Should people use electric cars instead of regular cars?
• Should kids be allowed to earn money by doing chores?
• Is it important to save money?
• Should kids have their bank accounts?
• Should everyone learn how to budget and manage money?

Feel free to use these prompts to spark creativity and encourage thoughtful opinion writing among elementary students! “Opinion Writing Prompts for Students

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IELTS Opinion Essay – Topics, Structure and Sample Answers

10 min read

Updated On Feb 22, 2024

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IELTS opinion essays mainly focus on agreeing or disagreeing with a particular fact or information. It presents two opposite views and you have to develop your argument supporting one view (strictly one!) You get 40 minutes to complete this task. You have to write at least 250 words on the topic given.

Given below are some examples of IELTS Writing Task 2 opinion essays along with their structure. So, let’s understand how to frame the IELTS opinion essay from the sample answers given in the blog!

What is the IELTS Opinion Essay Format?

If you’re gearing up to tackle the Opinion Essay in IELTS Writing Task 2, know that it’s all about writing your opinion on a specific topic with supporting examples. To make sure your essay ticks off all the criteria of a band 8+ essay, organizing it in the right way is key!

Let’s now look at a proper format to learn the structuring of an IELTS opinion essay.

Introduction:

• Keep it short, usually around 2-3 sentences.
• Introduce the topic and clearly state your opinion.
• Provide a brief overview of the main points you will discuss in the body paragraphs.

Body Paragraphs (Usually 2 paragraphs):

• Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea that supports your opinion.
• Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea.
• Provide evidence, examples, and reasoning to support your main idea.
• Aim for coherence and cohesion within each paragraph by using appropriate transition words.
• Make sure to use appropriate vocabulary and grammar while explaining an idea in the body paragraphs.

Conclusion:

• Summarize the main points discussed in the body paragraphs.
• Restate your opinion, emphasizing its importance or relevance.
• Avoid introducing new ideas in the conclusion.

IELTS Opinion Essay Sample Answers

Given below is an example of an IELTS Writing task 2 opinion essay. Let’s understand how to frame the essay from the ideas we have.

Sample Question 1

In the future, nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Given below is a brief outline of what to write in the essay after identifying the essay type.

Opinion Essay

Introduction

Paraphrase the topic of the essay using synonyms for the words used in the topic statement. Clearly state the view on the topic.

Body Paragraph 1

Technological improvements have increased the level of ease and convenience to a point where people can access news and information at the click of a button. This has led to print media becoming outdated.

Body Paragraph 2

The development of news websites and sites that freely distribute information and print media in a digital form has led to a trend of availing such services and content without paying.

Summarize the essay and re-state the opinion on the topic.

Struggling to Crack the IELTS opinion essays? Our 8+ band trainers have got you! Sign up for a  FREE demo  now!

Sample Answer 

Presently, newspapers, books, journals, magazines, etc. are still actively used by a section of the global population. However, with the arrival of news sites and the availability of books, magazines and other forms of media online, totally free of cost, many believe that such forms of media are on their way to becoming outdated. I agree with this statement, and will explain it further with relevant examples in the essay.

It is a well-known fact that in this day and age if an individual wants to read a book or just go over the news of the day, the first step that they take is to search the internet. Devices such as smartphones and tablets have improved the time efficiency of searching for information online to such an extent that a person can access their preferred form of media in the comfort of their homes in a matter of minutes. Consequently, people have started to abandon their preference for print media due to the presence of much more convenient alternatives.

Additionally, the various forms of print media enjoyed by people can often be availed free of charge on several websites. For instance, most news organizations publish their daily news on their official website, which can be accessed by anyone. Also, some numerous sites and databases provide popular books, journals and magazines in a digital form to the public for a nominal subscription fee or sometimes even for free, leading to a majority of readers of such forms of media shifting away from buying hard copies.

Nevertheless, there is still a sizable chunk of the population that enjoys the conventional forms of print media. That being said, with the cost-effective nature of making such information and content available online, organizations will soon completely shift to internet-based services.

In conclusion, I would like to say that people always prefer the more comfortable alternative that is available. Therefore, it can be safely said that in the coming years, there will be a complete shift from traditional print media to online media services and products.

Sample Question 2

Some people say that international sporting events contribute greatly to peace and stability in the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Paraphrase the topic sentence using synonyms.

Mention the view on the topic.

Body Paragraphs

International sports tournaments are events where teams and the general public of various countries come together and collectively participate in the event.

Sports events, especially cricket and football help distract the minds of the citizens from the ongoing difficulties in their country and enjoy these events.

Summarize the essay and state the final view.

Sample Answer

Sports has always been a magnificent platform for the finest talents of a country to showcase their skills and represent their nation. At the same time, sports is also one of the few occasions where every citizen of the country unites in support of their favourite teams. It is considered by many that sports are a great approach to maintain stability among countries. This essay will elaborate on the given topic and justify why sports can successfully bring and preserve global peace.

One of the greatest characteristics of any popular sporting event is that supporters of every team involved in the tournament almost always attend the matches that are organized in their cities. Some veteran fans even travel to different parts of the country to witness a match between their favourite teams. These events also unite the populace of a nation as every patriotic individual prays for the success of their national team. For instance, the entire nation wishes for the victory of their national team in the Olympic Games as winning an Olympic Medal is one of the most prestigious honours that can be bestowed upon a country.

It is a well-known fact that the people of a country collectively face several challenges on a day-to-day basis. These issues can be caused by numerous factors and are the typical difficulties that ordinary citizens have to overcome. Sports help people enjoy a few moments of excitement and take a break from the monotony of everyday life.

That being said, sometimes the passion of overenthusiastic sports fans ends up leading to harmful and conflicting situations among communities. Nevertheless, the overall impact of sports on our lives is undoubtedly positive.

Finally, sports are one of the aspects of human life that bind a whole community together. This is enough evidence to understand that sports help maintain peace and stability in a nation.

Ready to grab the latest IELTS writing task 2 question papers of 2024?

Sample Question 3

Our personalities are predetermined as a result of our genes before we are born and there is nothing that can be done to change our character traits. To what extent do you agree?

Paraphrase the topic and mention the view.

Genetics are only a part of the entire list of factors that affect a person’s personality.

One of the most important influences on an individual’s personality is their childhood and upbringing.

Summarize the essay and mention the final view in brief.

Even between small periods of time, there are subtle variabilities in our disposition. Such alterations are quite natural and are a part of a human being’s existence. However, it is often assumed that our personality is entirely dependent on genetics. The following paragraphs will explore the different aspects of personality and justify why genetics are not the only factor influencing our personality.

An individual has countless experiences in their life from childhood to adulthood and finally until death. Every one of these experiences has an impact on a person’s mind, no matter how giant or small. The kind of people present in a person’s immediate surroundings also has a huge influence on their nature and characteristics. Thus, it can be safely surmised that a person’s genes are not the only contributing factor when it comes to personality.

One of the most significant influences on our personality is our childhood experiences and the teachings of our parents. Children are always known to follow in the footsteps of their parents. Thus, if the parents of a child are successful in teaching their children the right values and morals, they are bound to grow into responsible and decent individuals.

It is true that the personality traits of an individual are determined by the features of their parents. Nevertheless, these traits can be altered over the course of many years and different experiences.

In conclusion, genetics affect our personalities in a trivial manner as compared to all the other aspects of our temperament. That being said, our life experiences and learnings are the consequential factors in developing our character.

The Latest IELTS Opinion Essay Topics of 2024

A few IELTS opinion essay topics are listed down below, which you can practice. These opinion essay questions may appear in the actual examination.

• In the future, it seems more difficult to live on Earth. Some people think more money should be spent on researching another planet to live on, such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Many people say that the only way to guarantee a good job is to complete a course in university education. Others claim that it is better to start work after school and gain experience in the world of work. How far do you agree or disagree with the above views?

• Although more and more people read the news on the internet, newspapers will remain the most important source of news for the majority of people. Do you agree or disagree?
• Students in schools and universities learn more from their teachers than through other means such as the Internet, libraries, and TV. To what extent you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays university education is very expensive. Some people say that universities should reduce their fees, especially for the less fortunate students or for those coming from rural areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some people think that governments must insist on preserving the traditional appearance of old buildings undergoing renovation or redevelopment. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement?
• Some people believe that international trade and communication with other countries is a positive trend, while others think it is harmful to nations and they might lose their identities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and relevant examples.
• Many people believe that schools should teach children to become good citizens and workers rather than independent individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion and relevant examples.

People should follow the customs and traditions when they start to live in a new country. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

• It is impossible to help all people in the world, so governments should only focus on people in their own countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Prevention is better than cure. Do you agree or disagree that out of the country’s health budget, a large proportion should be diverted from treatment to spending on health education and preventive measures?

Top 3 Common Mistakes of IELTS Opinion Essays

In IELTS opinion essays, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can lower your band score. Getting aware of them is the key to not committing them knowingly or unknowingly while you prepare!

The top 3 common mistakes to avoid are:

• Not giving a clear opinion.
• Presenting arguments for both sides of the issue.
• Failing to support your opinion with well-defined reasons and examples.

Tips to Answer IELTS Opinion Essay Questions

In the IELTS opinion essays, you need to write your opinion about a topic and back it up with proof and examples. If you use a clear structure and good writing methods, you can improve your chances of doing well!

• Spend 5 minutes on a mind map before writing.
• Stick to one viewpoint throughout the essay.
• Use a single main idea to support the topic in each of the two body paragraphs.
• Express your opinion throughout the essay, not just in the conclusion.
• Keep the introduction short, a maximum of 50 words.
• Ensure each body paragraph explains a main idea within 100 words.
• The conclusion should be shorter than the introduction.
• Write a complete essay following the given structure.
• Aim for a word count of 280 words or less.

Here are the 10 Examples for the Opinion Essay Topics IELTS:

Also check:

• Tips to write introduction in IELTS Writing Task 2
• Tips to write great writing essay
• IELTS Sample essays
• How to get band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Writing recent actual test
• IELTS 2024 Study Plan for 1 month (30 Days) / 15 Days / 7 Days

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the structure for writing the introduction for an opinion essay?

Is it mandatory to state my opinion in the introduction? Can I skip it and introduce my opinion in the body paragraphs?

What are the words that I can use to state my opinion?

Can I underline the important sentences, to attract examiner’s attention?

Is it mandatory to write the essay in first person?

Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types

Start Preparing for IELTS: Get Your 10-Day Study Plan Today!

Nehasri Ravishenbagam

Nehasri Ravishenbagam, a Senior Content Marketing Specialist and a Certified IELTS Trainer of 3 years, crafts her writings in an engaging way with proper SEO practices. She specializes in creating a variety of content for IELTS, CELPIP, TOEFL, and certain immigration-related topics. As a student of literature, she enjoys freelancing for websites and magazines to balance her profession in marketing and her passion for creativity!

Explore other Opinion Essays

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Post your Comments

Purnima Koli

Posted on Oct 5, 2021

In fast-paced global economy, it is imperative to have both knowledge and skill. Ability to learn on the job paves way for more hands-on training than discussing case studies at university. Doing a course can be time taking and can surely burn a hole in our parents’ pockets, the middle class knows it better. Getting straight to business of things, meaning starting to work soon after school is beneficial in many ways.

Working in office gives us professional perspective about how business processes are streamlines, turning creative ideas into tangible projects and most importantly getting paid for the amazing work I put out. I feel it’s great to have my ideas being incorporated as solutions to processual issues. Personal growth due to long years of work experience makes us future-ready for the big dream job. Alternatively, some also start their own business after getting gaining a good reputation for their work.

In my personal experience my university education looks good on my CV but has not been financially rewarding for I still have to even out my return on investment. I regret joining an elite institution where I felt out of place as I came from a humble upbringing. However, I learnt a lot about living away from home, managing finances, making new friends, living independently, honed my communication skills.

All in all, I feel it is better to join workforce early on than to do a full-fledged university course. This saves time, money and energy from studying on campus which can be channelized to working with a small business which has ample scope to learn on the job. Later, one can switch to bigger companies with the achieved industry experience after a few years of rigorous hands-on training and development.

In the future, it seems more difficult to live on Earth. Some people think more money should be spent on researching another planet to live, such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

The available land for household, industrial and recreational usage is shrinking. We see large scale infrastructure development in India. But for all these activities we need more land on earth itself, not on some other worldly planet, Mars. I would have to disagree that Mars has answers to all our earthly problems. I think it’s more about gaps in planning, policy making and the way we conduct our lives on a day-to-day basis. If we base our routine on sustainable habits, we are already solving more problems than we create. The problems are created on earth so they need solutions on earth itself, I believe.

The problems like polluted resources such as air, water, land, soil have ample ways to be fixed as we read in scientific journals and other informational sources. The popular ‘3 Rs’ such as Recycle, Reuse and Reduce need to be inculcated for us to have clean air, water, soil, land. We need community development along with economic development so the civil society, environment and the development process can go hand-in-hand. Overcrowding in urban areas due to migration for work, education or marriage can be solved by having proper laws. On the other hand, achieving conservation targets for endangered flora and fauna is a vital step towards holistic saving the ecosystem.

Consequently, I strongly believe that having ideas about Mars being an inhabitable place in the future is surely fantastic idea. But It’s a childish way to think of a better world somewhere else than fixing problems at hand. Let’s face it, our survival instincts have made us exploit resources faster than the nature can replenish them. And we see the negative outcomes like sea-level rising, frequent coastal flooding, drastic weather changes, global warming. As a global community of conscious individuals, we need our planet more than it needs us.

Posted on Sep 11, 2021

In a new country one faces multiple challenges to overcome the culture shock. Different people may adopt the new ways of life at different pace. But I do agree that willing to accept and change with the circumstances can ease the burden.

As we know that change is inevitable, we need to get accustomed to the new culture. There’s no harm in getting the best of both worlds, from your country of origin to this new land of surprises. Festivals, celebrations, new people, new places, new things tend to broaden our perspective on life. We come out much stronger by dealing with the new possibilities. Initially, the surrounding might be tough to make sense of, but with time it should get better.

The decision of moving to a new country is yours so you’d be the person who needs to adapt to get the best possible advantage. Human psychology is common but mannerisms might be different. So, one can learn that through social observation, trial and error and asking questions.

To belong at a place, we must take the initiative to learn the traditions and customs of the new country. To feel welcomed, one must socialize with like minded individuals, take part in group activities at workplace or educational institute or even neighborhood social clubs. Try to get out there, find your niche, excel at what you do, travel and get to know people. It’s easy if you are willing.

Otherwise, you’ll end up losing new experiences which enliven our senses. To live more each day, we need to blend with the culture. Traditions tells us stories of the past which we could relate with stories back at our homeland as well. This way it’s going to be much easier to make bonds, live a cheerful life.

Posted on Sep 15, 2021

Okay. Thanks for your reply. The 4 paragraph structure goes for all other types of (Task 2) essays too?

Posted on Sep 13, 2021

Overall band: 6

Follow the 4 paragraph structure so that it is easy for the examiner to mark you for coherence. . For opinion essays, it is better to write one line after your opinionated paragraphs. Just one line that you are aware of the other side.

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Do you need engaging activities to help your students learn to write persuasive texts? Then you NEED to check out this Persuasive Writing Activities BUNDLE! Includes a range of resources to help your students actively engage in their learning through hands-on, cut & paste activities, interactive notebooks and posters to help prompt your students thinking! Use this BUNDLE to carry your students throughout the persuasive writing process including planning, drafting & publishing!

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Rutgers forsakes its students. Again | Opinion

• Updated: May. 28, 2024, 6:56 a.m. |
• Published: May. 28, 2024, 6:45 a.m.

• Star-Ledger Guest Columnist

By Amy Higer

Last Tuesday I received a shocking email from my supervisor in the Political Science Department at Rutgers.

The Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences was going to cancel my summer class -- a class I had taught regularly in my 25 years of teaching at Rutgers -- unless I agreed to teach it for 70 percent of my salary.

I had signed a contract in March and planned my summer around having this salary. The Dean said that if enrollment increased significantly, Rutgers would pay me the full salary—but that was unlikely, given that the first day of class is tomorrow, May 28. Worse still, I had 24 hours to decide whether I would accept these new terms. It was take-it-or-leave-it. Saying yes meant agreeing to receive roughly $4,000 less in salary. Saying no meant losing the work entirely, and this after I had turned down a summer teaching job elsewhere.

It turns out that I was not the only instructor to receive an ultimatum about summer courses like this. Apparently, the School of Arts and Sciences in New Brunswick had unilaterally decided to increase the minimum student enrollment for all summer classes to run, and for the first time ever, to base enrollment numbers on the salary of the instructor -- the higher the salary, the higher the minimum enrollment.

It then canceled dozens of classes -- many with higher enrollments than they had had in previous summers – and are oblivious to the damage.

Students take summer courses for many reasons, but most do so to graduate on time. It’s hard to overstate the harm these last-minute course cancellations cause students, but their educational needs apparently did not enter into the Dean’s calculus. While the administration allocates millions of dollars to athletic programs that spend lavishly, when it comes to education, it claims it is strapped for cash.

What is really going on here?

Last spring, I helped lead the first-ever faculty strike at Rutgers. It was an historic moment.

Faculty with the most job security and highest salaries stood with contingent faculty like myself, grad workers, and postdoctoral associates who had the least. Why? Because our strike was really a fight about the quality of education at Rutgers. It was about pushing back against an administrative mindset that views public universities as profit-seeking corporations rather than institutions to serve the public good.

So we went on strike—together – and it was extraordinarily successful.

this just in @njdotcom @rutgers @ruaaup_ptl @ruaaup_ptl https://t.co/eRP7jROVgR — Tina Kelley (@tinakelley) April 29, 2024

We didn’t win all our demands, but adjuncts got a 44% pay raise over four years. And longer-serving adjuncts like me won a faster path to promotion. I was promoted this spring. But now I’m seeing this came with a hidden cost. If I had not been promoted, my class would run with fewer students, and I’d be paid my full salary. In other words, I was being penalized for my promotion.

For months, Rutgers has been trying in multiple ways to claw back our contract gains with arbitrary decisions and measures touching virtually every aspect of our work.

While enrollments remain steady, the University suddenly announced last month that it would cancel dozens of writing classes in New Brunswick this coming fall and -- surprise! -- fire 36 out of 39 adjunct faculty who teach writing. Ignoring pedagogical standards, it has also increased class sizes throughout the University. And now it has canceled dozens of summer classes.

A year after we celebrated new contracts that we believed would make a better university for everyone, Rutgers has arrived at a crossroad.

What kind of public university does it want to be? One that delivers the best possible education to our students and values its educators? Or one that pays a football coach over $6 million a year while it demands pay cuts from its teachers -- when it doesn’t get rid of them outright?

The path Rutgers is now on will cause increasing harm, not only to adjunct faculty like me but to all of us: students and their parents, graduate workers, full-time faculty, and New Jersey taxpayers. It’s time for Rutgers to remember the primary mission of our university and put students first.

Amy Higer is an adjunct lecturer at Rutgers and Vice President of the Rutgers Adjunct Faculty Union.

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Sociology and Criminology

Chad rhym points his sociological lense at journalism.

Chad Rhym is using his experience in two professions, journalism and sociology, to conduct research that can improve both.

Chad Rhym’s photography and writing were gaining recognition while he was still in high school. He interned at The New York Times as a student at Morehouse College and graduated in 2019.

Chad also took advantage of a 2018 Summer Research Opportunity Scholarship to work as a research assistant for Professor Sarah Bruch at the University of Iowa Public Policy Center.

His time at Iowa’s Public Policy Center left an impression. Chad says, “I have always been grateful for that experience, to see the potential and impact of working amongst an interdisciplinary and brilliant group of scholars in one building and its ability to foster innovation and support.”

Chad enrolled as a graduate student in the University of Iowa’s Sociology PhD program and started developing a research project that examines journalism using the analytical tools of sociology. Now he is happy to be back in the Public Policy Center, which gives him the resources to finish his degree through its Dissertation Completion Program.

Piqued by his time at The New York Times , Chad’s scholarship investigates journalistic notions of objectivity. Objective reporters try to stick to the facts without injecting personal opinions. He looks at objectivity from a sociological perspective, bringing in what sociologists term a racial project —a set of ideas that might appear neutral but nonetheless convey group-based interests. 

Chad’s work comes at an important time for journalism, what he calls, “a particularly unique and pivotal period.” Following the 2016 presidential election and the 2020 George Floyd protests, journalism has been forced to deal with race and racism in complicated ways. Chad’s work examines how this recent history shapes journalistic notions of what counts as good professional practice. Several questions guide Chad’s research: How do Black and 

White journalists define objectivity? Do notions of what counts as objective differ based on the race of the journalist? How do the assumptions that Black and White journalists bring to reporting shape a story? 

Chad brings his personal experience as a former Black journalist to this endeavor and is also indebted to the contributions of scholars such as Ida B. Wells-Barnett, W.E.B. Du Bois, and the many Black journalists and Black newspapers that challenged mainstream journalistic norms and portrayals of Black communities. Building on these classics for his dissertation research, Chad plans to interview three generations of Black and White journalists at different career stages to understand how they have learned, taught, engaged, defended, and or critiqued the “gold standard” of objective journalism in their current professional stage. 

Chad says that the Public Policy Center gives him excellent support to carry out this work. Having an office at the Center helped him build consistent research and writing routines and provided the space to think independently about his work. Chad also notes the importance of being surrounded by a community of scholars who, every single day, have been encouraging, engaging, and supportive in “genuinely challenging, improving, and refining my scholarship.” He credits Mark Berg and Ethan Rodgers for planning an effective program that provides networking opportunities—Professor Mark Berg is a sociology professor who also now directs the Public Policy Center; Adjunct Professor Ethan Rogers earned his PhD in our department in 2019 and is the Center’s operations manager.

Chad says that Mark and Ethan have forged a community that is, “unfathomably helpful in generating new ideas and perspectives.” The scholars in the Center check in with each other regularly to formalize a feedback process that propels research forward. 

Chad’s collaborative spirit extends beyond the policy center, as he’s been involved in several other research project in his time at Iowa. He has researched how race shapes the experiences of high school teachers and assisted Professor Louise Seamster in our department with her research on the Flint Water Crisis. 

Ultimately, Chad hopes his research will provide policymakers with better insight into potential solutions for the problems faced by American journalism in the 21st century. Critical issues include the need for concerted efforts to save local and community journalism, as well as the need to think critically about race and traditional norms and virtues within the newsroom and their impact on trust in the media. 

NOTICE: The University of Iowa Center for Advancement is an operational name for the State University of Iowa Foundation, an independent, Iowa nonprofit corporation organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, publicly supported charitable entity working to advance the University of Iowa. Please review its full disclosure statement.

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The Ethicist

Can i use a.i. to grade my students’ papers.

The magazine’s Ethicist columnist on artificial intelligence platforms, and whether it’s hypocritical for teachers to use these tools while forbidding students from doing the same.

By Kwame Anthony Appiah

I am a junior-high-school English teacher. In the past school year, there has been a significant increase in students’ cheating on writing assignments by using artificial intelligence. Our department feels that 13-year-old students will only become better writers if they practice and learn from the successes and challenges that come with that.

Recently our department tasked students with writing an argumentative essay, an assignment we supported by breaking down the process into multiple steps. The exercise took several days of class time and homework to complete. All of our students signed a contract agreeing not to use A.I. assistance, and parents promised to support the agreement by monitoring their children when they worked at home. Yet many students still used A.I.

Some of our staff members uploaded their grading rubric into an A.I.-assisted platform, and students uploaded their essays for assessment. The program admittedly has some strengths. Most notable, it gives students writing feedback and the opportunity to edit their work before final submission. The papers are graded within minutes, and the teachers are able to transfer the A.I. grade into their roll book.

I find this to be hypocritical. I spend many hours grading my students’ essays. It’s tedious work, but I feel that it’s my responsibility — if a student makes an effort to complete the task, they should have my undivided attention during the assessment process.

Here’s where I struggle: Should I embrace new technology and use A.I.-assisted grading to save time and my sanity even though I forbid my students from using it? Is it unethical for teachers to ask students not to use A.I. to assist their writing but then allow an A.I. platform to grade their work? — Name Withheld

From the Ethicist:

You have a sound rationale for discouraging your students from using A.I. to draft their essays. As with many other skills, writing well and thinking clearly will improve through practice. By contrast, you already know how to grade papers; you don’t need the practice.

What matters is whether an A.I.-assisted platform can reliably appraise and diagnose your students’ writing, providing the explanation and guidance these students need to improve. In theory, such tools — and I see that there are several on the market, including from major educational publishers — have certain advantages. The hope is that they can grade without inconsistency, without getting tired, without being affected by the expectations that surely affect those of us who hand-grade student work.

I notice you haven’t raised concerns about whether the platform provides reliable assessments; you’ll have to decide if it does. (If it isn’t quite up to snuff, it might become so in a year or two, so your question will persist.) Provided the platform does a decent job of assessment, though, I don’t see why you must do it all yourself. You should review the A.I.-annotated versions of your students’ writing, check that you agree with the output, and make notes of issues to bring up in class. But time saved in evaluating the papers might be better spent on other things — and by “better,” I mean better for the students. There are pedagogical functions, after all, that only you can perform.

In sum: It’s not hypocritical to use A.I. yourself in a way that serves your students well, even as you insist that they don’t use it in a way that serves them badly.

Readers Respond

The previous question was from a reader who asked about professional boundaries. He wrote: “I am a retired, married male psychiatrist. A divorced female former patient of mine contacted me recently, 45 years after her treatment ended. Would it be OK to correspond with her by email? Or is this a case of ‘once a patient, always a patient?’”

In his response, the Ethicist noted: “The relevant professional associations tend to have strictures that are specifically about sexual relationships with former patients. … In light of the potential for exploitation within the therapist-patient relationship, these rules are meant to maintain clear boundaries, protect patient welfare, uphold the integrity of the profession and eliminate any gray areas that could lead to ethical breaches. But though you do mention her marital status, and yours, you’re just asking about emailing her — about establishing friendly relations. The question for you is whether she might be harmed by this, whether whatever knowledge or trust gained from your professional relationship would shadow a personal one. Yes, almost half a century has elapsed since your professional relationship, but you still have to be confident that a correspondence with her clears this bar. If it does, you may email with a clear conscience.” ( Reread the full question and answer here. )

As always, I agree with the Ethicist. I would add that the letter writer’s former patient doesn’t realize that the therapist is actually two different people — the professional and the regular person underneath. Therapists portray their professional selves to their clients. The former client may be disappointed upon meeting the therapist outside of the professional context. Additionally, the feelings she has toward the therapist may be based on transference, and they would need to address that. — Annemarie

I am a clinical psychologist. While the Ethicist’s description of professional ethical boundaries is correct, there is more to the story, and I disagree with his conclusion. A very big question here is why this former patient contacted him after 45 years. That is a question that is best explored and answered within the context of a therapeutic relationship. He would be well- advised to respond in a kind and thoughtful way to convey the clear message that he is not available for ongoing communication, and he should suggest that she consult with another therapist if she feels that would be helpful. — Margaret

In my case, it was the therapist who reached out to me, seeking to establish a friendship several years after our sessions ended. I was surprised, but he shared that he had since experienced a similar personal tragedy to one I had explored with him in sessions. Since it had been several years since we saw each other professionally, I responded. There was never any hint of romantic or sexual interest. Still, as he continued to reach out to me, clearly desiring a friendship, it never felt right to me. It did feel unprofessional, as his knowledge of me was borne out of a relationship meant to be professional, never personal, as warmly as we might have felt during our sessions. I ended up being disappointed in him for seeking out my friendship. — Liam

I am a (semi)retired psychiatrist who has been practicing since 1974. In my opinion, “once a patient, always a patient” is correct. Establishing any type of personal relationship with a former patient could undo progress the patient may have made in treatment, and is a slippery slope toward blatantly unethical behavior. As psychiatrists, our responsibility is to work with patients in confronting and resolving issues that are preventing them from having a reality-based perception of their life. With such an outlook, they are more capable of establishing satisfying relationships with others. An ethical psychiatrist is not in the business of providing such satisfaction to his or her patients. — Roger

I think there is a difference between being friendly and being friends with a former client. As someone who used to attend therapy with a therapist I think dearly of, she made it clear to me that it was OK to send her emails with life updates after our therapeutic relationship ended. But beyond that, I think it would be inappropriate and uncomfortable to pursue a friendship with her, and vice versa, because of the patient-provider relationship that we previously had and the power dynamic that existed between us. The letter writer didn’t share the content of the email his former patient sent to him, but if it’s just a friendly life update, I think it’s fine to write back and thank her for sharing. Beyond that, I feel like it would be unprofessional to meet or pursue a deeper relationship. — Meghan

Kwame Anthony Appiah is The New York Times Magazine’s Ethicist columnist and teaches philosophy at N.Y.U. His books include “Cosmopolitanism,” “The Honor Code” and “The Lies That Bind: Rethinking Identity.” To submit a query: Send an email to [email protected]. More about Kwame Anthony Appiah