This 3-page 3rd grade opinion writing sheet uses the four-part Point, Evidence, Explain, Link structure. A worked model argues that a guinea pig is the best class pet. Students then fill a frame on whether kids should get extra recess. Last, they write a full paragraph without the frame on a better field trip, the zoo or the science museum. It practices W.3.1.a to W.3.1.d, and the answer key has model answers for both tasks.
W.3.1.a
“Introduce the topic or text they are writing about, state an opinion, and create an organizational structure that lists reasons.”
The Point line in each task, and the four-part structure shown in the guinea pig box.
W.3.1.b
“Provide reasons that support the opinion.”
The Evidence line in Longer Recess and the reason students give for the zoo or the museum.
W.3.1.c
“Use linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons.”
The starters "For example, because" and "Therefore," and the reminder to use because, since, or for example in The Best Field Trip.
W.3.1.d
“Provide a concluding statement or section.”
The Link step, which closes each paragraph by returning to the opinion.
A boxed model labels each part: the Point "I strongly believe that a guinea pig is the best class pet," a reason about being gentle, an example about brushing them, and a Link that starts with "Therefore."
Students complete four sentence starters, "In my opinion," "My main reason is," "For example, because," and "Therefore," to argue about extra recess time.
Students choose the zoo or the science museum and write the whole paragraph with linking words like because, since, or for example.
A model answer for the recess frame and a model paragraph that picks the science museum for its magnets and space exhibits.
Color coding
Have students highlight the four parts of the guinea pig model in four colors, then use the same colors on their recess answers. A missing color shows which part they skipped.
Gradual release
Longer Recess is scaffolded and The Best Field Trip is not. Save the second task for another day if the frame took most of the lesson.
Debate day
Take a class vote on zoo or museum before anyone writes. Then pair students from opposite sides to read their Point and Evidence lines to each other.
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