Point, Evidence, Explain and Link give this 2nd grade opinion page its shape. A boxed model argues that recess is the best part of the school day, with each part labeled. Students then build a paragraph on whether summer or winter is the best season, with a sentence starter for every part. Practice 2 drops the starters and asks whether the class should get a pet hamster. The sheet practices Common Core W.2.1, and the answer key has model paragraphs for both tasks.
W.2.1
“Write opinion pieces in which they introduce the topic or book they are writing about, state an opinion, supply reasons that support the opinion, use linking words (e.g., because, and, also) to connect opinion and reasons, and provide a concluding statement or section.”
Both practice tasks ask for an opinion, a reason, more detail and a concluding Link sentence, and Practice 2 asks for linking words.
A boxed example with each part named. Its reason is that kids need a break to move their bodies, so they can focus better in class.
Four starters to complete, from "In my opinion, _____ is the best season." to "That is why".
An open paragraph on the hamster question, using all four parts and linking words like because, and or also.
A model summer paragraph about swimming and a hamster paragraph about taking turns feeding it.
Color the parts
Read the recess paragraph aloud and have students color each part differently. They use the same colors to check their season paragraph.
Two-minute debate
Split the room into summer and winter for two minutes of talk. Students leave with a reason ready for the Evidence line.
Independent check
Practice 2 has no starters, so it shows who can use the structure alone. Collect it and look for a Link sentence first.
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